Capital Region Living Besties: Food & Drink 2020

CAPITAL REGION LIVING BESTIES FOOD DRINK &

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Celebrate July with a delicious red, white and blue treat! These patriotic mini trifles are full of satisfying textures and refreshing summer flavors. Make and serve trifles in stemless wine glasses or small dessert bowls so everyone can have their own individual serving.

Thank you to our sponsors for partnering with Hannaford to offer free dietitian services. Our dietitians communicate their own nutrition expertise, views and advice, using carefully selected products in recipes and demonstrations to share information on healthful eating.

simply healthy

from your Hannaford Dietitians

Have questions about your health? Our team of registered dietitians offer free nutritional services online and in-store. Visit hannaford.com/dietitians to learn more.

Red, White and Blue Mini Trifles

SERVES 6

Ingredients:

2 oz. Hannaford Fat Free Cream Cheese, softened

1 cup Stonyfield® Organic Whole Milk

Vanilla Bean Greek Yogurt

1/2 tsp. McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract

1/2 (7 oz.) Hannaford Angel Food Cake, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 quart Strawberries, sliced into bite-sized pieces

1 pint Blueberries

Optional 2 Tbsp. Planters Lightly Salted Cocktail Peanuts

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, yogurt and vanilla extract. Mix well until light and fluffy.

2. Place 3 to 4 pieces of angel food cake each in 6 stemless wine glasses or small bowls. Layer spoonful of berries on top of the cake, then a spoonful of yogurt mixture. Repeat layering the trifle components until all of cake and yogurt mixture are used.

3. Top trifle with a few blueberries, pieces of sliced strawberry and an optional teaspoon of chopped peanuts for added crunch. Enjoy.

Nutritional Information:

The Lake Champlain Region has a long history of agriculture, and those traditions continue today. Following in the footsteps of our forebears, today’s farmers, restaurateurs, crafters, and brewers take a community approach to creating healthy, local food that nourishes the bodies and souls of neighbors and visitors alike. So come and taste the deep-rooted freshness of the Lake Champlain Region.

www.LakeChamplainRegion.com

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From The Editors EAT HERE NOW

If you’ve been a faithful CAPITAL REGION LIVING reader for the past decade and a half, you’re probably a little confused seeing “Besties” on the cover of this issue. We typically announce the awards for the “people and places” categories in our March issue, while the awards for “food and drink” arrive in our May issue. This year, though, we made the difficult decision of postponing the latter issue, because many of the bars and restaurants that our readers voted on were still closed in May due to the COVID-19 crisis. But at press time, outdoor dining had been allowed for a few weeks, and socially distanced indoor dining had just been approved, so it’s a start. And we thought, now was the perfect time to reveal our food and drink Besties winners. What better way to give our local bars and restaurants a muchneeded boost, after months of being able to offer only takeout/to-go orders? (Many of them are still doing that, too, of course.)

So, when you flip to page 11 for the complete list of Besties winners, we encourage you to patronize the restaurants and bars you find listed there. After all, they are CRL reader approved. Also, be sure to also check out our roundup of some of the best spots in the region to get a frozen summer treat on page 9, a feature on the area’s top takeout restaurants on page 10 and the Grateful Traveler on enjoying a successful Capital Region staycation on page 42. After all, right here is still a great place to be, don’t you think?

—The Editors

Canali’s Restaurant

CRL UP FRONT

Hot Spots for Cold Treats

» From Loudonville to Queensbury, these ice cream shops are must-visits this summer. « BY GABRIELLE

CURRY FREEZE ROTTERDAM

Curry Freeze has been serving up sweet treats in Rotterdam for more than 50 years. Besides its homemade ice cream flavors, which include French Roast Coffee and Rocky Mountain Raspberry, Curry Freeze also makes its own Italian ices and fanfavorite sherbets.

THE FARMER’S DAUGHTERS’ DRIVE-IN SARATOGA SPRINGS

Farmer’s Daughters’ has been Saratoga’s go-to spot for ice cream since the ’60s. Along with its famous soft and hard ice cream (plus loads of toppings, including its signature Oreo and sprinkle “zebra” mix), the shop also carries Italian ices, slushies, popsicles, shakes, specialty sundaes and a full food menu, which includes classic sandwiches, burgers and all manner of fried delicacies.

FRANK’S LOUDONVILLE

Both an ice cream parlor and restaurant, Frank’s in Loudonville has the best of both worlds. Its eye-popping ice cream menu boasts a long list of flavors (good luck choosing between options such as Panda Paws, Cloud Nine and Bittersweet Sinphony), as well as sundaes. Plus, Frank’s is open year round and takes custom orders for its luxe ice cream cakes.

GUPTILL’S ICE CREAM LATHAM

Known for its giant, Guinness World Record-holding roller skating arena, Guptill’s is

also famous for its ice cream shop, which carries 80 awardwinning hard and soft ice cream flavors. (Forget chocolate and vanilla soft serve—Guptill’s carries choices such as black raspberry, mint, creamsicle and cotton candy.) The Latham shop’s extensive menu also includes shakes, sundaes and flurries, as well as a number of frozen yogurts and nondairy options.

KURVER KREME COLONIE

Kurver Kreme has been blessing the town of Colonie with its frozen goodness since 1952. Its huge menu of sweets features soft and hard ice cream in flavors that change weekly, 20 flurry flavors, 20 float flavors, a mouth-watering sundae list (try Monkey in the Middle or PB Mallow), plus delicious ice cream cakes made with Kurver’s signature “krunch” filling.

MARTHA’S DANDEE CREME QUEENSBURY

Across the street from Great Escape, Martha’s Dandee Creme has been serving customers a rotating menu of its famous soft serve ice cream for more than seven decades. After a long day of rollercoaster riding, nothing beats going to Martha’s for a giant raspberry chocolate twist on a cone or a classic vanilla Dandee Cremewich. Martha’s has a full grill menu as well.

THE SNOWMAN TROY

Since the early 1950s, The Snowman in Troy has been treating Collar City residents to premium soft and hard ice cream, frozen yogurts and sherbets. The shop prides itself on using only the finest ingredients for its products, and the proof is in the pudding (or ice cream, we should say!). Popular treats on the menu include an array of sundaes, shakes, flurries and order-ahead ice cream pies in to-die-for flavors like Chocolate Overload and Samoa.

VUILLAUME

Takeout Takeover

COVID-19 forced classic takeout to up its game. Let’s dig in...to the trend.

» BY NATALIE MOORE « PHOTOGRAPHY BY KONRAD ODHIAMBO

When CAPITAL REGION LIVING readers voted Canali’s Restaurant in Rotterdam the best takeout in the area at the end of 2019, no one had any idea just how crucial takeout would soon become for the food industry as a whole. As restaurants were forced to close their doors to in-house dining due to the COVID-19 crisis, many had to scramble to put together online ordering systems from scratch and figure out how to facilitate new curbside pickup options.

But did COVID-19 simply accelerate an already existing trend? “It seems to be even before COVID that it’s been growing

in our industry—at our place, especially,” says Canali’s Owner Henry Alteri of takeout orders. Canali’s isn’t alone: In 2018, Restaurant Business magazine reported that 86 percent of consumers were using off-premises dining services at least monthly, and that food delivery was projected to grow 12 percent over the next five years. With the rise of food delivery companies such as Uber Eats, Doordash and Latham-based Mealeo, as well as with shifting consumer attitudes toward getting everything from Amazon purchases to groceries delivered, restaurants have had to adapt to this new “to-go” world order.

The key to a successful takeout

operation, Alteri says, is to serve the same food a restaurant would serve in its dining room, but even more quickly and efficiently. “One of the things we never do is cut back on quality and quantity,” says Alteri of the Schenectady establishment’s takeout service. “We always make sure we use the best ingredients.” For Canali’s, that means organic chicken from Tyson, triple net zero flour and only the best tomatoes, from California farmers.

Canali’s has been offering its delicious Italian food to go for 30 years, so it’s no surprise the restaurant has perfected the craft. But COVID-19 or not, it seems the takeout ball is just getting rolling. Are you ready, Capital Region?

Besties CAPITAL REGION LIVING

APPETIZER

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518)694-0520

When it comes to apps, veggies rule at New World, with one million Blackened String Beans served. Brussels sprouts? Yeah, baby. The restaurant turns those cute little cabbages into four different tasty treats.

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Innovo Kitchen 1210 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 608-1466

BAGEL

Uncommon Grounds

Multiple locations

Every day, at every location, Uncommon makes the “Bestie” bagel—chewy on the outside, soft and doughy on the inside. It’s been mixin’ and bakin’ them since 1996. Even bagel snobs from New York City give its bagels a big thumbs up.

Bagel Tyme

Multiple locations

West End Bagels

5 Southside Drive, Clifton Park (518) 952-4762

BAKERY

Bella Napoli Bakery & Café 672 New Loudon Road, Latham (518)783-0196

721 River Street, Troy (518)274-8277

Cannoli, biscotti, zeppole, cioffe. Bella Napoli is the Capital Region’s sweet epicenter for Italian pastries, cookies and cakes for every occasion. Craving something more savory? Bella also makes delicious breads, too.

Dolce & Biscotti

1758 US Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 280-6173

Villa Italia

226 Broadway, Schenectady (518) 355-1144

BBQ

Brooks’ House of BBQ 5560 State Highway 7, Oneonta (607)432-1782

FOOD AND DRINK

BY KAREN BJORNL AND

Note from the editors: A big congratulations from the CRL team to every single Bestie winner! At press time, the Capital Region’s phase three of reopening was in full swing, and restaurants had just started to reintroduce inside dining. We hope that by the time you read this, we’ll be even further along with the reopening process, and you’ll be able to celebrate the best that every restaurant has to offer, inside and out. Let’s eat!

When summer rolls around, Brooks’ BBQ hits the road, fires up its traveling outdoor barbecues and forks over its famous sweet-and-tangy chicken and ribs. Did you know that the Beard Foundation honored Brooks’ with an America’s Classics award?

Pig Pit BBQ 1 Niver Street, Cohoes (518) 235-2323

PJ’s Bar-B-QSA

1 Kaydeross Avenue West, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-7427 or (518) 583-2445

BEST-KEPT SECRET

Lost & Found

942 Broadway, Albany (518)694-0670

Lost & Found is just three years old, but people in Albany are already calling this craft beer/ casual dining spot a classic. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, L&F supports local farms and has outdoor seating.

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Joe’s Tavern 16 Division Street, Cohoes (518) 235-6555

BEVERAGE CENTER

Oliver’s Beverage Center 105 Colvin Avenue, Albany (518)459-2767

Better known as the Brew Crew, these guys were into craft beer long before the rest of the Capital Region was. Today, you can find 4,000 beers from around the globe at the Brew Crew’s two locations: Oliver’s and Westmere, also making a cameo in this year’s Besties.

Delmar Beverage Center 242 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7275

Westmere Beverage Center 1756 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 456-1100

BLOODY MARY

Innovo Kitchen 1210 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518)608-1466

At Innovo’s DIY Bloody Mary bar, go beyond the celery and

RED Denotes Winner | GRAY Denotes Finalist

transform your sassy cocktail into a movable feast with garnishes like bacon, shrimp, olives, hunks of cheese and cherry tomatoes.

Tipsy Moose Tap & Tavern Multiple locations

McGeary’s Irish Pub

4 Clinton Square, Albany (518) 463-1455

BISTRO

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

No stranger to the Bestie Awards, New World Bistro Bar’s kitchen was, until recently, under the helm of Executive Chef Ric Orlando (he twice won Chopped on the Food Network and his potato latkes beat Bobby Flay’s on a different show). At press time, the restaurant was closed while it searched for a new chef, but we have no doubt it’ll be back soon, better than ever.

Sage Bistro

2050 Western Avenue, Guilderland (518) 608-5410

Garden Bistro 24

5 Vista Boulevard, Slingerlands (518) 439-3832

BREAD

Perreca’s Bakery 31N-33 North Jay Street, Schenectady (518) 372-1875

In Schenectady’s Little Italy, the Perreca family has been baking bread in the same brick oven, without a temperature gauge, since the 1920s. The loaves, with their thick crust and unique nutty flavor, are the same kind that was made more than a century ago by the family’s ancestors in a village near Naples, Italy.

