I loved it here. Had a reservation online for 5PM on Saturday. Staff was kind and welcoming. They even tried to find a deck of cards for us. I sat in the most comfortable booth of all time. I felt like a Noir VIP. Kind of a Mad Men 50s vibe inside with a stunning outdoor back patio. Incredible charcuterie board. Possibly the first time I ever actually enjoyed every item on the board. And most importantly the drinks were great read more

High Violet - Fiddlehead IPA - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

We went in the middle of the day so it was mostly quiet. The space is very small but it didn't feel cramped- it was a great use of the space, with a beautiful design scheme that felt modern and luxurious. The wait staff was friendly and helpful. Many of their cocktails can be just as delicious as mocktails- I got a honeydew-cucumber one, the Flora and Fauna. read more

High Violet - Flora and Fauna mocktail - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Amazing cocktails! Being tourists we researched the best place to get a nightcap near The Edward Hotel (very cute boutique hotel btw) Really enjoyed the Music for a Sushi Restaurant-it was a sweet yet savory cocktail and such a creative way to feature that miso flavor-it wasn't overwhelming at all Queen of Thornes was another favorite-I don't really like bourbon but I couldn't get enough of this The vibe was intimate and chic-perfect for a date but there were groups around us too Highly recommend having a cocktail or two here read more

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I really like this place and will be back for sure. I made the reservation online and didn't know which toom to go for so I just picked whatever. I was pleasantly surprised that we were sat in a room right up front. It was secluded and off to the side but there were other tables. It's was so nice. I felt like I was in my own little VIP section. I didn't know what the menu would be like so I told my husabnd it was dinner date. He was just a excited to be there as me. We realized that this was more small plates and not a full meal but it was perfectly fine. The empanadas and beef sliders were delicious. We shared them and we loved them. The drinks were absolutely delicious and I'm not sure but my husband had a negroni. He loved it. Our server Naomi was such a doll. She had beautiful energy and she is just gorgeous. She guided us in the right direction with our drink choices and she was very attentive. Sometimes I worry going into new trendy places but she made us feel super comfortable I can not wait to go back. read more

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We visited a couple cocktail bars after dinner, including High Violet. Normally the only clue to its location is a wall reading PSSST, but a hostess sat in front to greet us. I reserved a booth, but they were able to move us to the Red Room when my husband wanted cozier seats. Not that the booths aren't cozy, just better for a meal. Otherwise the Red Room or Jungle Room is the way to go to enjoy a drink or two with a date or friends. Between the two, the Jungle Room is more inviting and pleasantly lit. Definitely my top choice the next time I make a reservation. We didn't spend any time on the patio, but it looks nice, too. The drinks include some very unique options. I had a bourbon based pickaxe. My husband had the gin based Saturn. I look forward to going back to try more cocktails and food. Service is great. Friendly and accomodating. We look forward to going back. read more

High Violet - Pick axe - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Loved this place. Drinks were great and the apps were surprisingly outstanding. The guac gives Dallas tex mex places a run for its $. We will be back read more

Really cute place to chill & get drinks with your friends or family! Super hidden, but it's beautiful inside.

I went for the first time last week and honestly expected so much more and was disappointed. I only stayed for a drink while I waited for my table. When I went to close my bar tab I had asked the bartenders if I could close out and one of them responded almost under his breath that no I couldn't. It seemed so mean and off putting that my whole experience soured afterwards. Anyway I still tipped them and it really hurt my feelings, haven't gone back and dont intend to. read more

