What’s better than planning a brunch with your friends on a Sunday morning? After being in the Albany area for four years now, I’ve found some spots that are definitely worth checking out! From bottomless mimosas to delicious breakfast foods, these spots are all worth the try.
- Risotto
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After the pandemic hit, my friends and I were looking for a new place that would be something good for all of us to try and go out together! Risotto was a hidden gem that we didn’t know was only five minutes away from campus. To start, their prices are reasonable for the amazing plates of food they put together, and when going for brunch you have the option of ordering breakfast or lunch food so there’s more of a variety! Don’t even get me started on the bottomless mimosas for $15, they’re the best deal you can get going there (especially since the glasses are wine glass size). If you’re someone who likes good food, great company and awesome brunch playlists, this is the place for you to check out! This is also a great spot to check out for dinner as well, with an entirely different menu!
- Cafe Madison
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With two locations, one closer to Loudonville and one located in the heart of Albany, Cafe Madison is a place that everyone should check out! This brunch spot also serves an array of breakfast and lunch foods, and is nothing short of amazing! They have a wide variety of breakfast specials ranging from sweet treats, to eggs any way you’d like them! Their options are versatile for lunch, but they also offer specific afternoon options for those not a fan of the breakfast spread. Their menu also showcases a section for vegan and vegetarian options! Let’s not forget about their drinks too, separated by cocktail style, seasonal drinks, and spiked coffee drinks! Be sure to check the online menu before heading there on the weekends to see what specials they’re currently offering!
- The Cuckoo’s Nest
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For those looking for a homey southern-type meal, this place should take the cake for you! The Cuckoo’s Nest is located in Albany and has brought a little slice of the South to New York! They are typically open for lunch and dinner, with brunch specialties on the weekends. Their menu is filled with southern delicacies such as chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy! The Cuckoo’s Nest also offers a specialty happy hour menu for different times of the day, and changes their specials often so you’ll always be able to try something new! If you’re looking for this type of food outside of brunch and for an event, they also have a catering option!
- The Tipsy Moose
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With three locations, extensive beer menus, and rotating specials, the Tipsy Moose is a rustic spot that deserves a look for brunch! They have lots of options for the breakfast connoisseur and are also open for extended hours for lunch and dinner! This cute rustic spot has all of the homey feelings when you’re going to brunch with your friends on a Saturday morning. They have sides to pair with your breakfast options, as well as drinks to pair with your meal! While beer might not be the brunch norm, they do have an extensive list that deserves a try either at lunch or dinner time. Each location has a different beer list so there’s even more options for customers! Be sure to check out one of the locations for your next brunch!
With all of these options in the area, how could you just choose one? I love going around and trying new places, so hopefully, these ideas will give you somewhere new to try! But I will admit, once you find your favorite, it’s easy to forget about all the other places and just keep going back to your main spot. Happy brunching!