After 5 or 6 times coming to Pausa, I can now confidently say this place is not the one. I attended a show at Blue Note in NYC that pissed me off in the same way. I'm all for support in the musicians, but venues doing it in a sneaky passive aggressive way will always get a side eye from me. There was one occasion pre COVID where my small group was at the very front of the venue between the bar and the outside window WHISPERING and the owner and bartenders sent dagger eyes to us and shushed us violently. Idk what true jazz venue does not encourage a lively audience but everyone at the bar area had to act like a funeral was in session. Literally no talking AT ALL or you would be reprimanded. Cool time! I came again recently with my partner, even after a handful of bad experiences because friends of our were playing AND WE WANTED TO SUPPORT. Hellooooo??? We didn't realize until we sat down that each order required a two menu item minimum. I ordered a drink for myself and my partner using the online ordering system and when the drinks were delivered the owner stared at my partner with an accusing look like "are you going to order something, you freeloader?", but with a weird passive aggressive smile (if you've worked in food service, you know the one). Because unbeknownst to us, their policy is ACTUALLY two menu items per guest. "To support the artists," Lazara said with a saccharin grin. As two people who have plays countless shows as musicians ourselves and organized shows in the community with other artists, we know this is BS. If you want to truly support the artists, you charge at the door what you want the artists to be paid. 1. You don't gamble on the bar sales hoping people buy enough to supplement the artists' pay. 2. You don't create hidden fees for customer by requiring them buy so many menu items and hide behind "it's for the artists". 3. You don't create a hostile environment for the audience members who paid like they were supposed to but are now shocked by bullying from the staff that they need to buy more booze or food. My partner and I hardly drink alcohol. We wouldn't have bought drinks if we were not pressured to. So we forced our drinks down and ordered two more after Lazara loomed over us to do so. It put a sour taste in our mouth and took all spontaneity out of the night. We had to silently drink our beverages or else be reprimanded by teacher. We texted eachother our reactions to the music. lol Literally the whole audience seemed afraid to even clap or hoot because so many folks were told not to make noise. It felt like we were being held hostage. What a bizarre dynamic. IT'S JAZZ. The Devil's Music. We can't turn up a bit? So wild. Over this place. Truly truly. read more

So fortunate to have a live jazz venue in our town. Never bad music here. Space is intimate and relaxed

Love this place! Gifted artists Cool & cozy Hot & hip Great beer & wine choices Excellent tiny tapas menu Woman owned local business Sadly, no parking lot so arrive way earlier than needed so you can drive around Allentown searching for a parking spot Note, "front room" reserved seats are less expensive yet offer much more comfortable, spacious seating & more room for socially distancing. They have two monitors that display the stage & they have excellent quality sound system. Also noted, staff & patrons wore masks while we visited, whether seated or not. read more

See all

I love Pausa- it was a big incentive to moving back to Buffalo 11 years ago. I have to have my jazz and this is the place! Its a listening room - the musicians love and the audience love it . Fantastic musicians flow through here both established and rising and some other genres but mainly jazz. The process are very reasonable for club like this. read more

I search for a wordISM event. Something I had never done before. I love the energy and creativity. The venue has a cool, artsy feel. Staff was friendly and helpful. Very limited menu and the prices are a little bit on the higher side. Being that it's in Allentown so the parking is terrible. read more

PAUSA Art House - Liquid refreshments - Music Venues Near Me - Buffalo, New York

I love this spot! Hadn't been in years and when I heard Raul Midón was coming I had to be there! The space is small but it's still accommodating and I love how you can scan the code at the table to place your order! The drinks are a bit pricey but strong enough to balance it out lol. Can't wait for the next outing! read more

