North Tonawanda seems to be the place to be these days. Numerous businesses continue to spring up, contributing to a lively, walkable, commercial district, mainly encompassing Webster Street and areas along the canal. Not only are there a number of quaint antique shops, and thrift stores, there are also plenty of bars and restaurants to frequent.
A short time ago, District 37 Kitchen & Taphouse opened its doors at 110 Sweeney Street. What was formerly a derelict lot, a stone’s throw from the canal, is now a vibrant mixed-use building, featuring a restaurant, owned and operated by brothers Frank and Tom Berrafato, along with with co-owners Dana Wahler and Kevin Lake. If you’re not familiar, Frank and Tom also own Berrafato’s Catering, Old Man River, Mississippi Mudds, among others. Their newest venture fills a food and beverage gap in the canal district, which is widely known as home to hotspots Remington Tavern and Prescott’s Provisions.
Unlike Remington and Prescott’s, District 37 is more laid back, serving up an elevated, diverse selection of imaginative pub food that ranges from family favorites to some more unexpected items such as Cuban cigars (ham, pulled pork, Swiss cheese, pickle, and mustard, rolled together and wrapped in crispy applewood smoked bacon). The most highly touted food offerings include smoked meats, baked Detroit style pizzas, and gourmet burgers.
The large centralized bar is a coveted destination for beer lovers, as there are 37 drafts on tap. For those not looking to sit at the bar, there are numerous other seating options in the expansive restaurant. During a recent visit, I noticed that the bar was bustling with people, some of whom were dressed up while others were sporting more casual attire. There were a bunch of families seated about, and the covered patio was nicely populated with diners. To think that, not long ago, this was a lifeless corner… District 37 is another game changer for a neighborhood that continues to impress.
“The completion of 110 Sweeney Street ($5.4 Million Smart Growth Project) is another major milestone in North Tonawanda’s revitalization,” said City of North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec. “The site was really a hole in the ground for many years leading up to what we see now. This development enhances our downtown waterfront, adds needed housing, and features the new District 37 restaurant. The project is also located at one of our entrances to the city which welcomes those who visit NT. Among many of the local and state agencies who helped make this possible, this project closed its funding gap thanks to Governor Hochul’s Empire State Development who provided grant funding and have continued their committed to our city’s future.
“This project/business is not the only one this past year to enter downtown NT – Simplified Mind (cannabis dispensary – first in north Tonawanda), Sprinkles Bakery, El Punto Mexican Cantina, You Grow Girl (plant shop), Avalon Exotics, Aster and Lilies (clothing), and others businesses opened in our downtown area over the last twelve months, adding to the variety and density of the district. Not to mention, the expansion of the Riviera Theatre with the new lavatories and bar area for guests!”
Yes, District 37 is a welcome addition to the neighborhood, whether it’s to watch a Bills game, sip a Blue Hawaiian cocktail, or indulge in some of the flavorful food options, including the Boom Boom Shrimp, district nachos, Thai chili Brussels sprouts, pickle fries, pimento mac & cheese, or the bourbon peach BBQ wings (see menu). There are even gluten free and vegan options, which are equally delicious.
District 37 | 110 Sweeney Street | North Tonawanda, NY 14120 | (716) 327-1877 | Drink menu
District 37 draws its name from North Tonawanda’s rich lumberjack history. In the 1830s, when the lumber industry was at its peak, District 37 was a legendary place thought to be a haven for lumberjacks—a secret spot not found on any map where they could relax, eat, drink, and “cash in their chips.” Known to the most loyal lumberjacks as “Heaven on Earth,” this folklore inspires our restaurant’s name and spirit.
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