Honestly very surprised I'm not seeing mostly 4+ star reviews. I've been here over 5 times now and here are some things that I know to be true from each of those experiences: 1. The staff and servers have always been amazing, timely and friendly! I've never had to wait too long for drinks/food and they are always smiling when they check on the table. 2. The patio space is beautifullll, along with the coffee shop out back. 3. The cocktails and food are in fact pricey, however, they are also delicious. This might not be a spot I hit up every weekend buttt I think it's great for a special date or a treat. Also, knowing Elmwood Village, perhaps they could have had a cheaper menu if their business was in another neighborhood but then we'd lose the ease of bar hopping around Elmwood which I'm sure was a motivating factor for them. The ambiance is unlike any other place in Buffalo and I, for one, would like to see a ton of more speak-easy style bars and restaurants around here! The velvet couches and the small luxury touches really leave an impression, I think they could probably try to do a bit more of that on the back patio but the patio itself is gorgeous, a bit of a different vibe than the inside though! read more

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Had an incredible experience at High Violet A cocktail bar that brings a perfect mix of creativity, ambiance, and quality--definitely one of the best spots on elmwood I've stopped by lately. a warm, intimate vibe with dim lighting and lush decor that gives it a sophisticated yet a cozy feel. The seating is thoughtfully arranged, making it perfect for both date nights and relaxed gatherings with friends , a real hidden gem. High Violet's drink menu is crafted with both classic favorites and bold, inventive combinations that showcase the bartenders skills and creativity. Overall, it's a must-visit if you appreciate top-notch cocktails in a setting that feels both upscale and welcoming. Can't wait to come back and try more of their menu! Highly recommend. read more

High Violet - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

The atmosphere and drinks were amazing! Amira was our server and she was on point, she has great customer service skills! She was helpful and knowledgeable. I am so excited to have a girls night at this hidden gem. read more

High Violet - Espresso Martini's - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Cocktails are tasty and attractive and, while pricey, are about what you should probably expect for a tiny place in Elmwood that still likely has to sell a lot of them to pay the bills (they were on average about $3-4 more than on, say, Hertel). The space is cool, with a coupe of four tops, a sort of low lounge area, a handful of seats at the bar, and a VIP/private party space. The food menu is small (which is fine) and pretty much all vegetarian stuff was out (which is less fine). It was after the storm, so some slack is going to be cut in that department. Our service was okay--not fast, but not terrible, although the place was only about half full. It's kind of a strange and uniquely Buffalo mix of patrons: a young white-collar set looking to see and be scene alongside the same broey dudes at every bar in town. They're going for something classy and upscale, but I suspect are a little gun-shy about a dress code (see: it's Buffalo). I don't really have anything bad to say about High Violet, but at the same time, I'm not sure that I'd be in a huge hurry to come back. Perhaps when the patio is open in summer, we'll give it another go? read more

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This review is long over due. We've been coming to HV since it opened & have always had amazing cocktails & service. Everyone here makes us feel like old friends that are always welcomed & appreciated. They R just wonderful!!!! We've traveled Mexico & Central America extensively & we can say that the empanadas & guacamole are the BEST we've ever had!!! Guacamole is made to order so is always fresh & bright. Pico de gallo that accompanies w/ the empanadas is very fresh & favorful. We love the empanadas so much my husband & I each get our own order & make a point of having them every time we come in!! read more

I wanted to give this place a 4 but honestly after reading the reviews I said it's ok, I can give 3.5 The food is amazing. I was skeptical at first but really really good. The salad could have had a tad more dressing but everything tasted delicious. The reason I am giving a 3.5 is one the service. It was awful. For such a "high end" cocktail/bar/restaurant you'd think the staff would be super friendly but honestly they weren't. It was quite a turn off. Drinks are very good. I'd go back to just the bar so I don't have to interact with the servers but other than that I hope the food selection gets larger as it was good read more

High Violet - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

First off the vibe at High Violet is very cool so that should be noted upfront. we were able to be in a VIP room of sorts, but the outside space looks really nice to enjoy on a nice summer evening. Honestly the one star drop is purely for pricing. I understand upscale/elevated experiences, but $17 for fried bologna as a small plate just seems kind of crazy, haha. (I didn't try it, to be fair so it could be worth it). In terms of the drinks and the quality of the cocktails, hands-down some the best I've had in town. Big points for the Zombie, which is a delicious overproof cocktail. I also tried to chocolate mousse desert which was tasty in it's own right. I've been want to check out this place since it opened and was able to do so my birthday and definitely recommend being somewhere to check out at least once. read more

