The city’s landscape is changing, and Albany wants you to see it.
The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) announced the 11th Annual Downtown Albany Restaurant Week is slated for Saturday, April 11 to Friday, April 17.
Sixteen downtown Albany restaurants will offer a three-course meal valued at a minimum of $35.00 for the price of $20.15.
The special event has been a popular attraction for area diners, and a successful attempt to draw patrons back into downtown Albany.
“It is exciting to welcome this event to its 11th year,” stated Mayor Kathy M. Sheehan, through an Downtown Albany BID press release. “Each year Albany Restaurant Week offers the opportunity to find your new favorite restaurant, and it gives the entire region a reason to come downtown and experience a taste of Albany.”
In the eyes of Downtown Albany BID’s executive director, there is much to showcase in the Capital City.
“I have been at the BID for five and a half years, [and] I really love it. In that time, downtown has changed so much and with the new convention center, hotel and residential conversion projects that are taking place, downtown won’t be the same two years from now,” said Georgette Steffens, executive director of Downtown Albany BID.
The week is organized through Downtown Albany BID each year. Steffens said it is “a lot of work,” but well worth it.
“We have a staff of four, which means a lot of work for everyone, but I have an incredible team of super talented people, so we get it done. Plus the restaurants are great, so that helps.”
Diners are encouraged to make advanced reservations directly with the restaurants.
A free parking promotion is being offered by Albany Parking Authority (APA) in conjunction with the dining event (See the Infographic for a list of available parking).
On street meter parking is also available at no charge beginning at 6:00 PM Monday through Friday. Street parking is free on weekends.
The Restaurant Week free parking promotion is part of a larger APA goal encouraging people to embrace downtown.
“Supporting the local businesses and Downtown development has always been an important goal for the APA,” says Michael Klein, executive director of the Albany Parking Authority. “With promotions like this one, we are able to showcase the ample, year-round parking options. Having this information, visitors can confidently take the opportunity to return Downtown in the future to dine, explore the city, or enjoy an event at one of the many entertainment venues.”
Menus, hours of operation, and specials for all participating restaurants are available at downtownalbany.org.
People who patronize participating restaurants will also have the chance to enter to win gift certificates to Downtown restaurants, and to receive discounts at select shows at the Capital Repertory Theatre and Palace Theatre. Full information can be found at downtownalbany.org.
“Excitement continues to build in downtown as a number of residential and commercial projects move forward. With more people coming to our district to work, live, or both, Restaurant Week offers the perfect opportunity to try over a dozen of our eateries at a wonderful price,” said Steffens. “While here to dine, I encourage people to walk around and see the exciting projects that are creating a vibrant future for our Capital City.”
A Student Night will once again be held on Monday, April 13 as an extra incentive for college students to come out and dine the 3-course menu for only $15.15 at select restaurants.
Restaurants participating in Student Night are: Albany Pump Station, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, Jack’s Oyster House, La Serre and V&R Italian Ristorante.
For more information about the Downtown Albany BID visit downtownalbany.org or call 518-465-2143.
