by Connie Oswald Stofko
Wander through the gardens with a glass of local wine or craft beer. Or perhaps you prefer an herbaceous drink, such as basil and cucumber in sparkling water.
Then sit down among the tropical exhibits for small plates of appetizers, main dishes and desserts.
Be among the first to experience this new dining experience called Tasting Tuesdays being held from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 22 at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, 2655 South Park Ave., Buffalo. (Note that the hours at the Botanical Gardens are different on Tuesdays— noon to 8 p.m.)
Tasting Tuesdays are a farm-to-table experience, with imaginative plates prepared by chef Avi Altman of Obviously Avi Catering. The menu changes weekly depending on what is fresh and available from the farm, said Erin Grajek, associate vice president of Marketing & Visitor Experience.
Drinks and dishes are priced individually. You can see some previous menus here.
While the Botanical Gardens is the site of weddings and other special events, this is the first time that visitors can enjoy intimate dining at the Botanical Gardens, Grajek noted. About 50 people a night have attended Tasting Tuesdays so far.
Go to Tasting Tuesdays for happy hour with friends, a romantic date night or a family outing on a warm summer evening.
Admission to the cafe is included with admission to the Botanical Gardens. Admission is $11 for adults, $10 for seniors (ages 62 and older), $9 for students (ages 13 and older with ID), $6 for children ages 3 – 12 and free for Botanical Gardens members and children 2 and under.
While you’re there, don’t forget to check out Coleus & Color, the exhibit sponsored by Buffalo-NiagaraGardening.com.
