Hidden Gems in the 716: Anderson's

For many, this store needs no introduction. 

The interior of the Williamsville location of Anderson's on Main St.

A Buffalo mainstay for eighty years and counting as of the time of writing, this family-owned joint is perhaps most known for their freshly made beef-on-weck, barbeque beef sandwiches, and homemade ice cream and custard. Just recently, the chain opened a seventh location in Grand Island following their purchase of Adrian’s Custard and Beef, further expanding their reach throughout not only Erie County, but the entire United States of America through its nationwide shipping of their most iconic items.

In celebration of their 80th anniversary, I traveled over to their Williamsville location to learn about their local history and have a taste of some of their menu.

About the Food:

When I walked inside, I was rather pleased by the homely atmosphere — a perfect blending of the past and the present in one calming storefront that seemed to almost exude this welcoming atmosphere. Although I found the homemade macaroni and cheese pretty enjoyable, I always found myself going back to the baked potato, which was by far the highlight. I ordered mine with butter and chives that came free-of-cost, but there are at least six other options available for further customization (albeit at a slightly more expensive price) for those who like their baked potato with a little more of a kick or some protein. This may read as hyperbole, but I am telling the truth when I say that I don’t think I’ve ever had a baked potato that fully captured the essence and texture of a baked potato as well as the one I had here.

Of course, I could never pass up the opportunity to taste some lemon ice, and Anderson’s did not disappoint on that front. I ended my meal enjoying the substantial portion that I received and its sweetly tart taste.

On Anderson's Local History:

Before dining at Anderson’s, I was able to reach out to Lisa, a member of the marketing team at Anderson’s, to inquire about the chain’s local history and what it means for them to serve the Buffalo area.

A vintage photo featuring the Anderson's location of Tonawanda.

Although Anderson’s has extensive presence here in Buffalo, little may know that Anderson’s roots actually lie eight hours away in New York City, where former owners Carl and Greta Anderson first opened a small custard store in the heart of the Bronx, right next to a movie theater after Carl was discharged from the Navy following the end of the second World War. Just over a year afterwards, they moved back home to Buffalo and began opening further Anderson’s buildings with every new store mirroring the evolving landscape of the 1900s, such as the Anderson’s built in Tonawanda (pictured above) having parking space available to accommodate the automobiles prevalent in that era.

Following the values set by Carl and Greta Anderson, this local chain continues to give back to the community to this day through fundraising for various children’s charities such as Variety Kids of Buffalo and Camp Good Days of WNY, and through providing catering services for local businesses. As the woman-owned business states, “Anderson’s has become a family legacy, a community tradition, and a place where generations have gathered to celebrate, connect, and create memories. That legacy continues because of the people who walk through our doors and the people who serve them with care.”

Final Remarks:

You should give Anderson’s a shot if…

• You’d like to give a gift to someone dear to you — Anderson’s can curate some of their ice cream cakes and pies to fit any occasion!

• You’re looking for a place to cater to a business or event

• You’d love to dine somewhere that blends history with modernity

• You’re looking for a place with a varied kids and adult menu

• You like variety in the forms of “XXXX of the week/month”

• You want to support a family-owned restaurant

Written by: Catherine Beiter