Local Resources
Best After Hours Place
Justin's 301 Lark St., Albany
Now, where else can you dine this well until the wee hours of the morning? Located on happening Lark Street, Justins signature new American cuisine is available until 4 a.m. Justin's also serves as a destination for jazz lovers in the Albany area and beyond.
Best Cheap Date
Bombers Burrito Bar and a walk down Lark Street 258 Lark St., Albany
(518) 463-9636
Stroll down Lark Street then pick up a burrito at Bombers, where the goodies are fresh, plentiful, and tasty. Its a no-frills kind of place, but hefty tacos start at only two bucks. Fun Fact: Bombers was founded from the winnings of a poker game played at Turning Stone Casino.
Best Creative Date
Albany Aqua Duck Historic TourBroadway and Clinton Ave., Albany
(518) 462-3825
Take a unique, educational, and fun filled tour of Albany. Take in the historical sites from land, and then from the Hudson River on this amphibious tour.
Saratoga Racetrack267 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs
(718) 641-4700
Enjoy a day at the historic Saratoga Racetrack with it's striped awnings, wooden grandstand, and elm-shaded paddock. Wear your fanciest hat and bet the day away.
Best Place To Buy a Gift
Wits End 1762 Rt. 9, Clifton Park
(518) 371-9273
Enjoy the cobblestone streets in front of this charming turn-of-the-century shop, which is adorned with beautiful antiques and whimsical, artful treasures.
Best Restaurant for a Second Dinner Date
One Caroline One Caroline St., Saratoga Springs
(518) 587-2026
One Caroline Street Bistro is an intimate little bistro in downtown Saratoga Springs. Their combination of fabulous food, a great wine list, and live music might have you coming here for a third date as well.
Best Restaurant for First Dinner Date
Nicoles Bistro at Quackenbush 633 Broadway, Albany
(518) 465-1111
This upscale bistro is great for a first date. The building's history provides much for conversation, or if you'd rather talk flowers, request to be seated in the garden. Later, see a show; its also conveniently located near the Palace Theatre.
Best Restaurant for Lunch or Brunch First Date
Calaway Grill 661 Albany Shaker Rd., Colonie
(518) 869-9976
This restaurant is a clever golf-themed venue, offering lots of grilled and otherwise healthy fare. Look for the sand wedges (sandwiches) and the main course selections.
Best Special Occasion Restaurant
The Scrimshaw at the Desmond Hotel 660 Albany Shaker Rd, Albany
(518) 869-8100
Fresh fish and fine meats are elegantly served in this dressy hotel dining room. Dont miss the American Wine Festival in February!
TOP FIVE DATES
Dine at Home by Candlelight Making your date a home-cooked meal with all the trimmings (candles, flowers, and champagne) says you really care. Kick it up a notch with a gourmet dinner prepared by a fine cuisine chef right in your own kitchen.
Slipping and Sliding Snow Skiing
Enjoy a day of cool thrills at one of the many New York area ski resorts. Check the website for complete area listings.
Snug Harbor Marina 92 Black Point Rd., Ticonderoga
(518) 585-2628
Rent a boat and spend the day exploring the beautiful waters of Lake George. Pack a picnic lunch and get some rays.
Thatcher State Park One Hailes Cave Rd., Voorheesville
(518) 872-1237
Spend the day hiking through beautiful Thatcher Park. Bring a blanket, some wine, and a picnic lunch to make it an extra special experience.
The Original Comedy Works 142 State St., Albany
(518) 689-0490
A great date location for a good laugh, The Original Comedy Works is sure to provide a side-splitting live entertainment experience.