Bountiful Bread 1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 438-3540

Bella Napoli Bakery & Café

672 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 783-0196

721 River Road, Troy (518) 274-8277

BREAKFAST

Café Madison

1108 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 935-1094

359 Northern Boulevard, Albany (518) 898-9630

Breakfast isn’t boring at Café Madison, where you can dig into a smoked salmon omelet or roasted berry crepes with brie and walnuts. Six kinds of bread are also made in house.

Vegans and vegetarians get excited about Café Madison’s six menu choices, including a popular seitan maple sausage breakfast sandwich.

More Perreca’s 31N-33 North Jay Street, Schenectady (518) 372-1875

Iron Gate Café

182 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 445-3555

BREWERY

Druthers

Multiple locations

When Druthers opened eight years ago in Downtown Saratoga, it was the only brew pub in the city. Now it’s a hot spot for award-winning, handcrafted beer (and food!) in Albany and Schenectady, too. At each location, customers can see the tanks where their beer is brewed.

Brown’s Brewing Company 417 River Street, Troy (518) 273-2337

S&S Farm Brewery 174 Middle Road, Nassau (518) 336-0766

BRUNCH

Café Madison

1108 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 935-1094

359 Northern Boulevard, Albany (518) 898-9630

Did someone say oatmeal pancakes with raspberries and real maple syrup? Light and tender, these flapjacks rock the brunch at Café Madison. If you are in the mood for a cocktail, lift your spirits with a mimosa, Bloody Mary or booze-spiked coffee.

Risotto

320 Northern Boulevard, Albany (518) 747-6886

Iron Gate Café

182 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 445-3555

BURGER

Innovo Kitchen 1210 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 608-1466

I scream for Innovo’s i-Burger, smothered in onion jam and topped with house-made bacon. Or maybe go crazy for their “b-a-a-a-d” lamb option, topped with feta and arugula. Oh, and its tater tots are made from scratch, too.

Lost & Found 942 Broadway, Albany (518) 694-0670

Nighthawks 461 Broadway, Troy (518) 272-1000

CAKE

Dolce & Biscotti 1758 US Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 280-6173

Dream up a cake for any occasion, and Dolce & Biscotti’s brilliant designers and bakers can whip it up and wow your party guests. Recent hits include a dead-on replica of a Louis Vuitton bag, and graduation masterpieces in flavors such as Reese’s peanut butter and blond grasshopper. Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe 390 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush

(518) 477-2140

54 State Street, Albany (518) 813-9557

Coccadotts Cake Shop

1179 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 438-4937

CALAMARI

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Squid-licious! What else can you say about Yanni’s Too, where you can order original calamari, lightly fried with lemon, garlic and wine sauce— or Buffalo, Mediterranean, Rhode Island, Calamari Red or Chipotle styles? It’s no wonder that owner Marc Yanni is called “The Calamari King.”

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

Track 32

1368 Indian Fields Road, Feura Bush (518) 439-0032

CHEESECAKE

Blue Rose Cheesecake & Bake Shop

1815 State Street, Schenectady Bakery: (518) 393-2765

Restaurant: (518) 393-2600

Pumpkin and pistachio, amaretto and white chocolate raspberry. That’s only four of the special cheesecake flavors offered at Blue Rose. For traditionalists, there’s plain vanilla, with or without fruit. If you prefer a lighter, less sweet dessert, slice into Blue Rose’s Bavarian cheesecake. Cheesecake Machismo

293 Hamilton Street, Albany (518) 427-7019

J&S Watkins

1675 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 383-1148

CHOCOLATE SHOP/ CANDY STORE

Krause’s Homemade Candy 1609 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 869-3950

Interested in some oldfashioned peanut brittle, the sweetest chocolate-dipped strawberries or creamy fudge?

In 1929, Alfred Krause brought his candy making know-how to America, and today the third generation of his family crafts sweet treats in Colonie.

Uncle Sam’s All American Chocolate Factory

2571 Albany Street, Schenectady (518) 372-2243

594 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 608-4949

Candy Kraft Candies

2575 Western Avenue, Altamont (518) 355-1860

CIDER DOUGHNUT

Indian Ladder Farms

342 Altamont Road, Altamont (518) 765-2956

You don’t have to wait until

autumn: Indian Ladder makes cider doughnuts all year round. But will that luscious dozen survive the car ride home? Probably not.

Golden Harvest Farms 3074 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7683

Cider Belly Doughnuts

25 North Pearl Street, Albany (518) 253-4640

CHICKEN WINGS

The Ruck

104 Third Street, Troy (518) 273-1872

*Tied With*

My Place & Company

241 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7610

1640 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack (518) 477-5555

Truck to The Ruck for chicken wings that many say are similar to the ones they make in Buffalo, the city where wings first became a thing. The Troy hangout, with its roughed-up wooden tables, has a real neighborhood pub vibe and keg after keg of craft beer.

To round out the twofer, the wings at My Place, a familyfriendly sports bar, fly onto plates in flavors like garlic, hickory, honey BBQ and pineapple ghost pepper. These are not your Grandma’s wings.

Rusty Nail Grill & Tavern 1781 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 371-9875

The Towne Tavern 2850 NY 43, Averill Park (518) 674-3040

CHILI

Druthers

Multiple locations

Saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls, and gallop to your favorite Druthers. Saratoga, Schenectady and Albany all serve skillets of dense Chili Mac with pickled jalapeño and a crunchy Frito topping. Yee-haw!

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Otis & Oliver’s Restaurant & Pub 30 Mill Road, Latham (518) 785-9291

CHOWDER

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Yanni’s Too is a Troy Chowder Fest winner and a Capital

Region seafood destination, so it’s no surprise that it reeled in a Bestie for its New England clam chowder. Spoon it up on the deck with a view of the Hudson.

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Chris’ Café

1048 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7701

COFFEE

Stewart’s Shops

Multiple locations

Wherever you roam, whenever you need java, Stewart’s will perk you up. It’s got hot, iced or cold brew—and you can make its special blend at home with ground coffee and S-Cups.

A Perfect Blend

376 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-6537

652 Albany Shaker Road, Albany (518) 650-7615

COOKIES

Bella Napoli Bakery & Café

672 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 783-0196

721 River Street, Troy (518) 274-8277

Italian butter cookies just like your Nonna’s. With coffee or espresso, they are the perfect, no-fuss dessert for any dinner party or family gathering—and you can find the Bestie of the Bestie at Bella Napoli.

The Cookie Factory 520 Congress Street, Troy (518) 268-1060

Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe 390 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 477-2140

54 State Street, Albany (518) 813-9557

COMFORT FOOD

Lanie’s Café 471 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville (518) 438-5005

With melt-in-your-mouth Prime Rib Dip, heaping plates of spaghetti and meatballs and desserts such as cheesecake and carrot cake, Lanie’s Café is all about the comfort food.

Druthers

Multiple locations

Tipsy Moose Tap & Tavern Multiple locations

CUPCAKES

Coccadotts Cake Shop 1179 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 438-4937

The cute confections from Coccadotts are hard to resist–choose from Red Velvet, S’Mores, Coconut, Strawberry Milkshake and many more. Is your child still very much in the unicorn cake phase? Each sparkly unicorn cupcake sports a pointy horn and horsey ears tucked into the decadent frosting.

Dolce & Biscotti 1758 US Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 280-6173

Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe 390 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 477-2140

54 State Street, Albany (518) 813-9557

DELI

McCarroll’s The Village Butcher 406 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3936

Liverwurst and capicola, ham

BEST CUPCAKES

Coccadotts Cake Shop

and Swiss cheese: these are just some of the deli meats the McCarroll family has been slicing for nearly a century. Conveniently located in Delmar Marketplace, The Village Butcher is known for its award-winning breakfast sandwiches, too.

Gershon’s Deli & Caterers 1600 Union Street, Schenectady (518) 393-0617

Pellegrino Importing

Multiple locations

*Tied With*

Roma Foods

9 Cobbee Road, Latham (518) 785-7480

222 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-6004

DINER

Alexis Diner

294 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 286-2603

Could you give me a minute? I need to study the menu and its 300 choices. At Alexis Diner, you’ll have to decide between options such as burgers, sandwiches and seafood; plus Greek salad, souvlaki and gyro. Big bonuses: breakfast all day and outdoor dining.

Latham ’76 Diner

722 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-3793

Blue Ribbon Restaurant 1801 State Street, Schenectady (518) 393-2600

DISTILLERY

Albany Distilling Company

78 Montgomery Street, Albany (Distillery)

75 Livingston Avenue, Albany (Bar & Bottle Shop) (518) 949-2472

Whiskey, rum, vodka and the ever-popular Cocktail Club–a refreshing, zero-carb blend of vodka, fruit flavor and club soda–are all crafted here, one small batch at a time. Enjoy your drink in the refashioned,

19th-century Nabisco factory in Downtown Albany.

Harvest Spirits 3074 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-1776

Yankee Distillers 5 Fairchild Square, Clifton Park (518) 406-3245

FAMILY-OWNED RESTAURANT

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Did you know that the Ted’s in Watervliet was the first location and that it opened more than 60 years ago? Ted Deeb started the business, and today his son and grandson run it. Their specialties are the mouthwatering classics you’d expect: fish and chips, mini hot dogs, strawberry milkshakes, you name it.

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

FINE DINING

677 Prime 677 Broadway, Albany (518) 427-7463

Executive Chef Ken Kehn is all about pleasing fine diners, who flock to his steakhouse for lobster bisque and veal Milanese, but mostly his famous steaks–even his “limited” to-go menu during the COVID-19 crisis, which includes nine cuts of beef. “I love to see someone brighten up or really enjoy themselves while eating something that I have made,” he says. “It gives me intense satisfaction.”

Yono’s

25 Chapel Street, Albany (518) 436-7747

Lake Ridge Restaurant

35 Burlington Avenue, Round Lake (518) 899-6000

FISH FRY

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Founded by the son of a Lebanese immigrant in 1949, Ted’s is fish fry central for Capital Region folks, with six family-friendly locations. Served in a steamed hot dog bun, and topped with your choice of sauce, Ted’s fish fry is comfort food from the sea.

Off-Shore Pier Fish Market and Restaurant

637 Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer (518) 283-9880

Gene’s Fish Fry

300 Troy Road, Rensselaer (518) 286-3767

FISH N’ CHIPS

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Fried fish, French fries and coleslaw. That’s your standard Fish & Chips lunch special at Ted’s. For a big kahuna kind of dinner, add a side order of crab cakes or onion rings. Cheesecake for dessert? Now that’s a whale of a meal.

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Off-Shore Pier Fish Market and Restaurant

637 Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer (518) 283-9880

FRENCH FRIES

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Ted’s regular ol’ fries are “the Bestie,” readers tell us. Or go freaky with your fries and get them with cheese or “loaded” with homemade meat sauce.

Lost & Found 942 Broadway, Albany (518) 694-0670

Junior’s 1094 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 935-2025

48 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 244-3535

FRIED CHICKEN

Hattie’s Restaurant

45 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-4790

Hattie’s fried chicken, juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, has been made from the same Southern recipe since 1938. And now there’s Hattie’s Nashville Hot Chicken. Let the good times roll!

The Cuckoo’s Nest

234 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 650-7215

GLUTEN-FREE SELECTION

Wheatfields

54 Crossing Boulevard, Clifton Park (518) 383-4444

440 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-0534

Don’t let the word “wheat” in its name fool you. Wheatfields offers more than 30 gluten-free menu items. Pizza, for sure, plus pasta dishes made with corn penne, brown rice fusilli and rice linguini.

Liza’s

53 Third Street, Troy (518) 805-8881

HAPPY HOUR

dp An American Brasserie

25 Chapel Street, Albany (518) 436-3737

Happy hour is over the top at dp, the brasserie brought to you by Dominick Purnomo of Yono’s. It also has creative small plates, a seafood tower, one of the region’s largest list of wines by the glass, artisanal spirits and craft beer.

