Top Bars in Buffalo – Most Viewed (2025)
Discover Buffalo's upstate bar scene with rooftop cocktail bars overlooking Lake Erie, hidden speakeasies in historic buildings, and lively beer halls in the city center. Experience craft beer bars in the modern areas, sophisticated lounges in boutique hotels, and traditional American bars in the old town. From classic New York hospitality to experimental mixology, Buffalo offers a unique blend of arts scene, historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife in upstate New York.
Matinee opened on April 26, 2016, founded by Ryan "Rex" Keppel and Kevin Shanahan. It’s a unique cocktail lounge and beer bar located at 698 Main Street, Buffalo, that blends vintage theatre nostalgia with craft drinks and cozy ambiance. Step inside and you're greeted by repurposed stage props, leather couches, and a handcrafted bar that evoke classic cinema lounges. Matinee feels like entering an old-world theatrical club, perfect for socializing or winding down after a show . Their menu features over 100 craft beers, whiskey selections, cocktails, wine, tea, and coffee, along with light fare like dips and small plates. Highlights include themed "Whiskey Wednesday" specials, rotating craft beers (often featured on Untappd), and hand-crafted cocktails, making it a hub for enthusiasts of spirits and beer alike . Visitors praise the laid-back vibe, knowledgeable staff, and eclectic décor. The lounge hosts occasional screenings or live performances, reinforcing its artsy community atmosphere. Matinee is ideal for dates, meet-ups with friends, or pre/post-theatre relaxation—especially appealing to trivia, arts, or film lovers seeking a relaxed and stylish retreat in Buffalo’s Theatre District.