AOA Birthday drawing #1: New World/Spectrum
A $300 gift certificate to New World + 4 tickets to The Spectrum. Happy birthday!
This week, AOA celebrates our 5th birthday -- and you get the presents. Each day this week we'll hold a drawing for another birthday present. You can enter every day to win all kinds of good stuff.
Drawing's closed!
First up: Dinner and a movie.
A $300 gift certificate to New World Bistro Bar and a four-pack of tickets to The Spectrum.
One winner will be able to treat friends to a great night out for dinner at New World and a movie at The Spectrum.
To enter today's drawing, just leave your answer to this question in the comments:
How would you want to celebrate your birthday in the Capital Region?
Maybe it's dinner at your favorite restaurant, maybe it's a show, maybe it's something totally off-beat.
We'll draw one winner at random.
Important: All comments must be submitted by 10 am on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 to be entered in the drawing. You must answer the question to be part of the drawing. (Regular commenting guidelines apply.) One entry per person, please. You must enter a valid email address (that you check regularly) with your comment. The winner will be notified via email by 5 pm on Tuesday and must respond by noon on Wednesday, April 17.
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Comments
A night out with the single malts at 9 Maple in Saratoga followed up with a little Footsie Magoos skeeball closer to home.
... said jayme on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:10 PM | link
I would like to go to a nice dinner with family and then meet friends out for drinks afterward!
... said Jennifer on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:12 PM | link
exploring the Clarksville caves & dessert @ Jake Moon!
... said Adam on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:12 PM | link
Happy Birthday AOA! This might sound staged because of what this giveaway is for, but I would celebrate my birthday at New World Bistro - in fact, I have celebrated my last few birthdays there! It's by far my favorite restaurant in the area.
Also, since my birthday is in the fall, I'd probably stop by Indian Ladder Farms and Thacher Park as well.
... said Paul on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:18 PM | link
A pizza party at Rollerama.
... said CC on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:19 PM | link
Just had a birthday last Thursday, but a family emergency prevented my getting down to the Biergarten for my boot. Went to City Beer Hall instead on Friday for a few quarts of stout, and that was delightful. So that's my vote.
... said Brent on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:19 PM | link
Cheese fondue and lots of wine with great friends
... said Moe on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:21 PM | link
Dinner at Yono's preceded by a few of their excellent gimlets at dp's. Follow that with a showing of a Marx Brothers movie at the Palace - then more gimlets!
... said Jay on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:24 PM | link
The ValleyCats are usually nice enough to have Opening Night on my birthday, so I usually take in a baseball game with family. Some beers and wings at the Ruck afterwards would be a nice finish to the evening.
... said James Cronen on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:27 PM | link
Birthday is in summer, so drinks first, at one of the roof deck places in the Saratoga, followed by dinner and nightlife. Looking forward to it.
... said JG on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:29 PM | link
Margaritas at Mexican Connection in Saratoga and then blowing through some birthday money on the slots at the casino! (sorry, but I hate the name Racino - too goofy)
... said Cindy on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:29 PM | link
Birthday brunch @ cafe madison, lunch @ anton's, nice stroll through washington park, then dinner @ new world (blackened green beans are a MUST), ice cream @ emack & bolio, followed by drinks and late night wings with friends @ Juniors!
Birthday food tour is the only way to celebrate.
... said Sarah on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:31 PM | link
What a coincidence! I have and will in the future celebrate my birthday at New World Bistro. The food is amazing there.
... said Dan R on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:33 PM | link
An evening out at the Biergarten.
... said Mike on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:34 PM | link
at one or more of the many 'free birthday drink' bars
... said Adam M. on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:36 PM | link
I would like to spend the morning hiking at five rivers and end the day with a giant bday margarita at Bombers.
... said Heather on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:37 PM | link
BBQ at Thatcher, late afternoon drinks at the Barge, chateaubriand at the Bears.
... said SK on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:37 PM | link
A hike at Peebles followed up by ice cream at Snowman!
... said GH on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:38 PM | link
at new world bistro
... said Anonymous on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:38 PM | link
I always celebrate my birthday by leaving town for the day, but if I was stuck here, there's only one place that would absolutely HAVE to be on the itinerary; The Ruck.
... said Ed on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:40 PM | link
My birthday's in the fall so a brunch at Iron Gate followed by a day of apple picking, corn mazes, a haunted house, and a fun dinner where my friends and I can eat, drink, and be merry sounds just about perfect!
... said Schuyler on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:41 PM | link
A nice cold beer at the Albany Pump Station!
... said mark on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:41 PM | link
renting out all of Guptill's so my friends and I could have an adult skating party without little bodies acting as speed bumps all over the place....catered by the ruck
... said colleen on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:42 PM | link
We're either going out to dinner at D'yramonds (per FussyLittleBlog, by way of metroland's reader poll) or New World Bistro Bar tonight... ooorrr Café Capriccio.
Because tonight is ACTUALLY my birthday. Instant qualification? haha.
Happy Birthday AOA!
... said Isaiah on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:44 PM | link
Spending the (hopefully nice) day at Thacher Park with friends, followed up by pizza at Smith's Tavern and gelato at Villa Italia Pasticceria.
... said Kate on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:45 PM | link
I'd start with the raspberry oatmeal pancakes at Cafe Madison with a mimosa, and once that finally wears off go to Merry Monk for Rare Vos and moules.
... said Allie on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:45 PM | link
I would like to have a concert played on my behalf by the Tone Rangers and some bibimbap from Kinnaree.
... said TrojanMorse on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:46 PM | link
I have a mid-winter birthday that I do spend in the Capital Region, so here's my dream mid-summer birthday celebration:
Early morning hike at Thacher, breakfast at Cafe Madison, lunch/tea at the Whistling Kettle in Ballston Spa, heading to the track for the races and walking around Saratoga, back to Albany for dinner at New World, and then out for drinks at City Beer Hall.
... said BP on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:46 PM | link
Definitely New World for dinner with family. I love their tapas appetizer. I'd probably do some shopping at Flights of Fantasy, see a movie, play Cards Against Humanity with my friends. Basically the same things I like to do anyway but all in one day. :)
... said Allana on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:47 PM | link
My birthday was just last week, and the night before we celebrated it by visiting Sushi X in Latham and capping it off at the Confectionary in Troy. The day of my birthday we drove all over the hudson valley thrifting and ended the night by getting dinner at Crossroads Brewery in Athens. I can't think of a nicer way to have spent my birthday.
... said Crystal on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:47 PM | link
Hiro's for habachi, they have the best mustard sauce and shrimp. Lord I wish it was my birthday!
... said Paula on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:47 PM | link
I'd like to celebrate by finally winning an AOA drawing....
... said Bob on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:47 PM | link
Sleeping in! (Not easy with two little kiddos) Dinner and a movie are also pretty hard to come by too, so a date with my husband would round out a great birthday!
... said Holly on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:48 PM | link
Looking forward to a big birthday bash this summer -- maybe at the Bomber's beach room in Schdy!
... said Alison on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:48 PM | link
For my birthday I love a fancy dinner on the town. If I'm in Alb, NWBB is my favorite place. This year, with a bit of luck, that fancy pants dinner will be in San Francisco. Can't wait!
