Favorite Breakfasts in Albany That Make You Smile Every Morning

260 Lark St, Albany

(518) 650-6527

I truly enjoyed my visit to Stacks Espresso Bar for breakfast in Albany. The 20-minute walk from the Renaissance was a delightful journey through charming streets that reminded me of Old Town Chicago in 1968. Stacks is a cozy spot with friendly staff who were chatty and welcoming. I ordered a croissant and, while it wasn't quite what I expected, the overall vibe of the place made up for it. The customers seemed content, many of them focused on their laptops or just enjoying the ambiance. I noticed an elderly man at a window seat, which added a touch of poetic nostalgia to the place. The music was well-chosen, with classics like Talking Heads and Donna Summer playing softly. The espresso was really good, and the bagels were fantastic, especially the smoked salmon cream cheese, which was a pleasant surprise since I'm usually picky about flavored cream cheese. Though there's not a lot of seating, we managed to find a spot without any trouble. Parking on the side streets was also easy to find. Stacks is a great local coffee shop that I've frequented for years, and it's nice to see it expanding. The atmosphere is quaint, and the pastries, latte, and hot chocolate were all impressive. If I'm ever passing through Albany again, I'll definitely stop by Stacks Espresso Bar. It's a solid 9/10 for me.

182 Washington Ave, Albany

(518) 445-3555

Iron Gate Cafe is definitely worth the wait, even when it's busy! Nestled inside a charming Victorian-style building, this spot has become one of my favorite brunch places in Albany. Their vegan menu is impressive, and I was especially thrilled with the French toast. At $15, I was hesitant at first, but the portions are generous, and it might just be the best vegan French toast I've ever had. The staff was extremely attentive and kind, even during the breakfast rush. I do wish the Beyond sausage wasn't an extra charge because I'm eager to try it next time. The outdoor patio is a lovely spot to enjoy a meal, particularly when the weather cooperates, and the inside of the cafe is just as beautiful. One of the things I love most is their specials menu, which always features creative options along with their dependable regular offerings. I'm a big fan of their Benedicts, omelets, breakfast burritos, and coffee choices. Their side potatoes are a must-try too! When visiting, be prepared for a crowd! Joining the waitlist online is a smart move, especially on weekends. We had a wonderful experience; the only minor hiccup was being seated initially in a section without windows, but the staff was more than happy to move us. Parking can be a bit tricky since it's mostly street parking, so it's something to keep in mind if you're visiting on a busy day. Overall, Iron Gate Cafe delivers delicious breakfast selections with everything taken to the next level, like their strawberry pancakes with real strawberries and perfectly poached eggs. The beautiful location, with its outdoor seating and distinctive iron gate, adds a bit of charm reminiscent of NOLA in the summer. The warm and fast service always makes me eager to return!

240 Washington Ave, Albany

(518) 915-1699

Walking into Umana Yana for breakfast feels like stepping into a cozy haven where everyone is welcoming, and the décor creates a warm atmosphere. The food is incredibly filling and brings back nostalgic memories of my Caribbean roots. I ordered the Curry Q dish with a side of plantains, and everything tasted so fresh. The ginger beer was a delightful pick-me-up and helped with digestion. The drinks menu is extensive, and the wine list on the reverse side has some really interesting options. Choosing what to eat is the hardest part because everything sounds so tempting. The pepper shrimp packed a punch with its flavor, balanced beautifully by the cassava puffs. The curried goat special was sublime, with tender meat and perfectly blended flavors. I also got the rum cake to go, which turned out to be a delightful treat later. Umana Yana offers an extraordinary dining experience with East and West African and Caribbean dishes that are rare to find in the U.S. Their plantain cocktail from their Afro-Carib mixology menu was brilliant. I find myself craving their diverse menu, and I honestly could eat here every night. Chris and the staff are incredibly warm and make everyone feel at home. It's inspiring to see the diversity among the diners, a testament to multicultural success. Umana Yana is a fantastic spot that captures international cuisine with vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. The cozy, family-style ambiance elevates the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a culinary adventure in Upstate NY. I've attended their last three Jazz brunches, and my recommendation is to reserve a table as it can get busy. It's a place I'll continue to bring people to in the future.

