Shango

Shango is a unique restaurant offering innovative Cajun/Creole cuisine in a contemporary setting. Experience the warmth of New Orleans as Chef Jim Guarino invokes the spirit of the Big Easy. Enjoy the choice of over 100 handpicked wines, with twenty by the glass pours. Shango also features a wide selection of microbrews and Belgian beers. Located in Buffalo's University district, Shango is an excellent midway point between the city and its suburbs.

I hadn't heard of Shango until recently some friends suggested it for dinner, and I was so pleased with our dining experience. The atmosphere was great- relaxed, dark and cozy. The food has a New Orleans theme to it, and there were some beer selections from there as well. The one I tried was Abita Restoration Beer- the proceeds from it go to restoring New Orleans. It was a pale ale and pretty yummy. The food was excellent. My husband and I went with another couple and we sampled a bit of each others dishes- each one was tastier than the next. Although there were a couple of small screw ups with the service, overall it was pretty good and definitely friendly. Parking isn't great, but doable- we parked on a side street, but it wasn't far. I look forward to dining there again.

Coffee Bean Cafe is now known as Shango. Located on Main Street close to the University at Buffalo (South Campus), Shango offers a variety of food and wine. The prices are average and the atmosphere is excellent. Good place for a romantic date if you are on a budget ;) I personally like the outdoor patio thats made available in the summer. Parking is a pain to find on Main St. so be prepared to look for side street parking.

PROS: Food, Wine, Price
CONS: PARKING