23 Best Pubs in Albany

“I was on the hunt for a Garbage Plate in my new home of the Capital Region; this is the only place I could find one on the menu...and I looked all over. I spent way too much time toiling with the prospect of not being impressed by a plate 200+ miles from Rochester. In my head, I said to myself, there are plates in Rochester that don't even impress; why should I give the time of day to someone so far removed? It took me over two years to finally pull trig. In retrospect, I am kicking myself. Portions aside, the plate here is absolutely fantastic, like wtf. The meat sauce seems to keep the obligatory warmth of nutmeg and cinnamon, but has a delicate spice that absolutely delights in its own way. The mac salad lights up my tongue with the zest of celery and the home fries give me the crunch that I deserve. The burgers are the greasy vessel that I have come to expect, but offer much more cohesion than a typical plate. I am barely exaggerating when I say this might be Top 2 plates of my lifetime. Couple that with an awesome atmosphere and an amazing happy hour and you've got gold. Thank you guys for scratching my itch.“

“Always have a good time here! Recommend this place 100% amazing service here💗“

“*Green Book Safe*

I was immediately greeted and my order was taken.

Very courteous & professional. I was slightly early before the kitchen was open, yet was still proffered a menu.

One local behind the bar even provided insight to my newcomer experience.

Based on today's interaction, I would return and recommend.“

“We hosted an amazing company holiday party at Loch & Quay. Great food, amazing staff, hopefully they can accommodate us again next year.“

“see other statements.“

“Great selection of Beer and Whiskey. Very nice atmosphere and the outdoor patio is the coolest place on earth!!!“

“Greg and his entire staff did an amazing job on my husband's party! Everything was great! The food was phenomenal and the service couldn't have been better! Please contact Greg for parties or catering! You will not be disappointed!“

“I have been coming here randomly for the last few years and have never been treated less than family. I eat and drink all over ny and cannot express how good the vibe is. plus the food is amazing. hands down one of the best burgers/ wings in Albany.“

“Great beer selection….service attentive and friendly! Had the best Cob salad 🥗“

“Lost and Found in Albany is such a hidden gem! We've had the pleasure of performing here, and it’s always an incredible experience. The cozy, intimate vibe of the venue makes it perfect for live music, and the staff is always welcoming and professional.“

“Better than ever, great menu, excellent staff“

“Believe the hype! Casey Finn’s delivers for service, the finest Miller High Life and Jameson whiskey, and I heard that the Ruebens on St Patrick’s Day are the jam.Was sincerely hoping for the rumored bartender vs customer fight (see review from a few years ago), but despite a brief genuine moment of concern (“are you ladies lost?”), we made friends and will be back.“

“I’ve found my “Cheers!”
Yes I’m showing my age with that reference - 80’s babyyyy - but this dive bar is IT!
This place has some of the best cocktails I’ve had, easily rivaling overpriced drinks in Manhattan - shout out to Tom!
If you have no idea what you want to drink, no worries, talk to the bartenders, they’ll help you, might even whip up something creative on the spot.
Monday nights belong to Brian the bacon guru, baby I eat pork again when I roll up here on a Monday (I pay for it later too, well worth it, lol).

The patrons are some of the most diverse and amazingly chill group of folks I’ve encountered since moving from the multicultural NYC life - Bx to be exact - to the parts up yonder.

The owner, Joe, is one of the kindest humans, and honey like attracts like, because his team definitely match his energy, they are hands down, some of my favorite people up here! Special shout out to Victoria & Corrine ❤️!

When you go, chill hard, enjoy big, and tip OD!“

“Great atmosphere great girls with great outfits! Accommodating owners“

“Great atmosphere and delicious food and cocktails“

“Out of town working, read the reviews, previous review guy walks out because Fox News was on. I was all in. I wish there was more of him around. makes my visit that much more enjoyable . if you are looking for food this is the wrong place. If you’re looking to drink and hang out and have a good time, this is it. Darts pool, Jamison and Guinness and other beers but no Bud Light. Locals are extremely friendly ,met several new friends on the first visit“

“Great food! Amazing service!“

“Man, this bar was absolutely dope! I swung by on a Friday night and ended up coming back for St. Patrick's Day—talk about dope vibes! The venue itself is beautiful, with a cozy ambiance that just draws you in.But let's talk about the drinks—cheap and delicious! Lionheart Pub and Brewery is like a craft oasis in the heart of midtown. With an impressive selection of 45 draft beers on tap, including their own brews, and a diverse liquor selection, there's something for everyone.And the atmosphere? It's unbeatable. Whether you're engaging in some friendly competition with dart boards and a pool table or just enjoying fireside bliss, there's no shortage of fun here.Plus, the location couldn't be better. Easy access and comfortable spaces make Lionheart Pub and Brewery the perfect spot to kick back and relax with friends.And here's a bonus—the limited menu encourages patrons to bring in outdoor food from the surrounding cafes, adding even more flavor to the experience.Overall, Lionheart Pub and Brewery is a must-visit in midtown. Whether you're here for the craft beer, the games, or the fireside chats, you're guaranteed to have a blast. Cheers to an unforgettable experience! ??“

“Just had date night and have absolutely nothing bad to say! Brian served us and he was knowledgeable and knew the menu well. The food was cooked professionally, there was no feeling of “another chain restaurant “ it was delicious! Cocktails were nice, presentation was good. It was everything we needed tonight!“

“It's a very cute bar scene, a little loud and overwhelming for my personal preference. The bartender was absolutely lovely, and the food was outstanding. The only reason for not giving it 5 stars is the customer base. Lots if older men, 3 of whom made me/my friend uncomfortable when we approached the bar to order.“

“Every bartender is chill, good music, great drinks, lovely patio space! Open in the afternoon so I have somewhere to chill and have a drink outside, open late nights so I can dance, sing, and party. Pool table and darts as a bonus. A staple on Lark street for sure!“

“I personally don't come here for the food. Generally is ok, but very bland all things considered.
If it's your birthday they give you a 2 liter glass boot of beer. It says $40 deposit, but they just hold onto the B-Day persons license. (Worth well over $40, but much better than a hold on your card.)
They have a great beer selection and prices aren't too bad. There is a dart board wall, plenty of seating on the average day.

The staff here is excellent, they are the real reason to come back. They have a great report with each other and it makes the experience that much smoother. When the bartenders and security are having a good time. So is everyone else.

Would return, likely not for food though.

Vegetarian options: Some apps.“

“Good vibes great service Good food awesome drinks great place to hang with friends and have some good times“