Pano's on Elmwood reopens with new owner and look

Pano's on Elmwood reopens with more change coming next door

BY Maura Christie Buffalo

PUBLISHED 5:53 PM ET Jun. 25, 2018 PUBLISHED June 25, 2018 @5:53 PM

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Pano's on Elmwood has reopened.

After being sold in February to Mark Chason, of Chason Affinity Companies, the iconic restaurant has opened under the same name with a new look.

"I think the look is certainty different, we've seen surprise on some people’s faces when they walk in but i think it's a good surprise," Chason said shortly after the ceremonial ribbon was cut. "I think they like the light and airy feel of it so I think it will be good."

In addition to the name staying the same, so, too, has the most of the menu.

If anyone finds their favorite item missing, Chason said they should speak up. "Just let us know and we're happy to bring it back."

A staple in the #ElmwoodVillage has reopened! Pano’s on Elmwood celebrated their grand reopening with new owners and a new look on the inside! And don’t worry — the menu has stayed almost the same, but they say if they’re missing one of your favorites let them know! pic.twitter.com/nAlyxJiaaP
— Maura Christie (@maurachristieTV) June 25, 2018

For years, Pano's has been a dining destination for locals and visitors and the Elmwood Village Association is happy that this will continue.

After months of work on Pano's, Chason isn't done yet. He also owns the space next to Pano's on the corner of Elmwood and Forest avenues that will be developed into condos with retail space on the first floor. It's set to be completed by fall 2019.

"We think this is a nice compliment that people will be living there and they can come right next door and get a bite to eat," he said. "It's really nice that it's so walkable and that there are so many things to do and places to go that are in walking distance."

The Elmwood Village Association thinks this project could do for Elmwood what others have done before and bring even more life to the neighborhood. Members cited the redevelopment of 905 Elmwood for bringing activity back to the block and say they hope to see it continue when the Elmwood-Forest project is complete.