... said Valerae on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:48 PM | link
Mussels, frites and beer at the Merry Monk!
... said KM on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:49 PM | link
I would celebrate it with a spa day and a night on the town!
... said Lauren H on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:49 PM | link
My birthday is Christmas Eve so my guilt-free options are limited -
I'd start my day with a winter hike on Mt. Rafinesque east of the river. I'd have a huge feast of dumplings and buns from A La Shanghai, walk off the fullness with a stroll through the park to see the lights, and spend the evening in Niskayuna with my parents, opening my birthday presents at night and my Christmas presents in the morning!
... said Laurf on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:49 PM | link
Boot and latkes at Biergarten, followed by dancing and music at Fuzebox.
... said Marhus on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:50 PM | link
I will be spending my birthday this week at the Biergarten! need my boot of beer!
... said JF on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:50 PM | link
A hike during the day and a movie at spectrum that night sounds like the perfect birthday to me!
... said kristin on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:50 PM | link
A night of good friends, food and beer at the Pump Station.
... said Chris on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:51 PM | link
Hiking in the Adirondacks, dinner at Sushi Tei, and delicious cocktails at dp.
... said E. on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:51 PM | link
I would settle for a movie at the Spectrum, just around the corner from my house, a sweet treat at the New World Bistro and a walk home...of course, a grandmotherly like babysitter would be required!
... said AlwaysNeedaBabysitter on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:52 PM | link
I love sitting with friends outside and enjoy a beer at one of the many local places that has outdoor seating and good beer.
Good friends and good drink make the Feast of St. Nedrius wonderful.
... said ned on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:52 PM | link
Tomorrow happens to be my birthday, and I will be celebrating it at The Olde English Pub & Pantry with friends and a giant teacup filled with hard cider.
... said Danika on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:52 PM | link
Every year I like to do a local touristy thing for my birthday. I take along whatever family is here with me, usually my husband, kids and dad. One year we went to the Baseball Hall of Fame, another we went up to Saratoga to watch the horse races, and last year was supposed to be an Erie Canal cruise but it got cancelled so we went to the Herkimer home and then dinner at Beardslee Castle. This year I'm thinking I'd like to go to the Berkshire Botanical Garden.
... said Amy on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:52 PM | link
I'd stay in Troy. I'd go to Browns, then Bootleggers and I'd finish at the Ruck.
... said Jay Walker on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:53 PM | link
My birthday was earlier this month and I spent it having a spa day at Vitoria Adamo (wished it was at Complexions instead), then dinner at NWBB (had the delicious Thai Pineapple for dessert) and then I wanted to go to Spectrum to see Oz (but the timing didn't work out right). It was a fun day, I'd love a redo where I can fit the Spectrum in!
... said Laura on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:53 PM | link
Dinner at NWBB!
... said The Amazing Dr. Science! on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:53 PM | link
I would celebrate my birthday with dinner at My Linh and a movie at the Spectrum and then some drinks at The City Beer Hall
... said Susan D on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:53 PM | link
I like to go to Pop Montreal for my birthday, but if I were stuck in the capital region I would go to new world bistro for dinner and then over to the confectionery in troy for drinks.
... said Anne on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:54 PM | link
NYC Ballet (with a take-out picnic from NWBB and Cheese Traveler)
... said meg944 on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:54 PM | link
Brunch at Peaches, followed by some bloody marys. Then a hike at Old Stage(Thatcher) or Christmans. For the evening get all my friends together for a great dinner at Cap City Gastropub and finish the night hopping from city beer hall, merry monk etc.
... said MIkey B on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:55 PM | link
Last year, I had the most awesome birthday dinner at Jumping Jacks while watching the Water Ski show in Schnectady. I will undoubtedly do this again.
... said Chris Johns on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:56 PM | link
Valleycats game!
... said Welf on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:56 PM | link
Breakfast at Jake Moon, dinner and drinks at New World Bistro and desert at Emack and Bolio's!
... said Brianna on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:56 PM | link
Since my big 4-0 is headed this way I have a few people asking me what i'd like to do and a NWBB dinner with friends and a movie would be on the top of the list.
... said jennT on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:57 PM | link
Some afternoon tea at Whistling Kettle!
... said Lesley on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:57 PM | link
Dinner at the New World Bistro of course, and a movie at the Spectrum to follow!
... said ann marie on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:57 PM | link
I'd love to spend my birthday skiing powder at Gore with my friends!
... said Jayarr on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:57 PM | link
A nice dinner at one of the places my wife and I have not made it to yet, then being able to sleep in while my wife gets everything ready for my son's first birthday party the next day!
... said Spoon on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:58 PM | link
Relaxing dinner night out - preferably involving sushi. Maybe one cocktail at a bar then call it a night.
... said Lola on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:58 PM | link
With a run through Washington Park and downtown, followed by dinner at NWB!
... said Jess on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:59 PM | link
Seeing some live music at Valentines and drinking my way around town with friends.
... said Marco on Apr 15, 2013 at 12:59 PM | link
I'd celebrate by starting at the Confectionary in Troy then heading to Saratoga to dance the night away with good friends.
... said Lisa on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:00 PM | link
A picnic at either The Corning Preserve or Thatcher Park. Of course, my birthday is in the middle of winter, so that might not work! Guess I'll have a picnic for my half birthday!
... said Paul on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:00 PM | link
Kayaking in Grafton, followed by birthday boot at Wolff's Biergarten.
... said Adam on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:01 PM | link
brefast at either the 76 diner or burnt hills cafe, then bowling and finsh it off at jumpin jacks.
... said Jenn on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:01 PM | link
My birthday's in the summer, so a day spent with friends by the pool drinking and bbqing sounds just about perfect.
... said Jen on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:02 PM | link
Dinner at Ali Baba in Troy --- Love love love Turkish food, then ice cream at Lickety Split!
... said Andrea on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:02 PM | link
I'd love to celebrate my birthday watching the fireworks on the plaza with my daughter & have no traffic afterwards! :)
... said Amy Lucille on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:02 PM | link
A movie at the Spectrum and dinner and drinks at New World Bistro of course!
... said Jennfer on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:02 PM | link
brown's or dino bbq patio!
... said Kelly on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:03 PM | link
My birthday will be on Thanksgiving this year so i wont have a choice in what i eat - but otherwise i would have my yearly birthday dinner at NWBB - as i did last year. It is my favorite place to eat in the CR. They make some good strong drinks too so we wouldn't have to travel far for that either. And maybe a late-night dessert fondue at the Melting Pot!
... said angela on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:03 PM | link
Dinner at NWBB, of course :)
... said Tracie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:04 PM | link
I am in August, so burgers and ice cream at Jumpin' Jacks would be great!
... said Karin on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:04 PM | link
Sushi X, have some relations, take a nap with my baby, eat fruit.
... said kelly on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:04 PM | link
My ideal birthday would be spent thusly.
Breakfast at the Iron Roost in BSpa.
A couple hours of Snow Tubing at West Mtn with the 5yo.
Nap - no lunch (saving up for dinner)
Dinner at NWB and a movie at Spectrum 8 with my lovely wife. If I could somehow get free babysitting thrown into the mix, it would be 100% perfect.