A few months ago my fiancé surprised me with a trip to PAUSA art house for Valentine's Day. We arrived around 6pm with the show starting at 8pm and had reserved a spot ahead of time (I guess my date didn't look at the website/timing so we ended up a little early). The chair was a high chair turned away from the stage and it did get a bit uncomfortable after a few hours and had to resituate my chair in order to catch a glimpse of the show. I'm fairly short for it was tough to see over the crowd. While we waited we enjoyed some light appetizers and drinks with friendly service. You could choose from beer, wine or soft drinks and the menu offers various items like appetizers and paninis. We got two appetizers before the show and a panini during the show. The ordering system was pretty neat in that you texted a number to easily order without disrupting the performers. After that, we enjoyed a night of a jazz performance. The experience here was so unique I can't wait to come back! It is great how PAUSA art house showcases local, national and internationally known acts. I can't wait to see what other shows they offer in the future. Next time I'd try and pick a spot that could see the stage better with a more comfortable chair. Otherwise, this was a perfect spot for a unique date night! read more

See all

Who doesn't enjoy good jazz music for their soul? Dan and I checked out the PAUSA Art House after we had a sushi and Thai feast at Teton Kitchen on Elmwood. What a perfect date night! A band called, "French Connection" was playing starting at 8pm. We didn't reserve a table (which I recommend doing) so we had to sit on the side but luckily after a couple had to leave they let us sit at their table which made the night more enjoyable! The French Connection group consisted of three members. One played the accordion, the second played the bass, and the third played the electric/ acoustic guitar. I was blown away on how good they were. As I looked around people were enjoying small bites and wine. They played classic hits too! The French Connection took a few breaks but overall the show went until 11:30pm! We stayed right until the end because Dan and I enjoyed it so much. It was well worth the $10/ per person. Now we're planning our trip to Paris to enjoy more French tunes and we can't wait to visit the PAUSA Art House again for more concerts! read more

I went to Pausa's Art house this past weekend and I was pleasantly surprised by this amzing hidden gem of Buffalo. The music was outstanding and for the price, it could not be be beat. The environment is warm, cosy, and just brings folks together for a wonderful evening. I love the host and the mission of the place-Pausa is truly committed to providing the best experience to all of her guests. I cannot wait to see more shows there! read more

Cool atmosphere, great live music offerings, and tasty, but simple food selections. Beers are a bit pricey (like $7 bucks for a Heniken). Beautiful art is often up throughout as well. read more

See all

Wow! I was so impressed with this place! I came here with my friend for her students' art show with IndicatorArt - the space was absolutely perfect for this sort of event, showcasing 30 or so artworks done by people with developmental disabilities. The PAUSA art house definitely made the show feel incredibly legitimate and classy. The space itself is a little small and narrow, but it's a great place to bring a good handful of people to enjoy the arts. I learned that they are a live music venue as well, and frequently host jazz bands - if that alone wasn't incentive to bring me back, then my love for the space and the fact that they have a bar AND serve food would! So yes, they serve food and drinks - they've got a full bar, and a fine selection of beer and wines, so you can sip cocktails like a classy lady while listening to some smooth jazz, or admiring gorgeous art work during a show. It worked out pretty well for me too, since they had a varied selection of hot tea that I could enjoy as opposed to consuming alcohol! The owner, Lazara, was working the bar that night, and I'm so glad I had a chance to meet her! I could tell she was a very passionate business owner. My experience here makes me want to return for some awesome live music! I had no idea about this place before the art show, but now I am definitely going to tell my friends about it! read more

See all

Great live music. They should expand their menu options but other than that great little place!