Wheatfields

54 Crossing Boulevard, Clifton Park (518) 383-4444

440 Broadway, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-0534

City Line Bar and Grill

1200 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 504-1200

HOMEMADE PASTA

Canali’s Restaurant

126 Mariaville Road, Rotterdam (518) 355-5323 (Restaurant/ Banquets/Catering) (518) 355-3663 (Takeout) Manicotti, ravioli, fettucine, cavatelli, spaghetti. At Canali’s, the restaurant makes five of its own pastas with special flour imported from Italy. Mamma mia!

Verdile’s Restaurant

572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

Ferrari’s Ristorante 1254 Congress Street, Schenectady (518) 382-8865

HOT DOG

Gus’s Hot Dogs

212 25th Street, Watervliet (518) 273-8743

Our readers go crazy for those little hot dogs swimming in spicy meat sauce. Cheap, regional eats at their best.

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Mike’s Hot Dogs 1135 Erie Boulevard, Schenectady (518) 382-9213

ICE CREAM STAND

Guptill’s Ice Cream 1085 New Loudon Road, Cohoes (518) 785-0660

The summer season is 92 days long, and Guptill’s has 80 flavors of ice cream. So you could order a different flavor every day and still have time for a sundae, flurry, shake or banana split. Big menu, big parking lot, fast service. That’s Guptills, now in its 26th year.

The Snowman 531 Fifth Avenue, Troy (518) 233-1714

Samascott’s Garden Market 65 Chatham Street, Kinderhook (518) 758-9292

KID-FRIENDLY DINING

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

Chicken fingers and French fries? Your tot will love the kid’s menu at Ted’s. It even has a child-sized fish fry for your small fry.

O’Kenny’s Express 3321 State Route 9H, Valatie (518) 784-2941

Jumpin’ Jack’s Drive-in 5 Schonowee Avenue, Scotia (518) 535-4747

LATE-NIGHT DINING

Bob’s Diner

929 19th Street, Watervliet (518) 274-2393

Hey, night owls and shift workers: Bob’s is open 24 hours a day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottomless coffee?

Bob’s has it!

Latham ’76 Diner

722 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-3793

My Place & Company 241 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-7610

1640 Columbia Turnpike, Schodack (518) 477-5555

LOBSTER MAC AND CHEESE

Yanni’s Too Restaurant

20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Oh, lobster mac and cheese! Let me the count the ways I love thee! At Yanni’s Too, the restaurant mixes the sweet lobster chunks with penne pasta, shrimp and cheeses, adds a sherry lobster sauce, tops it with buttered crumbs and bakes it until it’s gooey hot.

Druthers

Multiple locations

The Century House 997 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-0834

LUNCH SPOT

Ted’s Fish Fry

Multiple locations

When you’re on the run, Ted’s can feed you fast. Fish fry on a roll, a hot dog or a burger. Grab

the goodies and go. And don’t forget those fries.

O’Kenny’s Express

3321 State Route 9H, Valatie (518) 784-2941

Chris’ Café 1048 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7701

MAC AND CHEESE

Druthers

Multiple locations

You can’t make mac and cheese like this at home. Well, that is, if you don’t read Saratoga Living. Seven cheeses (wow!), housemade pasta and a crunchy topping of house-made chips and Panko. Now that’s some cheesy goodness.

Tipsy Moose & Tavern

Multiple Locations

Chris’ Café 1048 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7701

MARGARITA

La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant 15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park (518) 280-2657

La Fiesta has all your favorite brands of tequila and mixes up some of the coolest drinks, like a passion fruit margarita. A pitcher of lime margaritas for the table? Sure, let’s get this party started.

El Loco Mexican Café 465 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 436-1855

El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant 289 Hamilton Street, Albany (518) 432-7580

MARTINI

The Standard Restaurant & Lounge

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany (518) 452-7007

“Shaken, not stirred.” We can imagine James Bond ordering a martini at The Standard, because our readers tell us it’s the “Bestie,” not just for a classic cocktail but for the 10 other mixed drinks on the menu, including The Audrey Hepburn.

677 Prime

677 Broadway, Albany (518) 427-7463

City Line Bar and Grill 1200 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 504-1200

MEATBALLS

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

At Verdile’s, you can get your meatballs on eight different kinds of pasta, including a gluten-free option. Hold the sausage just this once, Mama, because we’re craving the meatballs.

Canali’s Restaurant

126 Mariaville Road, Rotterdam (518) 355-5323 (Restaurant/ Banquets/Catering) (518) 355-3663 (Takeout)

Testo’s

853 Fourth Avenue, Troy (518) 235-0444

769 Pawling Avenue, Troy (518) 326-1177

MUFFINS

Bella Napoli Bakery & Café 672 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 783-0196

721 River Street, Troy (518) 274-8277

Delizioso. That’s how you describe the muffins at Bella Napoli, where Italian pastries, cookies and cakes are just the tip of the bakery iceberg.

Golden Harvest 3074 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7683

Zachary’s Pastry Shoppe

390 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 477-2140

54 State St, Albany (518) 813-9557

NEW RESTAURANT WITHIN PAST YEAR

SOHO Asian Bistro

751 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 666-7888

Congratulations, SOHO! Of all the new restaurants in the Capital Region, our readers

picked you as the Bestie. They like the large and creative Asian menu, including hibachi and stunning plates of sushi, plus the stylish interior and bar area.

Café Monocle 95 Remsen Street, Cohoes (518) 244-3667

The Tasting Lab

4856 State Route 81, Greenville (518) 966-0020

OMELETS

Café Madison

1108 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 935-1094

359 Northern Boulevard, Albany (518) 898-9630

Pesto, caramelized onions... and 14 other options for that made-just-for-you omelet. And maybe you’d like fresh greens, avocado or guacamole with that? How “egg-citing!”

Latham ’76 Diner

722 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-3793

Duncan’s Dairy Bar 890 Hoosick Road, Troy (518) 279-9985

OUTDOOR DINING

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Only 20 minutes from Downtown Albany, Yanni’s Too overlooks the Coeymans Marina, and its large patio is one of the best places to relax and watch the boats motor up and down the Hudson River. Plus, it’s casual dining— sandals not stilettos, please.

Lanie’s Café 471 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville (518) 438-5005

Lost & Found 942 Broadway, Albany (518) 694-0670

PASTA SAUCE

Testo’s

853 Fourth Avenue, Troy (518) 235-0444

769 Pawling Avenue, Troy (518) 326-1177

We all know how picky Capital Region residents are about their sauces. With all the Italian restaurants around here, the competition is stiff. Huge congrats to Testo’s, which sells jars of its homemade sauce and scooped up the big prize for the second year in a row.

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

Canali’s Restaurant 126 Mariaville Road, Rotterdam

(518) 355-5323 (Restaurant/ Banquets/Catering) (518) 355-3663 (Takeout)

PIES

Grandma’s Pies & Restaurant 1273 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 459-4585

At Thanksgiving time, pumpkin and apple pies fly off the shelves at Grandma’s. But don’t forget birthday and graduation pies in decadent flavors like coconut cream, lemon meringue and strawberry.

Grandma’s bakes 24 yummy types in all.

Smith’s Orchard Bake Shop 4561 Jockey Street, Ballston Spa (518) 882-6598

Golden Harvest Farms 3074 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7683

PIZZA

Kay’s Pizza

10 Walsh Lane, Averill Park (518) 674-5413

Arriving by car or boat from Burden Lake, pizza lovers jam Kay’s from April to October. Our readers rave about the puffy, crisp crust and mounds of cheese and toppings. Off season, devoted customers stop by for make-your-own Pizza Kits.

DeFazio’s Pizzeria

266 Fourth Street, Troy (518) 271-1111

Romo’s Pizza

365 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont (518) 449-5871

PUB

Purple Pub

2 Cohoes Road, Watervliet (518) 273-9646

Brought to you by the Rentz family since 1972, the Purple Pub is all about family, friends and good food, such as its award-winning pizza and wings. Hey, Purple Pub’s got the fiery. stuff too, including jalapeño appetizers and a Mexican Heat Pizza.

Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub

367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 475-1111

O’Slattery’s Irish Restaurant & Pub 318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-5634

RIBS

Otis & Oliver’s Restaurant & Pub

30 Mill Road, Latham (518) 785-9291

The baby backs at Otis & Oliver’s are the meatier Danish kind. The restaurant uses a dry rub, slow cooks them, then

brushes them with its own apple-infused BBQ sauce. Our readers dig them bones!

The Towne Tavern 2850 NY 43, Averill Park (518) 674-3040

*Tied With*

Warehouse Grill & BBQ 219 Wolf Road, Albany (518) 489-5227

PJ’s BAR-B-QSA

1 Kaydeross Avenue West, Saratoga Springs (518) 583-7427 or (518) 583-2445

ROMANTIC DINING

Yono’s 25 Chapel Street, Albany (518) 436-7747

Keep the love light burning with a romantic dinner à deux at Yono’s, where tables are elegantly set, the service is excellent, and the wine list is

superb. Shall we begin with a dozen oysters?

677 Prime 677 Broadway, Albany (518) 427-7463

15 Church

15 Church Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-1515

SALAD

Lanie’s Café

471 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville (518) 438-5005

For lunch with a crunch, there’s Lanie’s and its awesome menu of 12 salads, including baconwrapped shrimp spinach and grilled swordfish salads. Or create your own veggie plate. Bountiful Bread

1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 438-3540

BEST FISH FRY

Ted’s Fish Fry

TED’S FISH FRY

Crisp

594 Loudon Road, Latham (518) 782-2747

SANDWICH/SUB

McCarroll’s The Village Butcher 406 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3936

During the week, Delmar residents run into their neighbors shopping at McCarroll’s, and on weekends, they stand in line for their scrumptious egg sandwiches. The subs there are huge, packed with meat cut to order—and the delicious turkey and pork are roasted in house.

Pellegrino Importing Multiple locations

Roma Foods

9 Cobbee Road, Latham (518) 785-7480

222 Washington Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-6004

SEAFOOD

Yanni’s Too Restaurant 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Seafood lovers cast their vote again and again for Yanni’s Too. The reason? Its award-winning calamari served six ways; chardonnay steamed mussels with pesto cream sauce; and other ocean delights like scallops, shrimp and mahi mahi. Baked, stuffed, broiled or fried. How would you like your fish?

Off-Shore Pier Fish Market and Restaurant 637 Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer (518) 283-9880

30 Lake

30 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 539-3474

SLIDERS

Slidin’ Dirty 9 First Street, Troy (518) 326-8492

After Slidin’ Dirty rocketed

to food truck fame, after appearing on Live! with Kelly and Michael, it wasn’t long before its bad-ass bites turned up in a Troy brick and mortar. And its sliders aren’t just tasty; with names like Dirty Pig and Dirty Cowboy, they’re fun to order, too.

Jack’s Drive In 24 Main Avenue, Wynantskill (518) 283-5110

SOUP

Chris’ Café 1048 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7701

Homemade soup is comfort food, and Chris’ Café always offers at least three bellywarming concoctions each day: chicken noodle, taco and bean. Forget the Campbell’s; get to Chris’ stat.

Bountiful Bread

1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 438-3540

Samascott’s Garden Market 65 Chatham Street, Kinderhook (518) 758-9292

SPORTS BAR

Junior’s

1094 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 935-2025

48 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 244-3535

On a normal summer day at Junior’s, you’ll find a YankeesRed Sox game on the big screen, with fans enjoying a nice cold beer and a plate of hot wings. What more does a sports fan need? Our readers picked Junior’s for its multiple screens, friendly bartenders, selection of beer and yummy burgers, too.

Forty One Sports Bar & Grille 41 112th Street, Troy (518) 235-4141

City Line Bar and Grill

1200 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 504-1200

STEAKHOUSE

677 Prime

677 Broadway, Albany (518) 427-7463

Yes, the beef at 677 Prime is Iowa Prime. That’s sustainably raised and processed Black Angus, folks. Don’t forget toppers like au poivre and black truffle butter, plus immaculate sides such as lobster mac and cheese and jalapeño creamed corn.

