The 15 best restaurants in Albany New York
Albany, NY, is a vibrant city offering a wide range of dining options. From cozy cafes to upscale eateries, restaurants in Albany NY cater to all tastes and preferences.Visit historic pubs, sample local cuisine, or enjoy global flavors at these top-notch establishments. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the restaurants in Albany NY provide memorable dining experiences.
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1. The Hollow Bar + Kitchen
Triple threat: music, food, and bar
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This venue is an excellent choice for any party or event, with a diverse and delicious menu that will surely satisfy all guests. The Brussels sprouts were a popular choice, boasting a perfect level of crispiness and flavor. The Swedish meatballs were another hit, providing a traditional and savory option. The wings were a standout as well, with both flavors receiving positive feedback.
For those with dietary restrictions, this restaurant is a great choice as they offer vegan meal options. The vegan dishes were well-received by the attendees who preferred plant-based meals, highlighting the restaurant's ability to cater to a variety of dietary needs. However, due to its smaller size, making reservations in advance is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
This venue is an excellent choice for any party or event, with a diverse and delicious menu that will surely satisfy all guests. The Brussels sprouts were a popular choice, boasting a perfect level of crispiness and flavor. The Swedish meatballs were another hit, providing a traditional and savory option. The wings were a standout as well, with both flavors receiving positive feedback.
For those with dietary restrictions, this restaurant is a great choice as they offer vegan meal options. The vegan dishes were well-received by the attendees who preferred plant-based meals, highlighting the restaurant's ability to cater to a variety of dietary needs. However, due to its smaller size, making reservations in advance is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. 677 Prime
The definitive fine dining experience in Albany.
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A memorable dining experience awaits at 677 Prime. Food enthusiasts will be thoroughly impressed with the culinary offerings, as the kitchen masterfully prepares exquisite dishes, accompanied by exceptional service. The waitstaff provides personalized recommendations, ensuring each diner's meal is tailored to their specific tastes. The paragon of this extraordinary cuisine is the lobster "cappuccino," an innovative take on classic lobster bisque, which will leave a lasting impression. In summary, 677 Prime delivers a dining experience that is consistently remarkable, making it a must-visit destination.
Seasoned diners can wholeheartedly rely on 677 Prime to deliver an unparalleled dining experience. Boasting an impressive history of consistently excellent meals, this esteemed establishment has earned the trust of its patrons time and time again. The vast wine list caters to various tastes and preferences, pairing seamlessly with the divine assortment of appetizers and entrees. Whether seated in the main dining area or one of the private rooms, the outstanding customer service upholds 677 Prime's esteemed reputation. In conclusion, the lavish ambiance, impeccable service, and delectable food make 677 Prime the epitome of fine dining.
A memorable dining experience awaits at 677 Prime. Food enthusiasts will be thoroughly impressed with the culinary offerings, as the kitchen masterfully prepares exquisite dishes, accompanied by exceptional service. The waitstaff provides personalized recommendations, ensuring each diner's meal is tailored to their specific tastes. The paragon of this extraordinary cuisine is the lobster "cappuccino," an innovative take on classic lobster bisque, which will leave a lasting impression. In summary, 677 Prime delivers a dining experience that is consistently remarkable, making it a must-visit destination.
Seasoned diners can wholeheartedly rely on 677 Prime to deliver an unparalleled dining experience. Boasting an impressive history of consistently excellent meals, this esteemed establishment has earned the trust of its patrons time and time again. The vast wine list caters to various tastes and preferences, pairing seamlessly with the divine assortment of appetizers and entrees. Whether seated in the main dining area or one of the private rooms, the outstanding customer service upholds 677 Prime's esteemed reputation. In conclusion, the lavish ambiance, impeccable service, and delectable food make 677 Prime the epitome of fine dining.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
3. Grappa '72
Best qualities of traditional Italian and modern elegance.
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Grappa '72 is a standout Italian restaurant in the Albany area, perfect for both lunch and dinner. The food is consistently hot, delicious, and served with exceptional professionalism. For those who value authentic Italian cuisine, Grappa '72 is the only place to dine.
