Rec Room image

Rec Room

Restaurant Bar Night club Sports bar Live music bar Concert hall Dance club

One of the Top rated Night clubs in Buffalo


Address

79 W Chippewa St, Buffalo, NY 14202

Website

www.recroombuffalo.com

Contact

(716) 939-1279

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (476 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 9 PM to 4 AM
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: 6 PM to 1 AM
  • Friday: 9 PM to 2 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: show (22) night (16) great (16) music (15) good (13) venue (12) Room (11) band (10) time (10) area (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Crystal G. 2 years ago on Google
    Dueling pianos was the most fun I’ve had on a Thursday night in ages! This is an interactive, live music, full band, show with a video wall and visuals for a memorable night out. The talent here is just that, super talented! This is a really cool experience and something new to this area. It felt like a show that would be in Key West, on a tropical resort or a cruise ship. Guests are encouraged to pick music from a song catalog and make requests. Bump your song up to the front of the line by sending a tip on Venmo. The bigger the tip the night priority you will have. You can also embarrass your friends for $5 by having a message displayed in their honor across the giant video screens. Tambourines and maracas are passed out to guests and everyone is encouraged to partake in the show, dance and if you feel encouraged can sit and dance on top the back of the booths. The show itself is 5+ stars! The menu is currently limited and is available via QR code. There is an extensive drink menu with something for everyone. Craft cocktails, bubble shots, craft beers, wine and buckets of High Noons and spiked seltzer’s will get everyone loosened up and ready to sing. The service was very good, helpful and accommodating but not too pushy. The reason I am giving this 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the food. I know right now things are tough and I am thrilled they have a food menu at all. The menu was pretty basic and had decent bar food type of options. I was disappointed because I ordered the wing dip and it came out cold, like it was just pulled out of the fridge. The server told me it came in a crock, so it would be hot. The flavor was pretty good but heating it up would have made it so much better. The server was able to get me celery instead of pita to dip which was helpful and accommodating. But I need to say the celery was pretty sad looking and on it’s last legs. It’s not great that I noticed that after a few drinks and in darker lighting conditions. Either way this isn’t a place you are coming for a memorable meal and it wouldn’t prevent me from coming back. But a few adjustments would have made this even better. Since there is limited seating you are best off to make a reservation. There is a $10 cover charge for the show which runs close to 4 hours. Walk ins are welcome if there is seating available. There are seating options downstairs and upstairs. Each option has some pros and cons. Downstairs is a front seat and close to the action. You are able to interact with the singers and musicians. This area is much busier and you can get up and dance with other guests. By the end of the night you will have played the tambourine at least twice. The upstairs has more room, is less crowded and has a birds eye view. You can see the show very well but don’t get the same experience as being front and center. The other perks of being upstairs are there is an outdoor smoking lounge and some pretty neat neon sign/ art installation spots for the perfect selfies.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joe R. 2 years ago on Google
    Small venue with great sound! I got to be right up front for my favorite band, be close to the bar, and still be able to move around the place! Staff are friendly and efficient. Checking COVID vaccine cards at the door right now too, so I felt pretty safe being around a small crowd.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrea S. 2 years ago on Google
    My favorite place to spend a Saturday night on Chippewa. It is definitely the best bar on the strip, and most popular by far. The line is always down the street- so plan accordingly! The Dueling Pianos event and Karaoke is also a blast at Rec Room. The upstairs is a lot of fun too! The neon signs and arcade area make it a perfectly Insta-worthy spot. You can’t come to Rec Room and not get some cute photos! The staff is always great and super friendly. Also super fast too! Hats off to Chris and Dale for creating such an amazing space in downtown Buffao
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 R C. 10 months ago on Google
    Very cool and spacious venue for concerts. They have a neat outdoor area upstairs where you can get some fresh air and smokers can smoke. Their prices for drinks are a bit steep ($17 for two high noons), but I guess that is normal for Chippewa. All the bartenders and staff were super friendly and quick with serving.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Caitleen O. 2 years ago on Google
    I saw a band play here, and the place was completely packed. Everyone was fully masked, and they carded at the door. Everyone who could drink got a wristband, and everyone underage got both hands sharpied for clarity. We didn't end up needing to ask the bar for water (nor did we drink), but it was a wonderful time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Jake F. 1 year ago on Google
