The Gypsy Parlor
Celebrating 10 years
The Gypsy Parlor at 376 Grant Street in Buffalo, is my favorite restaurant that I just don’t visit enough. A unique experience is sure to be had at The Gypsy Parlor, be it the food, the entertainment, or the conversation on the patio with a new friend. Home to an eclectic menu with hints of the diverse neighborhood, this establishment draws a crowd that is equally varied with a mix of neighborhood folks, artists and other strange birds—and I say this affectionately as this was historically my scene. It’s the kind of place you can feel comfortable being your weird or eccentric self.
In addition to excellent food and drink, The Gypsy Parlor has been host to all of my favorite performing art forms over the years. In addition to music, The Gypsy Parlor has been a place to enjoy poetry, spoken word, stand up comedy, burlesque, and karaoke. I myself, performed in a show here for my seven year comedy anniversary.
Speaking of anniversaries, this past weekend, The Gypsy Parlor celebrated it’s 10th. I did not attend the party because I am old enough now that if I already have plans that wrap up around 8PM, the next stop is home. But this milestone for this restaurant inspired me to write about them and reminisce about both the fun events and excellent food that I have enjoyed here.
Upon entering, you will likely first notice the bar to the right. Grab a drink to get started. The Gypsy Juice was always my go to, a blend of apricot, ginger, lemon, and black currant. Add the booze of your choice or enjoy it NA. Take note, straight ahead from the door, just beyond the bar, you will discover a functioning, Zoltar machine. Insert your money, make a wish [to be big], and collect your fortune on a card.
Menu items do change seasonally but there are a few staples as well. For snacks, with or without drinks, I’d often enjoy a plate of sweet potato fries or a pastelillo, available with beef, chicken, or black bean. My favorite snackable item here is the Stuffed Bread filled with artichoke, Kalamata olives, eggplant, roasted garlic, provolone, and salami—also available vegetarian or vegan.
There are probably many items on the menu that I would find delicious for dinner, but there is one standing menu item that I can almost never resist ordering. Indeed, this is one of my top favorite plates in Western, NY. I highly recommend the Cuban Pork. This tantalizing plate includes the most wonderfully seasoned/marinated pork shoulder aside rice and beans, along with candied plantains and a fresh lime wedge.
To finish your meal, indulge in one of their rotating dessert items. Neither of my two favorites are currently on the menu, but I will mention them in case they make a reappearance. The papanasi is one not to skip should you find it available. This treat is a Romanian donut served with fresh cream and fruit preserves. I also find the Pina Colada Pudding, heavenly. It is a cocktail of coconut vanilla pudding, bananas, pineapple, wafers, and whipped cream.
If all that was not enough to make you try this restaurant, they also serve Sunday brunch. Dining reservations are recommended (link on their website). Both indoor and outdoor dining is available as weather permits.
If you have a favorite menu item at The Gypsy Parlor, tell me about it in the comments. Maybe I can bring myself to order something different next time, which will definitely need to be soon!
Your blog is like something in itself delicious, in many ways I think it shows what Diners Drive Ins and Dives could really be if they went more authentic and dug better. You do it better and with more genuine emotion. Perhaps, although it was always there, Your greatest strength is knowing how much to reveal Personally and how much to concentrate on the recipes and venues. Again, Ya done Good Kid.