11 Best restaurants in Albany New York
Looking for a taste of the Nile in upstate New York? Look no further than the Egyptian restaurants in Albany NY. These culinary gems serve up authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, complete with fragrant spices, tender meats, and fresh vegetables. Whether you're in the mood for shawarma, falafel, or a hearty vegetarian platter, Egyptian restaurants in Albany NY have got you covered. Come indulge in a flavorful journey that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Cairo.
1. Bon Appetit Cafe
Best falafel in the capital region

Bon Appetit Cafe in Colonie offers a delightful Mediterranean and Egyptian culinary experience. Its menu features several must-try dishes such as the falafel platter and stuffed grape leaves, offering an authentic taste of Egyptian cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in their unique and delicious offerings that range from delectable chicken gyros to mouth-watering falafels, each prepared with fresh ingredients and rich spices.
In addition to their savory dishes, Bon Appetit Cafe's baklava and freshly baked muffins are a definite must-try. These sweet treats are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a satisfying end to any meal. With a cozy atmosphere and excellent service, Bon Appetit Cafe is an ideal spot for those looking for a delicious and memorable Mediterranean and Egyptian dining experience.
2. Mamoun's Restaurant
Experience authentic flavors of the Middle East

This establishment is known for offering a consistently fresh and delicious dining experience. The falafel sandwich, in particular, has received both high praise and some criticism, with some guests raving about its flavor and others finding it less appealing.
The reviewer had the opportunity to try a chicken combination and found the white meat chicken to be incredibly tender. On their second visit, they enjoyed the meal so much that they decided to order an extra serving of chicken skewers. Overall, the reviewer had a very positive experience with the food at this establishment.
It is worth noting that taste preferences are subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. While some guests may not enjoy the falafel sandwich, others may find it to be a standout menu item. The reviewer's experience with the tender white meat chicken is also noteworthy, as the quality of the chicken can greatly impact the overall enjoyment of the dish.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
3. Sheba al-yemen restaurant
Authentic Yemeni flavors in the heart of Albany.

The establishment offers a welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere, with fair and affordable prices that make for a pleasant dining experience. The service is commendable, with staff who are attentive and responsive to customers' needs, adding to the overall positive vibe of the place.
The salad is a standout, with a generous assortment of fresh ingredients that are both nourishing and delightful. The order includes a variety of dishes, such as savory lamb soup, warm and soft Yemeni bread, flavorful fava beans with eggs, rich hummus with meat, and a medley of mixed vegetables. Each dish is carefully crafted, providing a satisfying and appetizing meal for any occasion.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
4. Mazadar Mediterranean Kitchen
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine with 100% Halal and organic ingredients.

The staff at this establishment are known for their friendly demeanor and attentiveness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. They are quick to offer assistance and make excellent recommendations, ensuring a positive dining experience.
The menu boasts a unique fusion of Middle Eastern, Afghan, and American cuisines, offering a diverse range of options to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality, organic, and Halal ingredients, with several vegan options available. Although the decor is simple, resembling a fast-food establishment, the restaurant is kept impeccably clean, including the restrooms. The food receives rave reviews for its excellent quality, reasonable prices, and outstanding service.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
5. Kismet Mediterranean Grill
A delicious taste of the Mediterranean in Albany.

Kismet, a popular dining destination, is known for its expertly seasoned dishes. The restaurant's mixed mezza, featuring standouts such as stuffed grape leaves, dolma, and babaganoush, truly shines. Each item is carefully prepared and bursting with flavor.
While the food is exceptional, the outdoor patio area could benefit from some additional attention to grounds keeping. A little more care in this area would elevate the overall dining experience. Nevertheless, the attentive and friendly service helps to make up for any shortcomings in the outdoor space.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Waterfront
- Dinner
6. Elhariri Hot Food
Handmade garlic sauce with hot pressed shawarma.

