Buffalo's Newest Community Gathering Place
Third Space Cafe and Entertainment opened its doors in September 2025 bringing a fresh concept to downtown Buffalo - a true third space beyond home and work where community members can gather connect and be entertained. Located at 777 Main Street on the corner of Main and Goodell in the gorgeous historic Sidway building this venue sits steps away from Buffalo's theatre district.
The Vision
Owner Chelsea Castiglia's vision for Third Space draws inspiration from the formative years she spent at Spot Coffee on Chippewa when it hosted live acoustic music late into the evenings. She wanted to recreate that magic - a place where people of all ages could connect over coffee enjoy live entertainment and feel part of a community. Entertainment director Evan Laedke a musician himself shares this vision of creating a comfortable spot for both work and relaxation.
The Space
The interior design embraces the third space philosophy with diverse seating options including bar seating comfortable couches chairs and large communal tables. The layout encourages both focused work sessions and social gatherings. The centerpiece is a professional stage equipped with microphones and a full sound system. With solid Wi-Fi throughout the space seamlessly transitions from productive daytime workspace to vibrant evening entertainment venue. The venue can accommodate everything from solo work sessions to gatherings of up to 150 people.
Daytime Service
By day Third Space operates as a full-service cafe serving locally roasted coffee signature espresso drinks and premium teas. The breakfast menu available from 7:30am to 3pm features creative bagel sandwiches that have earned rave reviews. Signature items include the BEC on an everything bagel with space sauce and the Judy breakfast bagel both crafted with care. The lunch menu offers fresh-made sandwiches with vegan and gluten-free options available. Fresh-baked goods are delivered daily including classic cookies and gluten-free treats.
Evening Transformation
As day turns to evening the space transforms into an entertainment hub. The daytime menu gives way to an evening selection of sandwiches and snack foods available until close. The beverage program expands to include local craft beers curated wines and creative specialty drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. The kitchen operates until 2pm daily with grab-and-go items available afterward.
Live Entertainment
Third Space's entertainment programming reflects Buffalo's diverse creative community. Every Thursday from 6-8pm the venue hosts Music and Poetry Open Mic with sign-up starting at 5:30pm. Entertainment director Evan Laedke and special guests create a welcoming environment for performers of all levels and styles. The professional sound system and quality stage lighting ensure performers can showcase their work properly.
Music is Art Fridays from 5-7pm feature different local musicians each week. This series proudly presented by Music is Art offers the perfect destination for unwinding after work or starting a night out. The venue regularly hosts comedy open mics special performances and creative events celebrating Buffalo's artistic community.
Monthly events include Sober One Sing a karaoke night that provides fun without alcohol proving that Third Space truly welcomes everyone. The venue has also hosted financial literacy workshops mentorship sessions team building activities and milestone celebrations for local organizations.
Theatre District Synergy
Third Space's location in Buffalo's theatre district is strategic and intentional. The venue collaborates with nearby institutions like Shea's Performing Arts Center and Town Ballroom. When there's a show at Shea's Third Space offers coffee specials themed to the performance. If a band is playing at Town Ballroom the evening's music selections might complement that show's genre. This approach creates synergy with existing businesses and gives theatre-goers and concert attendees a reason to arrive early or linger afterward.
Private Events and Meetings
Third Space offers flexible options for private events business meetings and team gatherings. The space can be configured for one-on-one client meetings small group collaborations or large events using the full stage and sound system. Catering is available upon request. The combination of professional amenities and comfortable atmosphere makes it ideal for everything from corporate meetings to creative workshops to celebrations.
Community Focus
As a locally owned and operated business Third Space prioritizes community engagement. The venue supports local artists by providing performance opportunities. The locally roasted coffee program supports regional roasters. The commitment to being a gathering place extends beyond business hours - it's about creating lasting connections and fostering creativity. The staff works to ensure every visitor whether grabbing a quick coffee doing remote work catching a show or celebrating with friends feels welcomed and valued.
Practical Details
Third Space is open Monday 7:30am-3pm Tuesday through Friday 7:30am-9pm and Saturday 8:30am-9pm. The venue is closed Sundays allowing the team to recharge. The location offers easy access to downtown parking and public transportation. The space features accessibility considerations and welcomes everyone regardless of age during daytime hours.
The Third Space Experience
What makes Third Space special is its authentic commitment to being exactly what its name suggests - a genuine third space in people's lives. In an era where such spaces are increasingly rare Third Space offers something essential: a place to simply be. Whether working on a laptop meeting a friend grabbing quality coffee experiencing live music discovering new comedians or just sitting comfortably with a book Third Space provides the freedom to exist outside the pressures of productivity or consumption. It's a place where Buffalo's community spirit creativity and warmth come together creating connections that extend far beyond its walls. For owner Chelsea Castiglia who quit her job with no plan and opened these doors within a year the venue represents a dream realized - and for Buffalo it represents a welcome addition to the city's vibrant cultural landscape.