Old Man River was one of my favorite places to go when I was younger. My friend and I decided to head to Niawanda Park yesterday to enjoy the beautiful day. I was so happy to see that Old Man River is still doing well! It looks like they completely renovated and restored the restaurant. The fences, walls and decorations are all painted with bold, brilliant colors. The entrance is so cute. There is a large colorful whale sculpture on top of the restaurant. The menu is even better than when I was younger. They offer such a great variety of food at reasonable prices. The main restaurant stand offers all sorts of specialty hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, corn on the cob and milkshakes/ice cream. There is an additional seafood shack at the outdoor seating that sells clams, shrimp, ribs and full dinner platters! My friend and I ordered a Poutine Weenie (delicious!), chicken sandwich, coleslaw and cheese fries. The fries were perfect and the cheese was delightful! We each got a vanilla milkshake and agreed that they were heavenly. We took our tray of food outside to the back of the restaurant by the Seafood Shack. We ended up caving and getting a dozen raw clams. They had a "Clam Jam" special going where you get an additional half dozen for free when you order one dozen. The clams were very good! I will certainly be returning to Old Man River before the summer is over. The restaurant has such a nostalgic childhood feeling about it. You also can't beat the beautiful view of the river on a sunny day. read more

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When I ordered I didn't realize that they toast all of their buns. I was not happy....The gentleman was so kind with me and made me a new one and very tolerant of my anger. They have the BEST customer service and I will definitely be back...in fact a big corporate event coming up and I will likely use them to cater the event! We'll done!! read more

Our first time here, has all the makings of something fantastic, lots if seating fun atmosphere right by the water......but what a disappointment. We came based on all the awesome reviews. First off, spendy (about 60 dollars total for 2 of us, not including the tip), now I will spend $60 dollars all day on a good to great meal...this is not the case here. We decided to try all three options (burgers/fried food, smokehouse, seafood shed). Burger/fried food. Spent $8 ring of fire, deep friend onions rings and Jelepenos w/cheese sauce and hot sauce- onion rings were good the Jelepenos tasted old and dry, as in... you can barely bite threw them we got 4 onions rings and 4 slices of Jelepenos. We decided to hit up the smokehouse and seafood shed, with great expectations, to say disappointment is an under statement -3 meal platter Brisket, Cajun shrimp, Sausage, Mac and cheese, slaw and corn bread, including 1 beer, was almost 45 bucks and it was not good. Not a terrible portion 2 people could easily spit this. Overall: Shrimp bland, brisket horrible chewy salt lick, sausage was one of the worst things I have ever tried, Mac and cheese was cold lumpy and over salted, coleslaw - I just can't even describe, tasted over seasoned with some sort of fennel or oregano seasoning, corn bread was "ok". We took three bits each (shared with hubby) and had to toss it...it was that bad, just not good at all. Side Note: Bathroom was disgusting, as in I hovered and was scared to touch the faucet. I rarely leave bad reviews but terrible experience, tried to say something but everyone at smoke shack was MIA..hence the review. Giving 2 star based on staff, atmosphere and seating, truly is a great atmosphere. read more

It was a beautiful day so I thought I'd go to Old Man River for the view. I have not been there for a long time. I was shocked at the prices and the food was not that good to command those prices. In my opinion the fries were greasy and the hot dog was just ok. The view may be nice but I'll stick with Ted's. the food is better and not nearly as costly. read more

Went here for raw clams and seafood chowder. The seafood chowder was very tasty and full of seafood. A little bland but not too bad. Raw clams were fresh and cold served with cocktail sauce and white vinegar. Out table was sticky and had pieces of food on it from the previous people even though the sign on the table said it was disinfected and cleaned. Disgusting that we had to ask for napkins and disinfectant to clean it ourselves. If not for the dirty conditions I would have given a higher rating. read more

First time ever, the food was great! We ordered 2 cheeseburgers 1 fry 2 drinks about $20 not too shabby. The food was amazingly good... the view was on point right across is a nice shot of water and some green scenery. Lots of bugs but hey it was a nice warm day out it's nature, and we made the choice to sit outside lol! The service was spectacular everyone was friendly, one even complimenting my baby lol. Would highly recommend and will definitely visit again! read more

Old Man River - View of the water! So soothing and relaxing - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

