There's more to Stucko's, a neighborhood sports bar on Clifford Avenue, than meets the eye.
The place
Located one block from the intersection of Culver and Empire (and across the street from Savoia Bakery), Stucko's is a kick-your-feet-up type of place. And it's become more spacious, thanks to a recent remodel.
My friends and I went in to watch some post-season baseball. Although I had never been there before, by the end of the night we were high-fiving other locals. Husband and wife co-owners Tim and Dina Conte have created exactly the type of bar they'd like to hang out in — and it just so happens that it's fun for everyone else, too.
The crowd
Stucko's is the weekly gathering place for Patriots Fans of New York, the local fan chapter for the New England Patriots. The Contes always set up the back party room with plenty of food and drinks for the group. If you want more information, go to www.patriotsny.com. And despite the Buffalo Bills' lousy record, Bills fans still come to congregate toward the front of the bar. Only the sweet personality of bartender bartender JoJo Butler could bring these dueling factions together for a good time.
Nothing to do?
The bar has a fall calendar that's full of events — everything from a Halloween party on Saturday, Oct. 31 ($500 goes to the patron with the best costume), to an NFL-style tailgating party in the parking lot starting at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 15. Information about Stucko's parties and events is posted on fliers around the bar.
Coming soon
Stucko's just got its entertainment license, so look for more live music, a complement to Thursday-night karaoke, coming soon.
Good to Know
What:A neighborhood bar and grill near Culver Road and Empire Boulevard.
Where: 2260 Clifford Ave.
When: 11 a.m. till 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday; noon till 9 p.m. Sundays.
Cover: None.
Drink specials: Daily specials include happy-hour drink prices, including two-for-one short draft beers from 11 a.m. till 6 p.m. Other specials include $2.50 pints on Mondays, $2 domestic bottles on Thursday, and $2 Sam Adams and Heineken on Saturdays.
Food: A full-service restaurant is open from 11 a.m. till midnight. The menu includes a "Stucko" plate, Reuben sandwiches, wings and nachos.
Music: Possibly the best part of my night at Stucko's. Listening to Will Smith and Michael Jackson songs made me feel like I was back at a college dorm-room party.
Games: Darts, pinball.
Parking: On-street. After 7 p.m., patrons can use the Savoia Bakery lot.
Contact: 482-6010.



