Dick & Jennys

If you're looking for a slice of Southern hospitality in New York State, Dick & Jenny's is exactly the place to visit. Located in the picturesque town of Grand Island, this cozy New Orleans-style bistro offers guests a unique fusion of American and Creole cuisine. Situated in the USA, the establishment is famous for its one-of-a-kind atmosphere where every guest is treated like an old friend.

The restaurant occupies a historic building from the late 19th century, which was carefully restored and moved to its current site. One of the most striking interior features is the dozens of colorful plates on the walls, inscribed with the names of local residents who supported the restaurant's opening. This creates a sense of warmth and community, turning a simple dinner into a visit with old acquaintances.

Dick & Jenny's harmoniously blends Louisiana traditions with Western New York comfort. Here, you can sample authentic dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, prepared according to Chef Dick Benz's original recipes. High ratings and accolades, such as TripAdvisor's Travelers’ Choice award, confirm the restaurant's status as one of the region's top spots for lovers of quality food and a soul-stirring atmosphere.

To book a table or check menu details at Dick & Jenny's, you can use the official contact information. The restaurant is always happy to connect with guests and can provide up-to-date availability by phone or through their website.

A visit to Dick & Jenny's is first and foremost a gastronomic journey. Be sure to try the Cajun and Creole classics: rich gumbo, zesty jambalaya, or fried green tomatoes. For seafood lovers, they prepare excellent crab cakes and fresh catfish, while the signature cornbread makes a perfect accompaniment to any order.

An interesting feature of the establishment is its interior. Visitors can spend time admiring the unique colorful plates on the walls, each telling its own small story of support and friendship. On warm summer evenings, an outdoor terrace is available for guests to dine al fresco and enjoy the island's peaceful pace of life.

The restaurant often features live music, adding a special charm to the evening and transporting you to the streets of New Orleans. The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, including unique craft beers on tap. If you are traveling with family, the establishment provides high chairs and a friendly atmosphere for the youngest guests, and for those on the move, takeaway service is available.

Dick & Jenny's is conveniently located at the corner of Baseline Road and Love Road. If you are traveling by car, you can reach the restaurant from Buffalo in just 10–15 minutes via the I-190. After exiting onto Grand Island Blvd, follow the signs to Baseline Rd—free parking is available for guests right at the building.

For those preferring public transport, NFTA buses run from Buffalo to Grand Island. The bus stop is within walking distance of the restaurant (about a 10–15 minute stroll). You can also use taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft; the trip from Buffalo Niagara International Airport takes approximately 20–30 minutes.

Local residents often prefer to reach the restaurant on foot or by bicycle, as the island's terrain is quite flat and perfect for a leisurely ride. Its prime location in a quiet residential neighborhood makes visiting comfortable and hassle-free regarding city traffic.

The story of Dick & Jenny's began far from New York—in New Orleans. The founders, Dick and Jenny Benz, met at the famous Upperline restaurant, where he worked as the executive chef and she as a server. After getting married, they opened their first joint project in Louisiana, which quickly became a cult favorite among locals.

The couple's life changed after the devastating Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Although their restaurant survived, their home was destroyed, leading the family to move to Jenny's hometown of Grand Island. They handed over their New Orleans business to their employees and started a new chapter in New York State, bringing Southern flavor to northern latitudes.

The building that houses the restaurant today is a piece of history in itself. Built in the late 1800s, it once served as a dance hall and even a Pony Express stop. The Benzes purchased the structure, moved it to its current location, and spent an entire year meticulously restoring it to preserve its vintage spirit and create a unique bistro atmosphere.

The colored plates adorning the walls deserve special mention. They are a tribute to the local community: each plate bears the name of a Grand Island resident who financially or morally supported the restaurant's opening after the couple's relocation. It serves as a living reminder of the warm welcome the townspeople gave to their new neighbors and their culinary traditions.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine of Dick & Jenny's, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is enough time to slowly appreciate the chef's skill and the cozy setting of the historic building.

If you plan to visit for dinner, especially on evenings with live music, your stay might extend to 3 hours. Given the restaurant's popularity and high service quality, the time will fly by amidst pleasant conversation and a tasting of Creole specialties.

Currently, Dick & Jenny's specializes in evening service. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This is the perfect time for a relaxed and refined dinner with loved ones.

Please note that Monday and Sunday are closing days. Due to the restaurant's high popularity, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, we strongly recommend booking a table in advance to guarantee a spot in the main dining room or on the terrace.

After a delicious dinner at Dick & Jenny's, you can continue exploring the area. Grand Island offers many cozy spots for relaxation and walks that will make your trip even more memorable.