As a tourist I was really confused by the menu but once we got there it all made sense. They have 2 spots to order that have different menu options. One is classic American hotdogs, burgers, sausages, and chicken sandwiches with the usual sides. The other spot is barbecue and seafood, which is what we tried. I got the seafood chowder and the mini crab cakes. I wasn't expecting to like the chowder because I'm really picky when it comes to seafood but this chowder smacked! It had a kick to it that I totally was not expecting but was glad it was there. It was really fresh and I couldn't put it down. The mini crab cakes were some of the best crab cakes I've had and were really crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The portions of both were really good. My husband got ribs and brisket with cornbread, Mac n cheese, and coleslaw. The ribs fell clean off the bone and were tender. The brisket was a little dry but they had sauce options that he tried and took care of that. The cornbread tasted like they stole some southern granny's recipe it was that good. The cole slaw and Mac n cheese were also really good. This would be a regular place for us if we lived closer. read more

We have frequented Old Man River many, many times over the years We used to like this place but after our most recent visit, we will not be going back again. I am an asthmatic and sometimes have a hard time breathing so when I was ordering my food I had to pull the mask away from my face. The woman taking my order immediately scolded me and said, "You have to keep your mask on". In response I said, "I am trying". I put the mask on and gave her my order and I had to yell the order to her three times because she couldn't hear me over my mask. We paid with a credit card at which time the woman took the credit card from my husband and handed it back to him WITH NO GLOVES on. So we were certainly getting germs from others that had ordered and paid before us. After we paid we moved down the line to where they prepare the food. Due to my asthma I had to remove my mask again but only slightly so it was just under my nose but covering my mouth. Another employee behind the counter immediately approached and said, "You need to put your mask over your nose". I said I could not so I turned to leave the counter, which is, by the way, an outside area. The employee then yelled to me as I was walking out and said, "You are not being fair to us". Not once did either employee ask me if I had a problem with which I could not wear a mask nor did they ask me if I was ok due to me pulling it away from my face two times while standing there in the heat, unable to breathe properly. I also noticed a customer ahead of us in line that also had her mask pulled down under her nose and NOTHING was said to her by these employees. I was surprised at the treatment I received from these employees. It makes me wonder if I was discriminated against because of my medical condition or because of the fact that I am hispanic. We will never go back to Old Man River for these reasons, not to mention they are price gouging because of the COVID-19 situation. Their prices have gone through the roof. read more

They have the best Clams Casino! Great place to just relax by the water and enjoy the food and scenery.

Barely edible. Got the carrot dogs on a stale roll. Tasted not good. Could barely finish them.

(Picky from CLE) Not too bad ! Fairly priced (provided theres entertainment) If I was in a better mood, it may have tasted better . Burger was very tasty, juicy .. Chicken was a little dry . Onion Rings (Ring of fire) , pretty good . Sweet Potatoe fries - good *Will Patron Again* Staff: friendly, patient , understanding Relatively Clean . Good outdoor eating #NoCovidFearHere read more

A relaxing environment. Service was amazing. The food was amazing. Right across the street a small park to hang out with a nice peaceful view read more

"Old Man River" by Walking Sticks n' Chrysanthemums. Take me down to the Old Man River Where you drink so much that you ruin your liver Oh won't you please take me home... Actually that infamous song by the band that made Axl Chysanthemum and the guitarist "Weakstream" famous, is very misleading. Yes it was about this place, but this place doesn't even serve alcohol. It's virtually the same place as Mississippi Mudds, with a similar menu but slightly less crowded and less teen-y. Personal Experience: When I lived right by here, I'd come here in summer, and to nearby Mudd's, which I preferred. It is a fantastic location, and for that I recommend it. The food though never pleased me, and the service was just okay. The atmosphere is amazing in the summer. It's such a beautiful place to go. This whole strip is the crown jewel of the Tonawandas and one of the best places to see in the area. Looking across the river to Grand Island, the smell of the water and the summer, it's wonderful. However the food here is mediocre at best, and that's what this review is for... hence the low rating. read more

Great old time hotdog, burger and seafood place on the river. Clean and staff is friendly.