... said Paul C. on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:05 PM | link
Blobbing in the Park! What's that you ask? Pick a meeting spot, message everyone you hope to see, and go with a blanket and snacks and wait for the blob to grow. I celebrated my 30th birthday last summer just like this: a pretty summer night and a few dozen people from all corners of my life meeting one another, sharing potluck snacks and playing lawn games till it got dark. and I think I'll do it again this year!
... said Laura on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:05 PM | link
I would celebrate by a trip to AIHA, happy hour beers at Lionheart, and dinner at Wine Bar on Lark!
... said Jennifer on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:06 PM | link
I love to celebrate my birthday with cider doughnuts and a nice dinner! Since my birthday's in the fall, all fall activities are fair game as well.
... said Rachel on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:06 PM | link
Maestro's in Saratoga for dinner and drinks at 9 Maple.
... said Katie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:07 PM | link
Since my birthday's in December, maybe brunch at City Beer Hall, some skating at the Plaza, and back home to my favorite spot in the world...next to the fireplace with the best family ever.
... said JG on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:07 PM | link
My birthday is at the end of October, and I'd love to spend the day at Indian Ladder Farms and have a quiet dinner at home.
... said Regina on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:07 PM | link
Sitting in the sun at the picnic table in front of Wolff's sipping a boot of beer.
... said fuddley on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:08 PM | link
Wow, dinner at new world and a movie at the spectrum (complete with the carrot cake) sounds like a good way to spend my birthday, which is coming up in a few weeks, too!
Happy Birthday, AOA!
... said Jen on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:08 PM | link
Dinner at NWBB or Mingle and catching an Albany Devils game with friends! Also, a cake from X's to O's to share with said friends would be a great way to wrap up the night.
... said Liz on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:08 PM | link
Dinner at Katrinella's and birthday margarita at Bomber's!
... said Nicole on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:09 PM | link
I would like to hike with my family, then see a movie or concert, and dinner too.
... said Jim Woods on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:09 PM | link
Brunch at the top of the Empire State Plaza
... said CW on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:10 PM | link
Big dinner/drinks with friends at the Pump Station, and/or intimate dinner with my guy at New World BB.
... said Michelle on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:10 PM | link
My brithday is in the fall. I'd love to go to a museum (NYS Museum at the Empire State Plaza or Albany Institute of History and Art in Albany), have dinner at the New World Bistro Bar, and go to the movies at Spectrum 8.
... said Julie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:10 PM | link
I would love to see a show at Proctor's and then go out for dinner (come on, Mexican Radio!) for my next birthday.
... said Kelly on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:10 PM | link
A picnic lunch/hike at the Saratoga Battlefield, and a meteor shower viewing.
... said Elle on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:10 PM | link
Birthday is in the fall...maybe a Dutch Apple Cruise to look at the foliage followed by drinks at NWBB and then off to Yono's for a chef's table meal.
... said llcwine on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:11 PM | link
Backyard barbecue with tons of smoked brisket, short ribs, and brisket. Beer provided by local breweries.
... said Intell on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:11 PM | link
Apple picking during the day and a night out at City Beer after.
... said Kate on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:12 PM | link
A Troy food and beverage tour (farmers market, Browns, Dinosaur, Finn...) culminating in cheese and wine at Confectionery
... said B S on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:12 PM | link
As my b-day is in the winter, I would begin with skating at the plaza, dinner in the DelSo and hopefully a snowy walk home with friends.
... said Jamie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:13 PM | link
I took my birthday off this year (less than a month away, wa-hoo!) and I plan on walking around town with the dog snapping photos and just being outside. Hopefully it's a nice day out. Then a hearty and healthy dinner, followed by an attempt at the Baumgartner bar trio of massive drinks with friends. Planning on noshing on bar fare and copious amounts of water at each establishment. I will likely be falling asleep in an empty margarita cup. I took the day after off too!
... said Patrick D. on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:14 PM | link
I'd start off with wine and dinner at the Wine Bar on Lark, some Karaoke at the Side Door Cafe and then let my friends decide where we go next. So long as there's an ice cream cake from Carvel, I don't care where the night ends so long as I'm with them.
... said Sally on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:14 PM | link
I would celebrate by going to City Beer Hall for some nice IPAs
... said LukeHZ on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:16 PM | link
Birthday brunch at Cafe Madison, walking it off at Five Rivers with my camera to see the snapping turtles sunbathing, dinner at possibly Manama Grille or another ethnic restaurant (which are so fabulous and many in the Capital Region) and a good movie with coffee at the Spectrum.
... said Jeannette on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:16 PM | link
Since I am a summer baby I would pick a night at the Malta Drive-In. Love that place!
... said Sarah on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:16 PM | link
SAKE in Latham (Hibachi table room)
... said Rich on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:16 PM | link
Bday dinner at Cafe Capriccio with hubs, & meet up later at City Beer Hall with buds! A perfect night out!
... said jess (jamesjake) on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:17 PM | link
My favorite ways to celebrate my birthday in the Capital Region have included: dinner with (many) drinks at Taste followed by dancing to really ridiculous music at Jillians and a nightcap at Rocks; wearing the sombrero and drinking sangria at with my husband and family at El Mariachi, dancing till the wee hours with my best friends at the Fuze Box, and back in the old days the combination Valentine's Day/birthday date with my husband at My Linh and the Spectrum.
... said Kizzi on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:17 PM | link
If only I had a summer birthday, the perfect day would be on a boat on one of the local lakes, followed by a nice cook-out. Since I'm a winter bday, I generally go to NWBB for a long multi course feast :)
... said Elaine on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:18 PM | link
I would probably spend it with a boot at biergarten.....then followed by seeing a live band at Red Square or someplace else. Maybe dinner in between.
... said Joe B. on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:18 PM | link
I love a nice dinner - last year we celebrated my bday at Talullah Bistro in Glens Falls - I would definitely drive up there and do it again!
... said Kay on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:18 PM | link
A morning hike followed by a day of wandering around the shops in Hudson and capped off with dinner and drinks at none other than New World.
... said Cait on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:18 PM | link
My birthday is next week, and I can't think of anything I'd rather do that hang out on the farm with a few good friends. I'm looking forward to making s'mores in the firepit with gooey goodness from DP Marshmallows and an array of local beers.
... said Deanna (Silly Goose Farm) on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:19 PM | link
A matinee movie at Spectrum, followed by a scenic drive down to The Crimson Sparrow in Hudson, NY for dinner. Then maybe stop by Troy on the way home for a cocktail at Footsie Magoo's!
... said james b on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:20 PM | link
attending a bout at the Washington Ave Armory to see Albany Roller Derby kick ass!!
... said MP on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:20 PM | link
I still have yet to get the Boot!!! Or the margarita or the teacup! That's how I want to spend my birthday, not very original for Albany but I feel like the only person who's never done it!
... said KH on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:21 PM | link
I'd want to go to New World Bistro for my birthday.
... said Travis on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:21 PM | link
I honestly like to go out to see a movie on my birthday.
... said julie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:22 PM | link
FREE DRINKS (shared with friends, of course)...Biergarten>Stout>Barrel Saloon>Olde English>Bomber's>Elda's>Ship's Pub>Memorial Hospital
... said KP on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:23 PM | link
Not working, maybe some yoga or a massage in the morning, brunch at Ilium Cafe, Volleyball 4s at Avon Crest, followed by dinner and the Boot at the Biergarten with friends!
