Summer comes early to The Silo

Lewiston waterfront restaurant now open for season

Left of Center by Joshua Maloni

The Silo Restaurant opened for the season on Wednesday, bringing summer vibes – not to mention “Haystack,” hot dog and ice cream fans – back to the north end of Water Street after a cold winter.

General Manager Lexi Alfiere-David said, “We’re open for training this week. We’re open earlier than usual, but really wish we could’ve been open last week for those couple of warm days.”

As it was, the Lewiston eatery “had staff away for spring break, and basically used the time to cross our T’s and dot our I’s to make sure we were really ready to open for training,” Alfiere-David said. “We had our staff meeting and completed a couple projects.

“Until May 1, we are based on weather, but would really like to serve noon to 8 p.m. – but who knows? With Western New York weather, it could snow when it says it’s going to be sunny (laughs). So, we encourage customers to call before visiting to make sure we’re serving.”

Some of The Silo Restaurant team members gather for a photo on opening day.

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Summer 2023 will mark a special milestone for The Silo, which was built by Richard Hastings (who converted the former coal silo), and is now operated by his son, Alan.

“We’re super-excited to start our 25th Silo season,” Alfiere-David said. “It’s really a huge accomplishment for a business to reach 25 successful years, let alone being seasonal, plus making it out of COVID. Alan has been a great boss and leader to myself and our staff, and the success of the Silo speaks for that in itself.

“We have an excited crew and are proud to be fully staffed with many returning employees. We are truly lucky to have our amazing staff and loyal customers, and look forward to another successful summer!”

Alfiere-David has been with The Silo since 2014 – “through high school, a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, my wedding – and I love it even more each year!” she said.

Niagara River Region Chamber of Commerce President Jennifer Pauly said, “The countdown to summer is usually evident when a few key seasonal businesses in Lewiston open. The Silo is one of them! The waterfront view, the smell of hot dogs and burgers and, of course, the internationally known ‘Haystack,’ contribute to the draw. 

“I stopped by to witness the first-day training, and you could feel the buzz of excitement for the season! The community has been ready for an early opening of The Silo, and we commend Alan and his staff for making it happen!”

The Silo Restaurant is located at 115 N. Water St. It’s signature sandwich, the “Haystack,” is piled-high, seasoned and shaved ribeye steak on a hoagie roll with cheese, mayo and crispy potato straws – as seen on television’s “Man v. Food.” Other menu items include five different hot dog selections, five chicken items (including fingers), four burgers, fish and a veggie-forward healthy section. An actual train caboose at the foot of the restaurant patio serves Perry’s Ice Cream.

Whatever you order, add fries – they’re so worth the extra calories.

For more information, call 716-754-9680 or check out https://www.lewistonsilo.com. Visit on social media: Facebook // Twitter // Instagram.

The Silo Restaurant General Manager Lexi Alfiere-David with "The Haystack."