So last month, I wrote an article on the best restaurants around Buffalo and Western New York. So many people shared it and gave me positive feedback that I decided to continue it! This time around, if you're a student from out of town looking for a cozy cafe or tea shop and maybe that perfect pastry to go with it, don't worry, I got you.
Buffalo deserves to be recognized for more than just our wings. These are, in my opinion, some of the best places to grab coffee, tea, donuts, cupcakes, you name it. And believe me... they're way better than Starbucks.
1. Paula's Donuts (2319 Sheridan Dr, Tonawanda, NY 14223).
If you're a Buffalonian and haven't been to Paula's, you're doing something wrong. With classics like glazed peanut, to my personal favorite red velvet, these donuts beat the crap out of any freezer donut from Dunkin or Tim Hortons. Oh, and they have their signature "Texas Donut," which can serve between 8-10 people. Talk about the best birthday cake ever.
2. Sweetness 7 Cafe & Creperie (301 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214).
This is the ultimate hipster cafe, and one of my favorite spots to drink some tea and relax. They have a diverse menu of freshly baked croissants, bagels, crepes and tons of drinks to choose from. Some of their most popular items are the Trippy Hippy crepe, Irish Blessing and awesome drinks like a coconut iced latte and London Fog tea. Plus, it is conveniently located right across from the zoo! It's the perfect stop after visiting.
3. Fairy Cakes (289 Parkside Ave, Buffalo, NY 14214).
4. Ming Cafe (3268 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14214).
This cafe, located right down the street from South Campus, serves a wide variety of authentic Chinese dishes and delicious teas. Believe me, this isn't your generic mall Chinese food; they have real food. Their Wanton soup is to die for, they have amazing Szechuan chicken and their famous Crispy Beef dish is great every time. Pair any of these with some hot oolong or jasmine tea, and you'll have the perfect meal.
5. Cafe Aroma (957 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222).
The Elmwood Village is a buzzing part of Buffalo's ever-growing community, and Cafe Aroma fits in perfectly. They have a tasty selection of teas, coffees (including their house brew) and fresh baked goods and pastries. The shop has a cozy, European-style atmosphere that is extremely welcoming. I suggest trying their frittatas, panini or their chocolate cake with peanut butter icing and pretzels. They also carry a large selection of wine and craft beers if coffee isn't your thing.
6. Ashker's Juice Bar (1002 Elmwood Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222). 
Feeling down? Missing summer? Try some of Ashker's freshly squeezed juice, and I guarantee you, it'll make you feel like you're sitting on the beach, not in the middle of a blizzard. With creative names like Hearted Heart, Pumped Up Kicks, and many more juices, coffees and smoothies, Ashker's will certainly put a pep in your step if you need it. They also have delicious food, with all their ingredients coming locally from around Buffalo. Ashker's is another restaurant keeping Elmwood and Buffalo hip.
7. Desert Deli (716 Maple Rd, Buffalo, NY 14221).
Keep going up Maple, past UB North, and you'll hit Desert Deli. If you're looking for some kick-a** cookies or cakes, this is definitely your go-to place. Their peanut butter brownie bars are absolutely amazing, and lets be real... cake is cake; no matter what you get, it's going to be amazing. All their deserts are elegantly decorated, and they taste just as good as they look.
8. Five Points Bakery (44 Brayton St, Buffalo, NY 14213).
Who doesn't love some good toast? Along with their great tasting beverages, Five Points Bakery is more well-known for their toast, baked fresh every day. I suggest trying their cinnamon-raisin swirl (above), oatmeal toast, or if you really have a sweet tooth, their whole grain cinnamon roll. It's all generally very healthy for you and worth the drive.
9. Press Raw Food And Juice (346 Connecticut St, Buffalo, NY 14213).
Another great spot for freshly-squeezed, cold-pressed juice. But don't be fooled by it's name, this juicery has a large selection of drinks, including smoothies, cold-pressed juice, coffee, and organic energy shots. Their food selection includes organic and vegan salads, raps and falafels. Although their juices are a little pricey, they're absolutely worth every cent.
10. Tea Leaf Cafe ( 4224 Maple Rd #124, Amherst, NY 14226).
OK, if you're a UB student and haven't been to Tea Leaf... what are you doing with your life? It's basically a staple since it's right down the road! I've been here countless times, and every drink I've ordered has been fantastic. I usually order a pomegranate and raspberry or kiwi-raspberry bubble tea. Their food is also killer—their Bahn Mi sandwich and egg rolls are my personal favorites. I'm sure most students have been here, but if not, that should be changed quickly!
Once again, Buffalo has proved that it provides a surplus of crazy good spots to grab some fresh, healthy food. Well, except for all the deserts. If you're a Buffalonian or someone new to Buffalo, I suggest trying any and all of these the next time you're in the mood for some sweets.