... said Jessica R on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:24 PM | link
My birthday is actually in a few weeks. Last year we did the tasting with wine pairing at the Wine Bistro on Lark St. This year I would like to go to New World Bistro!
... said Liz on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:24 PM | link
Since this year is a milestone birthday for me, I'd love nothing more than to have a tasting menu prepared for me by Chef Jason Baker. Still bummed he's not at the Wine Bar anymore.
... said foodiemom on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:27 PM | link
A night out for dinner and drinks with some good company!
... said Liv on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:28 PM | link
I would LOVE to do a eating marathon where myself and family and friends either have all our local favorite foods catered at a place with games for the kids or in the backyard with a bouncy bounce. :-)
... said Dave R. on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:28 PM | link
I would love to start my birthday with breakfast at Indian Ladder Farm (stuffed french toast with fresh picked berries, homemade whipped cream, and real maple syrup) and after I feed/pet the goats a quiet early morning hike at my favorite spot Thacher Park.
Since my birthday is in the summer I'd love to cool off, catch some rays, and kayak at Grafton Lake with a picnic of sandwiches and snacks packed from Cardona's.
Dinner is would consist of a sushi feast at Sake Cafe on New Scotland, my favorite dinner joint.
Drinks with friends at Bombers to get my sparkling margarita and all over lark, hopefully ending up down at the Old English Pub because I really want to get that huge steaming tea cup this year.
... said julie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:28 PM | link
Just did yesterday! A big tea cup from Olde English with friends and a classy dinner at The Point with family. It was perfect.
... said Maev on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:28 PM | link
a pool side poker party during the day, followed by a campfire jamboree once the sun has set.
... said T'chaka on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:30 PM | link
My ideal birthday would start at the Troy Farmers Market with my husband where we would pick up some hummus, buddha pesto and jalapeno cheddar bread... Followed by lunch at The Greek House or Beirut... We would partake in some day drinking at various establishments downtown... And then head home and enjoy (drunkenly devour) the farmers market purchases from earlier in the day...
... said nen01 on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:31 PM | link
Start things off with a good brunch followed by an afternoon of kayaking and dinner and drinks with friends after that
... said Kate on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:32 PM | link
Depending on the day of the week, either Biergarten and Old English Pub for the boot and tea cup, followed by a movie at home, or a nice dinner with fancy drinks at either Koto or New World Bistro.
... said Halley on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:32 PM | link
Since my birthday is coming up this week (Yay!) I'll be spending it in Chicago, gorging myself on deep dish pizza. If I was in Albany, I would definitely be visiting NWBB for dinner since it is my favorite place to eat and probably capping the day off with a trip to the Confectionery for some wine and sweets.
... said Sara A. on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:33 PM | link
For a 5th birthday, a train ride on the North Creek railroad with new engineer caps!
... said Melissa M on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:33 PM | link
A day trip to the Clark or a hike, then finish the day with dinner at New World and catch a cap rep show.
... said Jen on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:33 PM | link
I never celebrate my birthday with much fanfare but for #30 I want to do something!
I was thinking something low-key like a picnic with a birthday 'cake' from Cheesecake Machismo!
... said Diana on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:34 PM | link
Last year's b-day was full of Capital District and beyond fun: my first camping trip in the ADKS, sushi at Shogun, and tubing in Phoenecia (though this year we will not go during water release season that was terrifying!)
... said Chrissy on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:34 PM | link
Breakfast at Irongate, wandering around Dove and Hudson, a trip up to Yaddo to wander
... said Jenna on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:36 PM | link
I AM going to celebrate my birthday in the capital region! I will be singing with Hot Cousin at Pauly's Hotel on July 5th to ring in my 40th birthday! Because rocking my way into 40 with all my friends seems like the most fun thing I can do!
YOU ARE INVITED TOO!
... said Nicole K on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:36 PM | link
Dinner at the Gingerman!
... said JM on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:37 PM | link
Last year I did the Albany trifecta: lunch at The Olde English Pub where I got the 40oz hard cider; a trip to the Biergarten for the (in)famous Boot; and finally to Bomber's for the classic Margarita! You get a tee shirt for doing all three! This year I'll still stop at the Pub and likely Bom-bom's but I can do without 70oz of beer!
This year my birthday coincides with my graduation, as well as another couple of thousand local college students', so I'll be making reservations way in advance wherever I go!
... said Caitlin on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:38 PM | link
Anyplace with an outside patio to eat, drink, and be merry. Olde English Pub is my favorite place so far.
... said Kate on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:41 PM | link
My birthday was on Saturday! I met some friends out in Troy and had a great time. Of course, there are also many free drinks to be had!
... said Andrea on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:45 PM | link
My birthday's in July - so a day on a lake (Mariaville is my favorite because that's where the family is) followed by dinner at an Albany restaurant (New World would do nicely) and perhaps one of the big birthday drinks - all with a ton of friends and family to celebrate with me.
... said Adam W on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:46 PM | link
My husband and I lived in Albany for 8 years before moving up the Northway a little bit. Our favorite thing to do when we go back is to go to The Spectrum, and grab some dinner at El Loco or New World Bistro.
... said Amy on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:46 PM | link
A teacup at Olde English with some good company.
... said Zac on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:47 PM | link
I would start with sleeping in. I'd then go out for a nice lunch, and maybe enjoy a pedicure (at Executive Nails on Wolf Rd. -- best place around). I'd follow that up with a few drinks outside at my favorite neighborhood bar with friends, and then enjoy a nice dinner with my husband.
... said Maggie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:47 PM | link
Tea cup filled with some hard apple cider at Olde English Pub
... said Becca on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:47 PM | link
This weekend my buddy and I are celebrating our birthday weekend together like we do every year. Ironically, part of the plan is to go to New Wold Bistro for oysters and bloody Marys at brunch! I've been looking forward to this for a month!
... said bonster on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:48 PM | link
I'd like to have a very nice dinner at an excellent Capital District restaurant, then spend the rest of the evening drinking with friends up and down Lark Street. In the morning I'd have to go out to another restaurant for breakfast and continue the whole process all weekend!
... said Greenguy on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:48 PM | link
A good meal is key -- or preferably two good meals, a good breakfast/brunch and a good dinner. (I'm leaning toward Merry Monk this year, but there's still time to decide.) As for what to do, it varies depending on what I feel like that day. Last year, I hiked in Thacher Park, which was nice. Hanging out near Lake George or in Congress Park are nice choices, too.
... said KB on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:48 PM | link
Some time up in Lake George for a hike or a swim.
Back to Albany for a birthday boot at BG
Then to troy for some treats at the lucas confectionery
Victory beer at Browns on the deck.
... said Brendan on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:49 PM | link
Jumping Jack's for a burger and a dole whip!
... said Katie on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:49 PM | link
Dinner at New World and if I can stay awake a movie at Spectrum, of course with Mint Brownie for desert.
... said Brent on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:50 PM | link
Tom Petty at SPAC!
