Back in town for the first time in almost two years, what are "can't miss" new things?
The Artist Formerly Known as AOA Jess emails:
Hello 518!
It's been a shocking 20 months since I was last home in Albany.
That feels like a lifetime. Fortunately, I'm going to be back in town Saturday and I can't wait.
I've only got a week and I have lots of friends and family to see, but I'm seeking suggestions nonetheless. Obviously there are my perennial favorites (Troy Farmer's Market, Wine Bar on Lark, spicy green beans at New World Bistro, etc.) but I'd love recommendations.
What new places have opened up since I was home last that are "can't miss" spots? Albany-Troy area preferred as I probably won't have time to get to Saratoga on this time.
Thanks in advance!
Re-visiting a place a once a year, once every few years, can be interesting perspective -- it's still familiar, but the things that have changed are more noticeable.
So, got suggestions for new stuff that Jess should be sure to check out? Please share!
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Comments
New Druthers location in Albany. Food and atmosphere were good when we went there with a group of four after the YMSB Alive @ 5.
... said Jeff m on Jul 21, 2015 at 4:17 PM | link
Wolff’s Biergarten on Broadway? I’m not sure whether that opened more than 2 years ago.
There’s nothing wrong with just revisiting your old favorites, too.
... said Craig on Jul 22, 2015 at 7:02 AM | link
I'm sure there are some people who could answer this question with short, pithy, and clever comments. I've never been able to do that. So instead of writing a long and rambling response in the comments, I put a thousand words behind the answer on the blog below.
http://fussylittleblog.com/2015/07/22/jess-x-returns/
... said Daniel B. on Jul 22, 2015 at 8:13 AM | link
Beer Belly [uptown] is pretty fun, I love the pickle plate. Peck's Arcade in Troy and The Shop are both getting good hype - (full disclosure I haven't tried them, when you work in Troy it is hard to convince yourself to come back for dinner). The Capital Eatery is doing decent things on Pearl St. They also opened a crepe place I enjoy in that perpetually changing spot next to McGeary's.
... said Jenna on Jul 22, 2015 at 8:56 AM | link
Welcome back! There are a few newer food and drink options that I think are worth visiting:
- Umana on Washington Ave. in Albany
- Beer Belly near Albany Medical Center
- Madison Pour House
- Peck's Arcade in Troy
- The Shop in Troy
- Cider Belly Doughnuts on N. Pearl St. in Albany (trust me)
Some other fun things to do:
- Tour Albany Distilling Co. or Nine Pin Ciderworks in Albany
- Try to catch a show at Park Playhouse at the lakehouse in Washington Park (This Sat and Sun are the last showings of Singin' in the Rain. It starts at 7:30 pm and amphitheater seats free. I really enjoyed it!)
... said Nicole on Jul 22, 2015 at 9:02 AM | link
All you need to know is that "The Mayor of Lark Street" has moved to Pearl Street and is now calling himself the "Governor of Pearl."
... said Jackers on Jul 22, 2015 at 10:19 AM | link
French Press Cafe and Creperie next to McGeary's. I recommend enjoying a crepe on the patio outside with a pint from next door. This is in addition to everything on Nicole's list.
If Caffe Vero had not yet become Stack's Espresso Bar, that's also worth stopping by.
... said JayK on Jul 22, 2015 at 11:15 AM | link
The new Tanpopo ramen place in the old Miss Albany Diner is fun.
... said Amy on Jul 22, 2015 at 11:26 AM | link
It's been so long I forget what's new! Last time you were, Rain was new on Lark. These are all good suggestions so I won't start a list, but I was going to suggest we go to The Shop. Oh, and make time to see the Capital Roots new space/indoor mini-market in person. And while you're at it, been to the Frear Building lately? One of your favorite environmental organizations has sweet new digs there. ;)
... said Laura M. on Jul 22, 2015 at 12:11 PM | link
Thanks everyone!
Miss Laura M. --- the Capital Roots space is on my list for Saturday. My brother is picking me up at the airport, then we're going to the farmer market, to see his new apartment and to see the Capital Roots space -- where he works.
... said Jess on Jul 22, 2015 at 1:08 PM | link
Hopefully, seeing some of your favorite Albanians.
Non-food related (gosh guys, come on!), Fort Orange General Store!!! It's lovely.
... said Melissa on Jul 22, 2015 at 3:31 PM | link
Troy has changed quite a bit -
stop down to Rare form brewing for a few great beers, and then WALK over to Slidin Dirty for some great (and not expensive) food! great atmosphere / great people / great food / great drinks and beer selection.
also lots of new chains came into the Cap Region - of course, which you lookup on AOA, yelp, or Times Union Table hopping - if you'd like to try them: Sonic, Texas Roadhouse, Burger 21, Smashburger, and several others. Also Whole Foods. and if you haven't checked out Honest Weight Food Co-op's new location - including a place to "eat in", you should certainly do that. Good Luck and have fun.
... said Kent on Jul 23, 2015 at 4:32 PM | link