25 Best Cafes in Albany

“Looking for a spot to get a quick lunch. My son suggested this place. Food was great, service was quick, friendly staff and very reasonable. Definitely looking forward to a return visit!“

“Absolutely delicious. I've only had boba once before (at a different location) and it was so...bland? I didn't like it. I tried this place out on a whim with my friends and I was shocked! It knocked it out of the park in regards to taste. I got a milk tea with boba but it was so delicious that I'm still thinking about it! If you want boba go here. If you're nearby, get boba! I cannot hype this place up enough“

“Great cozy coffee spot to chill or get some work done. The coffee is excellent, prices are fair, and there’s a reason it’s ranked among the best in town. The only thing missing would be more substantial food options — like paninis or soups — especially during the chilly winter months.“

“So grateful Works Cafe opened a location near Crossgates Mall (Guilderland/Albany)! Only a couple minutes from I-87, worth the stop! Great smoothies, bowls, bagels, sandwiches, and bring your coffee mug to fill for a discount. Best loyalty program too! Earn points! My favorite smoothies… Carrot Mango with added protein and the Kale Crush with added protein. Great for after a workout or when on the run! The folks working there are the BEST TOO!“

“This is by far my favorite coffee shop in Telkwa and Smithers. I probably spend far too much money then I should here, but I absolutely love it. The staff are always friendly and welcoming, the atmosphere is great, and don't even get me started on the coffee and the food. I don't know if I've had anything that I didn't like from here. I've tried pretty much everything from the pies, meat pies, the freshly made sourdough bread that is just delicious, and the burgers on Fridays. You also have things like the cookies, the brownies and so much more. On top of all of that there's even a lot that I have yet to try, the ice cream being one of them. She even went on vacation for a couple of weeks and that was probably the longest couple of weeks without a good coffee. Oh yeah and I almost forgot, the breakfast wraps are absolutely delicious. You got to try them. Try anything try everything try it all, I'm sure you'll love it.“

“We tried Mimi’s for the first time after seeing posts on Facebook. Food was great, service was super friendly, and we will definitely be back!“

“I love this place's atmosphere and I enjoy their coffee. I would like to spend more money here but sadly I think the only vegan option is a side of avocado. I don't really expect them to cater to vegans so I do understand. Just the addition of a non-eggwashed bagel would be enough (bagel plus avocado is fine for me). I just sometimes leave the house without eating and usually end up stopping somewhere else before coming here. Let me give you my money!!! I think it is a necessity to support real local businesses and people in my community and this place deserves it. Thank you to the person working behind the counter for verifying the ingredients of the bagel. I really do appreciate that.“

“Incredible.“

“Small Cafe for breakfast and lunch with in-house seating.

I’ve had a few different sandwiches here, but their soups and baked goods are my favorites.

Located on Broadway in Menands, small parking lot on the side.“

“delicious food and amazing atmosphere. I love this oasis, it is a lively place with elegance and still peaceful for business meetings“

“Lobster and Snapper on point“

“A great place to get a bagel and coffee. My personal favourite is lox on everything bagel but they’ve got a decently big menu so everyone gets their preference. It was my go to breakfast place during my visit to the capital area. Check it out.“

“The atmosphere and vibe of this cafe is amazing!

The entertainment on weekends are nothing that I have experienced anywhere else.

Mr. Ventura is always polite, attentive and accommodating. The staff are as well! Really giving you that welcoming hometown coffee shop feeling.

Considering I drive 30 minutes out of my way to grab a bite to eat. That should say enough about how delicious the food is. But if I must, the food is just as excellent! The Love Salad is my favorite! They also have gluten free options!

This is Just a steller place to experience!“

“Good food, fresh and amazing owners and staff.“

“I had an amazing dining experience! From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was warm and inviting—perfect for a relaxed evening out. We were greeted by the boss Ali, and The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.

We started with the Mozzarella Sticks which was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. For the main course, I had the Chicken Shawarma Meal and it was absolutely delicious. The sauce was beautiful and the flavors were perfectly balanced, and the portion size was just right.

The bar was also impressive, every drink was perfect, which was the perfect sweet ending to the meal.

Overall,I loved it here. It is a true gem. The quality of the food, the service, and the atmosphere make it a standout spot in the area. I can't wait to come back!“

“Wonderful food and the homemade soups are Amaaaaazing. Staff is friendly. Mom and I love having lunch here .“

“The ambiance and food is awesome! I’m visiting from another country, and I came in here with a friend to get a coffee, but we ended up ordering much more than that. Definitely recommend to stop in and give it a try. If I lived here I’d be here everyday to work, or bring people/friends in.“

“friendly welcoming stuff, delicious food and desserts, dog friendly“

“We had our first couples boxing class last night and it was outstanding. Corey is open to unique class ideas is very welcoming to everyone. Our trainer was also outstanding! He worked out the entire time with my husband and I and kept the enthusiasm alive the whole time! Such an awesome experience from some other gyms and group fitness that yell at people or don’t watch for correct form and ensure safety. We will be back!!!“

“stopped in Choices daily for 3+ weeks while a loved one was hospitalized. every time it was a good experience. nice variety of food every day. best part was all of the staff, every day everyone working was kind, polite, professional, and helpful! 10/10 staff!!“

“Service was great. We went on a weekend and got there just in time before the rush. Waitress was great, atmosphere was great, we were tucked in the corner which we liked. Food was delicious and these drinks were good tasty. Highly recommend“

“My husband and I are soooo happy we decided to go to Cafe Capriccio for Valentine's Day this year! We actually booked a little early and didn't know they'd be having a prix fixe menu but Carly was amazing in contacting us and coordinating everything so we would still be able to go! The food, as usual, was amazing. For appetizers, my husband had the grilled octopus and I had the crab cake. For main course, we both had their filet mignons. For dessert, my husband had the pistachio cake and I had tiramisu. Our server was also very attentive and the other staff were also amazing. It was obviously busier than normal since it's Valentine's so we understood if our server wasn't able to attend to us like any server would on a normal day but the entire team was amazing and I could tell they all knew how to feel things out and help each other. Hats off to you guys! Keep it up, you're all amazing. And like I said on my Instagram story, Cafe Capriccio is the place to go to for ANY occasion. 10/10!“

“Delicious, healthy alternative! Salads, (everything, really)are amazing!!“

“Fast service, best bagels and coffee with affordable prices!“

“I ordered the brown sugar boba with original tapioca pearls. It was some of the best boba tea I have ever had! The taste was sweet and enjoyable. The workers were very nice too. I got my boba tea in only about a minute after ordering so very quick service.“