While the food at Grappa '72 is outstanding, the atmosphere could use some improvement. The warm, cozy lighting in one dining room creates a welcoming ambiance, but the other room is a different story. Its bright garish blue-green LED lights are more suited for a functional space, such as a factory or a hospital, rather than a restaurant. The harsh lighting makes people and food appear unflattering, detracting from the overall dining experience. It's a shame because the food truly deserves better presentation.
Grappa '72 is a standout Italian restaurant in the Albany area, perfect for both lunch and dinner. The food is consistently hot, delicious, and served with exceptional professionalism. For those who value authentic Italian cuisine, Grappa '72 is the only place to dine.
While the food at Grappa '72 is outstanding, the atmosphere could use some improvement. The warm, cozy lighting in one dining room creates a welcoming ambiance, but the other room is a different story. Its bright garish blue-green LED lights are more suited for a functional space, such as a factory or a hospital, rather than a restaurant. The harsh lighting makes people and food appear unflattering, detracting from the overall dining experience. It's a shame because the food truly deserves better presentation.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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4. Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar
Perfect for romantic dinners and business luncheons.
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The Barcelona restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience, showcasing a hidden gem in the neighborhood. The blackened tilapia dish is particularly noteworthy, with its exquisite flavor and freshness. The restaurant has also demonstrated a commendable effort in catering to special dietary requirements, creating a delicious salt-free entrée for those who need it.
The ambiance at Barcelona is true to the spirit of Spain, creating an authentic and enjoyable atmosphere with its quiet guitar music and attentive staff. Food is made to order, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences. The friendly and professional wait staff complements the dining experience while the generous drinks, made to order, add to the overall satisfaction. The restaurant's takeout option offers the same extensive menu, making it an excellent choice for those looking for high-quality meals at home.
The Barcelona restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience, showcasing a hidden gem in the neighborhood. The blackened tilapia dish is particularly noteworthy, with its exquisite flavor and freshness. The restaurant has also demonstrated a commendable effort in catering to special dietary requirements, creating a delicious salt-free entrée for those who need it.
The ambiance at Barcelona is true to the spirit of Spain, creating an authentic and enjoyable atmosphere with its quiet guitar music and attentive staff. Food is made to order, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences. The friendly and professional wait staff complements the dining experience while the generous drinks, made to order, add to the overall satisfaction. The restaurant's takeout option offers the same extensive menu, making it an excellent choice for those looking for high-quality meals at home.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
5. Yono's
Blending French Technique, Asian Influence & American Ingredients.
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The quality, variety, and presentation of the drinks offered at this establishment are highly commendable. Bartenders are skilled at creating custom variations of drinks to cater to each customer's individual preferences. Their expertise and knowledge of drink recommendations ensure that every visitor's needs are met with precision and care.
The service offered is nothing short of exceptional. Staff members are attentive, maintaining a professional and formal demeanor while also being friendly and approachable. They consistently demonstrate a remarkable ability to make each customer feel comfortable and well taken care of. The extra mile taken by the staff to ensure customer satisfaction is truly noteworthy.
The quality, variety, and presentation of the drinks offered at this establishment are highly commendable. Bartenders are skilled at creating custom variations of drinks to cater to each customer's individual preferences. Their expertise and knowledge of drink recommendations ensure that every visitor's needs are met with precision and care.
The service offered is nothing short of exceptional. Staff members are attentive, maintaining a professional and formal demeanor while also being friendly and approachable. They consistently demonstrate a remarkable ability to make each customer feel comfortable and well taken care of. The extra mile taken by the staff to ensure customer satisfaction is truly noteworthy.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
6. Café Capriccio
Authentic regional Italian cuisine since 1982.
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Making a reservation at the restaurant is highly recommended, as the staff is known for their friendliness and attentiveness to customers. There have been a few reports of difficulty in confirming reservations, but with persistence, guests have been able to secure a table.
