By Katie Schultz
Looking for a casual destination where you can enjoy local craft beer and classic pub food while you watch the game? Look no further than Finnerty’s, one of Ellicottville’s sports bars, at 5 East Washington Street, in the plaza across from the Wyndham Hotel. Finnerty’s was originally owned by Bill and Beth Finnerty in late 2017, and Angelo Canna took over ownership in December 2021.
find them online: finnertystaproom.com or call 716-699-1226.
Canna is a fixture in the local restaurant community – in addition to Finnerty’s, he owns The Juicery (2 locations: Delaware Park and in Erie Basin Marina in Buffalo) and Hooked in Williamsville. When Bill Finnerty still owned the bar, his slogan was, “You’re always a VIP,” and Canna has clearly carried on the tradition of creating a welcoming atmosphere, among both patrons and his staff. One of Finnerty’s bartenders shares that he loves working with Canna, who, even with his many projects in the local restaurant scene, is the kind of owner who will step in during Ellicottville’s Fall Fest weekend and work alongside his staff.
Walking into Finnerty’s, it’s easy to sense that this is the type of place to kick back and relax. There is an easy, comfortable atmosphere here, where regulars are on a first-name basis with the bartenders, and newcomers are tended to with the same care as the more frequent patrons. Laid-back tunes by artists like the Marshall Tucker Band or the Rolling Stones provide background music. Finnerty’s has plenty of seating options – the bar; high-top tables next to a cozy fireplace; and booths and tables in the main dining area behind the fireplace. The space is outfitted with an array of sports regalia, like a “Billieve” sign hanging at one end of the bar, a Bonnies banner as a nod to St. Bonaventure University’s basketball team, and a Celtics poster from the team’s Larry Bird era.
Next to the Billieve sign hangs a chalkboard displaying a multi-colored list of beers, but the bartenders are happy to offer recommendations for folks who aren’t quite sure which of the many brews they’d like to try. There are more than 20 beers on tap, including tried-and-true classics such as Guinness and Fat Tire, but why not try a local brew? 12 Gates and Hamburg Brewery, and, of course, Ellicottville Brewing Company, are a few of the places whose beers Finnerty’s carries. With an ample selection of brews, including ciders, IPAs, stouts, and lager, you’ll never run out of options. Pair your drink with classic, satisfying pub food like beef on weck, chicken fingers, or a burger, and as an appetizer, order the massive Bavarian pretzel with mustard and dipping sauce.
There are plenty of screens for patrons to stay updated on the game of the day – three behind the bar, one by the high-top tables, and more in the main dining area. On non-game days, or for those who want a more “active” experience, Finnerty’s has a pool table and is one of the few bars in Ellicottville that has a dartboard.
As the weather cools down for the season, Finnerty’s is a great place to feel comfortable and cozy – whether you’re sitting next to the fireplace or not. Visit from 4 pm-1 am Monday through Friday, and 12 pm-1 am Saturday and Sunday.