Buffalo Mountain Grille — Restaurant in Oak Ridge

After a few visits, I figured it's time to finally write a review for Buffalo Mountain Grill.

BMG is an unassuming spot--definitely not trying to impress you with its looks. When you walk in, there's no host stand or friendly greeter, just a sign that says, "Seat yourself and let us know you're here." The layout feels a bit patched together, like a restaurant built from spare parts. It's dimly lit, and the interior design doesn't seem like a top priority--so I wouldn't recommend it for a first date or an attempt to impress someone. It has strong dive bar energy, just in restaurant form.

There is a small outdoor patio, and the bonus? It's dog-friendly. Inside, there are plenty of TVs, so it leans a bit toward sports bar territory--but without the usual rowdy crowd or game-day vibe.

Service has been solid overall. On our first attempt to eat here, they let us know they were short-staffed and wouldn't be able to serve us for an hour. Disappointing, sure--but I appreciated the honesty and that they didn't waste our time. On return visits, service has been on point. We were greeted quickly, our server was helpful and attentive, and food came out hot.

There is a bar, but don't expect craft cocktails or a resident mixologist. It's best to keep it simple here: grab a beer on tap or something straightforward like a whiskey neat. Anything more complicated might fall flat.

As for the food, it's been consistently good. The hot wings are a standout--crispy with a flavorful hot sauce that actually delivers on heat. I've also tried the fish & chips and the burger; both were solid and satisfying. The only inconsistency was with the side salad. The first time it came out with a fresh spring mix, but on another visit, it was just iceberg lettuce--not a dealbreaker, but a little disappointing.

We used to go to Oakey's for our dive-bar wings and casual grub, but Buffalo Mountain Grill has taken that spot for us. It's quirky, no-frills, and definitely not fancy--but they serve up legit food and deliver where it counts.

Give it a shot. Just don't come looking for...

In the 18+ years I've lived in Oak Ridge, I must have driven by Buffalo Mountain Grille over 4,000 times either on my way to someplace for a meal or returning from one. On Friday the 13th I finally went there for a late dinner. It was a lucky stop. There was no greeter upon entering the lobby--just a sign directing me to find a seat and I would be served. There were 2 rooms connected by a bar with additional tables (the most populated area with enthused patrons watching a high school football ball game while enjoying food and drinks). I opted for one of the quieter dining rooms. Shortly after plopping down at a table, a server brought me a broadside menu with a plethora of selections: appetizers, sandwiches, full meals, dessert items, and beverage options (the alcoholic offerings suggested a knowledgeable bartender). I chose the sausage dinner ( either Polish, andouille, buffalo, or elk served on a bed of sauerkraut and a side). Since buffalo was unavailable, elk seemed too substantial for late evening, andouille sounded too spicy, I chose Polish. My server recommended fried okra as the side. Both were excellent choices. The 2 sausages were flat grilled to perfection of warmth and texture. They could not be confused with the county fair variety. No, these were perfectly balanced of lean meat and juicy fat, robust flavor, and substantial in size. The sauerkraut had just the right amount of pickle. The breading of the fried okra was crisp and hardy. A warm, soft pretzel and a dollop of French mustard adorned the plate. My libation was unsweetened iced tea (sweetened not offered). This meal suggested a stronger brew, but I'm driving. My server was friendly and attentive. I left with a "doggie" bag and a self inflected kick in the pants for waiting so long to patron this...

Great place for a bite to eat and a pub-type atmosphere.

When the owners are back in the kitchen cooking your food or come out to visit their customers at the bar, you know it's a nice local joint.

I had a turkey reuben and some sweet potato fries and as well as a couple of beers and everything was great. Service was prompt, if not a little informal. It seems like they have a lot of regulars and the conversations seem to flow pretty openly from employees to customers and between tables. It's like the whole place is a community of its own, so if your an introvert, your probably out of luck.

The owner came out and gave half the bar a sample of some new cheese-stick type things they were preparing (cube shaped, kinda weird) and I was lucky enough to score a sample. They were awesome.

Best of all, no sticker shock at the end of my visit, much cheaper and every bit as good as places like Aubrey's and Calhoun's.

Glad I stumbled across this place, great little change up from all the corporate places and the throngs of people all staring at their...