547 Central Ave, Albany

(518) 482-9807

What a delight this place was. Jack’s Diner, owned by Wilfredo Ruiz from El Salvador, is a real gem in Albany. Wilfredo is such a fantastic guy! I remember reading a great article about him in the Albany Times Union back in 2018—definitely worth checking out. Wilfredo has introduced a Mexican and El Salvadorian menu alongside the classic American diner offerings. My wife and I decided to try some Mexican dishes, opting for chicken nachos and a steak quesadilla. While we waited, Wilfredo surprised us with Pupusas, El Salvador’s signature dish. They were incredible—like two flatbreads with cheese and pork. It was our first time trying anything El Salvadorian, and we loved it. Wilfredo was so warm and shared a lot about the history of his restaurant, making it the perfect start to our trip. I’ve heard regulars call it the “Cheers” of Albany, and it’s easy to see why. Salud, Wilfredo, for the excellent meal! It’s such a fantastic little spot. We stopped by after a doctor’s appointment for breakfast, and everything was just perfect. The staff was friendly, and the service was quick. We ordered the homemade corned beef hash, which was one of the highlights of our meal. The eggs, sausage, bacon, and home-style potatoes were all cooked to perfection. The Belgian waffle was a dream, and you could smell the vanilla as soon as it hit the table. All of this delicious food came at a very affordable price. Jack’s Diner also has all the classic diner favorites like pancakes, omelets, and hash browns. If you come back for dinner, don’t miss the Latin menu, especially the chicken and birria tacos. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for a great meal in a welcoming atmosphere.

180 Madison Ave, Albany

(518) 462-3544

My family and I visited Hill Street Cafe for breakfast around 3:00 PM on a Sunday, and we were genuinely impressed. Despite there being only one server covering the entire restaurant, she was amazing — staying professional, polite, and cheerful even when busy. The food was delicious, especially the puffy pizza. Morgan, who served us, was outstanding. She managed all the orders seamlessly and even changed the TV station to something we liked. Her service deserves a big kudos. We ordered pizza, nachos, and salad, and everything tasted great. I’m familiar with the place and the food and drinks are consistently good. My lemon pepper wings were fantastic, and my friend enjoyed the hot wings. On another visit, I had the buffalo chicken salad with Parmesan dressing, and it was delightful. Our group of six had dinner here before a show nearby, and it’s a perfect spot for a centrally located meal. It was open on a Sunday, which isn’t easy to find. We didn’t have a reservation but got in early; I imagine it gets busier later on. The service was incredible, with prompt drink refills and attentive servers. It’s a small pub, so it can get loud, but it didn’t bother us. If you’re after a quiet spot, this might not be the best place. The pub food and pizza are their specialties. The boneless wings were flavorful, the mozzarella sticks were tasty with great marinara, and the pizza left a lasting impression. I even sampled a piece of my husband’s pepperoni pizza and loved it. If we come back, I might focus on more appetizers and pizza since those were the highlights. In summary, Hill Street Cafe is a solid choice if you’re in the area for a show and craving some great pub apps and pizza.

1100 Madison Ave, Albany

(518) 935-1094

We stopped in on a Friday mid-morning in September for brunch with a group of six and had a great experience at Cafe Madison. We were seated immediately in the dining area, which was a nice surprise given our group size. Our server was friendly and attentive throughout the meal, making sure we had everything we needed. The food was enjoyable, even though I didn't try any alcoholic beverages myself, a couple of friends had Bloody Marys and complimented them. It’s clear this place has a strong reputation, and for good reason. The upgrade to the restaurant is beautiful, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Even on busier days, like when I visited on a holiday, a 25-30 minute wait was well worth it. The food was outstanding then, and it just keeps getting better. The staff, while busy, always manages to maintain a warm and attentive service, which is a huge plus. Overall, Cafe Madison is a wonderful spot for brunch in Albany, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and pleasant dining experience.

1475 Western Ave, Albany

(518) 689-7777

Josie's Table has quickly become my favorite spot for breakfast in Albany. The atmosphere has a minimalist Manhattan vibe with a down-to-earth farm-to-table feel, which creates a perfect setting for any meal. The service is always friendly and efficient, truly making you feel at home. The food is consistently outstanding. We loved the hummus appetizer; it was the perfect start to our meal. The Salmon Burger was incredible, and the truffle fries are a must-try. Josie's truly excels at casual dishes—the pizzas, burgers, and fries never disappoint. I had the Prosciutto Pizza, and the combination of burrata and fig was divine, changing my mind about prosciutto entirely. Though some dishes, like the risotto special, could improve, the overall experience more than makes up for it. The prices are reasonable, especially when you consider the quality and freshness of the ingredients. Dining here feels like a treat without breaking the bank. The newly designed interior is stunning and adds to the overall charm of the place. Whether it's for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch, Josie's Table never fails to impress. I'll definitely be back to explore more of their menu.

