This past weekend Buffalo set record-breaking numbers, as flocks of people came downtown to enjoy the wonderful smells and tastes that Buffalo has to offer at the Taste of Buffalo. With the sun beating down and temperatures rising, appetites grew and the aromas of Buffalo's finest dining drew people in. Buffalobarfly went down both days to sample some food and participate in the exciting atmosphere. Joe's Deli (located on Hertel Ave) was a great place to stop for a delicious chicken slider, while Cecelia's (Elmwood Ave) fried cheese ravioli satisfied your need for some great pasta. Papaya, one of Buffalo's amazing Thai restaurants served up some crispy fried Thai calamari that tingled the taste buds with a sweet & spicy sauce. Torches Restaurant, who won Best overall food located on Kenmore Avenue, are known for their torched entrees and served up some signature dishes including their slow smoked pork with Cuban spices; made to perfection! Among all the great food was also an array of great live music. Backbeat '64 (Beatles tribute), Maria Aurigema, and also Abominable Killer Snowmen (ska band) amplified the Huron stage while the Alison Pipitone Band played on the Niagara Square stage. Some of Buffalo's popular restaurants were also in attendance at the Taste of Buffalo, including Buffalo Roadhouse, Jack Astor's, Fat Bob's Smokehouse (with their scrumptious mac & cheese and pulled pork sandwich) , and the legendary Louie's Foot Long Hot Dogs, inventors of the curly Q fry. Some other great places were Chester's Cajun Grill, Amici Ristorante, Mazzariello's, and May Jen Chinese Restaurant. The Melting Pot fondue and Chrusciki Bakery's incredible cheescake, satisfied our dessert cravings. Bravo had an appetizing chicken diavolo with campbella pasta, while Dinosaur BBQ served up some of their famous BBQ all the way from Rochester! Caribbean Experience spiced things up, while local places like King's Court Restaurant, Mister Pizza, and Mobay's Restaurant added local flavor to the menu. This year's Taste of Buffalo shows that our city is a true food-lover's paradise.