Nothing gets you prepared for a busy day like a refreshing cup of coffee. Whether you’re looking for something to replenish your energy for work or school, or you’re simply craving one of your favorite caffeinated beverages, there are plenty of coffee shops in Albany to please your taste buds. Here are four local spots we recommend:
Stacks Espresso Bar
Open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Stacks Espresso Bar is a small coffee shop in Albany with friendly staff and quick service. The menu offers plenty of choices for coffee lovers, including drip coffee, cold-brewed iced coffee, pour over coffee, and caffè Americano. You can try one of the delicious milk drinks, too, like a macchiato, latte, cappuccino, frappe, or hot chocolate.
If you’re in the mood for a tasty treat, pair your beverage with baked goods such as chocolate croissants, scones, donuts, cookies, Danish pastries, or bagels.
Locations: 260 Lark St. and in downtown Albany at 488 Broadway.
Uncommon Grounds
When you want fresh-roasted coffee and made-from-scratch bagels, Uncommon Grounds is your go-to destination. There are plenty of tables available for you to use your laptop, and the shop’s extensive menu makes it easy to find something you will like. Popular items include the espresso frappe, iced coffee, chai lattes, café au lait, and hot chocolate.
Breakfast sandwiches and salads are also available if you’re feeling a bit hungry. If you’re interested in stopping by, Uncommon Grounds is open Monday through Thursday and on Sundays from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. as well as Fridays and Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Location: 1235 Western Ave.
Hudson River Coffee House
This next destination is ideal for college students and anyone looking for a good time. Hudson River Coffee House offers a cozy setting for visitors, and you’ll find plenty of hearty menu items like breakfast sandwiches, muffins, croissants, and hoagies to satisfy your palate. However, we know your main priority is finding the right coffee. This shop has a full espresso bar with lattes, chai lattes, cappuccinos, and other delicious drinks.
You’ll find opportunities to relax as well with board games, vintage game machines, a jukebox, free Wi-Fi, live music, and open mic night on Thursdays. If you’re looking for a late-evening cup of java, Hudson River is open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight.
Location: 227 Quail St.
3Fish Coffee
Situated near Washington Park, 3Fish Coffee is a quaint coffee joint that fills up fast, though service is quick. It’s open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for doing work, and the outside patio is a nice option for those who want some fresh air.
If you’re unsure what to order, 3Fish Coffee offers a variety of caffeinated beverages, including iced coffee, caffè Americano, and specialty lattes with rosemary, brown sugar, cardamom rose, or vanilla flavoring. Don’t forget to try the scones, glazed cinnamon buns, and seasonal toasts too!
Location: 466 Madison Ave.
If you’re on a mission to find the best cups of coffee in Albany, these four local shops are definitely worth a visit.
