Buffalo's downtown hockey complex set to open; Tim Hortons doughnut shop gets early start

Two of Buffalo's favorite things — doughnuts and hockey — are headlining the opening of the city's new downtown sports, dining and hospitality complex.

The $170 million HarborCenter officially opens its doors Thursday afternoon, but the property's new Tim Hortons Cafe and Bakeshop opened at 6 a.m. Thursday. The Ontario, Canada-based chain with dozens of locations in western New York was started by a former player for the Buffalo Sabres, who play next door at First Niagara Center.

The first sports event at the complex will be held at one of the HarborCenter's two hockey rinks when Canisius College of Buffalo hosts Ohio State Friday night.

A Marriott hotel is scheduled to open at HarborCenter next year.

HarborCenter was privately funded by Sabres and Buffalo Bills owners Terry and Kim Pegula.