There’s a buzz a brewin’ on Delaware Avenue. It looks as if a significant culinary undertaking is coming to one of the Midway rowhouses. Just before St. Patrick’s Day, signage went up at 481 Delaware, broadcasting the arrival of a new bakery and restaurant called Rowhouse. The message indicates that the operation will deal in artisan breads and pastries, wood fired brick over pizzas, prepared grab n’ go meals, craft beers and cocktails, coffee, cold pressed juices, and weekend brunch. Hmmm… is there anything that they’re missing? I think not.

From the sounds of it, judging from a couple of people who are familiar with the operators, this is going to be a fantastic addition to Delaware Avenue, not just because of the food and drinks, but due to the nature of the historic building. The Mid-Way is one of this city’s most stunning architectural assets, which unfortunately is not currently cutting the mustard. There have been some great restaurants that have occupied space in the rowhouses, including Manny’s.

This particular rowhouse, originally referred to as the Dr. Bernard Bartow House, was once the home of Lord Chumley’s restaurant. According to BuffaloAH.com, the 1894 Colonial Revival style building was designed by Marling and Johnson architects. There is still so much incredible detail that has been preserved on each and every one of these rowhouses – unfortunately, at one point the corner building was demolished and a parking lot is what is left today.

Rowhouse Bakery and Restaurant sits directly next to another former bar/restaurant – The Stillwater. It’s great to see some culinary action coming back to The Midway. For far too long these buildings have been sitting in dormant turmoil. Hopefully, this spark of rejuvenation might trigger more developments to occur, which would truly pay tribute to these beauties found midway between Forest Lawn and Niagara Square.