By JAMES FINK
jfink@bizjournals.com | 716-541-1611

Iskalo Development Co. has agreed to purchase the Lord Amherst Hotel and surrounding property, bringing the Snyder landmark into its growing real estate portfolio.

The company is expected to close on the deal next month. The hotel and property are owned by Genrich family interests. Terms were not disclosed.

Iskalo officials declined to say what their plans are for the property, which includes the Sonoma Grill. The restaurant will continue to operate in its present location, said owner Michael Militello.

"For us, this is good news," he said. "Iskalo is the best-possible strategic partner we could have. We're really excited and very happy in that regard."

Militello said he is planning some  renovations at Sonoma Grill.

"We are definitely open and staying open," he said.

Iskalo representatives are considering a number of scenarios for the 101-room, 51-year-old hotel that sits where Main Street intersects with the Youngmann Highway.

The Lord Amherst property was designed by Buffalo architect Duane Lyman in 1960. Lyman designed such area landmarks as the Country Club of Buffalo's main clubhouse, the former Liberty Bank Building in downtown Buffalo and the 800 W. Ferry St. apartments.