21 Best Restaurants in Albany, OR
This article was written by local contributor Abel Martin & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who has lived in Albany, Oregon, for quite some time, I can confidently say that the city has a fantastic culinary scene to offer.
After spending countless evenings trying out various eateries, I've discovered a diverse range of flavors and atmospheres that cater to a wide array of tastes.
From unique, locally-owned spots to well-loved classics, you'll never run out of delicious options in this charming city.
So, sit back and let me guide you through some of the best restaurants in Albany, Oregon.
Homegrown Oregon Foods
Just the other day, I decided to give Homegrown Oregon Foods a try, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience.
The food was absolutely delicious, and I couldn't have asked for a better meal.
I had the Pele Fire Bowl, which was not too spicy and came with tender steak strips, plenty of vegetables, rice, and fresh pineapple chunks.
The homemade Fire sauce was so good that I ended up buying a bottle to take home with me!
My partner tried the two different types of street tacos – the Balsamic and Pappa Gregg – and she absolutely loved them both.
The décor at Homegrown Oregon Foods is very eclectic, with lots of interesting things to look at, which added to the overall dining experience.
The prices were reasonable, the service was friendly, and we definitely felt like we got our money's worth.
One thing that stood out to me was their extensive menu of healthy options, and the flavor of the dishes was truly incredible.
They also serve fresh kombucha and water kefir, which I appreciated.
Cinco Estrellas Taqueria
Every time I have a craving for some delicious Mexican food, I head over to Cinco Estrellas Taqueria.
I've tried their lingua tacos, and they are just incredible.
The meat is tender, flavorful, and not overcooked at all.
And the lime they serve isn't dried out, which is something I've experienced at other places.
I've heard people visiting from out of town rave about this spot too, saying they'd definitely come back whenever they're in the area.
One trucker even mentioned that it's hard to find good Mexican food on the road, but Cinco Estrellas didn't let him down.
Their burritos are also noteworthy – huge and packed with flavor.
I've seen people struggle to finish one in a single sitting, and I can't blame them.
The food cart pod is a great touch, adding to the overall experience.
The Squeaky Cork
One of my favorite spots to unwind after a long day is The Squeaky Cork.
This charming little spot offers a fantastic selection of Bourbon, Whiskey, and Scotch, as well as some delicious Scottish comfort food.
I love to spend my evenings here, sipping on my favorite Huckleberry Mule while my partner explores their varied Whiskey offerings.
The food at The Squeaky Cork is always a treat.
On our last visit, I had a scrumptious cottage pie made with tomato sauce, while my partner enjoyed a unique tomato soup paired with grilled cheese.
And let's not forget their Toffee Cake - it's a sweet delight that's perfect for satisfying my cravings.
My go-to meal usually starts with their Pickled Eggs and Pretzels appetizer, served with house-made honey mustard, followed by the Firehouse Chili, and ending the evening with the indulgent Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake and Ice Cream.
Sweet Red Bistro
I recently decided to spend an evening at Sweet Red Bistro, a charming spot known for its New American dishes and wine selection, all set in a historic space with brick walls and sidewalk-facing windows.
It was the perfect choice for a laid-back dinner with friends.
From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, with dim lighting and dark wood decor that added a touch of class.
We started our meal with the charcuterie board and some delectable cocktails, followed by the main course.
I had the garlic, mushroom, and beef tip pasta, which was absolutely scrumptious.
My friends ordered the bistro steak, which they said was cooked to perfection.
Sybaris Bistro
I had heard so much about Sybaris Bistro from fellow locals and finally decided to give it a try. And trust me, it was worth all the hype.
The starting bread was handmade and incredibly delicious, and their mixed drinks were top-notch.
The appetizers were a delightful surprise, with unique offerings like the curried peach soup with cayenne whipped cream.
My entree, the salmon, was cooked to perfection, and I could tell it was made with locally sourced ingredients.
I also couldn't resist trying the lamb merguez stuffed peppers with mint-chile drizzle – another inventive and delicious dish.
But the real showstopper was the dessert.
It was hard to choose between the sweet corn flan with dark mole cherries and the apricot sachertorte, so we got both.
Each one was delectable, beautifully presented, and the perfect way to end an amazing meal.
Ba's Vietnamese Comfort Food
Oh, how I love living in Albany! There are so many great places to eat, but my absolute favorite has to be Ba's Vietnamese Comfort Food.
I try to eat here at least once a week, although I wish I could go more often.
The atmosphere is always so warm and welcoming, and I adore the Ethiopian jazz music they've been playing lately.
The food and drinks here are always incredibly fresh.
Their pho is quite good, but I must say, their ginger chicken is something else – I've shared it with a friend, and we were both satisfied for the entire day.
And don't even get me started on their appetizers – they're just fantastic.
One thing I truly appreciate about this place is their tofu option for salad rolls.
