The Sabres Experience: Local Eats at KeyBank Center
It’s officially Sabres season in Buffalo, NY! When I think about going to a Sabres game, there’s only one thing on my mind – FOOD. Oh yeah, and it’s always nice if the Sabres take a home a win, of course. From pizza logs to pierogis, KeyBank Center serves up a collection of Buffalo’s finest specialties.
Local Favorites
La Nova
It’s hard to resist a delicious slice of Buffalo-style pizza. If you’re new to the area, Buffalo-style pizza is known for its thick, airy crust that’s piled high with sweet sauce, loads of cheese and cup-and-char pepperoni. At KeyBank Center, you’ll find Buffalo-style slices at Buffalo’s own La Nova Pizza. This local pizzeria has been serving up a mean Buffalo-style slice since 1957. But let’s be real, when you’re in Buffalo, it’s only natural to have chicken wings on the mind. Thankfully, you can also find La Nova’s finest deep-fried wings at Blue Line Fryer on the 100-level right near Aisle 19.
Rachel’s Mediterranean Grill
New to KeyBank Center for the 2022-2023 season, Rachel’s Mediterranean Grill has something for everyone to try. This Buffalo-based eatery features mouthwatering Greek and Lebanese fare with fully customizable wraps, bowls, salads and more. Your made-to-order creation can be filled with any of the classics, including falafel, gyro, chicken shawarma and other favorites. Rachel’s has an outpost on the 100 level near Aisle 11 and can also be found on the 300 level near Aisle 6.
Simply Pierogi
Ever have a hankering for some pierogis while you settle in to watch the game? If so, it sounds like you have some very specific taste buds… and Simply Pierogi has your name written all over it! This pierogi paradise is a Buffalo-born restaurant that serves authentic polish pierogis with all natural ingredients and no preservatives. At KeyBank Center, you’ll find a variety of Simply Pierogi’s delicious creations, including Italian Sausage Pierogi, Polish Sausage Pierogi and plenty more.
Other Locally Focused Concessions
Pizza Logs
Ever indulged in an Original Pizza Log? This unique pizza egg roll was invented right here in Western New York and pairs perfectly with any sporting event. Pizza logs are available throughout KeyBank Center and are served stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese, quality pepperoni and scrumptious spaghetti sauce. These ingredients are wrapped together in a crispy egg roll and deep fried to perfection. Add some marinara sauce to your order for dipping and you’ve got yourself a match made in heaven!
Perry’s Ice Cream
If you’re thinking what I’m thinking, it’s time to talk about dessert. Here’s what you need to know – KeyBank Center proudly serves Perry’s Ice Cream, which is based right down the road in Akron, NY. This slow cooked ice cream continues to be churned using the Perry family’s recipe that’s been passed down for generations. At KeyBank Center, you’ll find a variety of Perry’s Ice Cream flavors and sundae creations to taste test and enjoy.
Moreover, plenty of vendors at the arena rotate their menus throughout the season. Every 8 to 10 games, you’ll find a slew of new menu options at The Perry Market, located on the 100 level near Aisle 6. To give you a taste, during the beginning of the season, The Perry Market is currently featuring porchetta sandwiches, Korean chicken quesadillas, Hawaiian beef dogs. Additionally, general concessions will feature Baja fish tacos, spicy cheese dogs, mustard pulled pork sandwiches, walking tacos, and more.
While all these specialties sound delicious, you might be wondering, “what about some good, old-fashioned traditional game food?” To this I’ll say, KeyBank Center has thought of you, too. At various concession stands throughout the arena, you’ll be delighted to find burgers, chicken tenders, fries, Buffalo’s own Sahlen’s hot dogs and more. During the 2022-2023 season, you’ll also be enticed by several new drink options including a variety of New Amsterdam Wildcard canned cocktails, Truly Vodka Seltzer canned cocktails, Cutwater canned cocktails and specialty cocktails with Owen’s Mixers.
Now that you’re loaded up on snacks, drinks, dessert and probably even more, feel free to sit back, relax and enjoy the game. Go Sabres!