Dear Pausa Art House, Thanks for pouring your heart and soul into this new building, cafe and music space. I love all the work done to craft a beautiful wooden bar and all the eye-catching artwork you procured all over your walls. I know you got a little bit of flack for taking over the old Sugar City, but don't worry about it. There will always be that. Your coffee is inexpensive, yet so tasty that I am happy to drink it black. Sure, it was brewed a little strong the first time, but you listened to my feedback and made it super-smooth the second time when I came back. I love it when I'm listened to. And your sandwiches? That Puccini with marinated eggplant, cheese, roasted red peppers, and imported salami? It was large, toasty and I even ate the whole thing, despite me personally not being a huge salami fan. The chips that you added were nice and unexpected, but I would like some salad leaves or something a bit more healthy (sliced apples?) next time. I left the cafe in desperate search of water. It would be a nice touch if you asked me if I wanted ice in my glass next time before scooping up enough ice to build a small igloo in my glass. I know it's standard to do that here in America, but you want to continue to stand out as truly an exemplary place. The concert I attended? It's really cool that you provide such a lovely space for musicians to experiment here in Buffalo. Thanks for doing that. I would have loved to hear someone on the microphone welcome the audience a little bit and interact with us a bit more. I can't wait to be back and look forward to your success in Allentown. You owners are such lovely people -- I had a really good time talking with you. If you're thinking about stopping by this place? My suggestion: stop thinking and check it out. read more

See all

The music may be good, but the food and drinks are SUPER expensive for what you get. I don't mind spending money, but an Aperol spritz is NOT 2 oz of Aperol, a splash of Prosecco, and a bunch of club soda. Put me in a bad mood immediately. I don't care how highbrow this place is supposed to be, I don't like the vibe. read more

Absolutely amazing service and atmosphere!! Highly recommend to all music lovers. The decorations are a beautiful touch. I loved this place!

PAUSA Art House is a cozy and art/music venue that offers live music acts ranging from Jazz to Latin to classical live ensembles that are local or internationally known. The princess and I went to see Charlie Ballantine who is a jazz guitarist from NYC who played beautiful jazzy renditions of Bob Dylan songs. It was an amazing experience that is enhanced by the calm and comfortable surroundings. The walls hold paintings from local artists that are available for purchase and change all the time. The bar in the front offers a fine selections of red and wine wine as well as beer. The back has tables in front of the stage and one can order paninis and tapas style deliciousness. We had a wonderful time listening to fantastic music while enjoying a nice platter of charcuterie and a turkey panini which was deliciously paired with a nice Malbec. The staff is very kind and the service excellent. Pausa is a real treat for adults who want to experience live jazz music in an intimate yet classy setting. It is a true Buffalo gem and very inviting. I will definitely be back. read more

PAUSA Art House - Music Venues Near Me - Buffalo, New York

It is cozy, but not friendly,nothing besides soda, if you don't want alcohol. Felt 'less than' because I didn't order alcohol. I am sure helps the business. Food is done in a toaster oven. Parking is very bad, and can be a little scary later in eve. read more

Greatest place for jazz in Buffalo. It is an intimate listing club that respects the musicians as they play. The close quarters create an atmosphere when everyone is your friend even if you just met. Cover charge goes directly to the musician. It is also an art gallery- every month a new artist or group. Well curated collections. read more

PAUSA Art House - Artwork by Impact Art - Music Venues Near Me - Buffalo, New York

.What a great find while on vacation this week. This venue is run by a very warm and attentive woman who informed us that we were just in time to hear the jazz trio start their first set. We ordered a bottle of wine which was delivered to our table in the rear room. We also ordered their bario cheese platter which went well with the wine we chose. The music was great and we enjoyed the musician/audience interaction. read more

See all

"Hidden gem" gets overused these days, but out of all the businesses I've been to in Buffalo, Pausa is most deserving of that title. This venue is right around the corner from the hustle and bustle of Allen Street, and I've always overlooked it, until my husband found out that someone he knows would be performing one evening, and we decided to check it out. The space feels warm and inviting, and the two staff behind the bar when we were there were friendly. Most of the food items on the menu are named after musicians, which is pretty charming. It seemed like the sandwiches we ordered took a while to be prepared, but we were here to enjoy the music, not to eat and run, so not a big deal. The sandwiches were tasty, and the cheese plates other audience members ordered looked good, too. While I wouldn't come here expressly for the food, I was satisfied with what we got. I feel awkward at restaurants with live music where everyone seems to be talking during the performances, but that's not the case here. The music is the main attraction. Bring the cash for the cover charge, which ranges from $7-25, depending on the performance. Some of the shows offer a student price of just $5 with ID. As long as your food and drink total is $10 or over, you're fine with using a credit card to pay for refreshments. Even for a curmudgeon like me, who doesn't go to a lot of live music events because I'd rather not deal with crowds and because it can get costly, especially with added ticketing/convenience fees, an evening at Pausa is very enjoyable. The shows are quite affordable, and since it's a small space, crowds aren't really any issue. I'll have to keep an eye on future shows scheduled here. read more

Great venue! Went there tonight for the first time to see the Alex McCarthy sextant. It was awesome! The place was smaller than I thought and I've been by there a million times but never noticed it. We arrived at about a 740. $7 cover, not bad until we realized all of the seats were full in the front room near the stage. No worries though, there were seats at the bar and a television projecting the band. While we waited for the Jazz to start my friend and I decided to imbibe, each of us ordering a glass of riesling. Not a large wine menu but the riesling was delicious. We then decided to try some food. We got a sandwich to share and a tapas cheese plate. The sandwich was delicious! Ham, salami and cheese on a toasted roll with mustard and pickle. It also came with kettle chips and the entire meal was warm. Awesome! The tapas had 4 kinds of cheese, crackers and olives and there was more than enough to share. We were stuffed after but not enough to skip dessert! I ordered a cup of coffee (strong yet perfect) and a piece of chocolate cake with two forks. The cake slice was huge and decadent. So so good! Did I mention that as we ate our faces off, smooth jazz filled the air and we were surrounded by artwork. We had a really great time. A little on the pricey side (food and drink with tip about $60 for two people) but I'd do it again; it was worth every penny. Next time, though, I'll be sure to get there early enough to sit in front of the stage! :) read more

See all

It's part museum, gallery, music venue, wine bar, tapas bar...it's splendid! Visual and performing artists and writers gather in a comfortable, warm, sophisticated - not snobby - inviting atmosphere in a sleekly renovated home on Wadsworth, right at the tail end of Allen Street. What a tremendous addition to the strong local art movement! What a wonderful place to gather, hear great music, view original art with the changing exhibitions, grab a glass of wine or local beer on tap, attend a wine tasting, have a small bite to eat. They are all about showcasing local visual and musical talent. It's about the cleanest, most hip place in the area both upscale and casual, you are made to feel welcome. It's an affordable place to spend an evening among talented musicians and artists with a teeny cover charge, great bang for your buck and no "TicketTown" fees go to "organizers". And you are welcomed by two gifted and accomplished chamber musicians, Jon Nelson, Artistic Director and Lázara Nelson, Managing Director, both modest about their most impressive music education and experience as they humbly host at their Pausa Art House. We were there for the Happy Friday Benefit for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, with My Cousin Toné. After, folks played an open session of jamming with the amazing Bob on grand piano, Bernard on guitar, and Jack on upright bass. There is a large-screen television above the bar that allows you to see the performance in the next room if you prefer to sit in the front room or at the bar. Although the maximum capacity for Pausa Art House is 79, it makes for an intimate experience for musicians and audience. The place has a fine bar where bar mix niblets are served in little bowls, interspersed with little bowls of DumDum pops! Local craft beer on tap is available, hot tea, wine, all served looking like a million bucks. Even the Snapple was served over ice in a stemmed glass, lovely. And the Tosca sandwich was divine! Freshly created using imported salami, old fashioned ham, roasted red peppers, mozzarella and provolone cheeses, toasted on the perfect Italian sub roll, brushed with oil and herbs, and served on a clear glass plate with extraordinary sea salted kettle chips and a pickle. Our experience at Pausa Art House was simply wonderful. Such a unique place, a must-see for Buffalonians and visitors alike. But plan ahead so you're sure to catch it during their limited hours, Thursday through Saturday, 6 pm until midnight. read more

See all

Love this cozy little spot.The art work and live band makes it's such a warm ambience and the owner is Cubana, she was very nice.The crowd is very mature which I really like.They have a good wine and beer selection.They also have food which I plan on trying on my next visit. read more

