The 99th best place to have a beer
99th -- as in bottles of beer on the wall.
Some people want to check out all the major league ballparks or visit the seven wonders before they kick the bucket. Others want a simpler experience. Like the perfect place to have a beer.
All About Beer Magazine (yes, really) just named Mahar's in Albany 99th on its list of
the 125 best places to have a beer before you die. Drinks writer Rick Lyke came up with the list based on criteria such as beer selection, atmosphere and, in some cases, one of his own memorable experiences.
Another local venue -- The Saratoga Race Course -- scored much higher on the list, coming in at #19. Of course, the ranking specified box seats in the clubhouse (and maybe Mr. Lyke hit the early double that day or something). Given that you can only get a beer there for one month out of the year, we're not sure that counts.
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Comments
Actually, I think the Saratoga season spans something like 40 days. It's like Lent. Except with beer. And horses.
... said Rob on Apr 24, 2008 at 3:48 PM | link
Kudos to Mahars!
Kathleen Lisson
... said Kathleen Lisson on Apr 24, 2008 at 5:02 PM | link
Mahar's is waaaayyyyy better than the race course...if we are talking about selection...even atmosphere...I feel like I am in europe somewhere having a pint...compared to seedy, lowbrow gambling beers of the race track..but that is just one girl's opinion...
... said Amelia on Apr 25, 2008 at 9:27 AM | link
I think Mahar's is hands down better than the racetrack. Being open year round, you can develop a friendship with your bartender, which is pretty important if you can't decide between... well, the entire selection at Mahar's. I've never been steered in the wrong direction!
(A free case at 200 beers doesn't help either...)
... said EllieB on Apr 25, 2008 at 10:51 AM | link
My boyfriend Mike has drank enough at Mahar's to get a t-shirt AND have a permanent mug behind the bar. I miss my boyfriend.
... said Katherine on Apr 25, 2008 at 11:03 AM | link