    Would leave zero stars if I could . The beers and bottles we ordered came out in Home Depot buckets with ice.. trashy. The music was absolutely terrible all night to the point the place was dead on a Saturday night . And to top it off security would rather physically fight your group rather then giving you any type of warning . I would not recommend this place to any young folks trying to have a good night ! Not worth the money by any means. DO NOT RENT VIP BOOTHS HERE . You been warned
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Len K. 6 months ago on Google
    Dueling Pianos night is awesome! They made a dish gluten free for us.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fred D. 8 months ago on Google
    This is a great place to see a show in downtown Buffalo, NY. I really like the place and have been there for three concerts now. The sound quality there is actually very good, the bar is very well-stocked if you partake in alcoholic beverages, you have two floors to choose from to see the show, there's a pool table, two arcade basketball games, a shuffle puck table, and an electronic dartboard as well. Upstairs there's a smoking area which is fully outside (if it's raining you will get wet out there) which is really handy for concerts, and while the food overall is a little too expensive in my opinion, it's not that bad compared to what you might pay at one of the restaurants in the immediate area. The menu has a few interesting things on it along with a few bar staples, so just about anyone could find something to order. However, I don't remember any vegan or gluten-free options. Neither of those things applies to me, so there very well could be something for some vegetarians/vegans/gluten-free options and I just didn't notice or don't remember. The staff seems pretty decent, and they do work very hard when there's a show with lots of people looking for drinks. I just hope they have more bartenders when bigger shows with more patrons. Food and booze prices again are not that far from what you'd get charged at any of the other downtown bars/nightclubs, however I've only been there for concerts, so there may or may not be different pricing schemes depending on what's going on. If you are looking for that small club, intimate concert venue, this is one of the very best places for that. It's just awesome for shows, and dare I say I like this place MORE than the Ballroom on Main Street for a show. I'd happily give them 8.75 out of 10, and will absolutely return any time a show I want to see goes there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Donald L-Biz F. 9 months ago on Google
    Performanced there for the 1st time and it was great. The sound staff was in point. My fans enjoyed the guys and drinks and the show was awesome. Hopefully I get another chance to Bless the Stage again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 donna r. 1 year ago on Google
    We have been there for dueling pianos three times! We always have a great time! So much fun!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John E. 1 year ago on Google
    Completely updated look, comfortable seats, clean bar, and attentive staff. The stage is right by the front door so you can hear the music from the street. Usually featuring local artists, this place is worth a visit- especially if you know the band -the crowd feels electric when a band hits their stride.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Skylar W. 1 year ago on Google
    As a concert goer, phenomenal, I love it here. But I have to give my opinion as a local musician, their sound guy needs to level the live mixes A LOT better. Could barely hear vocals Sunday night. Editing to 5* after response from the owner - Fantastic to hear! Specific recommendations for the techs, turn the bass down!! Bigger and louder isn't always better haha!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cristina M. 1 year ago on Google
    Wow!!!! 🤩 We just happened upon this place on a Thursday evening while in town. We were NOT disappointed! Dueling Pianos 716 was there. It was SO MUCH FUN!!! The musicians entertained and interacted with the crowd. The music and overall vibe was amazing! Multiple tambourines placed around to encourage dancing and fun! Great place!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Gene T. 2 years ago on Google
    Went to the dualing piano show on the recommendation of a friend, and while the performers (especially the red head female singer, and the violin player)worked hard to put on a good show, it was disappointing compared to other dualing piano shows we have attended. While I like loud music, the sound was terrible, and all the songs were played at a too fast tempo with no real crowd interaction. The bartenders did a good job and drink prices are reasonable. Ordered the chicken tacos and while they were very good, paid $17.00 for 3 very small tacos. Also be aware that gratuity is included on your bill which I didn't see that and tipped again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael S. 4 months ago on Google
    Rec Room is a great music & bar venue, definitely worth stopping by whenever they have music events going on! Whether it’s during pianos, Emo night Brooklyn, or another concert, Rec Room provides a great atmosphere!

