The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

Hailee Steinfeld is bringing holiday cheer to Buffalo with the launch of her ready-to-drink cocktail line, Angel Margarita, now available across Western New York.

The popular line features four flavors: Lime, Grapefruit Paloma, Ranch Water, and Wild Berry, all made with 100% Agave Tequila Blanco for an authentic taste at 6% ABV per 12-ounce can.

Steinfeld’s deepening ties to Buffalo stem from her relationship with Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills’ star quarterback, whom she became engaged to earlier this year.

Continuing their festive spirit, the couple recently gifted the Bills’ offensive linemen a quarter of a cow each and a premium Schwank Infrared Grill, embracing the team’s “everybody eats” philosophy.

Buffalo locals can now raise a can of Angel Margarita while rooting for the Bills, welcoming a new favorite to their celebrations this season.

Irondequoit, NY, just outside Rochester, leads the nation as the most competitive housing market, with homes selling in an average of 8.5 days, often above the asking price.

Other fast-paced areas include Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and Mountain View, CA, along with Tonawanda Town, NY.

In these regions, a tight inventory means over half of the homes sell within two weeks, compared to the national average of a month and a half.

Western New York cities such as North Tonawanda and Cheektowaga are seeing similar surges, reflecting renewed demand driven by affordability and local revitalization.

Meanwhile, a rebound in the Bay Area, fueled by tech industry growth, is intensifying housing competition and driving up prices.

In contrast, Sun Belt cities are seeing slowing markets as climate and insurance issues take a toll.

Projections show Great Lakes cities like Rochester and Buffalo staying hot into 2026, even as affordability remains a hurdle for many.

Western New York is set to welcome Ocean’s 12, a groundbreaking seafood restaurant promising an extraordinary underwater-themed experience in Buffalo.

Slated for an early 2026 debut at 675 Delaware Avenue, Ocean’s 12 will transform the basement of the historic Westbrook Apartments into an immersive culinary escape.

Guests can expect aquatic-inspired decor, gentle lighting, and a menu brimming with fresh seafood specialties designed to evoke the sensation of dining beneath the sea.

This innovative venture highlights Buffalo’s trend of breathing new life into its treasured architectural sites, as seen in the city’s wider revitalization efforts and recent adaptive reuse of historic buildings.

Anticipation is building among locals and visitors alike for what promises to be a unique blend of culinary excellence and captivating ambiance.

Ocean’s 12 is poised to become a standout in Buffalo’s dynamic and ever-evolving food scene.

🍽️ Restaurants Likely to Be Open on Christmas Day

🍝 Panorama on Seven
• A popular restaurant in downtown Buffalo — locals report it’s been open on Christmas (or at least Christmas Eve). Good to call for reservations.

🍕 Daniela
• Highly-rated Italian and pizza spot — often open on holidays in past years and recommended in local discussion for Christmas meals.

🍗 Anchor Bar
• Famous Buffalo wings origin spot — many Buffalo bars/restaurants open later/holiday nights and locals sometimes find places like this open even when chains are closed. 

🌮 Taqueria Los Mayas
• Mexican restaurant with solid reviews — ethnic/independent places often keep holiday hours.

🍝 Mulberry Italian Ristorante
• A local Italian restaurant — independent restaurants like this are more likely to be open or offering holiday meals.

🍽️ Patina 250
• Well-reviewed restaurant in the Westin — hotel restaurants often stay open for Christmas.

🌯 Nile River Restaurant
• Casual option downtown — local ethnic and smaller spots are sometimes open when chains aren’t. 

🥪 Charlie the Butcher's Kitchen
• Sandwich and deli-style restaurant with takeout options — good option if sit-down restaurants close.

🍸 The Left Bank
• New American with broad appeal — some local bars/restaurants open on Christmas night.

🍖 Fat Bob's Smokehouse
• BBQ spot — independents like this sometimes offer special holiday menus.

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