... said Colleen on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:52 PM | link
Something outdoors--on a stoop or in a yard. Dancing is involved :)
... said z on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:52 PM | link
I would like to spend my birthday by going to an Indian buffet. Can't wait!
... said Sandra on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:52 PM | link
I have celebrated my birthday at New World before - it was excellent!
I typically prefer something lowkey - probably brunch with friends at Iron Gate, New World or Carmen's - maybe a night gathering at Excelsior or Suzie's!
... said heather on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:53 PM | link
(On a Saturday...) I'd start with a long bike ride that takes me out to Thacher park where I can suffer a little on the hills before returning to Albany and enjoying a post-workout beverage (or two!) at the Biergarten. From there, it's getting cleaned up and heading out to relax at an afternoon Valley Cats game with some friends. After the game, we'd head on back into Albany and enjoy some dinner + drinks at The City Beer Hall. Before calling it a night, we'd settle in for a night-cap on my screened porch and just enjoy the activities of the day.
... said Sean on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:53 PM | link
I would spend my birthday on a long walk around the city, dinner and drinks at my favorite restaurant with the love of my life, and perhaps some karoke.
... said Liz on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:55 PM | link
Dancing and then dinning at the The New World Bistory of course!!!!
-Cara
... said Cara Bryden on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:55 PM | link
I like to go see Hair of the Dog at the Parting Glass in Saratoga. Wonderful time!
... said Evan on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:55 PM | link
In the Capital Region tis always great to enjoy a free burrito from Bombers on your birthday! Next year I will remember to get there damnit!
... said Graceful J on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:56 PM | link
Breakfast at Perreca's, dinner at Ferrari's and the rest of the day spent anywhere but Schenectady.
... said Aaron on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:56 PM | link
A sunset picnic at Central Park and a nice cold beer on my porch. Both with bugspray.
... said KatherineSass on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:56 PM | link
Go to Olivers Beverage. Mix a six pack. Go home and turn off my Phone.
... said jojo on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:58 PM | link
A nice steak on the grill, a dip in the pool, and plenty of good IPA.
... said -R. on Apr 15, 2013 at 1:59 PM | link
Dinner at Maestro's and staying over night in Saratoga.
... said Chrystal on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:04 PM | link
Wish I could still celebrate at Mahar's!
A leisurely morning at the Albany Institute of History and Art, followed by a long walk through Washington Park and then browsing the shops on Lark Street, a pint with mates at the Olde English Pub then dinner at the Merry Monk’s, topped off by a nice avant-garde film at the Spectrum.
... said holly on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:05 PM | link
I'd spend my birthday by first having breakfast at Cafe Madison, followed by a hike through Thatcher Park, capped off by dinner at New World or Shogun (tough choice there!) and dessert and coffee at Professor Java's!
... said Amanda on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:09 PM | link
Some cocktails and a nice steak at 677 Prime.
... said JamesonBates on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:12 PM | link
Dinner at Appertivo in Schenectady..mmm..movie at bow tie cinema..dancing in saratoga! after that...wherever the night takes us!
... said Renata on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:13 PM | link
Going to our favorite restaurant, NWBB!
... said MC on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:13 PM | link
Apple picking at Indian Ladder Farms with my wife and sons, followed by sushi (preferably from Sushi Tei), and cider doughnuts for dessert (no cake, thank you).
... said Bob W. on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:13 PM | link
Beers at the Ruck, followed by wings at the Ruck, followed by beers at the Ruck.
... said Brian on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:17 PM | link
last year, I celebrated my 1/2 birthday in the fall (best season) with apple cider doughnuts and apple cider on a cool sunny day at thatcher park, came home and walked to NWBB for some Thai Love and then to Emack for their bleeding heart ice cream -- one of the best days ever.
... said jalarson on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:17 PM | link
birthday drink at olde english pub followed by dinner at 677
... said Tom on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:18 PM | link
Going for a nice long run on the Hudson Mohawk bike path, shower, then to Bombers in Albany for a birthday margarita and BBQ tofu burrito. Afterwards a tipsy stroll thru Washington Park!
... said Rebecca on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:19 PM | link
My birthday is on Valentines Day, which is not as cool as it might sound... but celebrating either a few days before or a few days after with friends at Mingle, the Wine Bar or New World Bistro is perfect!
... said jep on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:25 PM | link
Dinner at any of the fabulous restaurants in town, followed by drinks at Footsy's. How can you celebrate a birthday without skee-ball?
... said Liz on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:25 PM | link
I would go to the City Beer Hall and ride the bull, then make all my friends do the same! :)
... said Jessica T on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:25 PM | link
Birthday dinner at my favorite place, the Pump Station and then a show at the Palace.
... said Dana F. on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:28 PM | link
A swim somewhere beautiful outdoors like the Sacandaga River or a lake up north (Chapel Pond on route 73 on the way to lake Placid?) and then a picnic (sandwiches and chips) and beautiful hike. Summer birthdays are the best.
... said Laura on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:28 PM | link
a quentin tarantino movie
... said Gretchen on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:28 PM | link
I would like to celebrate my 70th birthday by having dinner at 677 prime and then go to a Broadway show in NYC chauffeured by limo to NY.
... said Bev on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:29 PM | link
Dinner at the Ginger Man followed by a classic booting at the Biergarten.
... said Matt on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:30 PM | link
If not everyday at least my birthday should begin with Brunch at the City Beer hall and a good bloody Mary! To be followed by some hiking or taking in the view at thatcher and some much needed estrogen centered entertainment with the Albany All Stars roller derby. Rinse wash and repeat please!
... said Faith on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:30 PM | link
Kayaking sounds great, but that would be cold on my birthday (Dec). So I'd go hiking at Thacher and enjoy some good beer and laughs with friends by the fireplace at City Beer Hall.
... said Meg on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:32 PM | link
I just had a birthday, which included (not all in one day): New World Bistro Bar, Wolff's Biergarten, Olde English Pub, Brown's Brewing, and The Arts Center for the Capital Region.
... said Gene K on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:33 PM | link
This is a pretty good start to a bday already (Jerk Chicken dinner at nwbb and a movie at the spectrum) after that though? A drink or three at one of the Baumgartner establishments and a third dinner at Prime :O :P
... said Vince on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:34 PM | link
Dinner at my favorite restaurant, Ali Baba in Troy.
... said Rebecca on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:35 PM | link
Can't go wrong with the boot at Biergarten!
... said Mike on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:36 PM | link
I like to spend my birthday winning going to dinner and a movie for free after having won an awesome contest. In all seriousness, I like to gather friends together and grab drinks and dinner. The kookier the night goes, the better.
... said Johnny Miller on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:38 PM | link
There are so many ways I would like to celebrate - a night out with love ones and good food is always on the agenda - and a satisfying birthday present every time.
Dinner at NWBB and a movie at the Spectrum is an excellent combination and we've enjoyed the combo on more than one occasion.
I did celebrate my birthday in the Capital Region in March - with a haircut at the Jean Paul salon in Stuyvesant Plaza and dinner out in Saratoga at Capriccio Saratoga.
... said xina on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:39 PM | link
A long run in the Corning Preserve
... said Bob on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:40 PM | link
Lunch and shopping with family during the day, then relaxing and doing whatever I feel like in the evening (usually watching a movie or reading a book - some time to myself is my favorite birthday gift!)