  • 1/5 TheForcefulC G. 1 year ago on Google
    Not a good venue for bands!! Everytime I’ve been here so far they rush all the bands out and never let them finish their full set! This time one of the band members told me they were being rushed out so they can set up for their stupid karaoke? I feel like the bands you bring in should be more important than that!

  • 5/5 Brandy L. 5 months ago on Google
    was a great show but was overly packed for sure ! The outdoor area upstairs was really cool .

  • 5/5 Chris W. 4 months ago on Google
    Great time! Highly recommend going on a night they have the dualing pianos playing!!

  • 5/5 Zack S. 5 months ago on Google
    The Dueling Pianos event at Rec Room Buffalo is a unique entertainment experience that features a full band led by pianists/vocalists Tyler Smith and Steve Padin. The band also includes guitarist Matt Coleman and vocalist/emcee Jessika Schreiber, who brings an energetic and interactive element to the show. Jessika Schreiber is particularly noted for her dynamic performance, engaging with the audience and adding a fun atmosphere to the event​​. The show at Rec Room is Downtown Buffalo's only dueling pianos show, offering a modern twist on the classic dueling pianos format. The events usually start at 7 pm, with doors opening at 6:30 pm, and are open to individuals aged 21 and over. The Rec Room provides a lively setting for these shows, adding to the overall entertainment experience​​​​. For specific dates and ticket information, you can visit the official website of Dueling Pianos 716 or the Rec Room Buffalo event page Rec Room Buffalo is a vibrant and multifaceted venue located in the heart of Buffalo's entertainment district at 79 W Chippewa Street. This lively spot is known for hosting a wide range of events, including live music performances, private parties, and unique interactive experiences like dueling pianos and live band karaoke. It's a place that bridges the gap between larger-capacity clubs and more intimate, club-level vibes, offering a unique experience in Buffalo's entertainment landscape. The venue features a 350-capacity general admission showroom and is popular for its eclectic mix of events catering to various tastes. They host a diverse array of musical genres, ranging from alternative, indie, punk, and metal to hip-hop, EDM, and country. Rec Room's dueling pianos event is particularly noteworthy, providing a modern take on the classic show with a variety of music from different eras and genres. Rec Room stands out not only for its musical offerings but also for its ambiance and amenities. The venue has two floors of space, an extensive food and drink menu, and Instagram-worthy settings. It's an ideal place for people looking to enjoy live original music in a stylish and dynamic environment. Additionally, Rec Room offers various services like bottle service, special packages for events like bachelorette parties, and the ability to book tables for groups. Their game day events are also a highlight, providing an immersive experience for sports fans with large LED video walls and half-time entertainment.

  • 4/5 ASH454 8 months ago on Google
    Bit small in there but had a good time at the show

  • 5/5 Faith S. 8 months ago on Google
    Great place for a show. The atrium smoking area is an excellent addition. Wish we would have tried the food but we had already eaten. Will make sure to next time and update.

  • 5/5 Steve F. 1 year ago on Google
    What a fantastic little club! How have I never been here before? I gotta see Voivod and finally scratch them off my list. Friendly staff, and great sound. It looks like they had a kitchen too. Would recommend!

  • 5/5 Wendy W. 11 months ago on Google
    Rec room never fails to provide a good time! Their Friday night live karaoke is a must, best karaoke in Buffalo. Saturday nights are filled with fun, dancing, and great music. The bartenders and manager provide excellent service!

  • 5/5 Breezie Gamer (. 10 months ago on Google
    Went here for a concert, was awesome. Food was way too expensive. They did serve mocktails, which was really nice for the younger audience to feel more grown. I was able to find seating because most people preferred to stand, but there was not much seating in general.

  • 5/5 William B. 11 months ago on Google
    Awesome bar find in downtown buffalo. Attended on a Friday "bandioke" night, which was excellent - much more fun than karaoke to a hifi! The band's singer was escellent too when they played songs as a band.

  • 5/5 Christopher P. 11 months ago on Google
    Boss place, great people & awesome bartenders. Go have a blast, you'll Thank me

  • 4/5 Live Luv Sail R. 1 year ago on Google
    It was a fun place to go after my daughters wedding... There was a 10.00 cover and we went to the second d story after have a round of Bubble Shots The crowd was mixed ages, groups and reasons for being out, wedding, baby shower, bachelorette party. People mingled, danced and drank - nice night. When we were leaving, there were police all over the street and they were searching the area. We didnt have any problems leaving and never knew what happened.

  • 3/5 Neeni M. 1 year ago on Google
    been here plenty of times. the two floors and patios are really nice, but the music sucked. it was Halloween weekend, you'd think they'd have their best DJ, but there was just bad choice after bad choice. it's a club! you wanna be able to dance your heart out and if the music is bad you're just awkwardly shuffling around. it was really a let down

  • 2/5 Michael U. 11 months ago on Google
    Okay so the building is cool the vibes tho are v low, cuz of multiple things. First bouncers have extreme ego of needing to be alpha and not considerate what so ever. Secondly, bartenders don’t have any consistency, the same exact drink order of two drinks can be 16$ or 26$ depending on the time of night and how drunk you seem. There’s also not really anyone that goes there anymore so if you can get in somewhere else do it!

  • 3/5 lisaj 11 months ago on Google
    I’m giving this experience 3 stars for several reasons; one is you pay money to request songs, BUT they NEVER played any of our songs or other peoples for that matter, they chose the music they wanted to play and they played it badly. The talent of the singers was poor and the host needs more experience. Pretty disappointed as I was hoping to hear songs we all know and have sing alongs. However service was good as was the very large pretzel we ordered.

  • 5/5 Alexandra C. 1 year ago on Google
    The rec room is a great place. Small venue that creates a great atmosphere for intimate shows. 😊 There is some seating in addition to the standing room. They offer a bar and food. Lots of parking right around the venue.

  • 5/5 john g. 1 year ago on Google
    this is a really great venue. great sound quality for the show. fun atmosphere. good bar staff.

  • 5/5 ej C. 1 year ago on Google
    Great venue and very accommodating for disabilities! The booths are spacious and the drinks are well priced. Over all good vibes


Call (716) 939-1279 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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