Fresh Catch Poke and The Galley Lounge — Restaurant in Buffalo

Once upon a sunny Buffalo afternoon, I decided to revisit one of my favorite lunch spots nestled in the heart of the city. As I stepped through the doors, the familiar warmth of the bustling atmosphere enveloped me, promising yet another delightful dining experience.

The restaurant, a hidden gem known for its eclectic mix and affordable luxury, hummed with the chatter of contented diners. The decor was a harmonious blend of modern and rustic elements, creating an ambiance that was both inviting and stylish. Twinkling lights hung from the ceiling, casting a soft glow over the wooden tables.

I was greeted by a smiling waitress, her enthusiasm as refreshing as the cool breeze drifting through the open windows. Her knowledge of the menu was impressive, guiding my choices with insightful suggestions. I opted for my usual favorites – the flaming tuna, flying salmon, and the steak teriyaki, but couldn't resist adding the lobster rolls, a recent discovery that had quickly become a must-have.

As I waited, I couldn't help but admire the bar area. It buzzed with a vibrant energy, a testament to its reputation for serving the best mixed drinks in the city at surprisingly reasonable prices. The bartender, a master at his craft, mixed drinks with an effortless flair, each concoction more intriguing than the last.

The food arrived, a visual and aromatic delight. The flaming tuna was a fiery dance of flavors, striking the perfect balance between heat and taste. The flying salmon was a testament to freshness, its delicate flavor enhanced by the lightest of seasonings. The steak teriyaki was tender and flavorful, each bite a savory delight. But the star of the show was the lobster rolls – fresh, succulent lobster nestled in a soft, warm bun, each bite a burst of oceanic bliss.

As I savored each dish, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. This restaurant wasn't just about great food; it was about the experience. It was a place where the hustle of the city melted away, leaving behind a space where time slowed down, and the simple joy of a good meal could be fully appreciated.

Finishing my meal, I leaned back, content and full. I watched as the staff moved with a seamless efficiency, attending to each customer with a personal touch that made the place feel like home. It was clear why this spot was a favorite among locals – it was a place where quality, comfort, and value met, creating an experience that was both exceptional and wonderfully familiar.

As I left, I promised myself to return soon, knowing that no matter how many times I visited, each experience would be as memorable as the last. In the heart of Buffalo, this little lunch spot was not just a restaurant; it was a story, one that I was always...

Stopped in for dinner before a show at Babeville. Walking in the door, we were hit in the face with the STRONG odor of (not fresh) fish. There was one couple in front of us ordering and three employees working in the store. Only the one who waited on us acknowledged us, while the other did online orders(?). Took at least 10 min to get service. Friend had Flaming Tuna bowl as listed and was served the dregs of sauce and bits of tuna left in the container, not a full serving of protein. When he questioned it, server argued he was given a full serving, then added a few pieces of fresh cut tuna because the spicy tuna was empty. I had the Bubba bowl as listed. It was fine but the freshness of some of the fake crab used was questionable. The bowls are over sauced for sure. Not the best or even good poke poke. It was adequate (served with a side of underlying worry about food safety). Food cases were an unappealing dirty mess, water station dispenses water that tastes like machine and misery, store feels not clean, fabric seating is stained and gross, rap station was extra loud and more suited to the after-hours clean up crew. Dined in and left as quickly as possible at 6:40pm. Met a disappointed couple at the door trying to get in which was already locked. Posted sign stated the store was closing at 7 due to Bills game. That couple got lucky and went somewhere else to eat....

Great vibe, great staff, and great menu choices both food and drink. I travel all over the US for my job and I'm always searching for poké places. I would rate 5 stars but here's where they missed the mark: low protein, a single ice cream scoop of spicey tuna for a large bowl was low ratio- so got charged the extra $3.50 for another scoop. Avacado was firm, not ripe, probably should have known that before cutting and serving, and way too much spicey mayo. Honestly so much that I couldn't find a bite that didn't have an over presence of it. The spicey tuna alone has its own Mayo coating, so the coating on top was quite a bit overkill. I like to be able to taste the greens a little not just the Mayo. I'll know to say light on the Mayo next time, but they should dial it back by default for any customer. It's easy to ask for more, but it's difficult to take it off once too much has been added. Overall, I am happy I found Fresh Catch. I signed up for their rewards program and will for sure be returning upon my next...