Eat Like a Local Around Niagara Falls USA

Each day, Niagara Falls hosts thousands of people from around the world, but among them, locals are living their best Niagara County life­ — and a lot of that has to do with the local culinary scene.

When exploring the many cities, towns, and villages in the region, try these top restaurants recommended by Niagara Falls USA natives on where to find a killer brunch, lunch, dinner, or glass of wine!

Breakfast, Brunch & More

Marketside Restaurant: Tucked in the Niagara Falls City Market, this insider locale is where you’ll catch locals for breakfast. Chocolate chip pancakes are a fan favorite here, but make sure to try the “Sal Maglie”, an everything omelet, named after Niagara’s own Major Leaguer.

Mom’s Family Restaurant: Family owned and operated since 1955, Mom’s is a fitting name for this cozy diner — the staff truly make patrons feel right at home. They’ve got all the brunch staples, including mimosas! Plus, Mom’s is open daily at 7 a.m., making it the perfect place for early birds to fuel up for a day of adventuring.

Amy & Co Café: A hidden gem on Buffalo Ave., this heaven for baked goods and specialty coffee lures locals with everything from maple pecan scones to blueberry strudel muffins. They also have a tasty savory menu, too.

Scripts Cafe & Scripts Juice: Craving a breakfast sammie, or a smoothie bowl? Located within walking distance of each other, these Lockport hot-spots offer everything from gourmet toast to coffee drinks, fresh-pressed juices, sandwiches and much more.

Lunch Like a Local

DiCamillo Bakery: Such a Niagara tradition is DiCamillo’s, they now have four locations in the region. The centerpiece of sandwiches is delicious Italian Scaletta bread (so good that locals even send it out of town to friends and family). Sit-in with one of their lunch specials or get it to go for a delicious picnic!

Gadawski’s: Polish roots mixed with fans of Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Gadawski’s is as eclectic as it is delicious! Highlights still include great Polish cuisine, but there’s also fish fry and WNY’s beef on ‘weck sandwich (the official sandwich of New York State). Hit the ATM beforehand as it is cash-only.

Brickyard Pub & BBQ: Ready to pair lunch with maybe even a cocktail or brew? Head over to Brickyard Pub & BBQ where no matter what you order, you will be more than satisfied by the hickory and fruitwood smoked barbecue (though ordering a side of cornbread is a must). If it’s a nice day, there is plenty of outdoor space on the double-decker patio to take in the sun and people watch.

Dinner, Dessert & a Nightcap

Judi’s Lounge: A little beyond the typical tourist trail, Judi’s is one of Niagara’s best-kept secrets! Known for its chicken specialties, try the signature wings and you’ll be back for more!

De Dee’s Dairy: For a sweet treat, you’ll find the largest selection of ice cream in town here (think black raspberry and cannoli). Save a little extra room for dessert as De Dee’s portions are huge!

Hibbard’s Original Frozen Custard: Satisfy your palate instead with a local icon, Hibbard’s Original Frozen Custard. This homemade custard has been made fresh daily since 1939.

The GoldBar: You may be a newbie in town, but the owners of The GoldBar will make you feel right at home! Here, you can mingle with some locals over some craft beers and creative cocktails.

Satisfy Your Foodie Fix in Niagara Falls USA

With so many options, you’ll surely find quality and flavor at one of our town’s top restaurants. We invite you to visit us soon to see what other delectable places our locals also go to, and check out the nearby towns and attractions!