Cindy Stroman
This charming old home has been turned into a really awesome cocktail bar with an atmosphere that will please lots of different tastes! The first time we visited the basement speakeasy and the upstairs had not been finished so this time we sat in the beautiful front living room, ordered a charcuterie and drinks. Everything was delicious and so reasonably priced. Obvious that lots of love, care and creativity went into this place! Wish we lived closer, but will definitely be back!
… moreChris Birthwright
Found out about this place from Jake when bartending elsewhere. It exceeded the hype, and I even got a great cocktail recipe to go back home with. This will be a stop for every time I’m up in Buffalo.
… moreSabrina Marlowe
Very cool speakeasy! Love EA and the awesome little places like this. The drinks were incredible (though small) … the basement bar was quaint and lots of patrons!
… moreBabette Clayback
We hosted a baby shower here for 40 people, everything exceeded our expectation. Super cozy venue, fantastic food and cocktails. Service was top notch, Renee and Tony were exceptional. Most of the guests were not aware of what a great hidden gem this is, after the event all of them had plans to return! Everyone had a blast, so grateful we celebrated here!
… moreM. Klein
The General Riley Hose is charming, cozy and unique. When the gas light lantern is “lit”, it means they are open and you just need to descend down the stairs into the Speakeasy. As the door swings open, it’s like a step back in time, to days gone by. It is nestled behind the Elm Street Bakery nearest the corner of Elm and Oakwood Ave (across from Wallenwein’s Hotel).
The Riley House built around 1825 used to sit on Main Street in East Aurora next to the Masonic Temple, until it was moved in the 1960s to Elm Street. You are literally walking through history as you traverse the former home of Brig. General Aaron Riley. Relax and enjoy the ambience by the glow of the fireplace and soft lighting.
The bar area is smallish but efficient. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, crafting a unique selection of cocktails. There are a handful of draft beer and wine options as well. Lite fare is available for those with an appetite. If you are looking to eat, just get your name on the chalkboard.
Additional space is available upstairs on the main level, ideal for larger groups, as on a busy night the Speakeasy can become slightly congested given the layout. Certainly a stop work making if you are in the area!
… moreMary Krencik
No food at the bar, but the place is very cozy, but filled up super quick right after opening. Bartender was super friendly and attentive!
… moreEmma Turcotte
My friends hosted my bridal shower here and we can not say enough good things about the owners and the whole experience. 10/10 from start to end, the service, the energy, the food, to the drinks. Top tier!!
… moreCasey Cannon
What a gem. The care and attention to detail is prevalent throughout. Calico sweater was a perfect balance, hope to be back to try more
… moreCrystal G
Wow, what a gem! This is an awesome and unique spot for a date or a small group to grab a drink. If you don’t know where you are going you might have a hard time just coming across it. It is a house without a huge sign letting you know it’s a bar. Inside is also laid out like a historic home so it feels much more intimate than your standard bar/ restaurant. We started by entering the basement and ordered some drinks, they have wonderful cocktails, beer and wine. The basement is small and there is some seating but you can also wander upstairs where there are literally different rooms, you can sit in and enjoy visiting with your group. Very fun and unique this would be awesome for a live game of clue. There are small plates as well for food. We didn’t eat this time but will try another day. I had the airmail cocktail. Delicious and refreshing.
… moreTerrie
Loved this place! If the light is on they are open. It felt like a throwback to the eighties sitting in the basement having a drink! One of my favorite new places and we will definitely go back!
… more