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Always enjoy my stop to High Violet! I've been 3 times now. The Red Sea was really yummy - I love gin based fruit cocktails. Charcuterie board was also really good. I ate everything on it except the blue cheese. It was a good assortment of items that seemed to go together and one of the cheeses was perfect to spread on the crackers. Food menu is very limited so make sure to check before arriving. We originally planned to eat dinner there but then checked the menu and it's all apps and small plates, so we ate before we came and then just enjoyed snacks and drinks. Great place to get photos. Love the green velvet seating in the jungle room. Such a vibe! read more

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My experience at High Violet was just ok. Mostly because I went on the day the kitchen is closed. There was no indication during the reservation process that the kitchen would be closed. I feel like they want to keep secret there is a day when the kitchen is closed (pssst - it's Tuesdays). I didn't want to have a cocktail without something to eat so can't report on the intricateness of those. In any case I prefer a delicious cocktail over an intricate one and the wine list was looked decent. I did have a lovely glass of wine, the server produced a dish of nuts and I enjoyed the tunes. The decor made me feel as if I were in a half size diorama for a Mary Hartman episode with a James Bond vibe that takes itself too seriously. In any case, High Violet could be a place for a fun happy hour when they have food. Maybe I'll catch the kitchen another day. read more

I'm so sorry guys. Do better. After three times visiting, I'm not impressed and it's gotten worse. But first give that girl behind the bar with long black hair a raise. She's probably the only thing running this establishment. [And you know the one] The costumes are dumb. After even being bicoastal for years, Hollywood would even laugh. The service is beyond poor. (Harsh, again sorry, but you want to be posh: DO IT -- have a god damn dress code, add a freaking tacky red rope that would fit your theme *I want to love but is so fake and trying so hard*) You want reservations for a four-seated bar but then have three people deep behind you. So which theme is it? Terrible. Cocktails....mhh go elsewhere if you don't want to wait 40 minutes in a place the size of your closet. I will say -- you do have to go at least once!!! [it's a vibe for a wanna be twenty nothings or Buffalo business owners that have no place better to go] Tone it UP or dial it back sweetie. You'll have business, but not for the long haul . read more

High Violet - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

Spirits are a-soarin' at High Violet! Buffalo doesn't have nearly enough *good* cocktail bars. Luckily, High Violet entered the scene to give us Buffalonians a taste of the good life -- carefully crafted (delicious) drinks, posh seating, and a speakeasy vibe that'll be difficult to replicate by anyone else. My friend suggested we go here to have a drink to celebrate her birthday, and I was game. Though other reviews speak poorly of the bar's atmosphere, I thought it was unique and cozy. Each room is beautiful, and because of their secret, speakeasy facade, of course the vibe inside will be a little on the "exclusive" side. I ordered a Clover Club, a gin-based drink with raspberry and a foam of sorts on top. It was delicious. Not overly sweet, not too bitter, and the foam offered a tang that made for a delightful drinking experience. My friend got the Saturn, another gin-based drink that I stole a sip of. It was very fruity and sweet, but starkly different from my drink, and I really like it as well. We didn't order any food of their menu but they had a fair selection of tasty bites that anyone would enjoy -- with lots of options for the seafood lovers out there. The bartenders were friendly and attentive, and overall we both had a great time. It's not often you step into a bar that mimics the set of Mad Men. So if you're looking to have yourself a little Don Draper moment, I highly suggest High Violet. read more

High Violet - Clover Club - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

We went here on a very rare date night. Just our first stop. We didn't have a reservation which we were told would normally be a problem but the weather was unusual warm so the back patio was open. We were sat at a tight high top right by the door. It was a cute little courtyard, but you could tell the vibe was bougie. We both got drinks mine was a little spicy and both were a little pricy. It was a really good cocktail though! I wish I could remember the name. It a nice spot if you're ready to spend money (and have a reservation) but it's not my favorite place in Buffalo. We didn't get food because the prices seemed high for what they were offering. read more

