Black Dots, Buffalo NY

I am greatly expanding upon my initial review from my first visit in January, 2020. I had the pleasure of hitting up the 'Dots again last weekend (12/4) and I felt it necessary to heap further praise upon this phenemonal punk owned & operated small business on Grant Street.

I first discovered Black Dots when I was still living in Montréal and on vacation in Buffalo, immediately pre-Pandemic. I was at first flummoxed by the novel idea of Bar + Record Store but immediately felt at home upon talking to the staff and fellow patrons who confirmed that the name was indeed Bad Brains inspired. I knew then, that I had found the right place to flâner on the ever-changing West Side. Although the urban fabric of the bold new Grant Street is constantly in evolution, I think Black Dots a net positive contribution to it.

Both times they have let me make a generous pile on the counter, use their super clean washroom and are always good for local band and gig recommendations!

One of the punkest places in Buffalo. Great ambience, chill AF staff, cool selection of new and used vinyl, tapes and CDs. They have more than just Punk/HC as well, with one of WNYs best cassette selection and a constant rotation of new and used material of everything from The Tragically Hip, to Hubert Lenoir, to Weird Al Yankovic to Charlie Mingus to The Necros! They also have mad band shirts and quality audio equipment.

I can't wait to come back and will most definitely be a regular if/when I move to WNY.

I thought the store organization needed help, but still had a great experience. Set your car alarm.

It's my favorite bar, my favorite record store, and also most my clothes come from here at this point.thee best.

I didn't purchase anything on my 1st visit. I actually need a repair on my record player. However I was too shy to ask about it. So I will visit again.

One of the best record shops in Buffalo. Great selection of Pop/Rock, metal, punk/hardcore, and hip hop.

I was really happy with the selection and prices of the used CDs! I would definitely visit the store again. The cashier was both friendly and helpful. The only regret I have is that I should have bought more!

Probably one of, if not my favorite record stores in the Buffalo area! If you happen to be around for Record Store Day, I highly recommend going to their release days, the two I’ve previously went to were awesome! Also, they carry a wide variety of genres from Black Metal and Hardcore Punk to Jazz and other miscellaneous genres. Basically the record store heaven, plus prices are extremely reasonable!

It's a pretty solid place! I usually come in to sell old music stuff. They give you top dollar. Very reasonable on alot of their stuff. Punk, Metal, & Horror Movies They deal with! Brendan & Quinn who work there are both nice kids! Really recommend them!

Got to see our boy Troy spin for Metal night. Awesome record selection, T's, posters and tasty beverages.