... said Amy on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:42 PM | link
Dinner at McGuire's followed by a Sean Rowe concert. Yeah, he doesn't play much here anymore and my birthday dinner last years was a pizza delivered (my husband was away with the military ), but a girl can dream.
... said Gretchen on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:43 PM | link
Bialys from All Good Bakers, preferably still warm, delivered to my bed. A leisurely walk along the Hudson, followed by a more vigorous run later in the afternoon. Drinks at dp's and dinner at Cafe Capriccio then back to Yono's for dessert.
... said slilly on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:46 PM | link
Wine and food and friends. My house, their house, out at a restaurant.. as long as all three elements are in place I am happy!
... said steph on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:49 PM | link
Lunch at Cardonas, bar hopping on Lark, brunch at city beer hall. mmmm, I can taste the celebration now!
... said Emily on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:51 PM | link
Dinner at the River Street Cafe, drinks out in Troy afterward.
... said Jessica Vaughn on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:54 PM | link
Beginning with sunrise at John Boyd Thatcher Park with my dog, and ending with pie at Grandma's.
... said cm on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:54 PM | link
Ice skating flash mob at the Plaza followed by a warm-up teacup filled with Fosters at Olde English Pub. Throw in a pickle back or two and maybe a flash mob encore presentation will follow.
... said Sherri on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:56 PM | link
I would start out with dinner and drinks at New World, especially that pork belly! Move on to Wolff's Biergarten, where I would get my birthday boot and enjoy the company of friends. Come to think of it, this is exactly what I did for my birthday this year.
... said Mike D on Apr 15, 2013 at 2:58 PM | link
Never been to 677 before- I'd like to try that out.
... said Julia on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:02 PM | link
Start out with a nice dinner at a local restaurant with some friends then head to Wolffs Biergarten and Olde English then maybe City Beer Hall to finish off the night!
... said Alicia on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:03 PM | link
Nice dinner out then an overnight in a nice hotel room without a wake-up call.
... said Jon In Albany on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:05 PM | link
I would go to the City Beer Hall for good eats and drinks with friends
... said Brie on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:07 PM | link
Polish food at Muza followed by a fire in the firepit and glasses of wine in our backyard.
... said Kathleen Lisson on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:09 PM | link
I would go to see a movie and then go to old world of course ;). ... However every year I'm on a cruise to the shamans for my birthday but when I come back you bet it would've a movie and some good eats!!!
... said April on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:11 PM | link
A big dinner at Brunswick BBQ and ice cream at Moxie's.
... said Asher G. on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:11 PM | link
Picnic on Peebles Island with the fam, bread and cheese from the Cheese Traveller.
... said Jason on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:11 PM | link
By NOT drinking one of those over-sized birthday drinks.
... said J on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:15 PM | link
Ice cream at Snowman during the day.
Dinner at New World. It'd be awesome.
... said David on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:16 PM | link
i would celebrate by winning the giveaway
... said greg slocum on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:20 PM | link
Wouldn't mind a repeat of my birthday last year, which fell on the same day as Wolff's Biergarten's anniversary. Was going for the infamous boot, but then found it was open bar and free food. :)
... said necoro on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:22 PM | link
With close friends, great food and drink. I'd stroll down one of the many great streets in Albany, Lark, Madison or downtown and ad lib where we end up.Just to be with people you care most about is what would make the meal. Good food and good conversation. The best.
... said Mel on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:24 PM | link
Three times per year, my husband and I allow ourselves to enjoy a high quality restaurant and completely ignore the cost: his birthday, my birthday and our anniversary. These are such memorable occasions that I remember each restaurant we have been to over the past three years living in Albany. We usually force ourselves to try a new place every time but I have to admit we have been to New World twice. I will never forget the spring pasta dish with fiddleheads, pea sprouts and asparagus - spring truly defined in food. Our second favorite experience was at Athos where we both ordered the whole fish entree - amazing. We will likely be moving out of Albany next year. These meals will definitely be my favorite memories of living in the city.
... said Alene Onion on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:26 PM | link
Disc Golf and flights at the Merry Monk.
... said Abe on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:26 PM | link
NWBB, already our favorite!
... said Ben on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:27 PM | link
A movie and a nice dinner out followed by an overnight stay at the Gideon Putnam with brunch the following day.
... said Chris H. on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:30 PM | link
Brunch at Lil Buddha and an adults only night time pool party w/ lots of margarita's!
... said Lauren on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:35 PM | link
Birthday Trifecta: Bomber's margarita, teacup at Olde English, and das boot at the Birgarten. Free huge drinks and a free T-shirt.
... said Danielle Sanzone on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:39 PM | link
At New World Bistro, of course.
... said CM on Apr 15, 2013 at 3:44 PM | link
With any kind of live music, cake and beer. Preferably, all at the same time.
... said Chris on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:00 PM | link
I just moved here, so I don't know where I'd want to spend my birthday yet. But reading all of these comments has given me some great ideas!
... said Hannah on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:01 PM | link
Capture the Flag at the Empire State Plaza
... said EE on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:01 PM | link
Now that you mention it, New World Bistro and the Spectrum sound perfect....
... said Westfall on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:05 PM | link
Never been to 677 before- I'd like to try that out.
... said Julia on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:12 PM | link
Drinks @ old english or wolfs biergarden then dinner at 677prime. Followed by comedy show at comedy works if there is an act that night.
... said tallguyy on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:23 PM | link
Bowling at Del Lanes, Dinner at NWBB, ice cream sandwich at Emack. Oh what a day!
... said Jeanine on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:31 PM | link
On a pirate boat in Lake George, wearing all white, with a fake parrot on my shoulder.
... said -S on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:35 PM | link
Birthday Boot at the Biergarten followed by a Dutch Apple Cruise with all my friends!
... said Debi on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:41 PM | link
Dinner and Chatham brewery beers at the Peint O Gwrw, and a movie at the Crandell (doesn't really matter it is).
... said Shaun on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:42 PM | link
Birthday dinner and drinks at The Merry Monk.
... said Travis on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:42 PM | link
bike rides, brunch at the city beer hall, gelato at crisan, farmers markets, hikes at thatcher park and every other great thing you can do in Albany - including dinner at New World Bistro
... said rae on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:47 PM | link
Perhaps some El Mariachi and a movie at the Spectrum
... said Michelle on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:49 PM | link
no offense to NWBB, because I love them, but I want to go where everybody knows my name. . . .and that's the city beer hall.
... said Dan on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:55 PM | link
Before dinner and a movie, we all check out some live bands at Albany Public Library's awesome Garage Bands summer music series!
... said Tor on Apr 15, 2013 at 4:58 PM | link
I would love to spend my birthday at a day spa
... said Michelle on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:01 PM | link
Simple date out with my husband - a quiet sit-down dinner in Albany and a show at the Capital Repertory.
... said Donna on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:08 PM | link
Ballet at SPAC
... said EMAV on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:09 PM | link
A hibachi dinner with tons of sashimi at Sake in Latham and out to the Cheesecake Factory for dessert afterwards!
... said Vicky on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:11 PM | link
I'd want to goto the spa to start off my day with my girls, then a stroll at the Crossings, followed by dinner at Blue Spice to get my Thai fix!