High Violet - Bougie drinks bougie in a good way - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

tl;dr: cute date spot in Buffalo but pricey and pretentious. Has some kinks to iron out as a new spot but would recommend if you're looking for a nice cocktail bar Stopped here for a date night while we were in town. It was a cute brand new cocktail bar. We made a reservation for outside which was very cute and aesthetic. Looked like a Southern California backyard which made me feel like I was at home. The vibes were definitely upscale so I'm glad we brought a fancy pair of clothes. Was very pretentious overall so we felt sort of out of place as not bougie rich people... The food was good but pricey and the drinks were delicious. We were disappointed because the chips were sold out already by the time we got there even though we arrived 50min after they opened. We got the cheese board which was good but could have been better with an explanation of what was on the board. We asked for more bread which they gave us though which was nice. Overall could tell they were very new but the drinks hit the spot which is mainly what we went for anyway before heading to our dinner restaurant. read more

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Looking for that go to downtown spot? Timely service, unique & cozy ambiance to start or end an evening out with those closest to you! Excellent menu & epic cocktails. read more

We had an absolutely perfect evening yesterday at High Violet!!! The service, cocktails (order the Fer-de-Lance, you will LOVE) and cuisine were top-notch and oh my goodness the caviar service, little dory oysters, including the chef's recreated mignonette, and prosciutto sandwich; ok so absolutely everything I ordered were ALL show stoppers. We had a group of 8 and the staff was incredibly accommodating. We all had an absolute blast in every facet of our experience and can't wait to come back to recreate the magic!!!! Thank you High Violet and special shout out to Barry!!! Cheers!! Kate C. read more

High Violet - Caviar - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

The premier speakeasy of Buffalo. This city spot oozes sexiness from the time you open the door to the time your cocktail touches your lips. The ambiance automatically makes you feel cool. The staff are hip and know what they're doing when it comes to product and service. This place is HOT! read more

High Violet - Bar Area - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

This bar is a homage to art-deco and a time gone by. While I appreciate the concept of bringing sophistication and style to Buffalo, the execution- particularly in terms of decor just misses the mark. The "Red Room" has white walls and rather plain lighting. It is too small for the amount of people and tables squished inside. Instead of creating intimacy, the space just ends up feeling like you're in a full elevator. The cocktails and food are decent- albeit a tad overpriced. read more

Loved their drinks. All very well crafted and original. The service was GREAT! The overall concept of a Hugh end bar with a speak easy vibe was awesome. Good music and good vibes. Would definitively recommend read more

High Violet - A New pope - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

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04/10/22 Went there for the first time tonight. We wanted to have some cocktails & small plates. The hostess pretty much drove us away. No tables (understandable), hell she wouldn't even let us approach the bar, walk past the hostess station, or even offer us a wait! She literally blew us off & came across like we were wasting her time. Yeah, I'm going to wait outside in April to see if you'll wrinkle your pant suit to come outside to tell me when a table/bar space is ready. What kind of establishment won't let you wait at the bar?!?! If the hostess came across as a snob who could care less, why would I assume anyone else in the place would give us any level of service? The hostess is a serious liability to the business. As the first impression for your business, she is HORRIBLE. With that at your front door I have no reason to expect better inside. 04/11/22 - 12:43 am- To top it off, someone affiliated with the resturant decided to contact me online at midnight to ask me "what's up with the one star review". Apparently because we know a few people In common I became him "homie". No offer of resolution, no offer of rectifying the problems, just "hope you can look past the minimal interaction and try the food & drinks".... We tried that, YOUR HOSTESS WOULDN'T LET US IN TO EVEN TRY A DRINK AT THE BAR. If this is High Violet's idea of customer service & problem resolution.... Wait outside, you can't go to the bar, etc... Just wow. read more

