Nestled in the heart of Buffalo, New York, Santora’s has long stood as a beacon of hospitality, flavor, and community spirit. The Transit and Clinton locations, in particular, are celebrated not only for their rich Italian-American heritage but also for their innovative approach to classic dishes and contemporary favorites.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, stepping into Santora’s welcomes you with the aroma of fresh dough, bubbling cheese, and signature sauces simmering to perfection. The vibrant atmosphere is matched only by the diversity of the menu, offering something for every palate and occasion.
From legendary pizzas and hand-crafted pastas to creative appetizers and hearty entrees, the menu is a testament to Santora’s commitment to quality and tradition. As families gather, friends reconnect, and colleagues unwind, the Transit and Clinton locations create memorable dining experiences that go beyond just a meal.
With a dedication to customer satisfaction and a keen eye for culinary detail, Santora’s continues to evolve while honoring decades-old recipes and techniques. Let’s explore what makes their menu a standout in the Western New York dining scene.
The Legacy of Santora’s: Tradition Meets Innovation
Santora’s roots trace back to a family passion for authentic Italian cuisine, combined with a Buffalo twist. The Transit and Clinton locations carry forward this rich legacy, infusing time-honored recipes with modern culinary innovations.
The restaurant’s journey is a blend of preserving tradition while embracing new flavors and dining trends.
From humble beginnings, Santora’s has grown into a household name, renowned for its consistency and hospitality. The commitment to family values is evident not just in the menu, but in the warm, welcoming service that greets every guest.
Generations have passed down secret recipes, ensuring that every pizza, pasta, and entrée retains the original Santora’s touch.
What sets the Transit and Clinton menus apart is their adaptability. They introduce seasonal specials, locally sourced ingredients, and unique spins on classic dishes.
This willingness to experiment without losing sight of their roots is what keeps diners coming back.
- Authentic recipes handed down through generations
- Seasonal menu updates that reflect current trends
- Commitment to community and family values
“At Santora’s, every dish tells a story — one of family, flavor, and unwavering dedication to our guests.”
The atmosphere at both locations echoes this blend of old and new, with décor that pays homage to the past while remaining inviting and contemporary. This unique balance ensures that every visit feels special, whether you’re rekindling nostalgia or discovering something new.
Signature Starters: A Flavorful Prelude
Every meal at Santora’s begins with a tempting array of appetizers designed to awaken your senses. The starters at the Transit and Clinton locations showcase a blend of Italian tradition and regional favorites.
Each dish is crafted to set the stage for the courses that follow.
From the famous Garlic Knots, brushed with herb-infused olive oil, to crispy Fried Calamari served with house-made marinara, the starter selection is thoughtfully curated. These appetizers aren’t just afterthoughts—they’re a celebration of bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
The menu also features creative crowd-pleasers like Loaded Fries and Stuffed Banana Peppers, which reflect Buffalo’s love for hearty, comforting food. Sharing is encouraged, making these dishes perfect for groups and families looking to sample a variety of flavors.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, warm, and aromatic
- Fried Calamari: Lightly breaded, served with zesty sauces
- Stuffed Banana Peppers: A spicy, cheesy specialty
- Loaded Fries: Topped with melted cheese, bacon, and scallions
“Santora’s appetizers are more than just starters—they’re the opening act of a memorable dining experience.”
These flavorful prelude dishes are perfect for sparking conversation and anticipation. With options to suit meat lovers, vegetarians, and spice enthusiasts alike, Santora’s ensures that everyone at the table finds something to enjoy right from the start.
Pizzas: The Heart of Santora’s Menu
Santora’s is synonymous with pizza, and for good reason. The pizzeria’s reputation is built on decades of perfecting dough, sauce, and toppings.
At the Transit and Clinton locations, the pizza selection is a testament to both tradition and creativity, satisfying purists and adventurous eaters alike.
From the classic Cheese and Pepperoni to imaginative specialty pies, every pizza is crafted with a commitment to freshness and flavor. The crust strikes a perfect balance—crispy on the outside, tender inside—providing the ideal canvas for a range of toppings.
Santora’s even offers gluten-free and cauliflower crusts, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Specialty pizzas push the boundaries with unique flavor combinations. The Buffalo Chicken Pizza pays homage to the city’s spicy legacy, while the Meat Lovers’ Delight is a carnivore’s dream.
Signature white pizzas, loaded with ricotta, mozzarella, and garlic, offer a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative.
- Classic Cheese & Pepperoni: A timeless favorite
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Spicy, tangy, and topped with blue cheese
- Meat Lovers’ Delight: Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and more
- White Pizza: Creamy, garlicky, and herbaceous
Comparing Pizza Styles
| Style | Crust | Signature Ingredients |
| Classic NY | Thin, foldable | Tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni |
| Buffalo-Style | Medium, airy | Spicy sauce, blue cheese, chicken |
| White Pizza | Thin, crispy | Ricotta, garlic, mozzarella, herbs |
Santora’s attention to detail extends to their use of local ingredients whenever possible. This ensures that every bite reflects the freshness and quality that have become their hallmark.