The Barnsider

480 Sand Creek Road, Albany (518) 869-2448

Black & Blue Steak and Crab 1470 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 313-7388

SUSHI

Sushi Thai Garden

44-46 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 580-0900

Escape to “The Garden,” a serene and lovely dining room where the waitstaff, adorned in colorful Thai dress, graciously serves you sushi and sashimi from the expansive menu. Sushi Thai’s been a Saratoga favorite for many years—and wins a Bestie this year.

Sushi Tei

1800 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 218-0388

Shogun of Delmar 318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 729-5727

TAKEOUT

Canali’s Restaurant 126 Mariaville Road, Rotterdam (518) 355-5323 (Restaurant/ Banquets/Catering) (518) 355-3663 (Takeout)

When it comes to Besties, Canali’s is a frequent flyer, and this year it took top prize in a category that has carried extraspecial weight for customers during the COVID-19 crisis: best takeout. Where else can

you pick up five kinds of Italian dishes with homemade pasta? Tiramisu-to-go, too.

Chris’ Café

1048 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-7701

Testo’s

853 Fourth Avenue, Troy (518) 235-0444

769 Pawling Avenue, Troy (518) 326-1177

TAPAS/SMALL PLATE

Twisted Vine Wine & Tap

384 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-3241

Twisted Vine is known for its unique plates for sharing with the whole table: pancetta flatbread, Asian sweet potato noodles, an eggplant tower or Aunt Rita’s Meatballs served in a freshly baked French boule. Plus, it has suggested pairings from its menu of 50 wines. A match made in heaven.

Spindles on Remsen 241 Remsen Street, Cohoes (518) 326-1731

TEA

The Whistling Kettle Multiple Locations

“I say let the world go to hell, but I should always have my tea.” And our readers say that the Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoyevsky, who coined this phrase, would be in heaven at The Whistling Kettle, where he could peruse a menu of more than 120 teas or take home a bag (or 10) of his own.

Short and Stout Tea Company 1736a Western Avenue, Albany (Tea Lounge and Bubble Tea Bar) (518) 456-8327

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany (Matcha and Macaron Bar with Tea Retail) (518) 313-7863

The Tailored Tea 1010 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 608-5137

VEGETARIAN SELECTION

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

We tried to count the number of vegetarian menu selections at New World Bistro and just gave up. From eggplant “meatballs” and cauliflower “wings” to house-made veggie burgers and delectable entrées made with tofu and seitan, the possibilities are nearly endless.

Berben & Wolff’s 227 Lark Street, Albany (518)-599-5306

156 Fourth Street, Troy (518) 326-0334

Bliss

278 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-0739

VEGAN SELECTION

Berben & Wolff’s 227 Lark Street, Albany (518)-599-5306

156 Fourth Street, Troy (518) 326-0334

At Berben & Wolff’s, one of the Capital Region’s top vegan delicatessens, chow down on “bacon,” “pastrami” and “ham” made from plants not animals. It’s got meatless versions–Reubens, burgers and BLTs–too.

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

Bliss

278 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-0739

WAITSTAFF

Yanni’s Too Restaurant

20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

Our readers appreciate good service and pick Yanni’s Too for the high honor of best waitstaff in the Capital Region. Friendly and attentive, its servers are simply outstanding. And after finally getting back to our favorite restaurants after months of

isolation, those smiles have never been more appreciated.

Verdile’s Restaurant

572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

WINE LIST

Lucas Confectionery

12 Second Street, Troy (518) 326-3450

Lucas Confectionery, in the heart of historic Troy, is the place to experience a unique selection of wines—and a staff that can uncork the nuances or backstory of every vintage.

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

The Shaker & Vine

221 Harborside Drive, Schenectady (518) 630-6318

WINE/WINERY

The Saratoga Winery

462 NY 29, Saratoga Springs (518) 584-9463

Locals and tourists have fallen in love with Saratoga Winery, a unique rustic wine-tasting destination four miles from Downtown Saratoga. New York State and its grapes are the stars of this show, featured in the wine and melomel (a wine-and-honey drink) that’s made onsite.

Hudson Chatham Winery 1900 Route 66, Ghent (518) 392-9463

Altamont Vineyard & Winery 3001 Furbeck Road, Altamont (518) 355-8100

*Tied With*

Oliva Vineyards 250 Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 350-4515

READER’S CHOICE MENU

Here’s what happened when

we asked our readers to create a fantasy menu:

APPETIZER

Calamari at Yanni’s Too Restaurant

20 Marina Drive, Coeymans (518) 756-7033

ENTRÉE

Prime Rib at The Century House 997 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-0834

DESSERT

Carrot Cake at Verdile’s Restaurant

572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

BEVERAGE

Coffee Vodka at Albany Distilling Company

75 Livingston Avenue, Albany (518) 949-2472

CUISINE

AMERICAN

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

A long-time favorite, New World Bistro hits it out of the park with its famous string beans and wings (chicken or seitan) with sauce options ranging from chimichurri to “dirty blonde.” Heartier bistro fare includes everything from jerk and Korean fried chicken to gouda-stuffed, bacon-wrapped meatloaf.

Daley’s on Yates 10 Yates Street, Schenectady (518) 901-0174

The Barnsider 480 Sand Creek Road, Albany (518) 869-2448

CAJUN

Nanola

2639 Route 9, Malta (518) 587-1300

Let the good times roll at

Nanola, where Southern- and New Orleans–inspired foods, like gumbo, jambalaya, catfish and fried pickles, all feature on the menu. How about some Gator Bites? Yep, it’s real alligator meat (don’t flinch–it tastes like chicken).

CARIBBEAN

First Choice Caribbean 451 Fulton Street, Troy (518) 560-5341

Owner and chef Ricky BrownBurnett, who grew up in Jamaica, whips up island comfort foods—curry goat, oxtail and jerk chicken. Vegans savor his Ital, too, a stew made of potatoes, carrots and plantains simmered in coconut milk.

Roy’s Caribbean Restaurant 769 State Street, Schenectady (518) 346-1677

Lil’ Deb’s Oasis 747 Columbia Street, Hudson (518) 828-4307

CHINESE

Ala Shanghai 468 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 783-8188

Food adventurers have discovered Ala Shanghai and its menu of traditional Chinese dishes. Diners can try sautéed, shredded eel; sea cucumber with brown sauce; and Eight Jewels Duck, a whole bird stuffed with nuts, rice and veggies. Ala Shanghai’s dim sum menu is a gem, too, with more than 20 dumplings, buns and other items.

Plum Blossom Chinese Restaurant 685 Hoosick Road, Troy (518) 272-0036

Gold Coin

1360 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands (518) 439-6428

FRENCH

Provence Restaurant & Wine Bar Stuyvesant Plaza 1475 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 689-7777

Bouillabaisse, a fish stew that originated in Marseille; and cassoulet de canard, a slowcooked casserole of duck confit and beans, are just two of the traditional French dishes you can find at Provence. C’est bon!

La Serre 14 Green Street, Albany (518) 463-6056

GERMAN

The Flammerie

7 Hudson Street, Kinderhook (518) 758-1509

This farm-to-table restaurant takes its name from the “flammkuchen,” a.k.a. German flatbread. Be sure to

try its mouthwatering Flamm Burger, Schnitzel Sammy and bratwurst. It might just be a good idea to wear your elasticwaist lederhosen too.

Wolff’s Biergarten

Multiple locations

Wunderbar Bistro 744 Warren Street, Hudson (518) 828-0555 (Takeout)

GREEK

Athos Restaurant 1814 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 608-6400

Award-winning Athos is our readers’ pick for Greek dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in the Capital Region–choose from grilled octopus, giant lima beans, pasticcio, moussaka and so much more.

The Greek House 27 Third Street, Troy (518) 272-6058

Alexis Diner

294 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 286-2603

INDIAN

Karavalli

9 Johnson Road, Latham (518) 785-7600

Year after year, Karavalli rules the Indian food category. Is it the fresh herbs and spices? Or the aromatic choices of naan (think garlic chilli, rosemary and paneer cheese)? Or maybe it’s the tried-and-true Indian dishes that diners return for–favorites such as chicken tikka masala, goat curry and all the vegetarian entrées. Its lunch buffet is also super popular.

Taj Fine Indian Cuisine 365 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont (518) 977-3050

Shalimar

180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-4200

ITALIAN

D’Raymond’s Restaurant

269 Osborne Road, Loudonville (518) 459-6364

Award-winning D’Raymond’s has been serving fine Italian cuisine in the Capital Region since 1979. Kick off your meal with its famous antipasti plate (for one, two or four people), and then move on to braised short rib ravioli, clams bianco or orrechietti carbonara. Fun fact: Gregory Cordelle, owner and head chef, was only 13 years old when he started working there.

Caffe Italia

662 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 459-8029

Verdile’s Restaurant

572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

BEST FRENCH CUISINE

Provence Restaurant & Wine Bar

JAPANESE

Sake Japanese Steakhouse 611 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 785-7215

At Sake, sushi-making is high art—each piece you eat is a delicate, colorful masterpiece. The drink menu is über-special too, with 20 kinds of (you guessed it) sake.

Hana Japanese Steak House 1620 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 452-4262

Koto Japanese Restaurant 260 Wolf Road, Latham (518) 869-8888

LEBANESE

Mamoun’s Falafel Restaurant

206 Washington Avenue, Albany (518) 434-3901

Happiness is a warm pita stuffed with grilled veggies.

Mamoun’s is all about good food that’s good for you. For dessert? Baklava!

MEDITERRANEAN

Tara Kitchen

431 Liberty Street, Schenectady (518) 708-3485

172 River Street, Troy (518) 328-6281

“Never give up your taste for adventure.” That’s the motto at Tara Kitchen, one of the only Moroccan restaurants in the Capital Region. And it’s accented by the addicting smells of cumin, cinnamon, ginger, garlic, curry and hot chili powder. Tagine, anyone?

Athos Restaurant

1814 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 608-6400

Barcelona Restaurant 1192 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 438-1144

MEXICAN

El Mariachi

289 Hamilton Street, Albany (518) 432-7580

El Mariachi is the best not only for its authentic Mexican cuisine, like pipian, a pumpkin seed sauce, and incredible mole poblano, but also its menu of Spanish tapas. In the summer, dining on the patio is absolutely delightful.

El Loco Mexican Café 465 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 436-1855

La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant 15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park (518) 280-2657

POLISH

Muza

1300 15th Street, Troy (518) 271-6892

Making pierogi by hand is a time-consuming labor of love. But those tender pillows of potato, cheese and onion are on the Muza menu every day, along with stuffed cabbage, kielbasa, potato pancakes, sauerkraut and shredded beets. It’s Polish-style comfort food at its absolute finest.

Euro Deli and Market

231 Wade Road Extension, Latham (518) 785-0103

SPANISH

Barcelona Restaurant

1192 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 438-1144

Olive oil, garlic and wine are the essences of Barcelona, and the seafood menu (see: swordfish puttanesca) is sublime. At the bar, nibble on some tapas with a glass of red or white sangria.

BEST CLIFTON PARK RESTAURANT Pasta Pane

Romantic outdoor dining is also available in the summer.

THAI

Sushi Thai @ The Park 1707 Route 9, Suite 100, Clifton Park (518) 348-0100

A Capital Region favorite for Thai and Japanese, Sushi Thai is known for its exquisite food presentation. There’s curry, pad thai and many other noodle dishes and soups for all you carnivores; plus tofu options for vegetarians, too.

Celadon Thai Bistro

461 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 389-6190

2015 Rosa Road, Schenectady (518) 952-4140

Sweet Basil Thai Restaurant

370 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 729-4111

VIETNAMESE

Van’s Vietnamese Restaurant

307 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 436-1868

Van’s is one of Downtown Albany’s hidden treasures, with fabulous pho, minty spring rolls and a yummy array of vegetarian dishes.

Pho Yum

1558 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 869-9866

Saigon Spring 1683 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 982-0425

COUNTY

ALBANY

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

When it comes to Besties, New World Bistro Bar is a real champion, winning not only this 2020 Bestie, but also awards in these other Bestie categories: bistro, vegetarian selection, waitstaff, American food and Albany restaurant.