One of my favorite dining experiences, love to bring friends here! Caviar service is unmatched

Such a cool atmosphere! Definitely recommend grabbing a cocktail and a bite to eat here. Our waitress Ashley really made the experience even better. She was so sweet and knew a lot about each cocktail. This place is a hidden gem! read more

High Violet - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

All right listen up all you guys and gals looking for a perfect first date rendezvous. High Violet is the place! Chic and flirty, you'll have an enchanted time here between the sophisticated decor and intricate cocktails. It's the perfect place to grab a quick drink or two before heading out for the evening or a great place to wrap the night up with a cocktail and dessert. (See if you can get a spot in the back a little area) It feels like the kind of place you should be nicely dressed for but when I was there last, some dude was wearing jeans and a "Jaws" hoodie so any last minute decisions to pop over there should be fine with whatever you are wearing. In any event, it's a great addition to the city. Beautifully designed, it's probably one of the nicest little bars we have here at the moment so take advantage. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable so plan your week out with a swanky stop at High Violet. Tell them Roy Scheider sent you. read more

Impossible to get a reservation but if you don't mind standing around the bar for a while you can get a quick cocktail. read more

High Violet - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Buffalo, New York

I had been wanting to come here for weeks now. I love the exclusivity feel how it is tucked away. The environment I would give five stars. It's very trendy and the outside area is gorgeous. The drinks and the service is why I am giving three stars. The drinks looked delicious but the flavors just didn't match well and it took quite a bit of time to get them served to our table. I would probably go back for a drink before dinner but would definitely try something different on the menu! read more

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First time at High Violet, which is clearly a cocktail place. Very nice vibes and waiter. Unfortunately, everything on the menu is way overpriced. I paid $60 for two cocktails and a salad (which was basically 95% lettuce with a few nuts as toppings, and a non-existent salad dressing.) Cocktails were good - nothing outstanding. I also regretted that the online menu has way more options than the "real" one. I will probably go again, but only for drinks. read more

What a neat place! I love how exclusive it feels. The cocktail menu is delicately crafted to cater to many different tastes while also making you feel extra special and classy. I love the atmosphere and ambiance that has been created here. It's totally worth checking out for a drink. I haven't tried any of the little plates but plan to return and try more! read more

High Violet is a cute place to catch drinks with an intimate party (3 or less people). The place is dimly lit consisting of a small seating area by the bar and a back room ( apparently there's a private room upstairs at well). If you are nervous about COVID - this is not the place to go. Ordered drinks and the charcuterie board - was a cute vibe. read more

Stopped in right at open on a wednesday. Walked right in - my party chose to sit at the bar. First off, idk what this was before, but it's a beautiful spot and they seem to know exactly what they are doing. We tried pretty much every drink on the menu between the four of us and every one was phenomenal. Bartenders we're extremely professional, nice and knowledgeable of their menu. Was tempted to order something to eat - next time! Definitely worth checking out read more

A welcome new vibe unlike anywhere else in BUF. Drink menu is excellent; while food is limited in the number of offerings it absolutely delivers with amazingly unique flavors. read more

The most beautifully curated spot in Buffalo, designed like a slightly more modern Stanley Kubrick dreamscape meets the "red room" from Twin Peaks. One thing I can say is there is thoughtful intent to everything presented in this intimate space- from the drink menu to the staff wardrobe. HV is a completely unique experience, highly recommend. read more

The drinks were great, the atmosphere is an amazing vibe and the oysters are on par with best in Buffalo.

Two 22 years olds order a mixed drink.... We didn't order a $20 drink and got IDed. Fine. Comes back 10 min later and says "really skeptical of ur IDS (2 enhanced NY licenses) *takes them for ten minutes* *serves other customers drinks* comes back and says sorry gotta be extra careful.... Only go if u want drop money for a drink. read more