The food offerings have received rave reviews, with diners praising the flavorful eggplant dishes, perfectly cooked pasta, and the scallop special. The dessert options are equally impressive, with the Pistachio cake and Nonna's special being standout choices. The quality of the food and attentive service make for a memorable dining experience.
Making a reservation at the restaurant is highly recommended, as the staff is known for their friendliness and attentiveness to customers. There have been a few reports of difficulty in confirming reservations, but with persistence, guests have been able to secure a table.
The food offerings have received rave reviews, with diners praising the flavorful eggplant dishes, perfectly cooked pasta, and the scallop special. The dessert options are equally impressive, with the Pistachio cake and Nonna's special being standout choices. The quality of the food and attentive service make for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
7. Athos Restaurant
Experience exceptional Greek cuisine and warm hospitality.
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This Greek restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience, with every dish - from drinks, appetizers, entrees to desserts - boasting outstanding quality. It is truly one of the best Greek restaurants, showcasing delicious and authentic cuisine that is sure to satisfy.
The service is consistently outstanding, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff that goes above and beyond to ensure a delightful dining experience. Food is served hot and fresh without excessive delay, adding to the overall excellence of this restaurant. If you find yourself in the area, a visit to this Greek restaurant is highly recommended.
This Greek restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience, with every dish - from drinks, appetizers, entrees to desserts - boasting outstanding quality. It is truly one of the best Greek restaurants, showcasing delicious and authentic cuisine that is sure to satisfy.
The service is consistently outstanding, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff that goes above and beyond to ensure a delightful dining experience. Food is served hot and fresh without excessive delay, adding to the overall excellence of this restaurant. If you find yourself in the area, a visit to this Greek restaurant is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
8. Iron Gate Cafe
Homemade dishes in a picturesque garden patio.
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The Iron Gate Cafe is situated in an older building that exudes a certain charm, only adding to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. The upbeat music and lively energy of the restaurant create a welcoming and comfortable environment. The staff members are courteous and attentive, providing great service that enhances the dining experience.
The food at The Iron Gate Cafe is truly a highlight, with the restaurant using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in their dishes. The espresso drinks are a must-try, and are made with care and precision. Overall, the Iron Gate Cafe is a standout option for those looking for a delicious meal in a convenient and inviting location.
The Iron Gate Cafe is situated in an older building that exudes a certain charm, only adding to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. The upbeat music and lively energy of the restaurant create a welcoming and comfortable environment. The staff members are courteous and attentive, providing great service that enhances the dining experience.
The food at The Iron Gate Cafe is truly a highlight, with the restaurant using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in their dishes. The espresso drinks are a must-try, and are made with care and precision. Overall, the Iron Gate Cafe is a standout option for those looking for a delicious meal in a convenient and inviting location.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
9. Umana Yana
Celebrating culture through cuisine, community, and craft
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The culinary experience at this establishment is exceptional, with a wide variety of flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Options range from ethnic comfort foods to street foods from around the globe, with each dish carefully crafted to bring out unique and delicious flavors. Standout menu items include red curry fish tacos, succulent goat, lamb, and steak dishes, crispy fried chicken, and creamy garlic-mashed sweet potatoes.
Umana Yana, meaning "meeting place for the people," is an apt name for this establishment that celebrates culture through the lens of cuisine, community, and craft. The Wai Wai indigenous Amerindians of Guyana, South America, inspired the name, emphasizing the importance of gatherings and connection. The restaurant provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that encourages patrons to come together, share a meal, and create lasting memories. Whether looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a night out with friends, Umana Yana is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a delicious and meaningful dining experience.
The culinary experience at this establishment is exceptional, with a wide variety of flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Options range from ethnic comfort foods to street foods from around the globe, with each dish carefully crafted to bring out unique and delicious flavors. Standout menu items include red curry fish tacos, succulent goat, lamb, and steak dishes, crispy fried chicken, and creamy garlic-mashed sweet potatoes.
Umana Yana, meaning "meeting place for the people," is an apt name for this establishment that celebrates culture through the lens of cuisine, community, and craft. The Wai Wai indigenous Amerindians of Guyana, South America, inspired the name, emphasizing the importance of gatherings and connection. The restaurant provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that encourages patrons to come together, share a meal, and create lasting memories. Whether looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a night out with friends, Umana Yana is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a delicious and meaningful dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
10. El Mariachi Restaurant
Voted No. 1 Mexican restaurant in Albany
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El Mariachi Restaurant has gained a reputation for its flavorful margaritas and delightful desserts, with the tres leches cake being a particular favorite. The restaurant's food servings are generous, leaving patrons feeling content and satisfied. Among the popular dishes is the burrito, which comes in steak, chicken, and smothered options. Opinions on the steak burrito vary, with some diners finding it overcooked and others praising its taste.
The chicken burrito, on the other hand, has received consistent positive feedback. The smothered burrito, topped with cheese and sauce, is also a hit among regulars. Alongside the burritos, the restaurant offers a range of Mexican dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. El Mariachi's welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its delicious food and drinks, makes it a popular spot for both casual and special occasions.
El Mariachi Restaurant has gained a reputation for its flavorful margaritas and delightful desserts, with the tres leches cake being a particular favorite. The restaurant's food servings are generous, leaving patrons feeling content and satisfied. Among the popular dishes is the burrito, which comes in steak, chicken, and smothered options. Opinions on the steak burrito vary, with some diners finding it overcooked and others praising its taste.
The chicken burrito, on the other hand, has received consistent positive feedback. The smothered burrito, topped with cheese and sauce, is also a hit among regulars. Alongside the burritos, the restaurant offers a range of Mexican dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. El Mariachi's welcoming atmosphere, coupled with its delicious food and drinks, makes it a popular spot for both casual and special occasions.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
11. Dove + Deer
Albany's favorite neighborhood bar + kitchen!
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Dove + Deer is a restaurant in Albany that provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place for any occasion. The menu offers a delightful selection of both traditional and creative dishes, using fresh and high-quality ingredients that are sure to satisfy any palate.
The staff at Dove + Deer are courteous and attentive, providing excellent service that complements the delicious food. The restaurant is highly recommended for burger and cocktail lovers, as their offerings are truly exceptional. Overall, Dove + Deer is a must-visit establishment that will leave a lasting impression on its patrons.
Dove + Deer is a restaurant in Albany that provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place for any occasion. The menu offers a delightful selection of both traditional and creative dishes, using fresh and high-quality ingredients that are sure to satisfy any palate.
The staff at Dove + Deer are courteous and attentive, providing excellent service that complements the delicious food. The restaurant is highly recommended for burger and cocktail lovers, as their offerings are truly exceptional. Overall, Dove + Deer is a must-visit establishment that will leave a lasting impression on its patrons.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- American Cuisine
12. The Cuckoo's Nest
Southern comfort with a modern twist
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The appetizer of fried grits balls, smothered in savory sausage gravy and punctuated with a kick of hot sauce, was an excellent start to the meal. The grits balls had a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the interior was warm and creamy. This mouthwatering starter left us eagerly anticipating the main course.
Upon arrival at the restaurant, the atmosphere hinted at a memorable dining experience. The establishment's reputation for exceptional fried chicken, as rated the best in Albany by Google, created a sense of excitement. Parking in the back and walking through the charming walkway further heightened our expectations for the evening.
The appetizer of fried grits balls, smothered in savory sausage gravy and punctuated with a kick of hot sauce, was an excellent start to the meal. The grits balls had a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the interior was warm and creamy. This mouthwatering starter left us eagerly anticipating the main course.
Upon arrival at the restaurant, the atmosphere hinted at a memorable dining experience. The establishment's reputation for exceptional fried chicken, as rated the best in Albany by Google, created a sense of excitement. Parking in the back and walking through the charming walkway further heightened our expectations for the evening.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Downtown Spots
13. MezzaNotte Ristorante
Classic Italian with a Modern Twist.