1225 Western Ave #5, Albany

(518) 453-5649

Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagels on Western Avenue is my go-to spot for breakfast in Albany. It's a relaxing café perfect for getting some work done or just chilling out. Compared to other places, their prices are quite affordable, and the quality is top-notch. I ordered the Mediterranean bagel with cream cheese on an everything bagel, and my friend had the Lumberjack on the same. Along with two orange juices, the total was just $22. The sandwiches were huge and really delicious. Each time I've visited, I've experienced the same level of kindness, attentiveness, speed, accuracy, and taste. No matter how busy they get, they always make sure you're taken care of. You can tell they've put a lot of thought into every detail, from the welcoming atmosphere to the cleanliness, and especially the superb coffee. I initially discovered this little gem before a doctor's appointment one early Thursday morning at Stuyvesant Plaza. It surprised me with its friendly staff and excellent bagels. The service was quick, and the taste was fantastic. The bagel was just awesome! If you find yourself around Cyrus and Plaza, you have to stop at Uncommon Grounds. I can never say enough good things about this place — the staff is great, and the food is consistently fantastic. Writing this makes me tempted to go back there right now. Recently, I went back and tried the Healthy Harvest bagel, which was perfect and really hit the spot!

1709 Western Ave, Albany

(518) 250-4261

I visited Capital City Diner for breakfast and had an exceptional experience. The food hit the spot, exactly the comfort food we were seeking. Despite a bit of a wait due to how busy it was, it was well worth it. The service was impeccable, with a wonderful waitress who made our visit memorable. The menu offers a wide variety of choices without any bad options. Parking required a bit of effort, but it wasn't impossible. While the new renovations have shifted its charm, the diner still holds promise. I hope they bring back the homemade salad dressing and address the acoustics, but overall, I highly recommend stopping by for great food and top-notch service.

683 Broadway, Albany

(518) 434-6533

The Olde English Pub and Pantry offers a charming atmosphere that's hard to resist. As someone who appreciates a good pub setting, the historic vibe and cozy ambiance immediately made me feel at home. The attention to detail, from the dim lighting to the tasteful music, really sets the right mood for a relaxing meal. The food doesn't try to overdo it and that's a big plus. I enjoyed the French Onion soup and a hearty Chicken Pot Pie. The menu sticks to classic dishes which are consistently satisfying. My husband, who tried the fish and chips, gave them a solid four stars. Our server, Rebecca, was fantastic and added to the positive experience. She was attentive and made sure we were well taken care of throughout our visit. I noticed that the staff generally seemed friendly, which is always welcoming. Though we dined outside and dealt with a few buzzing bees, it didn't overshadow the enjoyment of dining in such a unique outdoor setting. The pub also has some interesting interior elements, like the large portrait of Churchill that sparked some lively conversation among my group. Overall, the service and atmosphere, paired with the reasonably priced drinks and dishes, make it a spot worth visiting. It's a great choice for birthdays too, with fun perks like a free tea cup of beer for the celebrant. I'll definitely be back to enjoy more of what this delightful pub has to offer.

In the Shopper's Plaza, 145 Wolf Rd, Albany

(518) 435-0843

My husband and I visited Professor Java's Coffee Sanctuary for breakfast on a quiet Thursday morning. The service was quick and friendly, with only a few other people there. I tried the chunky monkey latte, a delightful blend of banana and mocha, along with an everything bagel topped with plain cream cheese. My husband enjoyed an americano and the French piggie, which is a croissant filled with bacon, ham, egg, and cheese. Both meals were delicious and included a couple of pineapple slices, a pleasant surprise. We chose to sit in the library room, where I found a comfy chair to read for an hour. The "take one, leave one" bookshelf added a cute touch. The ambiance is a bit dim and chilly, with concrete floors and not many comfy chairs, but that's a minor drawback in an otherwise great experience. I can't wait to return and try more of their offerings, especially the espresso brownie. This coffee shop opens early, which is a plus, and the staff were super nice. If you've been a fan of Javas from the old house, you'll appreciate this new location that keeps the spirit alive. They still roast their own coffee and serve delicious sandwiches, wraps, and drinks. Prices are reasonable, less than the big chain coffee shops but more than Stewart’s. There's free WiFi and plenty of space to sit, plug in, and get some work done. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food and loved the art on the walls, which is available for purchase and features work by a local artist. I’m definitely planning to return when I'm in the area again!

1 Steuben St, Albany

(518) 512-0182

Great spot! The food at The Skinny Pancake Albany was delicious, and the place was remarkably quiet for a Sunday afternoon. The sausages and lattes were incredible! It was a different experience to have a crepe with eggs and sausage, but hey, it’s a skinny pancake, right? Either way, we thoroughly enjoyed it. The service was cool too; you order from your phone, and they bring the food right to your table. Plus, there’s self-service water available. The Skinny Pancake does a fantastic job creating an urban green atmosphere. The food was very good, maybe not mind-blowing, but definitely satisfying. They are great at accommodating any dietary restrictions, which is always a plus. Prices were reasonable, though they do climb when you add a drink and a side, more than I’d expect for brunch. Nonetheless, the quality of food and the atmosphere would bring me back often, without hesitation. It’s a nice touch when the owners stop by the table, and knowing that all ingredients are local and without ultra-processed items is comforting. They have a wide selection for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I had the breakfast monster, and it was perfectly prepared with a wonderful complement of ingredients. The Chocolate Monkey was the perfect sweet treat—not too sweet, just right. Wish I could stay in town longer to try something new every day. Do not skip this place. Plus, they serve drinks after breakfast, which is a nice bonus. We had a great meal! I went for the Veggie Monster savory crepe, which was very delicious, especially with the pesto filling inside. My husband opted for a side of eggs, chicken sausages, and a savory frumpled crepe, which he really enjoyed. This is a great spot for tasty crepes and sides!