677 Prime 677 Broadway, Albany (518) 427-7463

D’Raymond’s

269 Osborne Road, Loudonville (518) 459-6364

COLUMBIA

Jackson’s Old Chatham House 646 Albany Turnpike, Old Chatham (518) 794-7373

For generations, this homey Old World–style pub has been a gathering place for Columbia County folks. Pork osso bucco and chicken cordon bleu are two of its heartiest menu choices. Save room for a side of sweet potato fries.

Carolina House 59 Broad Street, Kinderhook (518) 758-1669

Labella Pizza 2967 Route 9, Valatie (518) 758-6611

FULTON/MONTGOMERY

Raindancer Restaurant 4582 State Highway 30, Amsterdam (518) 842-2606

Raindancer is one of those family-friendly, family-run restaurants that’s always busy. The place is big and so is the menu, with a whopping 80 dishes. Try the steak or seafood, dig into a flowering colossal onion (or at least some mozzarella sticks), and crunch into its bread baked in house. There’s even a pickup window.

Parillo’s Armory Grill 67 Bridge Street, Amsterdam (518) 842-2004

Lanzi’s on the Lake 1751 State Highway 30, Mayfield (518) 661-7711

GREENE

Red’s Restaurant 12005 State Route 9W, West Coxsackie (518) 731-8151

Red’s, named after the guy who opened the restaurant in 1944, is the oldest one of its kind in Greene County. The ownership has changed over the years, but fresh, high-quality seafood is still the main attraction. Where else can you find everything from appetizers like cheese curds and asparagus fries to original dishes such as a smoked salmon Cuban sandwich or grouper Florentine with Hollandaise sauce?

Mountain View Brasserie 10697 State Route 32, Greenville (518) 966-5522

Crossroads Brewing Company 21 Second Street, Athens (518) 945-2337

201 Water Street, Catskill (518) 444-8277

OTSEGO

Brooks’ House of BBQ 5560 State Highway 7, Oneonta (607) 432-1782

Brooks’ House of BBQ, which seats 300, boasts the largest indoor charcoal barbecue pit in the East. Yep, its world-famous chicken is a fixture on the grill, along with Brooks’ House’s pork, beef, ribs and burgers.

RENSSELAER

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

Verdile’s racked up a bunch of Besties this year, including one for its delish carrot cake, which is our “reader’s choice” dessert. An extraordinary Italian restaurant run by the same family since 1943, Verdile’s is a Rensselaer County landmark.

Casey’s Restaurant 77 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer (518) 463-3318

Chez Mike 596 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 479-4730

SARATOGA SPRINGS

The Olde Bryan Inn

123 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-2990

Locals and tourists always feel at home at “the OBI,” a cozy pub set in a stone house that dates from 1825. Our readers rave about the food and the friendly service. Handmade Saratoga Chips, in the city that invented them? Yes, please. 15 Church 15 Church Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-1515

Lake Ridge Restaurant 35 Burlington Avenue, Round Lake (518) 899-6000

SCHENECTADY

Johnny’s

433 State Street, Schenectady (518) 982-5657

Four kinds of pasta are made fresh every day at Johnny’s, a Downtown Schenectady mainstay for Italian food. And its sauce? Many locals say it’s as good as homemade “gravy.”

Canali’s Restaurant

126 Mariaville Road, Rotterdam (518) 355-5323 (Restaurant/ Banquets/Catering) (518) 355-3663 (Takeout)

Daley’s on Yates 10 Yates Street, Schenectady (518) 901-0174

SCHOHARIE

Chieftans Restaurant and Bar 548 Main Street, Cobleskill (518) 823-4208

Cottage pie, bangers and mash, fish and chips–you can count on these belly-warming dishes to always be on the menu at Chieftans. Plus Guinness and Smithwick on tap, of course.

WARREN

The Log Jam Restaurant

1484 State Route 9, Lake George (518) 798-1155

The Log Jam is a real log

cabin, with massive fireplaces and antler chandeliers. The atmosphere is quintessential Adirondacks and the food, including the big salad bar, is Warren County’s finest.

George Henry’s 3735 Main Street, Warrensburg (518) 623-5186

CITY/TOWN

ALBANY

677 Prime 677 Broadway, Albany (518) 427-7463

“Take one part farm fresh seasonal ingredients, one part passion for our craft, sprinkle with a generous dose of love and serve it in a beautiful space.” That’s the recipe for operating 677 Prime, says General Manager Jaime Ortiz. New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany (518) 694-0520

Caffe Italia

662 Central Avenue, Albany (518) 459-8029

BALLSTON SPA

Augie’s Family Style Italian Restaurant

17 Low Street, Ballston Spa (518) 884-8600

Born and raised in the Bronx, Augie Vitiello learned to cook homestyle Italian fare from his parents. In Ballston Spa, Augie’s is where local families gather to pass around big plates and bowls of his salad and pasta, then tote home their “Augie Doggie Bags.”

Next Door Kitchen & Bar

51 Front Street, Ballston Spa (518) 309-3249

Iron Roost

36 Front Street, Ballston Spa (518) 309-3535

CLIFTON PARK

Pasta Pane

18 Park Avenue, Clifton Park (518) 371-5762

Pasta Pane has a friendly but classy atmosphere, with an Italian menu (see: Arancini, wood/stone-oven pizzas, pasta and steak) that changes with the seasons.

Sushi Thai @ The Park 1707 Route 9, Clifton Park (518) 348-0100

Ravenswood 1021 Route 146, Clifton Park (518) 371-8771

COLONIE

Lanie’s Café 471 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville (518) 438-5005

Summer (and our current environment) is all about dining al fresco, and at Lanie’s, the outdoor seating is especially lovely. The restaurant is known for spectacular salads and dishes presented with flair.

The Barnsider

480 Sand Creek Road, Albany (518) 869-2448

DeMarco’s 1965 Central Avenue, Colonie (518) 456-7574

DELMAR/SLINGERLANDS

O’Slattery’s Irish Restaurant & Pub

318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 439-5634

Opened in 2015 by two Irish immigrants, O’Slattery’s Irish Restaurant & Pub is the real deal, serving up Guinness beef stew and cottage pie. Regulars rave about the fish and chips and a Reuben sandwich made with corn beef braised in Irish ale.

Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub

367 Delaware Avenue, Delmar (518) 472-0522

EAST/NORTH GREENBUSH

Chez Mike

596 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush (518) 479-4730

Chez Mike, noted for its eclectic American food that changes with the seasons, has been snagging Besties for years. People rave about its braised short ribs with gremolata, lamb burgers and scallop appetizer.

Alexis Diner

294 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 286-2603

GUILDERLAND

Athos Restaurant 1814 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 608-6400

Athos is not your average Greek diner. It’s an upscale dining adventure with best-of-the-best Greek cuisine and impeccable service. People travel miles for the award-winning Greek food at Athos, drawn in by the yummy traditional spreads, the best spanakopita around and delectable entrées such as Mediterranean lamb and chicken souvlaki.

MezzaNotte Ristorante

2026 Western Avenue, Albany (518) 689-4433

Pizza Gram Plus 2514 Washington Avenue, Guilderland (518) 464-4726

LAKE GEORGE

The Log Jam Restaurant 1484 State Route 9, Lake George (518) 798-1155

Rustic vibe. Check. Antler chandeliers. Check. For Adirondack-style dining, you can’t beat The Log Jam, known for its steaks, burgers and decadent desserts (save room for an Adirondack Log brownie or old-fashioned mud pie). Outof-towners love its location, only steps away from the Factory Outlets of Lake George.

Boathouse Restaurant 3210 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George (518) 668-2389

The Inn at Erlowest 3178 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George (518) 668-5928

LATHAM

Tipsy Moose Tap & Tavern 185 Old Loudon Road, Latham (518) 631-4444

An Adirondack-themed outpost in an Albany suburb, Tipsy Moose is a fun place to meet for beer and snacks (poutine, smoked meats, wings) served on metal plates and in cast-iron skillets. And the ol’ moose is everywhere; a silhouette of the animal is even imprinted on the restaurants rolls.

The Century House 997 New Loudon Road, Latham (518) 785-0834

Innovo Kitchen 1210 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham (518) 608-1466

ROTTERDAM

Canali’s Restaurant 126 Mariaville Road, Rotterdam (518) 355-5323 (Restaurant/ Banquets/Catering) (518) 355-3663 (Takeout)

Italian recipes passed down through four generations and the best ingredients make Canali’s a multiple-Bestie winner. There are five kinds of house-made pastas, and its tomatoes are top-shelf Stanislaus brand, grown in California.

Armondo’s Villa Tuscan Grill 273 Duanesburg Road, Schenectady (518) 355-2090

Bellevue Café 2630 Broadway, Schenectady (518) 393-7720 or (518) 377-8615

SARATOGA SPRINGS

The Olde Bryan Inn 123 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs (518) 587-2990

The Olde Bryan Inn serves up delicious pub food in a historic 19th-century stone building with fireplaces and plank floors. Hundreds of pewter tankards

hang over the bar, where happy hour is a longtime Saratoga Springs tradition.

15 Church

15 Church Street, Saratoga Springs (518)-587-1515

Solevo Kitchen + Social 55 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs (518) 450-7094

SCHENECTADY

Johnny’s

433 State Street, Schenectady (518) 982-5657

Johnny’s is a double Bestie winner, for both the city and county of Schenectady. Families, business groups, tourists and couples out for a date are all fans of its expertly prepared Italian cuisine, from baked Littleneck clams and chicken cognac in a Dijon cream sauce, to a coterie of

homemade pastas, each tastier than the last.

Daley’s on Yates 10 Yates Street, Schenectady (518) 901-0174

Tara Kitchen

431 Liberty Street, Schenectady (518) 708-3485

SCOTIA/GLENVILLE

Jade Bistro

120 Mohawk Avenue, Scotia (518) 377-6637

Jade Bistro, a stunning Asian fusion restaurant housed in a former Chinese restaurant, is the pride and joy of Downtown Scotia. Its food is almost too pretty to eat, expertly plated like pieces of edible art. Dig in anyway; the teensy, tasty bites of shrimp tempura and heaping plates of fresh sushi are too delicious to miss.

Mohawk Taproom and Grill 153 Mohawk Avenue, Scotia (518) 357-8005

The Glass Tavern 115 Saratoga Road, Glenville (518) 952-7443

TROY/RENSSELAER

Verdile’s Restaurant 572 Second Avenue, Troy (518) 235-8879

Holy cannoli! Verdile’s was voted best restaurant in the county and best in Troy/ Rensselaer. The hot spot has been family run for 77 years. Now that’s a lot of meatballs! Moscatiello’s 99 North Greenbush Road, Troy (518) 283-0809

Nighthawks 461 Broadway, Troy (518) 272-1000

WEST SAND LAKE/ AVERILL PARK

The Towne Tavern 2850 NY 43, Averill Park (518) 674-3040

Hitch up your wagon and trot over to The Towne, an old blacksmith’s shop where you can relax with a craft beer and a munchie or entrée from its mile-long menu. It’s also known for its award-winning chicken wings; Southwest-style onion soup, with a zesty cap of pepper jack cheese; and barbecue with four kinds of sauce.

