If you need a resurrection from final week and graduation crisis, check out these not-a-deli restaurants (warm shout out to Zuke’s).
Foreign Cuisine
Himalaya Restaurant (78 Margaret St., 518-772-7034) Go on a hearty, flavorful journey to Himalaya. The cozy space of red bricks, yellow walls, garnet tablecloths and colorful flags offers authentic Bhutanese, Nepali and Tibetan comforting cuisine. Never mind the price tag ($10–20), order more Momos — steamy, fluffy dumplings filled with finely chopped meat and herbs, or more Thenthuk — a popular hangover soup with sauteéd radish and spinach. Good selection of wine, superb service. Even the bathroom is lovely — wash your hands in the aroma of cinnamon and star anise.
Sawatdee Thai and Asian Cuisine (386 Route 3, 518 563-2500) A bowl of Vietnamese pho a day, headache and cold stay away. This small place houses a large collection of hearty, flavorful Asian noodle soups and other authentic dishes. Whether you want something small to munch on, such as avocado rangoon or spring rolls, or a full entree, such as an entire pineapple filled with fantastic tropical fried rice, they have it all. Don’t forget the mango dessert with steamy coconut sticky rice and the rich, sweet, loving, mother-of-god Thai ice tea. Yes, they deliver.
Aleka’s Greek Italian Cuisine (103 Margaret St., 518 310-3200) First thing to order should be the famous Greek fries — deep fried crunchy potato with Feta cheese, oregano, fresh herbs, olive oil and red wine vinegar. Balance it out with the fresh and fulfilling falafel salad or the mouthwatering seafood fra diavolo. Good portion, helpful staffs.
Casual Dining
The Pepper (13 City Hall Place, 518 566-4688) Sit outside on a sunny day with a margarita, and secretly stalk the townies. