If you’re a fan of The Pearl Street Pub, The Capital American Eatery & Lounge, The Barrel Saloon, or Professor M. Barley’s, then you’re familiar with the restaurant stylings of owner Chris Pratt. These four eateries are well-loved here in the Capital Region and their success has enabled Pratt to embark on a new endeavor: Public House 42, which is now open at 42 Eagle Street in Albany.
For his latest venture, Pratt has created an Irish Pub & Restaurant in a beautifully restored building in downtown Albany. The menu offers traditional Irish-American fare, like corned beef & cabbage and bangers & mash, plus original twists on classic dishes, including Guinness baked mac & cheese. An Irish breakfast will be served all day long and breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and coffee will be offered in the morning. The bar features a handful of Irish beers on tap, including Kilkenny, Smithwicks, Mangers Irish Cider, and, of course, Guinness.
Pratt chose the location on Eagle Street because of its proximity to the Albany Capital Center, which is currently in the early phases of construction. The Capital Center will draw locals and others from across the region and beyond and Public House 42 looks forward to serving all those who visit. Currently, the pub occupies the lower and main levels of the building with a “cozy bar atmosphere on the lower level and an intimate dining experience on the main level,” as described by Pratt’s daughter, Charissa. The renovations restored the building’s original charm and the exposed brick and warm lighting create a unique and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a classic Irish pub.
What can we expect from Public House 42 in the future? Charissa assures us that the restaurant and pub will continue to grow and expand based on customers’ wants and needs. Plans are already in place to transform the third floor of the building into a reception hall to accommodate outside functions. Once the Albany Capital Center is open, Public House 42 plans to offer brunch and other special events for visitors who are staying in the adjacent hotel.
The bar at Public House 42 is opening to the public today, Monday September 29th, at 6:00pm and the full kitchen will be open and serving lunch and dinner starting at 11:00am tomorrow. On Wednesday, October 1st, the restaurant will be open from 7:00am – 10:00pm serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Public House 42 plans to hold an official Grand Opening in the near future, with details to be announced. Be sure to stop by, enjoy a pint, and experience one of Albany’s newest restaurants!
Interested in more of the great restaurants Albany has to offer? Check out our Albany Food & Drink Guide for an extensive list of dining options!