Kay’s Pizza 10 Walsh Lane, Averill Park (518)-674-5413

Lakeview on Crystal Lake 4 Old Route 66, Averill Park (518) 674-3363

BRUNCH Café Madison

CULTURE

ART GALLERY

Albany Institute of History & Art

125 Washington Avenue, Albany

Albany Center Gallery

488 Broadway, Suite 107, Albany

The Hyde Collection 161 Warren Street, Glens Falls

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

CMOST (Children’s Museum of Science & Technology)

250 Jordan Road, Troy

miSci (Museum of Innovation & Science)

15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga 69 Caroline Street, Saratoga Springs

CONCERT HALL

Troy Savings Bank Music Hall

30 Second Street, Troy

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs

Palace Theatre

19 Clinton Street, Albany

COUNTY FAIR

Altamont Fair

129 Grand Street, Altamont

Columbia County Fair

182 Hudson Avenue, Chatham

Saratoga County Fair

162 Prospect Street, Ballston Spa

MOVIE THEATER

Crandell Theatre

48 Main Street, Chatham

Scotia Cinema

117 Mohawk Street, Scotia

MUSEUM

New York State Museum

222 Madison Avenue, Albany

Albany Institute of History & Art

125 Washington Avenue, Albany

The Clark

225 South Street, Williamstown, MA

OUTDOOR

SUMMER VENUE

Saratoga Performing Arts Center

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs

Park Playhouse in Washington Park

Madison Avenue at New Scotland Avenue, Albany

Tanglewood

297 West Street, Lenox, MA

SEASONAL EVENT

Albany Pro Musica

30 Second Street, Troy

Saratoga Race Course

267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

Night Terrors Haunted Farm

4193 Route 7, Schoharie

THEATER

Proctors

432 State Street, Schenectady

Mac-Haydn Theatre

1925 New York 203, Chatham

Troy Savings Bank Music Hall

30 Second Street, Troy

SERVICES

ANIMAL HOSPITAL

The Animal Hospital

2 Rocking Horse Lane, Slingerlands

East Greenbush Animal Hospital

2 Springhurst Drive South, East Greenbush

Sand Creek Animal Hospital 130 Wolf Road, Albany

APPLIANCE STORE

Green’s Appliance

1207 Central Avenue, Albany

Marcella’s Appliance Center

560 Broadway, Schenectady

Market 32 Plaza - Shoppers World15 Park Avenue, Clifton Park

Earl B. Feiden Appliance

785 Route 9, Latham 1775 Route 9, Clifton Park

AUTO SERVICE

Broadway Auto Clinic

3 Wolfert Avenue, Menands

Bethlehem Auto Service

62 Hannay Lane, Glenmont

Gochee’s Garage Inc.

329 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

BANK

Pioneer Bank

Multiple Locations

Trustco Bank

Multiple Locations

Berkshire Bank

Multiple Locations

CATERER

Mazzone Hospitality

743 Pierce Road, Clifton Park

The Healthy Café Catering Co.

50 Yardboro Avenue, Albany

Nicole’s Special Events & Catering 556 Delaware Avenue, Albany

CHEF

Ian Brower

Lost & Found

942 Broadway, Albany

Ric Orlando

New World Bistro Bar

300 Delaware Avenue, Albany

Jamie Ortiz

677 Prime

677 Broadway, Albany

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Tim Talmage

Delmar Chiropractic

204 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Dr. Lee Masterson

Delmar Chiropractic

204 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Dr. Timothy Kelly

East Greenbush Chiropractic

569 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush

CREDIT UNION

CapCom Federal Credit Union

Multiple Locations

SEFCU

Multiple Locations

Sunmark Federal Credit Union

Multiple Locations

CUSTOMER SERVICE

CapCom Federal Credit Union

Multiple Locations

Worksite Benefits

3991 Route 2, Cropseyville

Broadway Auto Clinic

3 Wolfert Avenue, Menands

CUTTING EDGE

(ORIGINAL BUSINESS)

Dove + Deer

32 Dove Street, Albany

The Tasting Lab

4856 Route 81, Greenville

Native Lakes

14 Harriman Road Extension, Averill Park

DAY SPA

Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

Kimberley’s A Day Spa

982 New Loudon Road, Latham

Spa Mirbeau

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany

DRY CLEANER

Stena Dry Cleaning

451 Albany Shaker Road, Albany

Best Cleaners

Multiple Locations

Silvestri Dry Cleaners

69 Fuller Road, Albany 145 Vly Road, Schenectady

FACIAL

Breathe Massage

48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar

Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

Kimberley’s A Day Spa

982 New Loudon Road, Latham

FITNESS CENTER

Capital District YMCA

Multiple Locations

Vent Fitness

Multiple Locations

Top Form

Multiple Locations

FLORIST

Ambiance Floral

116 Everett Road, Albany

Felthousen’s Florist & Greenhouse

1537 Van Antwerp Road, Schenectady

250 Columbia Street, Cohoes

Renaissance Floral Design 1561 Western Avenue, Albany

FURNITURE STORE

Old Brick Furniture

33-37 Warehouse Row, Albany 2910 Campbell Road, Schenectady

Mooradians Furniture

800 Central Avenue, Albany 1758A Route 9, Parkwood Plaza, Clifton Park

Taft Furniture

1960 Central Avenue, Albany

121 Ballston Avenue, Saratoga Springs

HAIR SALON

Choices Hair Studio

180 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Rumors Salon and Spa

626 New Loudon Road, Latham

Fusion Salon

18 Division Street, Saratoga Springs

HEALTHCARE/HMO

CDPHP

500 Patroon Creek Boulevard, Albany

MVP Health Care

625 State Street, Schenectady

Blue Shield of Northeastern

New York

40 Century Hill Drive, Latham

HEATING & COOLING

Crisafulli Brothers

Plumbing & Heating

520 Livingston Avenue, Albany

Family Danz Heating & Cooling

404 North Pearl Street, Albany

Long Energy

Various Locations

HOSPITAL

Albany Medical Center

43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany

St. Peter’s Hospital

315 South Manning Boulevard, Albany

Ellis Hospital

1101 Nott Street, Schenectady

INSURANCE AGENCY

Worksite Benefits

3991 Route 2, Cropseyville

Aurora Inc.

120 Broadway, Albany

John R. Zongrone Insurance Agency Inc.

1566 State Street, Schenectady

LANDSCAPER

Faddegon’s Nursery, Inc.

1140 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham

Traditional Landscaping & Design

16 Van Rensselaer Road, Albany

George’s Market & Nursery

945 Watervliet Shaker Road, Albany

240 Wade Road Extension, Latham

LAW FIRM

Meier Law Firm, PLLC

10 Utica Avenue, Latham

Naviasky Law Firm, PLLC

1802 Eastern Parkway, Schenectady 125 Adams Street, Delmar

Rupp Baase Pfalzgraf Cunningham Attorneys, LLC

25 Walton Street, Saratoga Springs

MANI/PEDI

Rumors Salon and Spa

626 New Loudon Road, Latham

Rainbow Nails & Spa

1170 Central Avenue, Albany

Deluxe Nails & Spa

241 Route 9W, Glenmont

MARINA

Albany Yacht Club

75 Broadway, Rensselaer

Donovan’s Shady Harbor Marina

70 Shady Harbor Drive, New Baltimore

Coeymans Landing Marina 20 Marina Drive, Coeymans

MASSAGE

Laberge Massage Therapy

204 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Breathe Massage

48 Hudson Avenue, Delmar

Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness

221 Wolf Road, Albany

268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

MEDICAL ESTHETICS

Lucie Capek, MD, Plastic Surgery

Capital Region Health Park 713 Troy Schenectady Road, Suite 308, Latham

Artistry of Face

475 Albany Shaker Road, Albany

Amazingly Ageless Medi-Spa 1202 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham

PAVING/SEALCOATING

L. Browe Asphalt Services US 20, Castleton-On-Hudson

Gabriel Contractors, Inc. 382 Truax Road, Amsterdam

Luizzi Brothers Sealcoating & Paving 70 Tivoli Street, Albany

PET SPA

Pet Styles

1886 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands

Pet Spas & Suites

1 Cerone Commercial Drive, Albany

Head to Tail

1604 Union Street, Schenectady

PHOTOGRAPHER

Hitlin Photography hitlinphoto.com

All Occasions Photography alloccasionsphoto.net

Dino Petrocelli Photography dinopetrocelliphoto.com

PILATES STUDIO

Free Movement Pilates

500 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar

Pilates Principle

578 New Loudon Road, Latham

Albany Pilates Center

3 Vatrano Road, Albany

TREE SERVICE

On A Limb Tree Care onalimbtreecare.com

Mark’s Tree Service

1971 Western Avenue, Albany

Sevenzocks Property Maintenance and Landscaping

1277 Route 9W, Selkirk

YOGA STUDIO

Heartspace Yoga & Healing Arts

747 Madison Avenue, Albany

10 Second Street, Troy

The Hot Yoga Spot

Multiple Locations

Jai Yoga

5 Vista Boulevard, Slingerlands

SHOPPING

APPLE ORCHARD

Indian Ladder Farms

342 Altamont Road, Altamont

Golden Harvest Farms

3074 US Highway 9, Valatie

Samascott Orchards

5 Sunset Avenue, Kinderhook

BIKE SHOP

Mad Dog Bicycles

561 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

CK Cycles

1370 Central Avenue, Albany

Steiner’s Sports

Multiple Locations

BOOKSTORE

I Love Books

380 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza

1475 Western Avenue, Albany

Northshire Bookstore

424 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

4869 Main Street, Manchester Center, VT

BRIDAL SHOP

Angela’s Bridal 501 Broadway, Troy

DeAnna’s 3991 Route 43, West Sand Lake

A Love Story 501 Broadway, Troy

CSA/COMMUNITY CO-OP

Honest Weight Food Co-op

100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany

Fox Creek Farm

182 Fox Creek Farm Road, Schoharie

Niskayuna Co-op 2227 Nott Street, Niskayuna

CAR DEALER

Keeler Motor Car Company 1111 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham

Lia Auto Group

Multiple Locations

DePaula Chevrolet 785 Central Avenue, Albany

CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Truly Rhe

1 Broadway, Troy

Fancy Schmancy 641 New Loudon Road, Latham Circles

Stuyvesant Plaza 1475 Western Avenue, Albany

CONSIGNMENT SHOP

Some Olde, Something New 1969 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands

Finders Keepers Consignments 1603 Route 9, Clifton Park

The Attic 3027 Main Street, Valatie

FARMERS’ MARKET

Troy Waterfront Farmers’ Market

Monument Square, Troy (April-October)

The Troy Atrium

49 Fourth Street, Troy (November-March)

Delmar Farmers’ Market

Bethlehem Central Middle School, 332 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar (May-December)

Schenectady Greenmarket

105 Jay Street - City Hall, Schenectady (May-October)

432 State Street - Proctors, Schenectady (November-April)

GARDEN NURSERY

Faddegon’s Nursery, Inc. 1140 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham

Hewitt’s Garden Centers

Multiple Locations

Samascott ‘s Garden Market 65 Chatham Street, Kinderhook

GIFT SHOP

The Cross Eyed Owl Gift Shop 3143 US Highway 9, Valatie

Wit’s End

Parkwood Plaza 1762 Route 9, Clifton Park

Pearl Grant Richmans Stuyvesant Plaza 1475 Western Avenue, Albany

HARDWARE STORE

Robinson’s Hardware 1874 Western Avenue, Guilderland

1900 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands

Phillips Hardware Multiple Locations

Mario’s Home Center 1057 Kinderhook Street, Valatie

HEALTH FOOD STORE

Honest Weight Food Co-op

100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany

Four Seasons Natural Foods

120 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs

Green Grocer Natural Foods 1505 Route 9, Clifton Park

JEWELER

Joyelles Jewelers

318 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

Northeastern Fine Jewelry

Multiple Locations

Harold Finkle Your Jeweler

1585 Central Avenue, Albany

LIQUOR/WINE

Empire Wine & Liquor

1440 Central Avenue, Albany

Exit 9 Wine & Liquor

9 Halfmoon Crossing Boulevard, Halfmoon

All Star Wine & Spirits

579 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham

MENSWEAR SHOP

Mark Thomas Men’s Apparel

Wolf Road Shoppers Park

5 Metro Park Road, Albany

MUSIC STORE

Parkway Music Store 1777 Route 9, Clifton Park

John Keal Music Company, Inc.

819 Livingston Avenue, Albany

1758 Parkwood Plaza

Route 9, Clifton Park

Blue Sky Studios

118 Adams Street, Delmar

OPTICAL CENTER

Buenau’s Opticians, Inc.