... said Stella on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:16 PM | link
It's almost my birthday, and I'm going to celebrate it with a bunch of intensive planting (it's time to get those babies in the ground!) an americano and a pickle plate at the Confectionery, and a big bonfire with friends in Troy at night.
... said Colie on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:27 PM | link
New World Bistro Bar sounds like a good way to start!
... said Ryan on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:31 PM | link
Eating some delicious buttery popcorn at The Spectrum and enjoying some fantastic independent films!
... said Cameron Miller on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:36 PM | link
I just did -- and rather like AOA 5, it was with my homebrew club and my friends (not mutually exclusive), at the City Beer Hall, with some fine New York State (if not "local") beer. Can't think of a better way.
Though I hope they give AOA the "birthday bucket".. it's apparently been phased out for the "birthday 40" which was the undrinkable Olde English.
And if anyone were actually reading the comments in this thread, they might be forewarned...
... said Alex on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:37 PM | link
Trail Runs followed by dinner at Ala Shanghai followed by bull riding.
... said matthew on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:44 PM | link
Olde English Pub!
... said TO on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:58 PM | link
I would celebrate by getting a group of friends together and doing a tour of all the places that give out free drinks for your b-day! Wolff's, Bombers... hopefully my friends know of more.
... said James Frederick on Apr 15, 2013 at 5:59 PM | link
Out to brunch with family and friends to Cafe Madison and many catch a movie at the Spectrum and then out with friends at night.
... said Sue Hyland on Apr 15, 2013 at 6:16 PM | link
Lunch at Brown's, Dinner at Sukhothai. Float between Wolff's Biergarten and Olde English for drinks afterwards.
... said Mike on Apr 15, 2013 at 6:16 PM | link
at the charles l. confectionary in troy with some small plates and ginger beer!
... said bee on Apr 15, 2013 at 6:25 PM | link
I would get dinner at new world bistro and go to a movie at the spectrum. For real, not just because of this post!!!
... said Jon on Apr 15, 2013 at 6:43 PM | link
Eating good food with good friends and starting year 33 with lots of laughter!
And there must be cheese.
... said Tim on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:24 PM | link
I would celebrate my birthday with a hike at Indian Ladder, dinner at New World Bistro, and home-made cake baked by Mrs. Greg!
... said MFulwiler on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:24 PM | link
Hike at Peebles Island with friends followed by drinks at Confectionary. Then River St Cafe with my hubby.
... said KD on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:29 PM | link
I would want to celebrate my October birthday in the Capital Region by starting the day with pumpkin/apple picking at Indian Ladder farms, with a bag of Apple Cider donuts to take home.
Then later on, a dinner out at Katrinella's Bistro with their Tuxedo Cake (which is phenomenal).
Then a night out on the town at some of my favorite bars. :)
... said Carolyn H on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:40 PM | link
Go to a Yankee game and have some beers!
... said Jeff on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:45 PM | link
Camping in the Adirondacks with family and friends, which I will be doing this year!
... said Dan on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:45 PM | link
Dance class at the Albany Ballroom followed by french macaroons from TC Bakery ... then wash it all down with the boot from the biergarten! :)
... said Rita on Apr 15, 2013 at 7:55 PM | link
It came from Schenectady movie and dinner at cafe cappricio
... said Drew on Apr 15, 2013 at 8:11 PM | link
Dinner and drinks with friends and family!
... said Tyler on Apr 15, 2013 at 8:20 PM | link
With a boot at Wolffs!
... said Bill on Apr 15, 2013 at 8:32 PM | link
Brunch with my husband and daughter at New World, walk around the neighborhood, ice cream cone from Stewart's.
... said Erin on Apr 15, 2013 at 8:53 PM | link
A run to Five Rivers in the morning, followed by breakfast at the Madison Cafe, an afternoon movie at the Spectrum, concert at the Egg, and dinner at Creo.
... said Milo on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:02 PM | link
just like last year, at new world bistro with friends and family.
... said bb on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:02 PM | link
If only my birthday was in the summer, I would want to celebrate it with a picnic in one of our lovely parks, maybe Saratoga Spa State Park. As it is in February, I have to settle for brunch at Union Cafe in Schenectady followed by afternoon cake from Cheesecake Machismo and/or macarons from TC Paris.
... said t.e. on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:08 PM | link
A night out at the barge (aka The Riverfront Bar and Grill) is my favorite way to celebrate my summer birthday!
... said Kimmy on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:09 PM | link
a steak at wine bar and bistro on lark and then some good beer and bull riding at city beer hall!
... said Heather on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:09 PM | link
A show at Proctors and dinner at Cornell's!
... said Katie on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:10 PM | link
my favorite combination is dinner and a movie; New World Bistro never disappoints and to follow that with a movie at the Spectrum....wonderful
... said D Hoffman on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:12 PM | link
I can not think of anything better than eating NWBB green beans with my husband and catching a piece of carrot cake, I mean movie, at the Spectrum after. Please oh please...
... said Brian on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:12 PM | link
Greasy breakfast at Duncan's Dairy Bar in Troy, browse the Troy Farmers Market, afternoon beers on the deck of City Beer Hall, back to Troy for a show at Revolution Hall!
... said Gage on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:22 PM | link
Id spend my birthday hitting up all the specials in Albany... The boot at Biergarten, the huge margarita with sparklers from bombers, the dinner special at barnsider etc etc...
... said Natasha on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:49 PM | link
Had a birthday this month, but didn't go out to dinner because the baby was sick. Would love to celebrate belatedly at NWBB and the Spectrum along with a cake from Crisan. Happy Bday AOA!
... said MB on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:50 PM | link
I'd want to sleep in, take my hubby and dog on a walk at Capitol Hills golf course (walking the dog, not my hubby), then back to our house to grill on the deck and have a fire in the chiminea. As close second would be to eat at New World and have the No Crash Mushroom Risotto.
... said Carrie on Apr 15, 2013 at 9:59 PM | link
A boot at the Biergarden.
... said Len on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:13 PM | link
Cocktails and a game of Scrabble in Washington Park, followed by dinner at home with friends (and more cocktails).
... said JeffersonBarnaby on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:16 PM | link
Film at the Spectrum with dinner at NWBB with my wonderful husband, of course!!
... said Lakesider on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:19 PM | link
I'd start the day right with a leisurely brunch with my closest friends at Iron Gate Cafe (florentine benedict, yum!), followed by an afternoon stroll through Washington Park. A movie at Spectrum, then back over to Center Square for dinner at El Mariachi and some birthday cheesecake from Cheesecake Machismo to cap off the evening.
... said Alison on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:26 PM | link
Dinner at yono's and beer at wolff's :)
... said Jenna on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:28 PM | link
Dinner for 1 at Mingle, dessert for 1 at stewarts, wine for 3 in wine country (my basement), then crying myself to sleep
... said Marshall on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:43 PM | link
After looking at the menu online, I'd try New World Bistro Bar because everything sounds delicious. Then to a movie.
... said Don on Apr 15, 2013 at 10:54 PM | link
Seeing as my bday is in the fall no day is complete without a trip to Indian Ladder Farms for some cider donuts, apple picking and good ol'fashioned leaf peeping. Top it off with some amazing beers and grub at the city beer hall or gastropub and life is good.
