The Pilafs recently enjoyed an evening out on Hertel Avenue in Buffalo by revisiting our college years and jumping at the opportunity to shop for LPs and tie dyes. We topped off the night at a comfortable, refreshing, clean-lined bar with lively conversation and classic libations. Our daughter joined us and did well at tolerating our trips down memory lane and stories of “when we were her age.”
Revolver Records, 1451 Hertel Avenue
Several years ago Dra gifted JT a record player so he could finally play those LPs sitting on their shelves. Since then, he has been searching high and low to find albums from his past at a steal of a price, especially the Grateful Dead, Allman Brothers and Van Morrison. With this in mind, our first stop was Revolver Records. This shop specializes in quality vintage and new vinyl releases. Owner Phil is knowledgeable and super cool. He knows his stuff and is willing to keep an eye out for anything that may be on your list. They have over 30,000 albums that span all genres from 1950s-2010s and two locations.
Check their website for hours at https://revolverrecordsinc.com
Terrapin Station, 1172 Hertel Avenue
Our next stop was Terrapin Station, a leading seller of incense, candles, jewelry, tie dyes, tapestries, and Grateful Dead merchandise. Now that he can no longer swap concerts on cassette, JT is happiest when he finds a new, unique sticker for his car or guitar case. Our daughter is always happy to find another ring. Dra just enjoys hearing Uncle John’s Band and finding a bit of Sugar Magnolia. If you are a Jerry fan, not only can you find his merch inside, but you can also view a giant mural of the legend painted on the wall outside. Hertel is filled with murals throughout the strip. The art is definitely fun to check out and perfect for selfies!
Terrapin is open Monday-Sunday 11am-6pm. https://terrapinstationbuffalo.com
Roaming Bison Tavern, 732 Hertel Avenue
Having worked up an appetite, the Pilafs plus daughter, headed to Roaming Bison Tavern. Now I’ll be honest, this is one of our favorite BBQ places in Buffalo. Truth. Owner Greg Herzog knows how to smoke with the best of them, and bartender Paul can make a mean Rye Tai. As a matter of fact, Dra gets this specialty drink at each visit.
Although the bar has five taps of craft beers, it’s the list of bourbons that impresses each visitor. Don’t be afraid to give one or two a try…or go with a flight!
When it comes to food, it’s difficult for us to recommend specific items here because, honestly, it’s all pretty amazing! The smoked brisket is to die for and if you want to enjoy a unique flavor, give the smoked wings with blueberry BBQ sauce a try. Don’t forget the sides, including the beans with chunks of pork and the collard greens which are incredible. Yes, this is the one and only place JT orders a vegetable!
Our daughter is a big fan of the familiar and recommends you give anything with cheese a chance here.
Open Tuesday-Saturday, it’s best to check their website for times during Covid. https://rbtbbq.com
Street parking.
Bar seating and dining area.
Box Score for Roaming Bison Tavern – HOME RUN
Revolver Records, 1451 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216, 716.213.7604
Terrapin Station, 1172 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216, 716.874.6677, email: stopinandsayhi@aol.com
Roaming Bison Tavern, 732 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14207, 716.235.8281
Circling the Bases 
Next time I’m getting the extra hot wings !
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