For pizza lovers, the menu is both a comforting embrace and an invitation to explore.
Pasta Perfection: Time-Honored Recipes
Pasta dishes at Santora’s Transit and Clinton locations are a tribute to Italian culinary artistry. Each plate is crafted with care, combining traditional sauces and premium ingredients for a truly satisfying meal.
Whether you crave rich, creamy Alfredo or the bold flavors of marinara, the pasta selection offers something for every appetite.
The classics are well represented, with options like Spaghetti and Meatballs, Lasagna, and Fettuccine Alfredo. Santora’s takes pride in using house-made sauces, simmered for hours to develop deep, complex flavors.
The pasta itself is always cooked to a perfect al dente, ensuring that texture and taste are in harmony.
For those seeking something a bit different, the menu includes inventive dishes such as Cajun Chicken Pasta and Seafood Linguine. These creations highlight the kitchen’s willingness to experiment while staying true to Italian roots.
Vegetarian options abound, with Penne Primavera and Eggplant Parmesan proving especially popular.
- Spaghetti and Meatballs: Classic comfort food
- Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy, rich, and satisfying
- Seafood Linguine: Fresh seafood tossed in garlic and herbs
- Penne Primavera: Packed with seasonal vegetables
“Our pasta dishes are a labor of love, blending tradition with the finest ingredients for unforgettable flavor.”
From robust, meaty sauces to lighter, vegetable-forward plates, Santora’s pasta menu is as diverse as it is delicious. Every dish is designed to transport diners to the heart of Italy, right from their cozy Buffalo seat.
Sandwiches and Subs: Hearty Choices for Every Appetite
Santora’s understands that sometimes, nothing satisfies like a well-crafted sandwich or sub. The menu at Transit and Clinton features an impressive array of options, blending classic Italian deli flavors with local favorites.
Each sandwich is a meal in itself, generously portioned and packed with character.
The Italian Sub is a perennial favorite, stacked with savory meats, fresh cheeses, and crisp vegetables. Hot sandwiches such as the Chicken Parmigiana and Sausage & Peppers showcase the kitchen’s mastery of comfort food, enveloped in warm, crusty bread.
For those craving a Buffalo twist, the Beef on Weck and Chicken Finger Sub pay homage to regional specialties. Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes, perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite on the go.
- Italian Sub: Salami, ham, capicola, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion
- Chicken Parmigiana: Breaded chicken, marinara, melted mozzarella
- Beef on Weck: Roast beef, kummelweck roll, horseradish
- Chicken Finger Sub: Buffalo-style chicken, blue cheese, lettuce, tomato
Hot vs. Cold Sandwiches: A Delicious Dilemma
| Type | Best Seller | Signature Flavor |
| Hot Sandwich | Chicken Parmigiana | Warm, cheesy, savory |
| Cold Sub | Italian Sub | Fresh, tangy, robust |
Every sandwich and sub is customizable, with a choice of toppings and sauces to suit individual preferences. Santora’s also offers gluten-free bread options, making their hearty creations accessible to all diners.
Wings and Buffalo Favorites: Local Flavor at Its Finest
No culinary exploration of Buffalo would be complete without mentioning the city’s legendary chicken wings. Santora’s pays homage to this local icon with a wing menu that’s as varied as it is flavorful.
The Transit and Clinton locations serve up wings in a range of sauces and rubs, ensuring everyone finds their perfect match.
From classic Buffalo-style hot and mild to creative options like Honey BBQ and Garlic Parmesan, the wing selection reflects both tradition and innovation. Wings are always cooked to order, guaranteeing a crispy exterior and juicy meat within.
Pair them with celery, carrots, and a side of blue cheese for the full Buffalo experience.
In addition to wings, Santora’s offers regional favorites such as Beef on Weck and Sahlen’s Hot Dogs, paying tribute to Buffalo’s rich culinary culture. These dishes provide comfort and nostalgia in every bite, making them must-tries for visitors and locals alike.
- Buffalo Wings: Hot, medium, mild, and specialty sauces
- Beef on Weck: A Buffalo classic, slow-roasted to perfection
- Sahlen’s Hot Dogs: Locally sourced and grilled to order
- Loaded Fries: Topped with wing sauce, blue cheese, and scallions
“There’s nothing quite like the taste of Buffalo—Santora’s wings are the gold standard for flavor and quality.”
Santora’s commitment to local flavor extends beyond the kitchen. Both locations frequently feature seasonal specials and limited-time sauces, keeping the menu fresh and exciting for regulars and newcomers alike.
Salads and Lighter Fare: Freshness at the Forefront
For those seeking a lighter meal, Santora’s menu offers an impressive selection of salads and health-conscious options. Freshness is the guiding principle here, with crisp greens and vibrant toppings that elevate every bowl.