The handmade garlic sauce that accompanies the hot pressed shawarma is a true culinary delight. Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the perfect amount of garlic flavor, makes it the perfect complement to the juicy and well-seasoned chicken shawarma. Speaking of the chicken shawarma, it's a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean food. The chicken is always cooked to perfection, with a nice balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. The seasoning is spot-on, giving the shawarma a real homemade flavor that is sure to please.
After being away from the area for a short period, the chance to once again enjoy the delicious offerings from this establishment was a welcome one. The chicken shawarma, in particular, was just as good as I remembered. The quality of the ingredients and the care put into preparing each dish is evident in every bite. Even the delivery service was efficient and professional, ensuring that the food arrived hot and fresh. It's no wonder that this place was a weekly staple in my dining rotation - the combination of delicious food, excellent service, and convenient delivery options makes it a top choice for anyone in the area.
7. Umana Yana
Celebrating culture through cuisine, community, and craft.

Umana Yana is a remarkable dining destination for anyone seeking a diverse range of international flavors. The establishment excels in offering a unique fusion of culinary traditions, as exemplified by their Egyptian Lo Mein. This dish brilliantly combines the delicate noodles of Chinese cuisine with the rich spices typical of Egyptian cooking, resulting in a truly memorable taste experience.
The menu at Umana Yana is a veritable treasure trove of delicious and unique dishes. Among these, the Egyptian Lo Mein stands out as a must-try option. The combination of flavors is expertly balanced, with a perfect mix of savory umami, subtle sweetness, and a hint of spice. The noodles are cooked to perfection, with a satisfying texture that adds to the overall enjoyment of the dish. Diners seeking a memorable culinary adventure need look no further than Umana Yana, where dishes like the Egyptian Lo Mein await to delight and inspire.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
8. Afghan Kabab Express
The best New York style gyros in the 518. 100% Halal.

For those craving the authentic taste of New York City's halal carts, this establishment is sure to impress. During a recent 3-day visit, this reviewer had the pleasure of dining here twice, and can attest to the quality and affordability of the food, as well as the warm and welcoming service. The chicken over rice dish, in particular, is a standout.
Recently, a group of three visitors had the opportunity to dine at this establishment, and they found the experience to be thoroughly enjoyable. The flavors were described as both tasty and interesting, with a presentation that was visually pleasing. Service was attentive and efficient, with a pleasant atmosphere that featured Afghan music. As a special touch, the restaurant even provided complimentary tea at the end of the meal. Overall, this reviewer would highly recommend this new addition to the Albany restaurant scene for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Kosher Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
9. Keobi
Authentic African flavors in the heart of Albany.

Keobi restaurant serves delicious and flavorful Nigerian cuisine that is sure to delight. The menu includes dishes such as ogbono soup, egusi soup, and peppered goat stew, all made with authentic ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The spices and flavors used in these dishes are bold and unique, making for a truly exotic dining experience.
Despite the exotic nature of the cuisine, Keobi also caters to a variety of dietary needs. They offer good vegetarian options and are mindful of the level of spiciness in their dishes, making it a great choice for those with a more sensitive palate. The restaurant is also quiet and kid-friendly, with offerings like wings and plantains that children can enjoy. While the prices may be a bit higher than some other restaurants, the quality of the food, the attentive service, and the overall dining experience make it well worth the cost.
10. LaZeez
Serving authentic Indian-Pakistani cuisine since 2009.

A serene and peaceful atmosphere greets guests upon entering the establishment, with thoughtfully designed lighting and a music selection that complements the overall tranquility. The ambiance is ideal for any occasion, providing a welcoming environment that invites relaxation.
The cuisine on offer is highly regarded, with a reputation for using only the freshest ingredients to create delectable dishes. Even the most discerning of diners have praised the food, with many returning for repeat visits to savor the flavors once more. The menu offers a variety of options, each prepared with great care and attention to detail, resulting in a dining experience that is sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
11. Maharaja Indian Restaurant
Authentic North Indian cuisine in a refined setting

Reviewers commonly describe the service at this establishment as good, with a quick and friendly demeanor. However, there are some comments about slow service, which may affect the overall dining experience.
In terms of the food, many reviewers rave about the delicious options available, such as chicken korma and tikka masala. The menu offers a variety of choices to suit different tastes and preferences. However, a few reviewers have noted that the food can be on the pricier side and may arrive at the table lacking the desired heat. Despite these occasional comments, the positive feedback about the flavorful dishes outweighs the negative.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch