Brian Nagele
Are you feeling hungry and ready to explore the culinary delights of Albany, NY? Then buckle up and get ready for a mouth-watering journey through the city’s top eateries.
No matter what your taste buds are craving, Albany’s diverse food scene has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a local, a foodie, or a visitor to the area, you’re in for a treat. From upscale dining experiences to casual spots with a laid-back vibe, Albany has it all.
So, put on your stretchy pants and get ready to indulge in some of the best food in the state.
Albany’s culinary scene is a melting pot of different cuisines, flavors, and cultures. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to decide where to start your foodie journey. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Best Restaurants in Albany
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top restaurants in Albany, highlighting their unique cuisines, ambiance, and standout dishes. Get ready to drool over these delicious options!
677 Prime
677 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207
518-427-7463
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Looking for a sophisticated dining experience in Albany’s bustling business district? Look no further than 677 Prime, where succulent steaks and creative seafood dishes are the norm.
Located near the Empire State Plaza and Times Union Center, 677 Prime is a must-visit for anyone craving top-quality cuisine.
677 Prime serves only prime cuts, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. They are known for their impressive signature wagyu steaks.
If you’re a fan of filet mignon, you’re in for a real treat. This 10-ounce beauty practically melts in your mouth, leaving you with a heavenly taste you won’t soon forget.
We recommend trying your favorite cut of steak, but customers also rave about the seafood tower, lobster bisque, and wagyu truffled deviled egg.
Yono’s Restaurant
25 Chapel St, Albany, NY 12210
518-436-7747
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Located in the heart of Albany’s historic district, Yono’s has been serving up exceptional dishes for over 30 years. Owned by renowned Chef Yono, this world-class restaurant is a must-visit for foodies and wine lovers alike.
Step inside and be transported to a refined and upscale townhouse-style environment, where you can indulge in exquisite international cuisines and an extensive selection of first-class wines.
Don’t leave without trying their signature dish – the braised short rib. Slowly cooked, this tender and juicy meat is served with Asian slaw, crispy rice, and a lemongrass, lime, and chili sauce.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable night out, Yono’s is the perfect place to indulge in a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Iron Gate Cafe
182 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12210
518-445-3555
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This local favorite has been serving up mouthwatering dishes since 2004, drawing in guests with its delicious food and picturesque garden setting.
Located right in the heart of downtown Albany, Iron Gate Cafe is just steps away from the city’s most popular landmarks and cross streets.
And with its tastefully decorated dining rooms and friendly, laid back vibe, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends or family.
What really sets Iron Gate Cafe apart, though, is its incredible menu. From signature breakfast plates like the John Denver (a twist on classic eggs Benedict with bacon and Pepper Jack hollandaise) to hearty lunch options like club sandwiches and filling salads, there’s something for everyone on this menu. They also have great vegan options!
Athos Restaurant
1814 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203
518-608-6400
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Looking for a restaurant that serves delicious Greek classics in a vibrant setting? Look no further than Athos Restaurant, located in the heart of Albany. This upscale eatery boasts a lively bar, live music events, and a menu that will tantalize your taste buds.
We recommend their Lamb Souvlaki or any of their gyros if you’re looking for something quick! Athos has plenty of delicious Mediterranean classics to enjoy, and you don’t want to miss their dessert menu either.
Check out the rave reviews from satisfied customers, who consistently praise the food, atmosphere, and excellent service.
Head to Athos Restaurant and experience the best of Greek cuisine in Albany.
Cafe Capriccio
49 Grand St, Albany, NY 12207
518-465-0439
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Step into a slice of old-world Italy at Café Capriccio, nestled in the historic brownstone area on Grand Street, once Albany’s main Italian neighborhood.
Since opening in 1982, their intimate booth seating, warm wooden interior, and 1930s Italian decorations have made this café a romantic dining destination.
Head chef and owner, Jim Rua, is an author of two popular cookbooks and creator of exceptional Italian cuisine.
The menu features classic dishes like homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and tender veal. Don’t miss the famous calamari neri or the decadent tiramisu for dessert.
So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving authentic Italian fare, come experience the charm of Café Capriccio. It’s just a few blocks from the New York State Capitol.
Grappa ’72 Ristorante
818 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12206
518-482-7200
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Located in the heart of Albany, Grappa ’72 Ristorante has been welcoming guests since 2010. This fine-dining restaurant impresses diners with its delish Italian classics and affordable prices.
Whether you’re in the mood for crispy bruschetta or innovative Mediterranean dishes, Grappa ’72 Ristorante has got you covered.
As you step inside, the warm and inviting ambiance will make you feel right at home. The upscale vibe and friendly service make for an unforgettable dining experience.
If you’re not sure what to order, we recommend starting with the bruschetta or mussels. Make sure to check out their weekly deals and indulge in some of the most mouth-watering Italian dishes in Albany.
Albany Pump Station CH Evans Brewing Co.
19 Quackenbush Square, Albany, NY 12207, United
518-447-9000
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Located a short walk from the Hudson River, this industrial brewpub is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike, with over 10 in-house brews.
But it’s not just about the beer. They also offer delectable American specialties and snacks will appease your gusto and fill your belly, from juicy burgers to crispy fries.
One dish you simply cannot miss is the fried chicken sandwich. Served piping hot, this sandwich is juicy, and tasty, and comes with a distinctive spicy aioli that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
This restaurant’s vibe is laid back and casual, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a casual date.
