| PanoOs
1081 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, NY |
While some Buffalo natives may be regulars at Pano's, UB students may not be aware of culinary delights this 24-hour restaurant, complete with vegetarian delights, has to offer.
Pano's offers many typical dinner options, including gyros, souvlaki and hot turkey sandwiches, but also has some signature items not found at most late night eateries.
Chicken Florentine, crab stuffed haddock, and rack of lamb are all delicious, yet affordable dinners included on the menu.
According to Joel Manaklan, manager of Pano's, the restaurant has been at its current location, 1081 Elmwood Ave, for seven years, and was in business for 19 years prior to that.
"I think that it's been so successful because of the good food, low prices, large portions and great location near the colleges and bars," he said. "The food here is also very consistent."
The Mediterranean pasta, served with salad and garlic bread, consists of chicken mixed with tomatoes, feta cheese and spices, making it a fabulous meal.
One of the biggest draws to Pano's is the extensive vegetarian section of the menu. According to Manaklan, the restaurant offers more vegetarian selections than anything else.
One vegetarian selection, the falafel sandwich, is made with falafel patties topped with tahini curry in a pita with onions, tomatoes, and red peppers.
Another popular vegetarian dish is the combo platter. The platter consists of humus, spinach, rice, bean salad, and broiled zucchini.
The breakfast menu has omelets, pancakes with either fruit or chocolate chips, and other items. Pano's special, two pancakes, two eggs, and two bacon strips, sausages, or slices of ham, is only $4.49. The menu also offers a strip steak and eggs meal for $4.99.
Pano's also has a variety of daily specials including fresh seafood and fish fry Fridays, as well as appetizer specials.
Christie Beiter said she enjoys the spinach and artichoke dip appetizer.
"I really love this dip, at most places it's too cheesy, but this is just right. A lot of places don't give you enough chips either and here I have plenty," said Beiter.
The dessert menu at Pano's also has many options to choose from, ranging from pies and milkshakes to homemade rice pudding and other tasty treats, all reasonably priced.
"The strawberry shortcake is great at Pano's, it has real whipped cream and strawberries. It's really big too, big enough for a few people to share," said Mike Humphreys, a senior pre-law student.
The diverse menu, convenient hours and low prices are what draw many college students to Pano's but the relaxed, friendly atmosphere make it a fun outing for a variety of patrons.
"The clientele really varies from the morning regulars of groups of retired people who come in as a ritual, to the overnight bar crowd which is more college-aged kids. For dinners we really get a wide variety," said Manaklan.
Those looking to add variety to their dining experience with quick and friendly service should visit Pano's for a break from frequent trips to the other late-night eateries.
