'To continue the legacy': New ownership group under contract to buy Santasiero's

A cherished chapter in Buffalo's culinary history is poised to continue as a new ownership group steps forward to revive Santasiero's, the beloved family restaurant on Niagara Street.

Established in the 1920s, Santasiero's has long been a cornerstone of the community, offering authentic Italian cuisine that has drawn generations of patrons.

Following the passing of fourth-generation owner John Brands in August 2025, the restaurant closed its doors, leaving a void in the local dining scene.

Now, a trio of dedicated patrons—attorneys Mark Longo and Jennifer Hurley, along with home builder David Capretto—have come together to purchase the property for $625,000.

They aim to finalize the deal within the next week and plan to reopen the restaurant by mid-May.

Longo emphasized their commitment to preserving the restaurant's legacy, stating, "We want it to be as simple as it's always been with great food, great atmosphere, and just to continue to offer it to this generation, and generations to come."

Hurley highlighted the importance of maintaining the original recipes, noting, "We love the old recipes, and you know, bringing Trish on, she has her whole life's family experience of keeping those recipes alive, you know, we're going to build off of it."

Planned renovations include updating table tops while preserving the original cast iron bases, introducing traditional Italian cane-back chairs, and adding windows to brighten the back room.

Additionally, the group intends to apply for a patio permit to offer outdoor seating—a first for Santasiero's—allowing diners to enjoy the vibrant neighborhood and sunsets.

The restaurant will continue its tradition of operating without reservations, offering both dine-in and takeout options.

Listing agent Dennis Dargavel expressed his enthusiasm for the restaurant's return, stating, "I'm delighted that such a great spot is coming back."

The revival of Santasiero's aligns with the ongoing revitalization of Niagara Street, which has seen a surge of new businesses and developments in recent years.

Notably, the West Side Bazaar relocated to a new, expanded location at 1432 Niagara Street, offering a diverse array of international cuisines and retail options.

Additionally, Britesmith Brewing opened a new site on Niagara Street, further contributing to the area's dynamic growth.

The reopening of Santasiero's is a testament to the enduring appeal of family-owned Italian restaurants and their ability to adapt and thrive amidst a changing urban landscape.

As the new owners prepare to welcome back loyal patrons and introduce Santasiero's to a new generation, the community eagerly anticipates the return of this iconic establishment.