These dishes are perfect as a starter, side, or satisfying main course.
The Antipasto Salad is a standout, combining mixed greens with Italian meats, cheeses, olives, and tangy vinaigrette. Lighter choices like the Grilled Chicken Caesar and Greek Salad appeal to a range of tastes and dietary needs.
Each salad is made to order, ensuring peak flavor and texture.
Customization is encouraged, with add-ons such as grilled shrimp, chicken, or steak available. Diners can also choose from a variety of house-made dressings, from creamy ranch to zesty balsamic.
- Antipasto Salad: Hearty, savory, and protein-packed
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan, house-made croutons
- Greek Salad: Feta, olives, cucumber, tomato, red onion
- Garden Salad: Simple, fresh, and customizable
Salad Dressings at a Glance
| Dressing | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Balsamic Vinaigrette | Tangy, slightly sweet | Antipasto, Garden Salad |
| Caesar | Creamy, garlicky | Caesar Salad, Grilled Chicken |
| Greek | Herbaceous, lemony | Greek Salad, Shrimp Add-On |
For guests seeking gluten-free or vegetarian options, the salad menu offers plenty of choices. Santora’s dedication to freshness and customization ensures that everyone can enjoy a flavorful, healthful meal.
Sweet Finishes: Desserts and After-Dinner Treats
Completing a meal at Santora’s wouldn’t be the same without indulging in one of their decadent desserts. The Transit and Clinton locations offer a variety of sweet treats, each crafted to provide a memorable finale to your dining experience.
From Italian classics to American favorites, there’s a dessert for every sweet tooth.
Tiramisu is a perennial favorite, featuring layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Cannoli, with their crispy shells and creamy, sweet ricotta filling, offer a taste of Sicily in every bite.
For those who prefer something warm and comforting, the Chocolate Lava Cake delivers with its gooey, molten center.
Seasonal specials, such as Pumpkin Cheesecake in the fall or Lemon Bars in the summer, keep the dessert menu exciting and relevant. These treats are perfect for sharing—or savoring solo as a reward after a hearty meal.
- Tiramisu: Rich, creamy, and coffee-infused
- Cannoli: Crispy, sweet, and satisfying
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Decadent and indulgent
- Seasonal Cheesecakes: Rotating flavors to match the season
“Dessert at Santora’s is more than just a treat—it’s the perfect ending to a perfect meal.”
For guests celebrating special occasions, Santora’s offers dessert platters and custom cakes by request. This attention to detail and willingness to accommodate make the restaurant a top choice for birthdays, anniversaries, and gatherings.
Atmosphere, Service, and Community Connection
Santora’s is more than just a place to eat—it’s a cornerstone of the Buffalo community. The Transit and Clinton locations are designed to feel welcoming and inclusive, with a layout that accommodates families, couples, and large groups with ease.
The décor pays homage to the restaurant’s Italian roots, creating a warm, inviting ambiance.
Service is a point of pride at Santora’s. Staff are trained not just to deliver food, but to create memorable experiences for every guest.
Whether you’re a regular or a newcomer, you’ll find the team eager to share recommendations, accommodate special requests, and ensure that your meal exceeds expectations.
Santora’s also gives back to the community through local partnerships, sponsorships, and charity events. This sense of connection strengthens their place in Buffalo’s dining scene, making every visit feel meaningful.
- Family-friendly atmosphere with ample seating
- Attentive service tailored to guest needs
- Active involvement in local events and causes
“Our guests are our extended family, and every meal is our way of saying thank you.”
The harmony of great food, genuine service, and strong community ties makes Santora’s much more than a restaurant—it’s a cherished local institution.
Conclusion: Why Santora’s Transit and Clinton Menu Stands Out
Santora’s Transit and Clinton locations have mastered the art of bringing people together over exceptional food. Their menu is a vibrant tapestry of classic flavors and inventive offerings, ensuring that every guest finds something to love.
From the first bite of a garlicky starter to the last spoonful of creamy tiramisu, each dish is an expression of the restaurant’s dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation.
What truly sets Santora’s apart is their unwavering commitment to the community and the guest experience. The staff’s attention to detail, the inviting atmosphere, and the continual pursuit of culinary excellence create a dining environment that feels both familiar and exciting.
Whether you’re gathering with family, catching up with friends, or celebrating a special event, Santora’s provides the perfect backdrop for connection and celebration.
The Transit and Clinton menus offer more than just a meal—they offer a journey through flavors, memories, and traditions. With each visit, you’re reminded of the simple joys of great food shared in great company.
In a world where dining out can sometimes feel impersonal, Santora’s stands as a testament to the enduring power of hospitality and the magic of a well-prepared meal.
For anyone seeking a true taste of Buffalo—rooted in heritage, served with a smile, and always evolving—Santora’s is the destination of choice. Their menu, much like their legacy, continues to grow, delight, and inspire, making every dining experience one to remember.