Oh..how sad that my home town does not Yelp about the realluy essentail food venues that anyone can enjoy, and define our folk cuture. The Old Man River Doghouse , is a combination of dumpy shacks joined together ..across from the Niagra River in Tondawanda. Famous for their thick-cut sweet potato french fries. Served with melying butter...God , how good is that ( add salt) and/or Honey. Great Curly-Q fries ( the best- made from fresh spuds, on the spot) amazing covered in vinegar and salt. Get a awesome burger or..A huge hotdog ( Shalens?) crispy skin that "cracks" as you bite it, cooked on the broiler as you watch. Plus fresh corn on the cob, chicken, clams, ice cream and sausage hoagies. The upstairs deck has a great view of the Niagara River. Dowmstraires is people watching central, as people walk the strip daily during the summer monthes. . All summer is crasy for this joint as cars crusie the strip, people park at the waters edge across the street and the 4th of July brings a huge firework disply just yards away at Niawanda park. Your food is made to order, so you will have to wait for it to cook, but you can't beat the breeze off the river and the view, so waiting is actually a pleasure... read more

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This is a place of my childhood. Love stopping here and spending some time. It is a fun spot to people watch. read more

Old Man River - View - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

Great example of how a smart business can adapt to the pandemic. Carefully spaced tables in what used to be the parking lot, a slightly streamlined menu, and clear directional signage keeps people moving in one direction and spread apart. This is a great example of a local business doing pandemic prep right. Well done! read more

A fun casual place to have a good hamburger, hot dog or BBQ. Open air, but a covered area allow for enjoying the wonderful weather along the river. Try the Sweet Potato Fries. I had never had them with a huge scoop of butter and honey before - glad I tried this version as it broaden the dimension on what the locals like to eat around here. The bright, vibrant colors of the shack add to the atmosphere and make it suitable for families, or good friends who want to enjoy each others company. Live music available weeknights. The kitchen staff was friendly, efficient and helpful in making my dish exactly the way I wanted it. read more

Old Man River - Outside - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

Old Man River is a winner and has become a must-visit whenever we're in the Buffalo area. The sweet potato fries are a big winner for me. I love the view of the river and the kitschy & colorful decor. There's actually a wide variety of menu items to choose from: the super fried to the more healthy. Don't miss the loganberry juice at the soda fountain! This is a place that screams summer and I like it! read more

Thanks to my wife she took me to a spot I never knew existed. This is a ice cream, Burger, hotdog and fish. And I believe barbecue stand. it has live music which was always a treat. And right next to the water. The place is eye candy with lots of tropical colors and decor. the only negative I can give slightly is the bacon cheeseburger the bread was soggy.. Overall I loved it we'll go back on a regular basis to try everything. read more

Cool place with decent food. Nice workers.Amazing view. I will return for the view alone. read more

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A great place with an even better view. The sweet fries are the best. Great service and there's even signs on the table to tell you which ones have been wiped down and which ones haven't. read more

Old Man River - Cajun grilled chicken sandwich. River Burger. Sweet potato fries. poutine fries. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

I love this place. A hometown favorite. Across from the park/ Niagara river and a wonderful place to go on a nice summer evening. I LOVE local restaurants especially those that have earned a good reputation. The only complaint I would have is the prices are too high for what it is. However, again, supporting local is most important. read more

Turkey burger was thin but flavorful. Onion rings were crunchy and delicious. Sweet potato fries are consistent. Set up for ordering was not friendly. You want seafood? You have to go outside. You have a kid that wants a burger or hotdog, that's inside... oh and ice cream on the outside of the other side of the building. read more

I am firmly convinced that the next signature Buffalo dish is Old Man River's bunny dog, a grilled carrot in a hot dog roll with all the fixings. It is simple and clever, a fine vegetarian alternative to imitation meat products. read more

Old Man River - Bunny dog with ketchup, mustard, relish, chopped onion, and dill pickle. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

Food always good, Owner/Manager? Always very friendly. I live on the street next door and enjoy the multiple bands they have play throughout the week read more

When hear for the first time since 2000 man how disappointing this place was a summer staple of my childhood coming here to get the ice cream out of the old Volkswagen Beetle although wind carvings hanging from the ceilings the koi pond and that distinct smell as soon as you walked inside to wait for your food seems like it's all gone filled with employees that sit there on their phones like zombies giving you a zero attention food very very very expensive for very low quality sad how this place is gone downhill also if you're in a bit of a hurry this may not be a place for you very slow read more

It was five minutes till closing and I needed some clams they were YUMMY delicious and nice people too! Just remember Niagara street is a VERY long street and this fun place is in Tonawanda. Not Kenmore and not Buffalo and it was WORTH the drive! I normally don't like the larger clams, but these are from Rhode Island and OUTSTANDINGLY Delicious. And I appreciate not kicking us out as we enjoyed a delicious dozen a piece after they had officially closed. I'll be back again and come back early. They close around 9pm. Very gracious and friendly staff. read more

