I-90 Eats - Blasdell

[cheesehead in recovery]

We're Driving from Boston to the Midwest, and we're looking for rec's of where to eat, especially near our hotel in Blasdell, NY, just outside of Buffalo, NY Kid friendly, cheap, and tasty. Also, if anyone can suggest lunch ideas... probably in the Albany area!

I'm also interested in any nice rest stops or good parks to stop at.. we'll need to walk our dog and stretch our legs....

[bflocat]

I'm assuming you're staying right off I-90 in Blasdell? Kind of a tough area for good eats. You'll be close to the McKinley Mall, which has a the type of eateries you inquired about, but they are all chains and pretty bland. Here's a couple options that should be pretty close by (within 5-10 minutes, depending on where you are staying):

Taffy's Hot Dog Stand, intersection of Southwestern Blvd (Rt. 20) and Orchard Park Rd (277) in Orchard Park - literally a hot dog stand, but everything is char-grilled, and it's great for kids as they have big swing rockers to sit on while you eat.

McKenzie's Bar and Grill, 4151 Lake Shore Blvd. - covered outdoor deck looks out at Lake Erie. Sizable menu that features standards like burgers and fish (broiled or fried), as well as pretty good pastas, for reasonable prices. Portions are HUGE (my husband and I split a fish fry), so be careful if you don't want leftovers.

Pasquale's, 3720 Seneca St., West Seneca - a bit farther away, but is known for its pizzas and pastas. Has a good kid-friendly atmosphere.

Curly's Bar and Grill, 647 Ridge Road, Lackwanna - ok. this would be my pick, but it depends on how picky your kids are. you can check their menu online at http://www.curlysgrill.com/. this is one of the most underrated restaurants in Western New York, probably because it's not in the nicest neighborhood (not unsafe, just visually unappealing) - but it's actually not far from the Blasdell exit. Their food is consistently great. For the adults, I suggest trying the Jerk Chicken or their Cioppino, which is fabulous.

[ridgel]

Hoak's Lakehsore Restaurant at 4100 Lake Shore Rd in Hamburg is right on the lake with great view and outdoor dining patio overlooking the water. Kid friendly with excellent and very generous fish fry as well as good beef on weck and Buffalo wings. Patio can get a bit crowded especially during "happy hour" but inside dining rooms also offer great lake views. Hope you have a great trip and enjoy your stop-over in the Buffalo area.