Waxlight Bar a Vin

Waxlight Bar a Vin

27 Chandler St, Buffalo, NY 14207, United States

Restaurant
(252)
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About This Place

Located in the vibrant heart of Buffalo’s historic Chandler Street district, Waxlight Bar a Vin is a standout destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience steeped in creative flavors and an inviting atmosphere. This restaurant artfully combines a passion for innovative cocktails with a thoughtfully curated menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients and eclectic culinary techniques, offering guests an unforgettable sensory journey.

Cuisine & Menu Highlights

Waxlight Bar a Vin showcases a contemporary approach to modern American cuisine with subtle nods to European influences, all beautifully presented with a focus on freshness and inventive pairings. The culinary offerings range from playful starters like the Salt-Roasted Carrots with Dill Crème Fraîche, Carrot Streusel, and Pickled Dill Flowers, to indulgent main dishes such as the succulent Roast Chicken Breast and the rich, tender Rack of Lamb. Not to be missed are their standout dishes like the Burnt Basque Cheesecake, whose caramelized top and creamy interior offer a sublime balance of texture and taste, and the refreshing Summer Squash Toast with Blossom Ricotta and Summer Herbs, a light yet flavorful option that bursts with garden-fresh vibrancy.

The dessert selection continues to impress with options such as the lush Strawberry Coconut Tart and the delicate Panna Cotta, each crafted to provide a sweet and satisfying finale to your meal. The attentive thought behind each dish reveals the kitchen’s commitment to creativity, quality, and seasonal inspiration.

Exceptional Cocktail Program & Wine Selection

Equally impressive is Waxlight's cocktail menu, which is renowned for its craftsmanship and imaginative blends. Highlights like the 75 Cocktail with Armagnac and the vibrant Summer Negroni showcase the bar’s ability to blend classic techniques with contemporary flair. For those seeking a flavorful but spirit-free option, the Spirit Free Soda Pineapple & Strawberry is an invigorating choice that doesn’t compromise on sophistication.

Complementing the cocktails is a well-curated wine list that spans sparkling, white, and red varieties featuring labels from Europe to the Finger Lakes. Whether sipping on the bright, mineral-driven Gal'a Monograph Assyrtiko from Greece or indulging in the robust Mas De Daumas Gassac Cabernet Sauvignon Blend from France, the selection invites guests to explore and find perfect pairings for their meal.

Atmosphere & Experience

From the moment you step inside Waxlight Bar a Vin, you’re enveloped in an ambiance that perfectly balances casual comfort with sleek sophistication. The stylish décor and warm lighting create a relaxed yet vibrant vibe that is well-suited for everything from a special celebration to an evening of casual enjoyment with friends. This atmosphere is often lauded by visitors—as shared by diners like Murphy McConnell, who raved about the “fantastic food, super cool cocktails, and amazing atmosphere,” promising frequent returns.

Customer experiences reflect not only the exemplary food and drinks but also the attentive and knowledgeable service that adds to every visit. Whether you’re enjoying the carefully paced courses with a group of friends, as Anna DiNoto did, or celebrating a special occasion with personalized attention from staff members like Jess or Lauren—each moment is thoughtfully crafted to feel memorable and special.

In every aspect, Waxlight Bar a Vin embodies a dedication to culinary excellence and genuine hospitality. It stands as a must-visit spot for those who appreciate adventurous menus paired with expertly mixed drinks in a setting that feels as exciting as the food on the plate.

Service options
Outdoor seating Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Great cocktails Great dessert Great wine list
Popular for
Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Small plates Spirits Wine
Dining options
Brunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Gender-neutral toilets Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Cosy Romantic Trendy Upmarket
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards Credit cards
Parking
Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    Closed
  • Wednesday
    05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday
    05:00 PM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday
    05:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Saturday
    05:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Murphy McConnell
    1 month ago

    LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Food was FANTASTIC, the cocktails were super cool and the atmosphere was amazing. We'll certainly be back and often!

  • Michelle C
    1 month ago

    Our favorite restaurant, by far! Great service and exciting menu items. We love that they are always experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. We have never had a bad experience here.

  • Saddid Ahmed
    1 month ago

    I took my Fiancee here for her birthday because she's been wanting to go here for a while. It was a delightful experience. Our server was Jess and she was top notch. We got drinks (the Daisy, Mai Tai, some red wine) followed up by the Anchovy toast which was absolutely delicious. We then had the duck arancini and that was also very good. It was then followed up by our main courses, the beef short ribs and the dry-aged beef steak. It was amazing and tasted so delicious. We ended the night with a surprise burnt cheesecake with a candle to commemorate my fiancee's birthday along with some amazing cold brew coffee! Jess was a pleasure to work with and i would definitely go back to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere and delicious food and drinks! Highly recommend!

  • Lisa Zhang
    2 month ago

    I cannot say enough about this place! My husband and I went here for a personal celebration and we were blown away! I would give this place 10 stars if i could! The cocktails were some of the best I’ve ever had. The service was top-notch and truly made our night that much more special. Our server, Lauren, from the moment we said hello until the end of our visit was beyond outstanding. She took time to explain different ingredients and flavor profiles of various dishes. She answered all of our questions with a breadth of knowledge, all while being kind and personable. She was just absolutely incredible from start to finish. The food? Omg OUT OF THIS WORLD DELICIOUS!!!!! Honestly I had some expectations but even those were blown away when I tasted the beef ribs, pork belly, pasta (pasta is made in house and you absolutely can tell that it is!) and hangar steak. You can taste the incredible attention that is put into the food at this restaurant and it’s hands down probably the most impressive restaurant I’ve ever been to in Buffalo. I simply cannot recommend this restaurant enough. Just the food alone makes it one of the best (actually it was my favorite place I’ve been to in a very very long time and I’d say it has to be my favorite fine dining spot now) but the gorgeous atmosphere of this place (interior design is exceptional), the service beyond phenomenal, the overall experience struck a chord and has left a lasting impression. This place really is that amazing- I don’t know that my review can even do it justice. We will be back with my in-laws and my sister and her husband as well. I honestly cannot wait to go here again!!!

  • Anna DiNoto
    2 month ago

    First time here and definitely not the last! The ambience of the restaurant was awesome and such a cool vibe. Service was absolutely amazing and food was fantastic! Went with a group of 6 and we got a bunch of different apps on top of entrees. Everything was coursed out perfectly and the desserts were perfect! An awesome evening with not a single complaint definitely one of my new favorite spots!! Loved it

  • How it is Liz
    3 month ago

    Waxlight Bar à Vin is a unique gem tucked away in Buffalo’s Black Rock neighborhood! With an ever evolving, eclectic menu of food and cocktails, every visit feels like a culinary adventure! The ownership team is made up of seasoned chefs and knowledgeable sommeliers, bringing unmatched expertise to the table. Their commitment to detail and service shines from the moment you walk in. It’s no surprise they’ve received three James Beard nominations! The space itself is just as imaginative as the food. Sleek, modern, velvet textures and sultry lighting, it strikes the perfect balance between elegant and inviting. Once you find Waxlight, you’ll be hooked! A must-visit for anyone who loves trying new flavors with great wine and cocktail pairings.

  • Elise Addeo
    4 month ago

    The drinks here are incredible and the staff was very helpful and kind. Amazing mocktails + loved the small bites. The ambiance would be great for a nicer date. The seating arrangements and bar are inviting and comfortable, and you can surely stay here a while! Make a reservation and don’t miss it. :) x Elise

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