Old Man River - Yum! raw clams w/vinegar, horseradish, cocktail sauce, lemon, Frank's hot sauce, & Tabasco w/Canadian beer along the Niagara River. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

This place could be something better but whoever runs, owns or manages it is not doing well. I am sitting on the toilet, where I have been most of the night--24 hrs after I ate at this dump. I was questioning whether I should have gotten seafood (clams) but I did. So, the steamed clams are fine. The rest was disgusting. Clams casino are not supposed to be sloppy, wet, greasy mess. I literally picked one up, turned it over and water and grease poured out. Really disgusting. The raw clams were rubbery. Not fresh. Possibly spoiled. The only thing that was not worth complaining about was my 4 beers and two corn cobs. The outdoor kitchen--that little shack--was a bug ridden disgusting mess. I looked over at the grill and caked on it was old charred bacteria filled meat and whatever else that gets tossed on there. This thing has never been cleaned IMO. I noticed the hamburgers appeared to be frozen patties, so correct me if I am wrong. This place is right across from the Niagara River. Beautiful view. But it is obvious the owners and managers could care less about this place or the customers. If they did, the bathroom wouldn't look like it did and there would be fresher products with a much more clean kitchen. Still on the toilet, you jerks!!! I want my money back!!! read more

This is a great place to stop when the weather's nice. I think it's great the patio welcomes pets, there are a lot of dog walkers in the area. This is an OUTDOOR family place and a lot of families have dogs. Some people require service animals btw. If you have a problem with that, there's plenty of seats to choose from and lots of room to spread out. read more

I am glad I finally tried this local summertime favorite!! Believe it or not, Old Man River has their own mini vegan menu. Though the menu is temporarily reduced due to COVID, all vegan options are available; Beyond burger, the Bunny(carrot) Dog, and a Malibu garden veggie burger. Vegan cheese can be added, and they offer sides such as fries and corn on the cob. They normally have ice cream as well, but Mississippi Mudds is right down the street if you want a post-meal treat. It was a beautiful Saturday summer evening on our visit. You feel like you're somewhere tropical, rather than along a small river in Tonawanda. The "shack" upfront sporting the Whale on the roof houses most of the grilled menu options, while the seafood shack and smokehouse sit a little further back. There is plenty of seating, and a large patio. As for the times, all workers had their masks on (properly, may I add; cover your nose people!!), and social distancing was well enforced. There are little signs you flip when you're done eating, so the staff can keep up with cleaning the tables. The ordering process is very fast and efficient. Having never been there before, I was almost a bit overwhelmed. But it worked well, and our food was hot and fresh. They conduct it almost like a cafeteria school line, and were well organized with all their orders. I enjoyed the Bunny Dog, while both my parents got Beyond burgers. My dad subbed the patty in to make a vegetarian friendly version of the "Fire Chief" specialty burger. My mom was happy they offered corn on the cob as a side; it being one of her favorite foods in summer. I thoroughly enjoyed my carrot dog, and wish more places offered them!! All the prices were fair for a place like this. The scenery, vibes, and classic summer options make this place a must this time of year. Even though summer is wrapping up, Old Man River keeps the good times going. read more

Nothing... and I mean NOTHING beats sitting outside on a glorious evening during the first week of May, looking out at the water, and enjoying a hot dog! And, "Old Man River" is the quintessential hot dog stand. The menu has been spiffed up.... lots of interesting choices of dogs and burgers.... ones with coleslaw and hot sauce and peppers and veggies...... But, call me old- fashioned. Give me a regular dog (a bit extra charred, thank you very much) with "everything and extra pickles". It's meaty, gloppy, and oh so satisfying. And an order of sweet potato fries (no butter or honey for this gal) and I've got the perfect warm weather meal. HAPPY SUMMER!! read more

Why are they A-OK? They have delicious "Bunny Dogs." AkA, a Marinated Grilled Carrot in a bun with fixins of your choice. This might not sound like a good idea, but it is. (I tried duplicating them at home and it didn't work...anyway.) Their sweet potato fries do NOT come frozen out of a bag shipped in from Sysco or US Foodservice (sorry guys!). They are real pieces of fresh cut sweets just blanched and served with a wonderful side of honey butter for dipping. Give me sweets and a bunny dog and I'm a happy girl (I am an omnivore--imagine that!). You can keep your burgers and grilled chicken. I'm sure they're passable, but where else can you get a grilled carrot?? read more