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The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, with dim lighting and a cozy, family-style ambiance. The service is attentive and friendly, making guests feel welcome and well taken care of. One notable feature is the open kitchen, which allows diners to observe the chefs at work and adds to the overall experience.
The food at this establishment is consistently excellent. During a recent visit, a diner enjoyed a glass of wine at the expanded bar and feasted on the Mezzanotte salad, which was described as "positively divine" with its combination of crispy goat cheese, apples, pears, tomatoes, nuts, and figs. The rabbit ragu, a favorite dish, did not disappoint and was as delicious as ever. Overall, the meal was a delightful experience, with each dish skillfully prepared and presented.
The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, with dim lighting and a cozy, family-style ambiance. The service is attentive and friendly, making guests feel welcome and well taken care of. One notable feature is the open kitchen, which allows diners to observe the chefs at work and adds to the overall experience.
The food at this establishment is consistently excellent. During a recent visit, a diner enjoyed a glass of wine at the expanded bar and feasted on the Mezzanotte salad, which was described as "positively divine" with its combination of crispy goat cheese, apples, pears, tomatoes, nuts, and figs. The rabbit ragu, a favorite dish, did not disappoint and was as delicious as ever. Overall, the meal was a delightful experience, with each dish skillfully prepared and presented.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
14. Caffe Italia
Classic Calabrese and Napoletana Cuisine Since 1975
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Caffe Italia, a popular dining establishment, is known for its delicious and high-quality food. Among the menu items that have received particular praise are the NY strip steak with Italian hot and sweet peppers, gorgonzola gnocchi, and broccoli rabe with sausage. These dishes boast impressive flavors and freshness that keep customers returning for more.
Caffe Italia provides a dining experience that is both classic and elegant. The atmosphere is pristine and sophisticated, making it a perfect spot for special occasions or a romantic evening out. The restaurant's ambiance is complemented by its exceptional service, further elevating the dining experience.
Caffe Italia, a popular dining establishment, is known for its delicious and high-quality food. Among the menu items that have received particular praise are the NY strip steak with Italian hot and sweet peppers, gorgonzola gnocchi, and broccoli rabe with sausage. These dishes boast impressive flavors and freshness that keep customers returning for more.
Caffe Italia provides a dining experience that is both classic and elegant. The atmosphere is pristine and sophisticated, making it a perfect spot for special occasions or a romantic evening out. The restaurant's ambiance is complemented by its exceptional service, further elevating the dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
15. Wellington's
Farm-to-table inspired dishes in a modern-rustic setting
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The hotel's restaurant in question is a pleasant surprise, though it may not look like a traditional venue for an evening meal. With its cozy atmosphere, it seems more suited for a breakfast or brunch setting. However, this perception is quickly dispelled once the food is served, as the quality and presentation rival that of any standalone restaurant.
During a recent visit to Wellington's, the atmosphere was lively and bustling, with happy and engaged patrons adding to the fun vibe. The service was top-notch, with our waitress, Chris, expertly balancing a welcoming demeanor with efficient service. She was particularly attentive to our friend's request for no sauces, ensuring that the food was prepared to her exact specifications. The friend in question was thoroughly impressed, deeming it one of the best meals she's had in a long time, attesting to the quality and consistency of the restaurant's offerings.
The hotel's restaurant in question is a pleasant surprise, though it may not look like a traditional venue for an evening meal. With its cozy atmosphere, it seems more suited for a breakfast or brunch setting. However, this perception is quickly dispelled once the food is served, as the quality and presentation rival that of any standalone restaurant.
During a recent visit to Wellington's, the atmosphere was lively and bustling, with happy and engaged patrons adding to the fun vibe. The service was top-notch, with our waitress, Chris, expertly balancing a welcoming demeanor with efficient service. She was particularly attentive to our friend's request for no sauces, ensuring that the food was prepared to her exact specifications. The friend in question was thoroughly impressed, deeming it one of the best meals she's had in a long time, attesting to the quality and consistency of the restaurant's offerings.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots