By Rachel Wolk | February 14, 2023
Downtown Albany
Photo Credit: Danielle Modica / The ASP
Haven't made those last-minute reservations? Looking for the perfect place for Valentine’s Day dinner? Maybe you and your significant other are stuck on deciding, or you simply want to go out with friends. Albany has endless options to make this year's Valentine’s a memorable one.
1) City Line Bar and Grill
City Line could not be more local to UAlbany. A short walk or drive to Western Avenue across from campus is all you need. The restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, cocktails, and drinks served in a comfortable dining setting. There are TV screenings of the latest sports game as well as background music that is suitable for your eating experience.
2) Jacob and Anthony’s
Another local eatery, Jacob and Anthony’s is located in Stuyvesant Plaza and offers many Italian dishes. It is an 11-minute walk or a 6-minute drive from campus. From salad, pasta, pizzas, and sandwiches, there is something for everyone, no matter what you are craving. A bit more upscale than a regular diner, Jacob and Anthony’s is a fabulous option.
3) Dosa Grill
Dosa Grill is another conveniently located restaurant to campus, just a hop, skip, and jump to Western Avenue. Serving traditional Indian cuisine and all-you-can-eat options, it is the perfect spot for couples looking for a dinner date.
4) The Standard Restaurant and Lounge
The Standard is a classic American eatery located right in the Crossgates mall. You can imagine yourself feeling transported back in time to 1950s Hollywood with the vintage atmosphere. Photographs of movie stars, gleaming lights, and diverse menu options will have something for everyone.
5) Rain Modern
Rain Modern sits in the heart of downtown Albany, just a quick ride on the 114 bus from the uptown campus. Chinese food lovers will want to check this restaurant out. The dark accents and capacious atmosphere allow for a relaxed and delicious eating environment.
6) Grappa ‘72
With an exquisite interior, Grappa ‘72 is another Italian restaurant that will strike your appetite. It is located on Central Avenue, so a short drive will do. The environment is fairly casual, with fine music and eats.
7) Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar
Barcelona Restaurant-Wine Bar has a Spanish-Italian flare, located on Western Avenue close to Dosa Grill and City Line. There is both outdoor and indoor seating that allows you to feel closely acquainted, but if the temperature makes sitting outside unappealing, you can sit upstairs or downstairs.
These options are sure to fulfill your Valentine’s Day dinner reservation, with each spot offering something unique and appetizing. The city of Albany doesn’t fail when it comes to restaurants, and there are even more places to suit your needs. Whether you are with your significant other or friends, you will have a great dinner date. Happy Valentine’s Day, UAlbany!