Caffe Italia
662 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12206
518-459-8029
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Looking for a slice of Italy in Albany? Look no further than Caffe Italia! This iconic restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering Italian dishes for over 30 years, and it’s not hard to see why they’re considered one of the best Italian eateries in town.
From the cozy ambiance to the heavenly aroma of herbs and garlic, every moment at Caffe Italia will transport you to a charming trattoria in Italy.
And the food? Oh, it’s just as amazing as you’d expect, with dishes bursting with authentic Italian flavors.
Don’t miss out on the highly recommended veal parmigiana!
MezzaNotte Ristorante
2026 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203
518-689-4433
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Are you craving modern Italian cuisine that will leave your taste buds singing with joy? Look no further than MezzaNotte! This restaurant’s modern take on classic Mediterranean dishes with Italian influences is a must-try.
Located in a bustling neighborhood outside of Albany, MezzaNotte offers upscale vibes and a friendly staff perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends.
We loved the “crazy” lasagna and the gnocchi in a lemon butter sauce, and there are plenty of tempting menu items to choose from.
With a reputation for excellence, MezzaNotte is a must-visit spot!
Cafe Madison
1108 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12208
518-935-1094
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Get ready to have your taste buds dancing at Cafe Madison, the go-to breakfast and brunch spot located in the Pine Hills and Bishops Gates neighborhoods of Albany!
With two locations on Madison Avenue and Northern Boulevard, this restaurant is perfect for any occasion, boasting an upscale yet laid back atmosphere.
Don’t miss their French toast stacker, a delicious twist on a classic morning staple with three slices of cinnamon swirl bread layered with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and ham. And for a savory breakfast, try their Nashville hot breakfast burrito.
Don’t miss out on their famous blueberry pancakes or hearty breakfast sandwiches!
Black & Blue Steak and Crab
1470 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203
518-313-7388
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Indulge in the perfect blend of unpretentious elegance and inspired cuisine at our upscale steakhouse in Western Albany. With an inventive design and lively ambiance, this is the go-to spot for both special occasions and casual dining.
The menu offers a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, but the bone-in cowboy ribeye steals the show. This tender steak overflows with flavors, leaving you wanting more.
Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse
1553 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12205
518-456-5656
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Experience the ultimate taste of Italy in the Colonie neighborhood of Albany at Delmonico’s! From the beautifully adorned dining rooms to the authentic themed music, this Italian steakhouse is the perfect place to escape to the Mediterranean.
Savor their outstanding homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes, but make sure to indulge in their must-try 24-ounce Delmonico steak, served with penne marinara.
Delmonico’s is the ideal spot for a special night out.
Druthers Brewing Company
1053 Broadway, Albany, NY 12204
518-650-7996
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Get ready to experience the ultimate beer and food combo at Druthers Brewing Company in Albany! This top-notch restaurant offers a casual and lively atmosphere that’s perfect for hanging out with friends and indulging in some pub grub.
Their classic Druthers Burger is juicy, flavorful, and paired perfectly with their fruity and citrusy No Excuses beer. But the menu doesn’t stop there – there are plenty of appetizers, entrees, and desserts to choose from, with specials on certain nights.
Don’t miss out on this unbeatable combination of bold flavors, a friendly atmosphere, and a fantastic location!
The Hollow Bar + Kitchen
79 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207
518-426-8550
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Looking for an iconic restaurant in downtown Albany with a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that caters to everyone? Look no further than The Hollow Bar + Kitchen!
With options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free eaters, this eatery has something for everyone. Indulge in mouth-watering appetizers like the pretzels and beer cheese dip and wings, or opt for entrees like the grilled ribeye steak and pan-seared miso salmon.
And don’t forget to save room for the truffle garlic Parmesan frites! Enjoy your meal alfresco at their sidewalk cafe during the summer months, or stop by to enjoy live music.
110 Grill
1 Crossgates Mall Rd, Albany, NY 12203
518-313-7977
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If you’re seeking a unique dining experience in Albany, 110 Grill is a must-visit destination. Situated in the Crossgates Mall, this restaurant offers scratch-made American cuisine that caters to a range of dietary needs.
The Cuban sandwich and crispy fries are crowd favorites, as is the pulled pork mac and cheese.
Make 110 Grill a part of your culinary itinerary if you’re at the mall, or make a trip out just for the food – it’s well worth it.
Villa di Como Ristorante
286 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210
Phone: 123-456-7890
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Are you ready to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Albany? Look no further than Villa Di Como Ristorante, located a short walk from Washington Park!
This upscale restaurant boasts a diverse menu of classic Italian dishes, all made with fresh ingredients, many imported straight from Italy.
Chef Ali’s passion for traditional Italian cuisine shines through in every dish, from the house-made pasta to the delectable seafood options.
And the elegant, refined atmosphere creates the perfect ambiance for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Be sure to save room for their famous tiramisu, and keep an eye out for their specials on select nights of the week!
288 Lark Wine & Tap
288 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210
518-475-7777
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288 Lark was a long vacant landmark in Albany before being restored in 2018. Now Chef Ali from Villa Di Como Ristorante next door has re-opened this historic spot.
Enjoy over 50 wine varieties, modern cocktails, and Italian specialties that create an aromatic experience you’ll remember. The menu at 288 Lark features plenty of creative pizzas and Italian plates.
The vibe is warm and inviting, with a touch of sophistication.
