Chill Out in Igloos at These Buffalo Hotspots This Winter

By Jessica Kelly

Published on | Last Updated

You may have heard of the geodesic igloos popping up in cities like New York City or Chicago recently, but in Buffalo the igloos make winter outdoor dining feel right at home. Never a city to shy away from making the most of the chilly weather, the igloos first appeared in 2018 when they were introduced at Tappo Restaurant’s rooftop in Downtown Buffalo. This winter season, in addition to a return to Tappo, many more locations are offering igloo rentals so that you and your closest friends can enjoy a winter outing in Buffalo, warm and cozy in your own personal snowglobe. Here is our guide to experiencing the igloos for yourself this winter!

The Ice at Canalside

130 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 436-7100
Reserve: Igloo at the Ice at Canalside

With a bevy of stellar winter activities to choose from like ice skating, ice bikes, ice bumper cars, and curling, adding igloos at the Ice at Canalside was a no brainer. There are a select number of igloos next to the ice rink at Canalside where you can reserve a cozy, Buffalo sports-themed spaces for $199 for eight people to enjoy for 90 minutes. The space is heated with seating for up to eight individuals and includes admission to the rink, skate rentals for eight skaters, and complimentary hot chocolate. Book yours online now to get the full Ice at Canalside experience!

Tappo Restaurant

338 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 259-8130
Reserve: Igloos at Tappo

Now the OG of the igloos, the original Tappo Restaurant – known for its rooftop views – can be experienced year-round. Their base igloo package is $450, but there are different levels that you can choose from. This level includes your choice of two bottles of wine from the $18 wine list or your choice of one warm beverage like hot chocolate, mulled wine, spiced cider, or a hot toddy. There is a salad course followed by a second course which is a choice of two featured entrées, served family style. The third course is a delicious dessert platter. The premium igloo package for $550 includes the same in addition to a wider selection of entrées and drinks. The elite igloo package for $650 includes the same except for an even higher end meal including prime rib cooked the way you like it, sides, and pasta, along with after-dinner sippers like limoncello, grappa, amaro, white or black sambuca, mini aperol spritz’, or mini espresso martinis.

Rick’s on Main

687 Main St, East Aurora, NY 14052
(716) 652-1253
Reserve: Rick’s on Main Igloos

Rick’s on Main is known for its delectable entrees, warm atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable staff. They have a two-story dining room, complete with a full-service bar and intimate dining setting. To make your evening even more special, the igloos on their outdoor patio over-looking Main Street in historic East Aurora, are perfect for a double date. Each igloo can accommodate four guests and they are fully cleaned between seatings and kitted with an air purifier for comfort. Check out their special New Year’s Eve deals, too!

Deep South Taco – Downtown Buffalo

291 Ellicott St, Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 262-2510
Reserve: Email stevek@deepsouthtaco.com for details

Deep South Taco is a southern style, authentic taqueria and bar in the new mecca of Buffalo. Housed in a former warehouse, the outdoor space and roof top patio are always buzzing, even in the winter. Their outdoor igloos, set amongst the skyscrapers of Downtown Buffalo, allow you and your friends to enjoy Deep South’s extensive menu of guac, queso and tacos, along with a delicious margarita. It’ll feel like you’re on the beach, even in the middle of January!

Jessica Kelly headshot

Jessica Kelly

Jessica is freelance writer and photographer with a focus on food, travel, and events. Her work has appeared in 10 different WNY publications and the Huffington Post. Follow her on Instagram @adventures.are.waiting.