It’s soup season in Buffalo, and when it comes to cozy comfort food, French Onion Soup might just be the MVP of them all.
There’s something special about that first spoonful: slowly caramelized onions simmered in rich, savory broth, topped with toasted bread and finished with a gooey, golden layer of melted cheese. It’s warm, indulgent, and feels like a hug on a cold Western New York day.
And around here, we take it seriously. Some spots keep it classic, while others put their own spin on it with flavorful broths, homemade croutons, and cheese pulls that could stretch for miles.
So where can you find the best of the best right here in the 716? We’ve rounded up five local favorites, from hometown pubs to Elmwood Village staples, all serving up French Onion Soup that’s worth braving the cold for.
Grab your spoon, get cozy, and dive into Buffalo’s Top 5 French Onion Soups!
1. JP Fitzgerald’s – 4236 Clark St., Hamburg – A Hamburg favorite known for hearty pub fare and cozy charm, JP Fitzgerald’s serves up a rich, savory French Onion Soup with one of the best cheese pulls in the 716. The recipe’s a secret, but locals agree it’s “simply the best.” Click Here To See Full Menu
J.P. Fitzgerald’s Restaurant & Irish PubJ.P. Fitzgerald’s Restaurant & Irish Pub2. Blackthorn Restaurant & Pub – 2134 Seneca St., South Buffalo – Blackthorn’s French Onion Soup is a South Buffalo classic, made with caramelized onions, a splash of sherry, and a blanket of melted provolone. It’s simple, perfectly balanced, and pure comfort in a bowl. Click Here To See Full Menu Blackthorn Restaurant & PubBlackthorn Restaurant & Pub
3. Mike & Pop’s Bistro & Tavern – 3020 Delaware Ave., Buffalo – Mike & Pop’s delivers a French Onion Soup that’s rich, cheesy, and full of deep caramelized flavor. It’s the perfect pairing for their homestyle comfort menu and a cold Buffalo night. Click Here To See Full Menu
Mike & Pop’s Bistro & TavernMike & Pop’s Bistro & Tavern
4. The Place – 229 Lexington Ave., Elmwood Village – The Place delivers a standout French Onion Soup featuring a rich blend of caramelized onions, laced with sherry and crowned with melted provolone and Swiss on a crouton. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for warming up on a chilly Buffalo evening. Click Here To See Full Menu
5. Cole’s – 512 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo – At Cole’s, French Onion Soup comes topped with cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. A rich, warm starter that sets the tone. Pair it with their chic Elmwood-Village vibe and you’ve found comfort food done right. Click Here To See Full Menu
Cole’s BuffaloCole’s BuffaloPhotos From The 41st Annual Taste of Buffalo Food Festival
Sunny skies and 90-degree temperatures gave Western New Yorkers the perfect weather weekend for the 41st annual Taste of Buffalo, which greeted thousands of people in downtown Buffalo to sample food and drinks from more than 40 different restaurants on Saturday, July 12, and Sunday, July 13, 2025.
Gallery Credit: Ed Nice
Dining and Cooking