... said 518townie on Apr 15, 2013 at 11:04 PM | link
Saratoga Farmers Market & ShakeShack w/ friends.
... said Josh on Apr 15, 2013 at 11:08 PM | link
Drinking everything at Bier Abbey. Oh wait, I just did that.
... said J Mac on Apr 15, 2013 at 11:33 PM | link
Thatcher Park, and dinner and drinks with friends, simple enough.
... said Fred on Apr 15, 2013 at 11:33 PM | link
Drinks at Brown's!
... said Josh on Apr 15, 2013 at 11:33 PM | link
I would buy out the egg for the day, and throw myself the best party ever! Oh and I would have the cohoes mastodon there too!
... said franny on Apr 15, 2013 at 11:44 PM | link
I'd love to go to New World for dinner followed by Biergarten!
... said Danielle on Apr 16, 2013 at 12:17 AM | link
Picnic and strolling the grounds at Olana, followed by drinks at the Crimson Sparrow and dinner and stargazing at my parents' house (in Stuyvesant. They're amazing cooks and great hosts.)
... said Sarah on Apr 16, 2013 at 12:17 AM | link
I have always been happy having a birthday party at home, and I wouldn't say no to a growler from Albany Pump Station or Brown's or Crossroads.
... said Rohan on Apr 16, 2013 at 12:38 AM | link
Eating a single Hot Dog Charlie's hot dog while sitting on top of the Egg.
... said mr.dave on Apr 16, 2013 at 12:44 AM | link
Family dinner followed by games & drinks.
... said Bruce Allen on Apr 16, 2013 at 1:37 AM | link
Since my birthday is coming up this is pretty fitting: bar hopping in Albany on my bike and then dinner and a movie with friends (at NWBB and the Spectrum of course).
... said Omar on Apr 16, 2013 at 3:58 AM | link
My birthday is usually on one of the most miserable day of the year - either blizzards or ice storms or 10 below so I dream of celebrating it somewhere warm. However, we always try and make the best of it so I'd snowshoe up at Grafton with a thermos of cocoa and then take a ride to Glens Falls (sort of the Capital Region) and have dinner at Bistro Tallulah.
... said Kate on Apr 16, 2013 at 5:39 AM | link
Honestly, there are so many good options that you can do something fun and different every year with no repeats. My husband planned a birthday feast at Ala Shanghai as a surprise for my 30th, with two large tables of all of my friends and family. It was a lot of fun and definitely something different.
Something that would be fun in the future would be a brewery tour of local/regional tasting rooms, or perhaps a craft beer bar crawl.
... said irisira on Apr 16, 2013 at 6:44 AM | link
Dinner out at Yono's or Wine Bar and Bistro. Dessert from Crisp Cannoli or a cake from Zachary's.
... said emily on Apr 16, 2013 at 7:05 AM | link
My summer birthday has often started with a bike ride for brunch, and later a play in the Berkshires, followed by a drink at the Red Lion Inn.
... said chrisck on Apr 16, 2013 at 7:12 AM | link
A laid back day starting with a hike at Thatcher or Peebles Island with family and friends. Good food and wine in the evening at one of my fav. local restuarants: NWBB, Shogun, or Mingle.
... said Shannon M. on Apr 16, 2013 at 7:20 AM | link
I'd celebrate with a good hike and better beer
... said spencer on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:00 AM | link
Dinner at Hattie's Chicken Shack and a show at Caffe Lena.
... said Janny on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:09 AM | link
My birthday tends to fall around the tulip fest/mother's day time of year, but were I to spend it in the capital region I might want to do some hiking, either at the escarpment at thatcher, or out near grafton/dyken pond.
... said matt on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:15 AM | link
Going out with friends and listening to live music.
... said Dave Bauer on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:20 AM | link
The new Star Trek movie opening, on my birthday, at Spectrum.
... said Ben on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:40 AM | link
My birthday is always celebrated over a weekend with plenty of friends and my husband. We do a great dinner somewhere, followed by drinks, and where ever our whims take us.. this year it was a tattoo and then dancing.. Friends, and celebratinf is something you can never tire of..
... said Karen Bauer on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:41 AM | link
New World and Spectrum!
... said bw on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:46 AM | link
Python Burger, wit
Drinks at Iffy's place.
Pass out on the capital steps
... said Richard on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:47 AM | link
I would go for dinner at Bombers for my free Birthday Margarita and then off to see a show at Proctors.
... said axadad on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:48 AM | link
A day roaming Albany with my dog followed by drinks and dinner with friends.
... said Jason on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:49 AM | link
Hiking in the Huyck with the wife and dogs, followed by laser tag with some buddies from growing up, and then a classy dinner at one of the regions fine dining establishments. Though growing up it was usually spent watching the River Rats at "The Knick!"
... said Matt on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:49 AM | link
With my Love and at NWBB
... said JES on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:50 AM | link
Dinner at New World Bistro and movies at Spectrum? Hey- it's not creative, but my birthday is actually coming up in early Mary, so it's realistic! Please!
... said Ari on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:51 AM | link
Dinner at Junior's, dessert from El Machismo, and adult beverages at City Beer Hall!
... said Kobe on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:56 AM | link
Dinner and a movie sound pretty amazing. I have a 9-month old, and haven't been out in ages, so that's pretty much all I could handle!
... said E on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:57 AM | link
A long walk in a local park, or hike a nearby mountain with my family..followed by a Stewart's ice cream cone.
... said Rita on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:22 AM | link
Hmmm, maybe this year I'd pick Mingle for dinner. It's been a while since I've had the beef bulgogi. A movie at the Spectrum. Obviously. And then dessert somewhere. Crisan? Then my guy can get gelato and I can have a pastry.
... said Cori on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:24 AM | link
I like to take my wife out to see a movie at the Spectrum for her birthday or a show at the Cap Rep
... said Guy on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:25 AM | link
I'd start with an early morning bike ride through the Malta bike trails, then breakfast at Quintessence. After a round of golf, dinner at Taste (never been) and after-dinner drinks at City Beer Hall and Wolff's. Of course, some of this would be difficult, as my birthday is in February.
... said t on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:33 AM | link
Dinner at Carmines and a concert at the TU center would be a great birthday!
... said Christine B. on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:35 AM | link
Ever since going to Rollerama the other night for a Hellions of Troy Roller Derby bout, I really want to go rollerskating. So, a rollerskating party with a bunch of friends would be my wish! And dinner at New World could never be a bad start to an evening....
... said Michele on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:38 AM | link
A paddle boat ride in Central Park in Schenectady, then dinner with my friends at my favorite restaurant, Tara's Kitchen :)
... said Jessica LaFlamme on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:38 AM | link
Good beer, good food, and good company . . .
... said Shawn on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:43 AM | link
Hiking on Peebles or visiting some local waterfalls, watching hockey at the TUC, pizza from Micks
... said matt on Apr 16, 2013 at 9:54 AM | link
OH DANG! I missed this drawing so I could go away on vacation for MY birthday!!! And NWBB is my favorite restaurant ever. *pout*
... said Natalie on Apr 16, 2013 at 8:55 PM | link