March 1975

A former frozen pizza factory at 1198 Hertel Avenue was purchased by Thomas J. Lombardo Sr. & Thomas Lombardo Jr. and is named Lombardo’s.  

Tom Sr. tends bar using the same time honored techniques and methods he did at his previous bar located on the 700 block of Main Street “The Little Club”.  Tom Jr. manages the restaurant side of the business.  Using his mother Rose’s recipes, Tom Jr. serves the food he grew up on and Lombardo’s soon establishes itself as a place for great Italian-American fare.  Hand made manicotti, spaghetti with meatballs and the still present and legendary “Continental” are staples at the restaurant. 

Summer 1985 

Donna, Tom Jr’s wife, bakes the extremely complicated Frou Frou cake for the restaurant and vows never to bake it again, it’s a smashing success.  Tom begs her to continue baking it, she relents, and it is still on the menu today.  Another example of how lucky Tom is. 

The mid 80’s through the early 00’s

The restaurant goes through several renovations to create the current layout seen today and continues its evolution into one of New York state's premier dining destinations.  Throughout this time Tom and Donna travel to Italy every year, they discover authentic regional Italian cuisine and introduce these discoveries to WNY diners.  The restaurant evolves from one featuring predominantly Italian-American fare to one featuring takes on authentic regional Italian cuisine. 

February 2012 to Present

The third generation of Lombardos, Thomas D., returns home to be involved in the restaurant after a decade of working in NYC.  Every few years new projects and renovations are undertaken at the restaurant to continue its growth.  Most recently our popular and beautifully landscaped patio was partially enclosed to create a space that can be enjoyed by our guests three seasons a year.

November 2018

The Little Club restaurant and wine bar (The namesake of Tom Sr’s. original bar and restaurant) is opened directly across the street from Ristorante Lombardo.  In a short time the Little Club excels to the forefront of the Buffalo dining scene.   It is known for its welcoming hospitality, extensive wine list featuring natural wines and a menu featuring locally sourced produce and creative takes on beloved classics. 

Today

Today we are blessed to have a wonderfully talented team and together we learn more about this dynamic, challenging and rewarding restaurant everyday.  And everyday we work to apply that knowledge to create better, more memorable experiences for our guests.