I evidently missed the one item that passes muster (sweet potato fries), but I don't think it would have changed my overall experience. Which was blecch! Ordered fried clam strips: they were barely identifiable as the bivalve we know and love. Made me cry into my Chardonnay with nostalgia for any Cape Cod or Sheepshead Bay seafood shack. The clams were so rubbery, when one fell on the asphalt over which we were seated, it bounced like a Spaldeen. It was almost stickball-time. My companion's chicken was thickly-coated with cardboard-like batter and barely edible. We gave up on the ice cream when the line proved twelve deep and only one kid was serving. The best part of Old Man River is driving by, seeing the amusing exterior, and thinking, "Wouldn't it be fun to eat there sometime" (because it wouldn't be). read more

Love this place. They have great food music and people here. I've been coming here for years with family and we will be back!

Why is it that places with amazing views have the most mediocre food? As stated by everyone here, the view is exceptional. The Chicago dog was nothing special. Think of it as a ghetto style version of a true Chicago dog. They have the general ingredients right, but somehow they are missing that special pepper and sauer kraut that makes the Chicago dog worth while. The sweet potato fries with butter and honey are really solid though. Price-wise, this place is pretty expensive for buffalo and the quality you get. I think it boils down to about $10 a person and you get your choice of eating in a glorified (parking lot) seating area or something with a view. I'll come back for the view (at the park, not the restaurant). read more

One of my favorite places in the Buffalo area and I hadn't been in a very long time until last week. I had stopped here to get a quick bite to eat while waiting for friends. They have a window where you walk up and order your food. Then you slide down to the other end to get your order where they put on the toppings you want for you. I ordered a coney (white hot they call it) and a chocolate milkshake. The white hot and milkshake were delicious on a hot day. I love all the outdoor seating they have and took a seat to eat my meal. The colors of this place makes it so fun and happy and it's always busy. It's a great place to go to and then walk along the river across the street. I hope I can come here again before the Summers over! I've always wanted to try their clam bar! read more

Old Man River - White hot or coney as I called them. - Hot Dogs Near Me - Tonawanda, New York

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"He Keeps On Rollin'..." I can't say enough about Old Man River accept they have great hot dogs and super fanatical sweet potatoe fries! I get them with lots of butter all over them and honey on the side to be dipping them in. And logenberry. To drink, not to dip the sweet potatoe fries in. That would be gross. You have to be lower than 5'4" to work there because the work area is so short. Go just to watch them sweat in the short heat! There's a whale on top! Hot dogs' and fries - yeah! read more

I love Old Man River and everything about it. The location at the water, the food options, the ice cream, the staff. Fun summer times for sure. Me and babe come here often and it's so peaceful--just what we like. You can sit and enjoy your food on the premise and look on at boats riding by or you can just walk over to the water with your food (and battle off the Steven 'Seagulls" I like the hard ice cream as an alternative to the soft serve which to me custard soft serve always seems kinda warm... The vibes down by the river are always chill, it helps that we can literally walk here. Can't wait to return!! read more

Old Man River is the Buffalo I know and love. I took my wife here on Tuesday, May 26th while visiting my hometown. As a Ken/Ton kid, I used to frequent this establishment quite a bit in the 80s and 90s; a few things have changed since then. They now have a seafood shack and serve clams and mussels! I ordered steamed clams, my wife ordered the steamed mussels. My brother (still local to Buffalo) and his family went with the more traditional OMR fare...hot dogs, burgers, etc. The food was good - the clams and mussels were fresh and tasty. The hot dogs and burgers, were...well, dogs and burgers. With Old Man River, it is much more about the experience. The location is great - the restaurant is primarily outside tables adjacent to a trail that runs along the Niagara River. Patrons are treated to a nice view of Grand Island, boats on the river, and really nice sunsets when the conditions are right. They have live music...I was able to sit riverside, have a couple Labatt Blue (Buffalo's de facto hometown brew), and enjoy some Kid Rock covers. They used to serve ice cream out of the back of a Volkswagen Beetle back in the day. Alas, that's gone now :(. As is the old wooden pirate ship playground...not surprising in today's tort-happy legal climate (I think it actually had a plank you could walk that led to skinned knees on aphalt...) Anyway, OMR is still a fun place to visit. It's relaxing, informal, and a good place for kids. read more