25 Essential Albany Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Albany.
Aangan Restaurant & Bar
California
Family-owned eatery serves traditional Indo-Nepalese meals & vegetarian fare in a warm, brick space.
Sam's Log Cabin
California
Landmark former speakeasy now serving classic comfort breakfast food & diner-style lunch selections.
Kuriya Japanese Kitchen
California
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Albany's most persuasive japanese restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 81.5.
Albany Ao Sen
Albany, California
Vietnamese eatery for a range of classic meals & bowls of pho in an unpretentious space.
Lao Thai Kitchen
Albany, California
Laotian & Thai soul food from curries to BBQ served in a quaint cafe with traditional wood decor.
Al's Big Burger
Albany, California
Small, humble stalwart serving up grilled burgers, fries & milkshakes in retro surrounds.
Bowl'd Korean Rice Bar
Albany, California
Busy Korean spot featuring a large menu specializing in hot & cold rice bowls with vegan options.
Shangrila Buddha Organic Vegan Restaurant
Albany, California
Unfussy option with a rotating menu featuring plant-based meals & desserts, plus kombucha.
Delhi Diner
Albany, California
Bright, casual family-run fixture presenting classic Indian meals amid an old-world ambiance.
Cugini
Albany, California
Hip destination for wood-fired pies & upscale Italian fare with richly colored walls & a full bar.
Habit Burger & Grill
Albany, California
Charbroiled burgers star at this fast-food chain also offering deli-type sandwiches, salads & fries.
Tacos El Autlense LLC
Albany, California
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Café Raj
Albany, California
Casual, airy eatery serving made-to-order North Indian cuisine, plus veggie/vegan options.
Oori Triangles
Albany, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
La val's pizza
Albany, California
Identifies as Asian-owned. Service options: Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Picnic
Albany, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Hot Shop
Albany, California
Compact, low-key halal counter serve making unique fusion burritos, plus Afghan-style kebabs.
310 Eatery- LA Style Street Food
Albany, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch.
White Lotus Thai Cuisine
Albany, California
Accommodating family-owned Thai eatery with some elevated dishes such as housemade ice cream.
Gordo Taquería
Albany, California
Burritos stuffed to order & other Mexican standards in a simple, modern outpost.
Kitava
Albany, California
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Kim's Café & Sandwiches
Albany, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great tea selection. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
House of Curries
Albany, California
Local chain offering classic Indian & Pakistani dishes from savory samosas to tandoori chicken.
Round Table Pizza
Albany, California
Long-running chain serving pizzas with customizable toppings & sauces in a simple space.
Chez Mansour
Albany, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great wine list.