Incredible little venue in Allentown, bringing top-tier jazz in a warm, intimate setting at ridiculously affordable prices. Think big names like Bobby Millitello for $10 cover plus a drink a two. Doesn't look like much on the outside, but comes alive on show nights. Book early for major acts if you want to sit close, and follow Pausa on Facebook for news and listings. Sound is great anywhere in the house, and the audience is respectful, reverent, and engaged. A perfect date night or evening out! read more

One of the best jazz bars in buffalo! Live music, specialty wines and beers! And a cheese plate that is a must try!! If you're looking for an experience full of food/drinks knowledge and a great time check this place out. read more

Pausa Art House is a new, salon style cafe in Allentown with an added twist. Thursday through Saturday, Pausa hosts some of the greatest chamber music going on in Buffalo - from classical music to fresh off the press pieces, some of the world's best performers will be passing through Pausa's doors in the future. As a cafe, they are open 10am to 2pm, with great coffee (and cheap!), cleverly named and well made desserts (who doesn't want to eat a John Cage sandwich?), and free wifi. Yes, another beautiful place to come and do lots of work! The interior is absolutely spectacular - with wooden floors, vintage furniture, and a vibrant color scheme. Quite comfortable, calming, and well suited to the old style of cafe living. Also, visual artists are displayed on the walls in exhibition - the current one is quite good with many pieces to stare at for hours and get lost in. As a performance venue, I can already say that it is superb. In the coming weeks, many different kinds of concerts will be occurring, including Eric Huebner, the principal pianist for the NY Philharmonic, on March 15th. And if you're thinking - hmm, I don't know if I like classical or contemporary music - well this is the perfect place to get acquainted again. Performances here are intimate and powerful, again carrying on the salon culture of past cafe life. And, the variety is intense - everything from Beethoven to Jazz and after. A great mix and curation of music. (Performances are Thurs-Saturday starting at 8pm, check their website to see the groups performing. Also, I should add, that for 99% of these events, the cover charge is $5. Only $5 to see two hours of amazing music.) if this reads like an ad, well, it's because I love the idea of this place and that is now exists. A mingling of culture, music, coffee, art - a much needed addition to the life of Allentown as an alternative to the bars and bustling restaurants. A place like this adds to the cultural development of Buffalo, adds support to the already thriving music and arts scenes, and provides a meeting place of ideas, thought, and performance that will help the community grow. read more

This is a nice cozy spot. Events don't usually start on time but you should get there early if you want a seat. Events are usually $7 upon entry. This is a great place if you are into Jazz or Blues. The entertainment is always nice and the staff is always friendly. read more

Beautiful renovation of a building I passed every day without notice. Very friendly staff. I went for a tango show: Russian accordian player + senior Argentinian citizen singing diva! What a pair! Neither spoke eachother's language, but played together cohesively and improvisationally. Very entertaining, and for five bucks, a worthy price for a night in a new culture. I'll be back! read more

I was so excited to come to Pausa! On Friday, my sister and friend came to hear Bobby Militello, whom I know and have worked with in the past. The venue is beautiful, the artwork and atmosphere would have been great. We sat in the bar area and waited a while before I went to the bar and asked if I needed to order at the bar and the unfriendly bartender said yes. I ordered for myself, my sister and our friend. The bartender explained that they had no bread, they were waiting on it, so we could not have sandwiches. We ordered appetizers and I picked up our drinks and brought them back to the table. I had to get up again to pay, but yet a server brought the appetizers over to our table? About an hour into our evening, the bartender calls for everyone's attention, looks directly at us and tells us that our voices travel and we need to keep it down!! The bar was full of people, who were also talking. I have been to many venues such as this, I have also managed venues and I am confident I know how to behave and what is an appropriate in certain settings. We were having casual conversation just as the other guests were as well. We left very disappointed and offended. For such a beautiful place with a great agenda and program for showcasing local artists and musicians, the service was terrible. For the price of the food, I would not think you would run out of anything. As a person who works in the arts community and attends many cultural events, I can't say that I will be back and that is tragic because I will be missing out on some great experiences there. read more

Terrific space to come and hear music! All $ for cover goes to the bands, the owner is committed to having this be a "listening space" so no talking during the performance- which I appreciate! The menu is limited, but very good sandwiches and cheese plates, a nice selection of wine, beer, cider, tea, and coffee - and delicious desserts. The walls are used as gallery space. Definitely on my list of favorites now. read more

A hidden gem in Buffalo! Love the local and visiting guests artists Pausa brings in. It's a unique atmosphere with a delicious menu, a good selection of local beer and great wine. There is always a rotating art exhibition on he walls and people to talk to. I don't get here as often as I'd like but it's so nice to have a music venue that isn't super grungy and in which one can have a nice, relaxing evening. read more

I went to my first concert just a short while go to see a Jazz saxophonist play, and was blown away by the space. First, the space is cozy and just the right size. It's not to big or small- it's intimate but enough room to fill up nicely. I personally don't like seeing shows with just a small scattering of bodies among a lot of empty chairs. The size of this place ensures all the tables are filled, and everyone is excited to listen. You can sit with some wine, a cheese plate, and just enjoy the music. The small space allows the sound to bounce off the walls, and at times I felt a little old because I thought it was a touch too loud (I know, I know). The show was excellent, and the bar in the front room was nice and long, and there was ample room to hang out before the show. The rice for the tickets was also reasonable for the long 2 set show. I adore this space and can't wait to com e back! read more

great place to hang with with friends...live music; chill atmosphere!

My first experience at Pausa was this past Friday, June 30. My sisters and I want to see Bobby Millettlo. We arrived about 7:30pm, paid the $30 to see the band ($10/ea). Of course, there was no available seats in the front near the stage. We sat at a table in the bar area. Since this was our first time there, we didn't know the procedures. After sitting for a few minutes, my sister went to the bar to ask if we needed to order our drinks and get the menu there at the bar. The barmaid was not very friendly. She made the drinks, which we carried back to our table. We then placed our order, but they were out of bread; so, we ordered an appetizer. We started to talk to each other, and the barmaid turned the monitor down and said "ladies, could you keep your voices down. Your voices travel to the front of the venue and it interferes with the band." We are all senior citizens (and we do not have hearing aids/and or hearing problems), and we were not talking loud enough for it to travel to the front of the building, since we were seated in the back. Without finishing our drinks, we left and went somewhere else so that we could get food. The venue is beautiful, but we WILL NOT ever go back. read more

This is the 2nd time I've been here. I must have matured since the first time, because I was not happy, the 1st time around, because there was no talking allowed during the performance. But last night, I truly appreciated that "rule" as Deeann and Ava were fabulous. We only had wine and beer, but I could see their food prep area. Besides warm and welcoming staff, good prices, reasonable cover charges, the one other main feature that stood out to me was the cleanliness! The place is spotless, so comfortable to be in. read more

I had never heard of this place until my roommate had to go to a performance for one of her classes. It is a very nice, cozy place. The food was EXCELLENT. While they don't have any beer on tap, they have about 10 varieties of beer. We did not get any wine as neither of us are big wine drinkers. read more

Nice setting and ambiance. Wine selection wasn't so hot but it was a nice change from most of the places I visit. Music was pretty good too, first time listening to "chamber music" live for me. read more

Great venue with some amazing artists. Buffalo really needed a venue like this to bring people together. Get there early since some of the shows fill up quickly. read more

Had I not known, I would have thought I was listening to eclectic jazz in Greenwich Village or somewhere off Yonge Street in Toronto. But Pausa Art House is located right in the heart and soul of Buffalo. Owner Jon Nelson, professor of music at UB, knows hip and has obvious connections with the right artists to keep this place filled with obscure, fresh, and vibrant music. My new favorite place for solace and jazz. Can't wait to come back for more. read more