228 Delaware Avenue, Delmar

DiNapoli Opticians

Multiple Locations

Hughes Opticians

411 Kenwood Avenue, Delmar

SHOPPING MALL/ CENTER

Colonie Center

131 Colonie Center, Albany

Crossgates Mall

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany

Stuyvesant Plaza

1475 Western Avenue, Albany

SPORTING GOODS STORE

Steiner’s Sports

Multiple Locations

Sievert’s Sporting Goods

4804 State Highway 30, Amsterdam

Alpin Haus

Multiple Locations

SUPERMARKET

Hannaford

Multiple Locations

Price Chopper/Market 32

Multiple Locations

Honest Weight Food Co-op

100 Watervliet Avenue, Albany

TIRE STORE

Adirondack Tire & Service

Multiple Locations

Warren Tire Service Centers

Multiple Locations

Grand Premier Tires and Custom Wheels

591 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush

3361 South Thompson Street, Schenectady

TRAVEL AGENCY

AAA Hudson Valley

Multiple Locations

Blue Skies Travel LLC

15 Troy Road, East Greenbush

Yankee Trails

569 Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer

PEOPLE AND MEDIA

AFTERNOON ANCHOR

Benita Zahn

EVENING ANCHOR

John Gray

MORNING ANCHOR

Subrina Dhammi

MORNING TEAM

NewsChannel 13 Team

METEOROLOGIST

Steve Caporizzo

MUSIC RADIO

WGNA

NEWS RADIO

WAMC

LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

Paul Vandenburgh

LOCAL PRINT JOURNALIST

John Gray

SPORTSCASTER

Rodger Wyland

PLACES

ADIRONDACK INN

Mirror Lake Inn

77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid

Friends Lake Inn

963 Friends Lake Road, Chestertown

Garnet Hill Lodge

39 Garnet Hill Road, North River

ASSISTED LIVING/ NURSING HOME

The Sentinel of Amsterdam

10 Market Street, Amsterdam

Pine Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

201 Main Street, Philmont

Daughters of Sarah Senior Community

180 Washington Avenue Extension, Albany

B&B (3 HOURS)

Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant

39 West Road, Manchester Village, VT

Red Lion Inn

30 Main Street, Stockbridge, MA

Mirror Lake Inn

77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid

CAMPGROUND

Rogers Rock Campground

9894 Lake Shore Drive, Hague

Schodack Island State Park

1 Schodack Island Way, Schodack Landing

Lake George Escape Campground

175 East Schroon River Road, Lake George

DAY TRIP (3 HOURS)

Lake Placid

Cooperstown

Lake George

DOG FRIENDLY

Washington Park

State Street and Willett Street, Albany

GOLF COURSE (PRIVATE)

Mohawk Golf Club

1849 Union Street, Schenectady

Wolferts Roost Country Club

120 Van Rensselaer Boulevard, Albany

Troy Country Club

100 Troy Country Club Road, Troy

GOLF COURSE (PUBLIC)

Saratoga National Golf Club

458 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

Normanside Country Club

150 Salisbury Road, Delmar

Orchard Creek Golf Club

6700 Dunnsville Road, Altamont

HIKING TRAIL

John Boyd Thacher State Park

830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center

56 Game Farm Road, Delmar

Peebles Island State Park

1 Delaware Avenue, Cohoes

HOTEL

The Desmond

660 Albany Shaker Road, Albany

The Adelphi Hotel

365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

The Century House 997 New Loudon Road, Latham

HUDSON VALLEY INN

Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa

220 North Road, Milton

Mohonk Mountain House

1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz

KID’S BIRTHDAY VENUE

The Pottery Place

1475 Western Avenue, Albany

KJ’s Gymnastics

3143 US Highway 9, Valatie

ClubLife SportsZone

3143 US Highway 9, Valatie

KIDS CAMP

Camp Lovejoy

3476 Love Joy Road, Altamont

Camp Fowler

152 Pelcher Road, Lake Pleasant

YMCA-Camp Chingachgook

1872 Pilot Knob Road, Kattskill Bay

PARK

John Boyd Thacher State Park

830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville

The Crossings of Colonie

580 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville

Washington Park State Street and Willett Street, Albany

PICNIC SPOT

John Boyd Thacher State Park

830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville

Saratoga Spa State Park

19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs

Grafton Lakes State Park

254 Grafton Lakes State Park Way, Grafton

55+ RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

The Spinney Group

Multiple Locations

Shaker Pointe at Carondelet

1 Bell Tower Drive, Watervliet

Beverwyck

40 Autumn Drive, Slingerlands

ROMANTIC GETAWAY INN

Longfellows Hotel & Restaurant

500 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

The Inn at Erlowest

3178 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George

Mirror Lake Inn

77 Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid

SARATOGA INN/HOTEL

The Inn at Saratoga

231 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

The Adelphi Hotel

365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

Longfellows Hotel & Restaurant

500 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

SKI AREA

Gore Mountain Ski Resort

793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek

Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort

37 Corey Road, Hancock, MA

Whiteface Mountain

5021 Route 86, Wilmington

VERMONT INN

The Crafts Inn

10 West Main Street, Wilmington

Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant

39 West Road, Manchester Village

The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa

3567 Main Street, Manchester Village

WEDDING VENUE

Old Daley on Crooked Lake

2339 New York 43, Averill Park

Saratoga National Golf Club

458 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

Glen Sanders Mansion

1 Glen Avenue, Scotia

Serving as Albany's community-owned co-op for 44 years and counting puts us in a unique position. Our size and independence allows us to better meet the needs of our community. Needs that are changing in real time; needs that we are here to greet with care and compassion.

Because our long-standing relationships with local farmers aren't just business; they're friendship.

Our partnerships with local producers allow us to support our neighbors while navigate around national supply chain bottlenecks.

All our decisions, big and small, are made right here. Our goal, as ever, is to keep our staff and our community happy and healthy. We're here for you, Albany, but we're also right here with you.

Thank you for voting us this year’s Best Community Co-op and Best Health Food Store!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES

The Gold Coin restaurant was first opened in 1987 in it’s present location at 1360 New Scotland Avenue Slingerlands, NY. Owned and operated by the Kung and Cheung families, the restaurant was torn down in 2004 and completely rebuilt. It now accommodates 70 people and includes a full bar with flat-screen TV. The restaurant is open six days a week and closed on Tuesdays.

image by chris sawicki

The Towne Tavern invites guests to enjoy its award-winning food in the warm, cozy, and comfortable renovated creek-side blacksmith shop from the 1800s. Whether you are looking for a relaxed drink with friends or a dinner with the whole family, there is something for everyone on the tavern menu, from barbeque specialties to home-style entrées. Good Food ~ Good Times ~ Good Friends

For over 75 years, Verdile’s classic Italian-American restaurant has offered an expansive menu ranging from casual, family friendly traditional favorites to finer dining dishes, using only quality ingredients. Our cozy, nostalgic family run eatery has a full-service cocktail lounge and servers in tuxedos reminiscent of a golden era gone by.

VOTED BEST CALAMARI

Yanni’s by Car…Yanni’s by Bike… Yannis by Boat!

2 large outdoor patios overlooking the majestic Hudson River. You Book it, We’ll Cook it! Your place or ours! Holiday parties, weddings, elegant banquet, graduation, family reunion, BBQ, brunch or corporate lunch. It’s never to early to plan your event. Voted #1 for Chowder, Seafood, Outdoor Dining, Lobster Mac & Cheese and Waitstaff

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES

We take pride in making sure you have the best dining experience. Family owned and operated for over 40 years we know what our patrons have come to expect: great food, at a reasonable price, served fast with a friendly smile.

CRL s Pets of Instagram

These Insta-famous fur babies are irresistible.

Blenheim-Gilboa Visitors Center and Historic Lansing Manor

Closed Temporarily For updates, visit our website or email visitbg@nypa.gov

Visitors Center

Energy & STEAM exhibits

Historic Lansing Manor Federal style country estate

FREE ADMISSION & PARKING

Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Power Project Visitors Center 1378 State Route 30, North Blenheim NY 12131 nypa.gov/BGVisitorsCenter

Pets of Instagram

Staycation, All You Ever Wanted…

How to travel with the best of them–without ever leaving the Capital Region.

»

BY VIKKI MORAN, THE GRATEFUL TRAVELER «

Hank Hudson Brewing Company is located at the Fairways of Halfmoon Golf Club in Mechanicville.

Seals & Crofts’ 1972 hit song “Summer Breeze”—deftly covered in 2015 by Capital Region rock star (and The Voice winner) Sawyer Fredericks, with help from hitmaker Pharrell Williams—is my summer relaxation/let-loose song. For many of us, the itch for a change of scenery has these go-to songs playing on a loop in our brains. And while many of us will likely be staying put this summer due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, there’s nothing more enjoyable and authentically liberating than a well-thought-out staycation. If ever there was a time to embrace the Capital Region and its environs, it would be this summer.

A Horse, of Course

No fans allowed at Saratoga Race Course this season? No problem! Ride your own horse. Horseback riding and dude ranches are plentiful in the region. The Roaring Brook Ranch Resort in Lake George is one of the best and offers day-trippers an opportunity to horseback ride at a per-person rate. (It’s also conveniently located just two miles from Lake George Beach State Park.) Afterwards, enjoy a socially distanced al fresco bite or beverage at The Stable Door Lounge, or order from the resort’s restaurant, The Paddock

Tee It Up

Golf has been one of the lone sports allowed during the majority of pandemic, and while you could get a tee time at the “same old, same old,” why not try out a new course? It could be good for your soul and swing. Nestled between the Berkshire Mountains and lovely Copake Lake, Copake Country Club has a wonderfully designed 18-hole course with stunning, tranquil views. The bucolic Columbia County course truly delivers. After golf, grab a bite at The Greens, the course’s restaurant and bar, which serves club fare and finely prepared American cuisine. It’s a hole-in-one-worthy end to the day.

Tube Time

With so many lakes, creeks, ponds and the mighty Hudson near the Capital Region, a water getaway (waterway?) could make for a splish-splashing good staycation sensation. And many an option offers fabulous family fun. I’d suggest packing a lunch, breathing in nature’s goodness, and enjoying a day floating and cruising down the Esopus Creek in Phoenicia, just south of Albany. Rent a tube at Town Tinker Tube Rentals, then wade into the refreshing water and tube your way to bliss. Do be aware that there are patches of rough waters, but they are short and very manageable. After your trip, head over to see the world’s largest kaleidoscope at the Emerson Resort & Spa in nearby Mount Tremper. Trust me; it’s a hoot. Pay a small fee to enter the kaleidoscope show, and then lean back and enjoy. Once the show’s over, there are a ton of options for photo ops and selfies outside.

You’re on a Boat

Snug Harbor Marina, with locations on Lake George in Silver Bay and Ticonderoga, is one of the top boat rental companies for a day on the lake. While the Adirondack lakes can get crowded during the summer months, you can still find plenty of space to weave around the islands and enjoy the majesty of the “Queen of American Lakes.” Have some poles and tackle? Make it a pleasure cruise and fishing outing all in one.

Top It Off

Whether you’re going antiquing in Hudson, wine tasting in the Finger Lakes or history seeking in Hyde Park—or are more into amusement parks (like the Great Escape in Queensbury), local distilleries (like Harvest Spirits in Valatie) or breweries (like Hank Hudson Brewing Company in Mechanicville), all are add-ons to make a memorable staycation even more unforgettable. Each night can end with a drive-in movie at one of the many regional theaters (like Jericho in Glenmont) or late-night dinner under the stars (that’s all you). Never look at what you are missing—only what you can enjoy to the fullest. Who knows what local adventures you will discover?

(from top) Copake Country Club; tubers on Esopus Creek; Harvest Spirits.

Pop Culture

CRL breaks down the podcasts, shows, books and movies you should be getting familiar with this summer.

BY MORGAN FECHTER

Podcasts

Local: The Historians

Amsterdam native Bob Cudmore hosts this weekly podcast exploring the rich history of the Mohawk Valley. Cudmore interviews notable Mohawk Valley residents about our region’s fascinating past, covering everything from architecture to industries and celebrities. Be prepared to gain a new appreciation for our neck of the woods. Listen on either bobcudmore.com or Apple Podcasts

Topical: Horse Racing Happy Hour

You don’t have to wait until 5 o’clock to enjoy this happy hour. Every Thursday, grab your favorite drink and tune in to the Horse Racing Happy Hour podcast, on which hosts Megan, Mike and Louis recap the most important events in the world of horse racing. Listen on Apple Podcasts

Just for Fun: The Happiness Lab

It’s no secret that many of us are measuring low on the happy-o-meter right now. In this

podcast, Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos explains the research behind the concept of happiness and provides helpful advice for living a happier, more fulfilling life.