1475 Western Ave, Albany

(518) 482-3677

Peaches Café in Albany is my go-to spot for breakfast, and for good reason. The menu is extensive, with plenty of coffee and drink specials to choose from. The first time I visited, the old school, small diner vibe immediately made me feel at home. The waitress was attentive, and the food was fantastic—definitely a step up from fast casual, yet quicker and more affordable than a fancy restaurant. I've been back several times and am consistently impressed. The breakfast quesadilla is a must-try. Peaches Café truly captures that small hometown feel right in the middle of Albany. The service is always quick, and the staff are both friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. While I've only gone for breakfast, I can't wait to return for lunch and dinner. If you're looking for a great breakfast spot in Albany, Peaches Café is a walk-in place you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend the eggs Benedict or the pancakes. I tried the Irish eggs Benedict, and it was a hit—the pastrami was perfectly cooked, the eggs were just right, and the sauce was spot on. This is a fantastic spot for both breakfast and lunch, with fresh food and friendly service every time. During my visit, we had a bit of a brunch feast: eggs Benedict, a breakfast quesadilla, waffles with bacon inside and eggs, and a chicken wrap. Every dish was excellent. Peaches Café is definitely worth checking out for fresh food, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere.

50 New Scotland Ave, Albany

(518) 443-0480

I visited the Panera Bread in Albany for breakfast and had a great experience. Even though it was late in the evening, the place was quiet, and I enjoyed a peaceful meal. I ordered soup with bread, a sandwich, and pizza, and I was pleased with all the food. Everything was tasty, and I look forward to returning. The staff was courteous, and I appreciated being served promptly. Their efficiency was impressive, as they got my order right without any issues. I give this location a solid 5/5 for the quality of food and service. While there are a few areas for improvement, like making sure bagels are fresh and addressing some hygiene concerns, I value the overall experience and the polite service I received. I hope they address these minor issues in the future, as this place has great potential.

1814 Central Ave, Albany

(518) 464-1200

O'Toole's Restaurant Pub in Albany is a fantastic spot for breakfast and more. The neighborhood pub vibe comes with a ton of options and great specials every day, like their delicious weekend brunch. The space is big, with a nice separation between the bar and dining areas, making it perfect for families. The outside seating is a bonus in the summer, and there's even a private event space. I visited on trivia night and was impressed by the large screen, which was so helpful given the lively atmosphere. The food was fantastic—I tried the Reuben sandwich with fries, and it was an excellent choice. My friends enjoyed their meals, too, especially the shrimp pasta and the meatloaf with mashed potatoes. The drinks matched the quality of the food, and the service was unbelievable. We even got to sit by the fireplace, adding to the cozy feel. From the moment you walk in, you feel right at home. O'Toole's has been around for years and hasn't missed a beat. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is welcoming. I would definitely come back here and recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience in Albany. 😊

16 Wolf Rd, Albany

(888) 901-3383

I've had both good and not-so-great experiences at the IHOP in Albany, but I want to focus on the positives. The servers are consistently friendly and efficient. During my last visit, Courtney did an excellent job. She got us seated quickly, took our orders with a smile, and our food came out fast. The breakfast was delicious and exactly what you expect from IHOP. Even with a busy atmosphere, the staff managed to keep things moving smoothly. The restaurant could use some updates, especially with the seating, but it doesn't take away from the enjoyable experience. Overall, if you're looking for a tasty breakfast with great service, this IHOP is worth a visit.

452 Madison Ave, Albany

(518) 463-1111

Cafe Lark is a fantastic spot for breakfast in Albany. The food is exceptional, with every dish full of flavor and expertly prepared. The fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation make each bite a delightful experience. I highly recommend it for food lovers. Their Pepperoni Pizza is delicious, and having it for breakfast was a treat! The owner was incredibly sweet and made us feel welcome. The pizzas are outstanding, with a crust that's the perfect mix of crispy and chewy, topped with the freshest ingredients. The diverse menu has something for everyone, and the friendly staff makes the dining experience even better. I usually order their pizza and wings every week, and I love the variety of wing styles and reasonable prices. It's a place I genuinely enjoy.