As someone who always tries to incorporate more plant-based options into my diet, having this alternative is really nice.
Additionally, if you're a fan of bold flavors, don't forget to ask for extra sauce – it's simply delicious.
They're always friendly and attentive, making the whole dining experience even more delightful.
Novak's Hungarian Restaurant
Ever since I first visited Novak's Hungarian Restaurant, it has become a regular spot for my family and me.
The brick-lined bistro has a warm, cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
The food at Novak's is absolutely incredible. I've tried several dishes on their menu, and each one has been delicious.
The flavors are authentic, and the locally sourced ingredients definitely make a difference.
Some of my personal favorites include cabbage rolls, sausage, and chicken paprikas.
And don't even get me started on the amazing pastries they offer for dessert!
Oregon Barbecue Company
As someone who loves BBQ, I've visited the Oregon Barbecue Company multiple times to satisfy my cravings.
I must say, the experience has been a mix of hits and misses. Sometimes, the BBQ is fantastic – the brisket, ribs, and pulled pork can be wonderfully flavored and tender.
On such occasions, the sauce is excellent, and I absolutely love the slaw as a side.
I've had chicken that was dry, and some of the sides can be quite bland or even tasteless.
For example, potato salad and corn tend to lack any real seasoning.
One thing worth noting is that the ambiance at Oregon Barbecue Company is primarily a drive-thru with a small walk-up area.
That being said, if you're just looking for some good BBQ to enjoy at home, this might not be a big deal.
Jinda Thai Restaurant
As a lover of Thai cuisine, I recently decided to give Jinda Thai Restaurant a try, and I'm glad I did!
This cozy little spot has limited seating, but they offer to-go and take-out orders conveniently placed on a table with your name on it.
I found their cashew chicken to be delicious and fresh, and their tempura avocado was an interesting dish to try, although fried avocado wasn't exactly my cup of tea.
One of the best parts about Jinda Thai is the variety of vegetarian options available on their menu, making it perfect for my partner and me.
We tried their pineapple curry, and it was absolutely amazing!
Not only did we leave the restaurant with full bellies and smiles, but the bill was also quite reasonable.
Besides their in-person dining, Jinda Thai also offers delivery via DoorDash, which I've personally tried and was very satisfied with the quality of the food.
The basil fried rice was light and flavorful, and the green papaya salad was crisp and delicious.
The Barn at Hickory Station
The other day, I decided to check out The Barn at Hickory Station with a few friends for lunch.
I've heard so much about this outdoor food court, and it certainly lived up to the hype.
With a multitude of food trucks surrounding the area, there was something for everyone to enjoy, making it the perfect spot for our picky group.
Even though it was a bit chilly, we were quite comfortable thanks to the high, well-maintained roof and the installed heaters.
The place also had ample seating options, allowing us to choose between sitting under the roof or out in the sun.
We went on a Wednesday, and while a few food trucks weren't open, we still had a fantastic selection to choose from.
I was pleasantly surprised by the indoor area where we could grab beverages, including beer and wine, which made our meal even more enjoyable.
The parking was easy, and we found the prices reasonable, with each of us spending around $15 for a meal.
One of the highlights of our visit was my son and I trying the Kento food truck, which served delicious noodles, teriyaki chicken, and vegetables.
The entire place was clean, and the atmosphere was inviting.
Vault 244
I've always loved exploring new places to eat and hang out in my town, and one of my favorite spots is Vault 244.
The atmosphere is truly one-of-a-kind, with its historic setting and chic New American bistro vibe.
The live music adds an extra charm to the place, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or for a special date.
I have to admit, the service at the bar never disappoints.
When it comes to the food at Vault 244, I would say it's a bit better than average – but not excellent.
The small plates are perfect for sharing and trying out different flavors.
El Palenque Mexican Restaurant
One of my favorite spots in town is El Palenque Mexican Restaurant.
I love their fantastic selection of margaritas, and the food has always been top-notch.
The margarita flight is definitely a must-try, and if you're just going for a single drink, I suggest giving the Tamarind or Prickly Pear flavor a shot.
Their food menu is also great - I've enjoyed dishes like Chicken Fajitas, Fish Tacos, and Quesadilla appetizers.
Additionally, I consider myself the biggest fan of their Agua Fresca de Tamarindo!
First Burger
I recently decided to try out First Burger, and I must say, it was quite an experience!
As soon as I walked in, I was warmly greeted and seated, and my order was taken in record time.
I opted for a Mushroom Swiss burger with chicken instead of beef, and it turned out to be excellent!
My friend ordered Frito Pie and a grilled cheese sandwich, and she couldn't stop raving about how delicious it was.
The prices were pretty reasonable too, which is always a plus.
During my visit, I noticed that First Burger wasn't too crowded, and the waiting time was quite short.
I also appreciated their variety of burger options.