Listen at happinesslab.fm or through Apple Podcasts

New: The 27 Club

Music fans will love this new podcast dedicated to the lives of musicians who died at age 27, a hallowed list that includes idols Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse, among others. The first season focuses on Hendrix, with each episode chronicling a different story from the music legend’s tragically short life.

Listen on either 27clubpod.com or Apple Podcasts

TV Shows

Local: Succession

Take a break from your own family drama and tune in to a fictional one about the Roy clan, dysfunctional media moguls who are fighting for control over their aging father’s

empire on HBO’s hit series Succession. Keep an eye out for the scenes filmed last summer in Albany, Lake George and Lake Placid. Available on HBO

Topical: When They See Us

This Netflix miniseries tells the true story of the Central Park Five, a group of five teenagers of color falsely convicted of attacking a white female jogger in Central Park in 1989. Director Ava DuVernay’s four-part series explores the factors that led to the conviction and its aftermath, tackling topics of racism and incarceration. Available on Netflix

Just for Fun: Schitt’s Creek

If you haven’t already binge-watched all five seasons of Schitt’s Creek, now is the time. The Canadian sitcom, whose muchanticipated final season aired earlier this spring, exposes the hilarity (see Catherine O’Hara, Eugene Levy and his scion, Daniel Levy) of a once-wealthy family adapting to life in the titular, middle-of-nowhere town after they lose everything. Seasons 1-4 available on Netflix

Netflix’s When They See Us

(The Club 27) Podcast

New: White Lines

The sister of a famous DJ, who was murdered on the infamously decadent Spanish island of Ibiza, sets out to find the truth about his mysterious death. In the meantime, she meets up with his old party crew who would rather not dig up the past. Available on Netflix

BOOKS

Local: Caffè Lena: Inside America’s Legendary Folk Music Coffeehouse by Jocelyn Arem and Joe Alper

This book traces the history of Saratoga Springs landmark Caffè Lena, from its inception 60 years ago and onward. Flip through more than 200 images and interviews depicting some of the most notable artists from the venue’s heyday, including the incomparable Bob Dylan.

Topical: Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

This 2015 nonfiction bestseller explores the role of race in America through the

eyes of journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates. Written in the form of a letter to his son, Coates’ book is deeply personal in its depiction of the reality of what it’s like being a black man in the United States today.

Just for Fun: Educated by Tara Westover

Tara Westover’s No.1 New York Times best-selling memoir about her upbringing by survivalist Mormons in rural Idaho should be your next socially distanced beach read. Bill Gates put it best: “It’s even better than you’ve heard.”

New: American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

This 2020 novel tells the story of bookstore owner Lydia Quixano Pérez, who is forced to flee her home in Acapulco, Mexico when her husband publishes an exposé on a local drug cartel. Stephen King described this novel as “extraordinary,” and it was one of Oprah’s Book Club picks. Need we say more?

- Adrienne B., Yelp

Want to lose weight? Start with your emotional weight. Emotional weight can paralyze us from pursuing our dreams and fill us with doubt, fear and sadness. The good news is that I can help you shed this weight. Schedule a free consult call at annetteq.com or email me at annetteq.com@gmail.com to find out how.

Stretch your mind with my podcast MIND YOGA QUICK QUOTES WITH ANNETTE Q available on iTunes, Google Play and on my website annetteq.com

A Place Beyond the Pines

Movies

Local: A Place Beyond the Pines

Anyone who was living in the Capital Region eight years ago will remember when Ryan Gosling, Eva Mendes and Bradley Cooper descended upon Schenectady to film A Place Beyond the Pines, a fictional story based in the Electric City. It’s certainly not a happy tale but is definitely worthy of a viewing (or rewatch).

Topical: Contagion

This 2011 thriller has been trending on Netflix since the COVID-19 outbreak occurred earlier this spring. The film, which depicts the spread of a respiratory virus culminating in a global pandemic, bears an eerie resemblance to our current situation.

Just for Fun: Emma

Fans of period pieces will love this charming film adaptation of author Jane Austen’s classic novel. Escape 2020 and get lost in the Regencyera world of Emma Woodhouse, where the most pressing concern is finding a suitable husband.

New: The Way Back

This sports drama, starring Ben Affleck, has garnered widespread praise since its release in early March. Affleck plays an alcoholicconstruction-worker-turned-high-schoolbasketball-coach trying to lead an underdog team to victory. The film is a reminder that sometimes people (in real life and on screen) deserve a second chance.

50+ LIVING

Advertising Section

Daughters of Sarah Senior Community 180 Washington Ave. Ext., Albany 518.456.7831; daughtersofsarah.org

The mission of Daughters of Sarah is to enhance the quality of life, assure the safety and dignity and foster the independence of those served by the senior community’s facilities and programs. One such facility is the awardwinning Massry Residence, the premier independent living option in the Capital City. Massry Residence apartments are private, spacious and airy, and include a number of amenities, such as onsite wellness activities and delicious kosher dining. From the Massry Residence, it’s also an easy transition to Daughters of Sarah’s Nursing Center, which boasts 210 private rooms and a home-like setting, should the needs of a resident change.

50+

Advertising Section

Nina Sher, Senior Real Estate Specialist

Hunt Real Estate ERA

1365 New Scotland Rd., Slingerlands 518.368.5578; huntrealestate.com

Are you thinking about downsizing? One of the worst things people can do is wait too long to reach that decision. Nina had been contemplating a move for more than a year, but her husband’s Parkinson’s diagnosis forced them to make a decision sooner. She sold her home last fall, moved into a townhouse and couldn’t be happier. No regrets! How about you? Are you stuck? Nina created the Smart Downsizing Guide to help baby boomers get clarity around this huge decision. Call her to receive your free copy and get one step closer to living a happier life.

Lindsay Drug

416 5th Ave., Troy 518.235.2522; lindsaydrug.com

Consider Lindsay Drug your

one-stop shop for all of your medicine and health equipment needs in the Troy area. This local, family-run, independent healthcare center and pharmacy is packed with everything you might need to keep your family happy and healthy—from walkers and wound care items to wheelchairs and aging in place accessories for the home. The drugstore’s in-house associates are specially trained to fit customers with the perfect crutches, quad canes or canes, including decorative ones. Plus: Shop for post-mastectomy prostheses and brassieres and compression therapy garments, including custom stockings for hard-to-fit sizes.

Safe Care Mobility Services

456 N. Pearl St., Albany 518.462.5923; safecaremobility.com

Compassion is key at Safe Care Mobility Services, which provides the best possible medical transportation and

ambulette service. Its award-winning fleet of modern vehicles is expertly maintained by in-house mechanics and boasts the highest quality wheelchair lifts, wheelchairs and stretchers. Every step is taken to make your ride comfortable and safe, from the hiring of the very best drivers to Safe Care’s pledge to arrive on time and with a smile. Its service is perfect for medical appointments, nursing home transfers and hospital discharges; plus, Safe Care is the only Upstate New York provider to offer bariatric stretcher service.

Meier Law Firm, PLLC

10 Utica Ave., Latham 518.313.7809; themeierlawfirm.com

COVID-19 created chaos and made us all aware that life can change in an instant. Now that we are entering our new normal, let the team at Meier Law Firm, PLLC help you take control. We

provide counsel without judgment to assist our clients with planning for incapacity and death. We prepare wills, powers of attorney, health care proxies and living wills. We also create trusts when appropriate for our clients’ needs, and assist clients with Medicaid planning (including applications), as well as the administration of estates and trusts. Contact the Meier Law Firm today to discuss your estate planning needs.

The Sentinel of Amsterdam 10 Market St., Amsterdam 518.896.0010; sentinelalf.com

The Sentinel was created with a vision centered on providing individualized care in a home-like setting for seniors. Family owned and operated, The Sentinel brings decades of experience in the provision of quality care to its residents. Its philosophy focuses on taking a positive approach to senior living, and its goals are to build an active and full life in a person’s retirement years. The Sentinel takes great pride in its dedicated, caring and professional staff. Each staff member is carefully chosen for his or her courtesy and commitment to The Sentinel’s residents.

HELPING YOU STAY CONNECTED

before you go... CHASING SUNSETS

BY JOHN GRAY

When you visit Cape Cod, there are just two things you need to know after crossing the Bourne Bridge and heading east on Route 6: when the tide goes out and when the sun sets. The answer unlocks this hidden treasure: walking along the bay, just as the sun slips silently into the distant ocean.

If you’ve never walked along the bay on Cape Cod when the tide is out, I can only describe it as a painting come to life—one that you don’t just look at but inhabit. On the ocean side of the Cape, like most ocean beaches, the tide goes out only about half the length of a football field, but on the bayside, the sand stretches for miles and nature leaves patterns and gifts behind: Not just seashells but shallow pools of water filled with hermit crabs and tiny fish. Of all the vacations I have ever taken—including the most extravagant, expensive ones— nothing compares to walking along the bay in Cape Cod when the ocean retreats and the sun slips away beneath the horizon.

One day, not so long ago, I was walking along the bay near Rock Harbor Creek when I saw, far off in the distance, a formation

of rocks I’d never noticed before. I walked towards them, and as I got closer, my poor eyes revealed that the rocks had square, uniform shapes and seemed to be in a pattern. I realized they weren’t rocks at all. It was getting late in the day, and my legs were weary, but I needed to know what the dark objects were, so I pressed on.

When I finally came upon them, I spied an army of small cages covered in seaweed. I assumed they were lobster traps but could not make out a single lobster that had been outsmarted. That’s when I saw him, a man in his early 60s, down on his hands and knees in the wet sand, warm bay water just starting to lap at his rubber boots as the tide began to slowly return. There was no urgency in his movements—instead, he had a contented smile on his face, the type one might see on a child playing with a new toy. He looked up, and realizing he had an audience, said a hearty, “Hello!” I revealed that I was no seaman when I asked him if he was trying to catch lobsters, learning instead that the cages were for growing oysters. For a moment I turned my head the way a dog does when you ask him if he wants a bone, then said without thinking,

“Oysters? I thought they were just found in the wild; I didn’t know you could grow them.”

The man smiled and told me that I was standing on the front porch of his oyster farm. He was opening each cage, taking out shells and measuring them to see if they were big enough to take out and sell. I asked him if there was good money in being an oyster farmer, and he laughed out loud, saying, “Oh, son, I don’t do this for the money. Just the opposite.” As he continued to measure and toss shells into a plastic container, the man told me that he’d struck gold on Wall Street in New York City. “I made my fortune in stocks and trading, but I wasn’t happy,” he said. “The only time I’d really find joy was when I was here doing this.” He looked up at the orange sky now and took a deep breath, as if inhaling medicine. The man told me he and his wife had battled the crowds and noise of the big city and earned enough to buy all the things the TV commercials promise will make you happy. Then they bought a place on Cape Cod, and one day, while out for a walk along the bay, he came upon a man raising oysters and something clicked. He thought to himself, rather than make a fortune producing nothing in the city, he could lose money and gain peace here in the bay. He told me that he still did work in Manhattan part time, but that his blood pressure would immediately drop when he drove northeastward toward his oysters.

Not all of us have the means to buy a dream home and life to escape to, but there are ways that we can all find that same peace right in our own backyards. If this pandemic has done nothing else, it has forced all of us to slow down and look at the simple treasures around us: long walks with the people we love; and long, latenight talks over coffee, with the TV off and smartphones charging in the other room.

It’s ironic that this man had to grow something in a steel cage in order to unlock his own prison cell and set himself free. We are all the warden of our own confinement, capable of just such a daring escape. How silly we would feel to spend a lifetime trapped in an empty life, only to realize, later, the closed door keeping us frozen in doubt was never locked in the first place.

CAPITAL REGION LIVING