I was enveloped by the majestic embrace of the towering grain elevators, their historic echoes softened by the warm glow of creative energy that permeates every corner.
The ambiance is nothing short of magical. Imagine rustic charm interwoven with an eclectic mix of artistic flair – the reclaimed materials and imaginative lighting breathe life into the old silos, turning them into a canvas of ever-evolving art. It feels as if the very walls are whispering stories of Buffalo’s storied past while celebrating the vibrant pulse of today’s artistic spirit.
The menu at Duende is a culinary delight, offering a feast that celebrates the bounty of local farms and artisans. Each dish, crafted with care and creativity, dances on the palate. The bar, a sanctuary of craft beers, artisanal cocktails, and fine wines, invites you to linger a little longer, savoring each sip as you soak in the surroundings.
But it’s the events that truly make Duende a living, breathing masterpiece. Live music fills the air with soulful melodies, art exhibitions captivate the eye, and literary readings stir the soul. This is more than a venue; it’s a sanctuary for the creative soul, a place where community and culture intertwine seamlessly.
Visiting Duende feels like being part of a grand, ongoing experiment in blending history with innovation. The industrial grandeur of the silos, juxtaposed with the avant-garde artistic expressions, creates an experience that is both nostalgic and thrillingly modern. It’s a place where every visit feels like a new discovery, a new chapter in an ever-unfolding story.
As I stood by the riverside, watching the sun cast its golden hues over the silos, I felt a profound connection to the space. Duende at Silo City is not just a place; it’s an experience, a feeling, a celebration of Buffalo’s resilient spirit and boundless creativity.
In the warm months, the outdoor spaces invite you to bask in the beauty of nature, adding another layer of enchantment to the experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Duende at Silo City offers a unique and unforgettable journey through time, art, and community. Five stars hardly seem enough to capture the essence of this...
Read moreLast night a friend introduced me to this hidden gem, and it has immediately become my new favorite bar. Nestled in Silo City, the unassuming brick building looks like like it could be a small school or daycare or office space, judging from what you can see in the many windows outside, but that couldn’t be more wrong. When you step inside, it’s a little hipster haven of a bar- but in a good way, not in an obnoxious way. The original flooring and walls were there, giving it an authentic feel. There was a large bluegrass band playing when I went, and that only added to the perfect Sunday drinking vibe. The bar is at the back, there’s plenty of dancing and hanging around space in the main area, and there’s a few nooks with chairs ot snuggle into. The bar has a neat setup, and has this ‘u’ shape that sticks out from the middle, allowing for more seating, giving the bar more visual impact. Kevin the bartender, was as adorable as he was great, dressed to the nines in a vest, bowtie, and hat. The collection of bar books on display in the back left was a nice touch, including vintage cocktail books lined up alongside Bartending for Dummies. I loved that! They had a small but very well thought out list of snacks, and we had the meat and cheese plate. It had a nice variety of treats and went great with my wine. I wished I got there earlier so I could stay past closing, but that’s life. The bathrooms were also very clean and modern- with a neat bubbly hammered metal covering at the lower half of the windows, providing both privacy and style. Just being in a bar along all the old silo’s was SO Buffalo, and so charming- it is probably the coolest place I have been to in a long time, and I felt like I was in on this amazing secret. I can’t...
Read moreI'm really disappointed in my experience at Duende. I came here for my birthday with family, including some from out of town. I was so excited to enjoy small bites, great cocktails, and the ambience of live music in the heart of Silo City. We got our drinks and before we ordered around 6:30 the kitchen closed to catch up. No problem, I've worked in food service for years, I understand that sometimes you have to do that in order to continue to provide service later. Except, the kitchen seemingly never re-opened. I had a family member who is diabetic that even asked if there was a possibility of getting something small. She ended up having to leave the gathering to get food at Wendy's. By 8:00 we had to give up, go our separate ways, and find food elsewhere. I did not end up having dinner on my birthday and neither did several members of my family. In sharing my experience with friends I'm told they have had similar issues. The atmosphere is what earns the stars in...
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