Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Think back to 2011 - the last time the Buffalo Sabres made the playoffs.
Downtown Buffalo was very much a destinational work in progress.
For hockey fans, there were just a few bars and restaurants near KeyBank Center that were open including the Washington Square, the Swannie House and Pearl Street Brewery.
"Not like today," said Buffalo Place Inc. chairman Steve Carmina.
More is better, Carmina said.
Buffalo Place has tracked 90 bars and restaurants in downtown but also extending towards Elmwood Avenue and the Larkin District, giving sports fans plenty of drinking and culinary options.
One of those is the Other Half brewery that developer Douglas Jemal brought to the Seneca One Tower complex.
Other Half general manager DJ Railey said he has been waiting a long time for a Sabres playoff game - both as a fan and as a businessman. Other Half opened two years ago.
"I can't wait to see what the playoff experience will be like,": Railey said. "It will likely be off the charts,."
Railey said Other Half is prepping by having extra staff on hand, especially for this weekend's first game.
Extra food has also been ordered.
"It will be crazy," Railey said.
Heading down towards the Old First Ward neighborhood, the venerable Adolph's is also prepping for a welcome onslaught of Sabres' fans.
Adolph's Sue Binanszewski says the bar is a five minute drive down South Park Avenue from KeyBank Center and easily accessible to the arena.
To prep for the influx of Sabres' fans, Binanszewski said she has ordered "massive amount" of extra wings.
"We will be ready," Binanszewski said. "Bring it on."
Downtown has more dining options than Sabres' 2011 playoff run
Downtown has more dining options than Sabres' 2011 playoff run
