9 Best Restaurants in Albany to Check Out During Your Layover

Are you looking for a great place to eat during your layover in Albany?

Albany may not exactly be the first place that comes to mind when people think of awesome restaurants. After all, the city does have some stiff competition from its sister city, New York.

But, Albany actually has some pretty great restaurants that could give even the nicest ones in New York City a run for their money.

So, if you find yourself in Albany hungry during a layover, be sure to check out any one of these wonderful restaurants in Albany.

1. Provence Restaurant

Owned by chef Daniel Darvez-Bornoz, Provence is the place to go in Albany if you're in search of some authentic French cuisine.

Daniel spent several years in Paris honing his culinary skills, took what he learned to New York City, and then finally opened a restaurant in Albany.

Provence is a culmination of everything he learned studying in Paris and working in New York City, and his skills definitely shine through with his tasty French cuisine.

Also, if you're looking for a glass of wine to enjoy with your meal, Provence has over 150 options to choose from. You know you can count on some quality wine here, as the restaurant has won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

2. Jack's Oyster House

Everyone knows the East Coast is one of the best places in the world for seafood, and Jack's Oyster House is a great representation of that.

You'd definitely get death glares slurping back some oysters on a plane, so if you've got a craving, come to Jack's to enjoy them during your layover.

Open since 1913, Jac's Oyster House is a household name around Albany, as it is frequented by elite politicians and wealthy business elite.

The menu is part French cuisine reinvented, part American seafood staples. Here you'll find all your favorites: Manhattan clam chowder, Maine lobster, and if you get there during the brunch hour, delicious and fluffy buttermilk pancakes.

3. Cheese Traveler

Any restaurant that has the word cheese in their name is sure to be a win, and Cheese Traveler is no exception.

The Cheese Traveler, run by a husband and wife team, is truly the place where all your cheesy dreams come true.

The place has literally hundreds of cheeses from all around the world available, as well as local meats and other cured items, and a well-thought-out selection of ciders and beers.

It would be almost impossible to not find a cheese (or several) to your liking here. There is also a grilled cheese menu -yes, an entire menu dedicated to grilled cheese- as well as wine by the glass options for the wine and cheese lovers out there.

4. The Capital: Eatery and Lounge

Co-owned by Chris Pratt (Yes, THEE Chris Pratt) The Capital is the restaurant to go to if you want all the classic New York feels.

Targeting a more mature crowd, the Capital is only open for dinner. This is a great place to go if you want the sophistication fo New York City, but without all the fanfare.

The newly decorated interior and exterior is enough of a reason to stop in, complete with black and white photographs of downtown Albany and a handmade chandelier.

5. Altamont Old Stone House Inn

If you've got an extra long layover and have the means to get outside the city a bit, Altamont is the place to go.

Located in a farmhouse in the countryside, Altamont also serves as a bed and breakfast.

Upon arrival at this 18th-century-style farmhouse, the incredible views should be enough to make you feel like the trek out there was worth it. But if they're not, the staff also offers complimentary chocolate chip cookies before dinner. And what's not to love about a pre-dinner cookie?

You'll be treated to a delicious dinner in an elegant, candlelit dining room overlooking the gardens. This is really the perfect place to enjoy a great meal in a relaxed atmosphere.

6. Reel Seafood

If, on the other hand, you have a short layover and aren't looking to stray too far from the Albany airport, then Reel Seafood is the place to go.

This place has been serving some of the freshest seafood New York has to offer for nearly 30 years. It's even been voted as the best place to get seafood in Albany by local voters. If you find yourself not in the mood for seafood, you can also enjoy some of the equally delicious meat or pasta dishes offered by Chef Alan Maki.

7. Yonos

Never had Indonesian cuisine before? If not, Yonos is the perfect place to try it for the first time.

Opened in 1986, Yonos has become one of the best-reviewed restaurants in Albany. Its renowned chef has won multiple awards from international cooking societies and has even made an appearance on the Today Show.

The menu at Yonos consists of two sections: one for Indonesian cuisine and the other for continental dishes. This restaurant is definitely great for the adventurous foodie, as you can try things like alligator's tail and Icelandic lamb.

8. Grappa 72

If you're looking for a place with great Italian food, Grappa 72 is the place to go.

Super-laid back, Grappa includes an extensive wine list and of course, Grappa (a type of brandy). Here you can enjoy some delicious regional Italian specialties while enjoying some relaxing music in the background.

9. Angelo's 677 Prime

If you're looking to cruise around downtown during your layover, Angelo's is one of the best restaurants in Albany to stop at along the way.

Located only one block from the Capital Repertory and Palace Theaters, Angelo's menu consists of delicious seafood, prime grade Kobe beef, and steaks. You will also find over 400 vintage wines.

Which Restaurants in Albany Will You Check Out?

Now that you know about all the best restaurants in Albany to eat at, you just have to decide which one you're going to check out.

And, how you're going to get there and back. Luckily, with the transportation aspect, we've got you covered. Contact us for further details.