JT’s Urban Italian — Restaurant in Buffalo

JT’s seems to be another restaurant that has declined in terms of quality of service and product, while raising prices at the same time. I’ve eaten here plenty of times, both dine in and takeout, and up until recently this was my favorite place to get a steak sandwich. During my last visit, the greeting I received at the host stand was a total turn off. No smile and hello, I couldn’t even hear what was said back to me from the two women after I asked for a table. My waitress seemed nice initially. I ordered the steak sandwich this time. When it was brought out, I noticed that the piece of meat was drastically smaller than what I had been accustomed to receiving, while the price has also increased by $2. After taking my first bite, I found that the steak was overcooked and extremely tough to chew. Just an all around horrible piece of meat. During the time I was eating, I was not asked how things were. So when the waitress decided to come over to prepare the bill, I made mention that I was not happy with the steak I received. She took my plate and went to inform the manager. The “manager” turned out to be one of the women who was behind the host stand when I walked in. The waitress returned and asked if I would like a complimentary dessert or drink, I said “no, thank you.” So she hands me the bill. I look at it and say “manager couldn’t do anything, huh?” she says, “let me go ask her again.” So the manager comes over and tells me that it’s my fault because I ate half of the sandwich. So I had to inform her that no one had come over to ask me how things were. Eventually she agreed to take the sandwich off my bill all together, but at this point I was honestly offended by the way she handled the situation. Customer service is severely lacking. The food has just been so underwhelming here lately, I can only assume that there have been changes in kitchen staff, for the worse. On a recent visit before this, I came in for a fish fry. It was so overcooked and dry, couldn’t even eat half of it. The coleslaw was very good and the fries here are normally top notch, but they were awful on my last visit with the sandwich. I’m not a person who likes to complain because I try to be understanding, but consistency is key for restaurants and quite frankly, this place has been consistently bad as of late. I’m really...

A Heartbreaking Decline for a Once-Beloved Elmwood Staple

As a longtime patron of JT’s, I’ve had the unfortunate experience of witnessing the restaurant’s steep decline since the recent chef changes. What was once a reliable neighborhood cornerstone, known for quality cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere, has now devolved into an establishment that feels almost unrecognizable—both in execution and spirit.

Ever since the kitchen’s leadership shifted, the food has been, in a word, inedible. I don’t use that term lightly. There was even an instance when our table was served raw chicken—a dangerous and frankly unforgivable lapse for any restaurant, let alone one with JT’s prior reputation. What’s more troubling is that members of the staff themselves have candidly admitted their frustrations with the new chef’s performance. Unfortunately, when a subsequent chef was brought in, the issues persisted—equally uninspired, poorly executed dishes that leave diners questioning how quality control could erode so dramatically.

The menu overhaul, presumably intended to reinvigorate the place, has only compounded the disappointment. It lacks the thoughtful balance and crowd-pleasing familiarity that once made JT’s a beacon for both casual weeknight dinners and impromptu gatherings. The result is a disjointed offering that neither excites nor satisfies—frankly, it feels like a caricature of its former self.

What stings most is the loss of community spirit that once defined JT’s. This was a place where notable Buffalonians and neighborhood regulars gathered, a hub for the Elmwood Village’s social fabric. Conversations with many of these long-standing patrons reveal a shared sense of dismay; they, too, have noticed the decline and shifted their allegiances elsewhere. That collective retreat speaks volumes.

JT’s holds a unique place in this city’s culinary and social landscape—it always represented more than just a meal. Watching it falter so dramatically has been disheartening for those of us who considered it a second home. My hope is that ownership recognizes the severity of the situation and takes decisive action to restore the restaurant to its former glory. Buffalo deserves better, and...

JT's on Elmwood in Buffalo truly stands out among the plethora of dining options in the area. As someone who has frequented many spots around Buffalo, I can confidently say that JT's offers a unique experience. One of my personal preferences is grabbing a seat at the bar. There's an undeniable charm to the ambiance there, where the bustling energy of the kitchen melds seamlessly with the relaxed atmosphere of the dining area.

The Italian cuisine at JT's is commendable for its quality. Each dish showcases a balance of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques, making every bite a delightful experience. While the debate about the best Italian restaurant in Buffalo is subjective, JT's undeniably holds its own in this competitive landscape. From their perfectly al dente pasta to the rich and flavorful sauces, each menu item is crafted with care and expertise.

In addition to the food, the overall experience at JT's is worth noting. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable, adding to the warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're there for a casual dinner or a special occasion, JT's makes every visit memorable.

I highly recommend JT's on Elmwood for both the experience and the food. It's a place where culinary excellence and a comfortable setting merge to create an enjoyable dining experience. Cheers to a restaurant that continues to impress with its exceptional Italian cuisine and...