Fall is officially underway, and Albany is coming alive with exciting events and new businesses. Make plans for weekend fun and visit a new restaurant or two!
Festivals & Fairs, Spooky Attractions Begin, and More
Take a look at some highlights from the events calendar this week:
- Troy Night Out: September 24
- Double M Haunted Hayrides (Opening Weekend): September 24-25
- Field of Horrors (Sneak Peek Weekend): September 24-25
- Hollowed Harvest at Altamont Fairgrounds: September 24-25
- Monster Jam at the Times Union Center: September 25-26
- 43rd Freihofer’s® Run for Women: September 25
- 2021 Albany Walk to End Alzheimer’s: September 25
- 2021 Schenectady Kids Arts Festival: September 25
- Bacon & Brew Fest: September 25
- Upper Madison Street Fair: September 25
- Capitol Hauntings Tour: September 30 – October 1
See the full Albany events calendar >>
Learn About 3 New Albany Restaurants & A Craft Coffee Company
There’s a New Italian-Themed Restaurant & Bar in Town

Belt Line 3, an Italian-themed restaurant and bar, opened last week at 340 Hamilton Street in Albany, reports the Times Union. On their Facebook page, the restaurant notes they have a seasonal outdoor courtyard, a bar lounge, and a comfortable dining room for guests. Their menu includes a mix of starters, flatbreads, and entrees, such as Chicken Parmesan, Salmon Piccata, Bolognese, and more. Be sure to pair your meal with a craft cocktail or Italian wine.
Enjoy a Taste of Vietnam in Downtown Albany
A new Vietnamese restaurant named Banh Mi 47 has recently opened at 47 North Pearl Street in Albany, and they are offering banh mi sandwiches and other quick-serve fare. Although they are starting out with a limited menu, customers can look forward to delicious Vietnamese cuisine made fresh every day with family recipes. Their current hours are Monday – Saturday, 11:30am-6:00pm.
Motor Oil Coffee Is Ready to Rev Up Your Mornings

If coffee is what you crave in the morning, then you should check out the newest craft coffee startup in Albany – Motor Oil Coffee. As described in The Saratogian, Motor Oil Coffee was co-founded by Rich Fazio and Joe Bonilla, who have a shared love for automobiles, auto-art, and a rich cup of coffee.
At the moment, there are four blends of Motor Oil Coffee available for purchase in-person at farmers markets and participating car shows and online: Daystarter Breakfast Blend, Zero Emission Decaf, Motor Oil Standard Harvest, and High Octane Premier Guatemalan.
Bar Vegan Prepares to Open on Lark Street
Lark Street is about to get a new vegan eatery! According to an article from the Times Union, the former LAX Restaurant & Lounge at 205 Lark Street in Albany has been transformed into Bar Vegan. The restaurant’s dining area now features plant-based decor, and the all-vegan menu will include appetizers, small plates, and other shareable options, as well as beer, wine, cider, and spirits. A soft opening is expected to take place on September 24 – 25, with the grand opening scheduled for October.
Experience fall fun in the Albany area >>
Sources:
- Times Union: Belt Line 3 restaurant opens in Albany
- Times Union: LAX in Albany becoming Bar Vegan
- The Saratogian: Albany-based craft coffee startup launches