Culinary

Jack's Oyster HouseJack's 

If you're interested in the Downtown Albany scene, take a bite of Albany's history with a meal at Jack's Oyster House located on the corner of Madison and Broadway. Since opening in 1913, Jack's has kept it within the family, passing the restaurant down from generation to generation just to keep that superior dining experience at its best. Executive Chef Larry Schepici, strives to create the ultimate dining experience for you each and every time you visit Jack's, so you can be confident in that you'll have a wonderful, unique dining experience when you visit.

City Beer Hall

Downtown Albany is also home to a hidden treasure that is the City Beer Hall. Located right off of State Street, City Beer hall offers not only an extensive selection of on tap and bottled brews but also an eclectic mix of dining options. From their savory rabbit stew to their southern fried chicken & waffles, they have you covered for whatever you may be craving. As a fun bonus, if you wake up and decide brunch is what you desire, every Saturday from 11am -3 pm the Hall offers Beer + Brunch.

Reel Seafood Co.Reel Seafood

Let's be honest, Albany isn't really known for their beach front properties and salty shores. But that's not to say that we aren't home to some of the best seafood restaurants! Stop by Reel Seafood Co. for some of the freshest and most succulent shellfish and seafood around! With so many delicious options the Reel Seafood Co is "shore" to please.

New World Bistro

Farm to table dining is a focus at the local gastropub, New World Bistro Bar. Using local produce and products, Executive Chef Ric Orlando is enthusiastic about creating the most incredible meal possible for you each and every time you dine at New World. His dedication to his food and his community translates to delicious, spirited cuisine with bright and comfortable flavors from around the globe. Try it for yourself to see what all the fuss is about.

 

Dine & Stay

Whether or not you happen to be staying at the beautiful Desmond Hotel, it is home to three superb restaurants that can fit any budget or taste palette.

Scrimshaw will be available for private dining for 20 to 60 guests, and will also host special dining events throughout the year such as wine and culinary tastings. If you are looking for an intimate and elegant setting, award-winning service and innovative cuisine - Scrimshaw is the perfect choice.

For a more relaxed atmosphere The Desmond also offers the Simpson's Grille and The Tavern. The Simpson's Grille is the classic casual dining at its best. Featuring traditional American fare, the menu showcases Desmond favorites such as skillet breakfasts, Ten Broeck french toast, and award-winning New England clam chowder.

The Tavern located within the Desmond is the perfect spot to unwind. Settle into one of their comfy leather sofas and order off of a delicious light fare menu of burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. Enjoy your favorite beverage or expand your palette through their large selection of local craft beers, both draft and bottled, along with imported and domestic brews.

You could also try the Hampton Inn & Suites in Downtown Albany that is very lucky to have two of the best restaurants in the area right in house. The first, Yono's, is Chef Yono Purnomo's exquisite continental cuisine highlighted with his native Asian accent. The second, dp an American Brasserie, a signature restaurant by Dominick Purnomo, offers a menu full of imaginiatve and inventive cuisine and old favorites, too! 

Last, but certainly not least, The Century House offers a dining experience like no other in their Century House Restaurant. Serving the both locals and visitors the Capital Region, The Century House's award winning restaurant serves New American cuisine seven days a week. Their wide range of menu options and pricing ensures that every mouth and wallet is happy. 

 

Hops, Vines, and Barrels

Sip your way through the Capital Region at wineries, breweries, distilleries and more! Stay local and indulge in locally crafted cider at Nine Pin Ciderworks, enjoy a home brewed beer at C. H. Evans Brewing Company at the Albany Pump Station or sample house made spirits not far from the site of the city's original 18th century distillery at the Albany Distilling Co.

Albany Distilling Co

Take the scenic route a short twenty minutes south-east to savor a bit of the Upper Hudson Valley. Taste your way from Goold Orchards' Brookview Station Winery to the tasting room of Hudson Chatham Winery to sample the award winning vino at both locations. The beautiful scenery at each of these vineyards will take your breath away and make for a wonderful afternoon.

Head a bit further west of Albany to Cooperstown for a tour and taste at Brewery Ommegang. Though getting to Cooperstown will require a bit of driving, it's well worth the trip! During the 19th century, Cooperstown was the epicenter of the U.S. Hop production and today it is the home of Brewery Ommegang and their renowned brews. Make a day out of it and visit the Baseball Hall of Fame while you're in town!

 

Shop, Save and Savor!

Crossgates Mall

Like to make the most out of your time here in Albany? Looking to kill two birds with one stone? (for lack of a better expression) Well lucky for you Albany's shopping centers are also home to some delightful options for a mid-shopping spree meal. Crossgates Mall has over 250 shops and services that are sure to take care of any or all of your buying needs.

In the mood for something a bit unusual? The Melting Pot offers a variety of meal options all in which you are in control! From succulent surf and turf broth pots to authentic European cheese fondue options, The Melting Pot utilizes self-cooking methods that are a definite conversation starter. Gather around and enjoy a decadent chocolate fondue for dessert, it just doesn't go wrong!

For a more classic option, The Standard offers a contemporary spin on Americana cuisine, served in a 1940's - 50's Hollywood-themed atmosphere. From their juicy burgers, home style meatloaf and mash potatoes to their tasty crab cake BLTs, The Standard takes classic down home dishes and adds a unique spin.

texas de Brazil

Texas de Brazil, is the newest addition to Crossgates, featuring a unique fine dining experience. The restaurant is an authentic Brazilian-American "churrascaria" or steakhouse. Generous servings of table-side carved meats, along with the classic Brazilian sides will have you thinking you've just arrived in Rio!

Crossgates is also home to Dave & Buster's, a sure fire way to please kids of all ages. Whether you're interested in dining, getting drinks, or just having some fun on the machines, this place will have you leaving with a smile.

Colonie Center

Colonie Center is another fantastic option for your shopping and dining experiences while in Albany. Don't know exactly what you're craving? The Cheesecake Factory has a menu of over 200 delectable items. Are there too many options to make up your mind? Try their new ‘Small Plates' option, which are similar to tapas but include all of your favorite items off the menu. Finish your meal with a decadent piece of their incredible cheesecake!

If Asian cuisine is what you desire, P.F Changs is the place to be. Producing some delicious Asian-American dishes is what their known for, and they aim to please! Start your meal off with their crowd-pleasing chicken lettuce wraps or delicious egg drop soup and end it with their yummy banana spring rolls.

With all the delicious dining options that Albany has to offer, it's going to be tough to pick just one! So why not take a weekend to explore the Capital Region's culinary delights!

Don't forget to plan your Capital Culinary experience around the Albany Chef's Wine and Dine for the Arts Festival which takes place in January every year!