One more thing that I can't leave out is the chocolate malt shake that I tried for the first time.
It was hands down the best part of my meal!
Calapooia Brewing
One place that never disappoints is Calapooia Brewing.
Whenever I need a break from my daily routine or just want to catch up with friends, this cozy taproom is my go-to spot.
What I love most about Calapooia is the variety of house brews and delicious burgers they serve, but it doesn't end there.
The atmosphere is always welcoming, with regular live music and games like darts to keep us entertained.
One of my favorite features is their heated outdoor seating area, which allows me to enjoy the fresh air while sipping on a refreshing beer.
In the colder months, they have a garage-like structure with patio heaters, so we can still enjoy the outdoors without freezing.
Aside from the fantastic beer selection, Calapooia also offers some great ciders and locally sourced bangers that never fail to satisfy my taste buds.
Oh, and I must mention their eco-friendly practices, like using biodegradable straws that don't disintegrate in my drink!
Rigoberto's Taco Shop
Whenever I have a craving for some amazing Mexican food, I know that Rigoberto's Taco Shop is the place to go.
I remember the first time I stumbled upon it, I saw a long line of cars in the drive-thru and thought to myself, "This must be good!" And, oh boy, was I right.
From their delicious enchiladas, both chicken and beef, to their pastor big burrito, this place never disappoints when it comes to satisfying my hunger.
The prices are incredibly affordable as well, with an enchiladas plate only setting me back $9.25 and the big burrito for just $7.95.
What I find most impressive is their ability to fill large orders quickly, even during peak hours.
Brick & Mortar Café
I've been going to Brick & Mortar Café for quite some time now, and it's always been one of my go-to spots for a delicious and satisfying brunch experience.
They offer a great variety of American breakfast food, as well as a proper lunchtime menu.
One of my favorite things to do is sit outside with my dogs, taking in the fresh air and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
I remember one of my visits, I arrived right as they opened on a Wednesday, and even though it was already quite busy, the service didn't miss a beat.
Their dishes are not only tasty but also beautifully presented. I personally enjoyed their chicken and waffles, with the chicken seasoned to perfection - crispy and juicy.
I've also tried their verde omelet, which was good.
However, the chicken fried steak was a delight, and I'd definitely recommend giving it a try.
On top of that, their Bloody Mary and raspberry mimosa added a perfect touch to the meal, making the experience truly enjoyable.
Gamberetti's
I've had the pleasure of dining at Gamberetti's several times.
I absolutely love the warm, freshly baked bread they serve – it has a perfect crunchy outside and a soft inside.
The food portions are generous, so you definitely won't leave hungry.
One of my favorite dishes to order is the beet and avocado salad with added shrimp – it's fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
While the initial reception can sometimes be a bit off, the overall service is usually great.
On my last visit, which was a Tuesday around 1 pm in December 2022, the restaurant was steady but not too busy.
I also tried their coffee martini, which was delicious.
Simply Ramen
I absolutely love ramen, so when I heard about Simply Ramen, I knew I had to give it a try.
The first thing I noticed was how clean and organized the restaurant was.
I was happy to see that the restrooms were clean too.
When I visited, I decided to try the Chicken Chow Mein, which turned out to be tasty and filling.
I noticed that the place seems to be pretty popular, as there was a good crowd in the restaurant and several orders for pickup.
On my next visit, I'm looking forward to trying something else from their menu.
Los Tequilas
I've been to Los Tequilas a few times.
The restaurant itself is clean, and the service makes you feel at home.
Their tacos are to die for!
Their burrito is packed and flavorful.
I also tried their apple chimichangas, which, I believe, is the bomb!
Roger's Restaurant
One of my favorite spots in town to grab a delicious and filling breakfast is Roger's Restaurant.
They have the biggest servings I've ever seen, ensuring that I leave the place full and satisfied.
The cozy atmosphere, with its booth and counter seating, only adds to the charm of this delightful diner.
Their chicken fried steak is hands down the best in town, and don't even get me started on their mouth-watering cinnamon rolls!
Wilhelm's Spirits & Eatery
Wilhelm's Spirits & Eatery has quickly become one of my favorite places to grab a bite and a drink in town.
I remember the first time I dined there, I was blown away by the delicious food and the exceptional service.
My partner is a huge fan of their chicken Alfredo, which was not only delicious but also served in a very generous portion.
On the other hand, I couldn't resist trying their heart-stop double burger.
The patties were juicy and cooked to perfection, and the burger itself was so massive that I could only finish half of it.
One thing I must mention is the variety of drinks they have on offer.
They even have Guinness on tap, which is always a plus for me.
Final Thoughts
Albany truly has a diverse and delicious array of restaurants, bars, and eateries to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
I highly recommend venturing out and exploring these local gems for a fantastic dining experience.
Each establishment offers its unique flair and atmosphere, making the choices plentiful and enjoyable.
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