Seth Greene
The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York |
In Buffalo, Dolly Parton’s legacy lives on through local musicians who sing her songs and draw inspiration from her storytelling.
For Western New York performer Linda Lou Schriver, that connection is personal.
A member of the Ramblin’ Lou Family Band, Schriver has often performed and recorded “I Will Always Love You,” a song whose heartbreak gives listeners room to hear their own stories.
Her family also crossed paths with Parton in the country music community, leaving Schriver with memories of the warmth behind the star’s public image.
Buffalo singer Cami Clune sees Parton as a model for artists who want to tell the truth through music.
Clune has felt the power of a shared song herself: when her microphone failed during a Canadian anthem performance, Sabres fans joined in.
Across generations and genres, Parton’s songs endure because the stories connect, whether listeners love country music or not. Read More... |
Western New York shoppers could soon have a local IKEA: the furniture retailer plans to open at Walden Galleria in early 2027.
The proposed store would fill about 67,000 square feet on the lower level of the former Sears and Sears Auto space at the mall’s north end.
Plans include a showroom, a marketplace for home goods and a Swedish Bistro, giving visitors a chance to browse furnished rooms, shop and eat in one stop.
If completed, it would be IKEA’s first Western New York location and its second upstate store, after one at Destiny USA in Syracuse.
State Sen. April Baskin welcomed the investment, citing potential jobs and visitors from across the region.
Hiring plans and further store details have not yet been announced. Read More... |
As Thanksgiving approaches, more Western New York families are struggling to put food on the table.
BJ’s Wholesale Club is donating $50,000 to FeedMore WNY’s Thanksgiving food distribution, while giving another $5,000 to Buffalo Bills defensive tackle DeWayne Carter’s community-service organization, Carter Cares LLC.
The support comes as FeedMore WNY reports that demand for nutritional assistance through its programs has risen about 51% over three years.
That increase reflects a need that reaches well beyond the holiday season.
Carter founded Carter Cares in 2024 to serve the community, with a focus on compassion and young people.
For households juggling food costs and other bills, the partnership offers timely help with Thanksgiving meals.
It also highlights the continuing need for businesses and neighbors to support FeedMore WNY as more local families seek assistance. Read More... |
🌮 Top 5 Best Mexican Restaurants in Buffalo & WNY |
From sizzling fajitas and authentic street tacos to cheesy enchiladas, fresh guacamole, and flavorful margaritas, Western New York has some incredible Mexican restaurants! Whether you're craving a quick taco lunch, planning a family dinner, or looking for a fun night out, here are five local favorites worth checking out.
1. La Divina Tacos – Kenmore 📍 Location: 2896 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore 🌮 Known For: Authentic Mexican street tacos, birria, flavorful meats, and fresh homemade salsas 📄 Details: If you're looking for authentic Mexican street food, La Divina Tacos is a must-visit! This popular Kenmore taqueria has earned a loyal following for its delicious tacos, generous portions, and affordable prices. From tender steak and flavorful pork to mouthwatering birria tacos, there's something for every taco lover. The casual, no-frills atmosphere makes it perfect for grabbing a quick and satisfying meal.
2. Taqueria Los Mayas – Cheektowaga 📍 Location: 3525 Genesee Street, Cheektowaga 🌯 Known For: Authentic Mexican cuisine, street tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and traditional Mexican flavors 📄 Details: Taqueria Los Mayas is a hidden gem that has become a favorite among Western New York Mexican food lovers! Known for its authentic recipes, fresh ingredients, and flavorful dishes, this welcoming restaurant delivers a delicious taste of Mexico. Whether you're ordering tacos packed with seasoned meats, a hearty burrito, or a plate of traditional Mexican favorites, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
3. Casa Azul – Buffalo 📍 Location: 191 Allen Street, Buffalo 🌶️ Known For: Creative tacos, fresh guacamole, craft margaritas, and modern Mexican cuisine 📄 Details: Located in Buffalo's lively Allentown neighborhood, Casa Azul puts a fresh and creative spin on Mexican favorites! With inventive taco combinations, delicious house-made sauces, and a fun atmosphere, it's a fantastic spot for date night or dinner with friends. From flavorful barbacoa and shrimp tacos to tasty vegetarian options, the menu offers something beyond your ordinary taco experience. Pair your meal with a refreshing margarita for the perfect night out!
4. Maizal Mexican Kitchen and Mezcaleria – East Amherst 📍 Location: 4840 North French Road, East Amherst 🍹 Known For: Traditional Oaxacan-inspired Mexican cuisine, flavorful mole sauces, mezcal, and specialty cocktails 📄 Details: Maizal Mexican Kitchen and Mezcaleria brings authentic Mexican traditions and bold flavors to Western New York! This family-inspired restaurant celebrates Mexican culinary heritage with beautifully prepared dishes, traditional recipes, and an impressive selection of mezcal and tequila. From rich mole sauces to flavorful tacos and creative specialties, every meal offers something memorable. It's an excellent destination for a special dinner or a relaxing evening with friends.
5. El Canelo – Hamburg 📍 Location: 3670 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg 🧀 Known For: Sizzling fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, hearty combination platters, and classic Mexican comfort food 📄 Details: El Canelo is a longtime Southtowns favorite for delicious Mexican food and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere! Known for generous portions, flavorful dishes, and an extensive menu, this restaurant offers something for everyone. Whether you're digging into sizzling chicken fajitas, enjoying a cheesy quesadilla, or ordering a combination platter loaded with Mexican classics, you're in for a satisfying meal. It's a great choice for family dinners, casual lunches, or a fun meal with friends! |
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