25 Essential Albany Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Albany.
Simone's Kitchen ✨
New York
an everyday essential mediterranean restaurant address in Albany, pairing editorial magnetism with a Beam Score of 87.6.
Grappa '72
New York
Elegant eatery, tucked away in a strip mall, featuring classic Italian fare, music & grappa.
Iron Gate Cafe
New York
Gated, serene garden seating area fronts this American breakfast/lunch spot in a sandstone mansion.
Hill Street Cafe
Albany, New York
Old-timey, wood-paneled hangout offering pub grub & craft draft beer, along with growlers to go.
Wizard Burger
Albany, New York
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar
Albany, New York
Spanish-Italian cooking & wines are the focus at this intimate eatery with a quaint bar & terrace.
Sovrana Grocery Bakery & Deli
Albany, New York
Small, old-timey joint doling out classic pies, slices, subs & pasta, plus housemade breads.
Pretty Alright Breakfast Club
Albany, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast.
Pad Thai Noodle Restaurant
Albany, New York
Full-service Thai eatery with vegan & breakfast items in cozy digs, with take-out & delivery.
677 Prime
Albany, New York
Upscale steakhouse with mahogany accents & colorful art features 400+ wines & weekday bar deals.
Ya hala
Albany, New York
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Suwun Thai Home Cooking
Albany, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Don Tequila Mexican Cantina
Albany, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Great dessert.
Texas de Brazil - Albany
Albany, New York
Upscale Brazilian eatery featuring all-you-can-eat grilled meat carved tableside & a salad bar.
Sabor a Campo
Albany, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Rain Modern Chinese
Albany, New York
Relaxed eatery serving Cantonese duck & other Chinese fare in spacious, dark-wood-accented environs.
Arby's
Albany, New York
Fast-food chain, known for its roast beef, serving up hot & cold sandwiches, fries & shakes.
Chix Crepe & Waffle
Albany, New York
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Albany Ale and Oyster
Albany, New York
This smart haunt offers craft brews & a menu of select bar bites in industrial-chic digs.
Caffe Italia Ristorante
Albany, New York
A veteran family-run standby for classic Italian dishes, from zuppa di pesce to veal parmigiana.
The Hollow Bar + Kitchen
Albany, New York
Hip spot in a historic building offering updated American eats, rotating craft beers & live music.
D'Raymonds
Albany, New York
Broad menu of pasta, veal & fish dishes in a dimly lit Italian spot with brick & dark-wood accents.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Albany, New York
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting.
Sweet Willy's Pizzeria
Albany, New York
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch.
Akanomi
Albany, New York
Service options: Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great cocktails, Great tea selection. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.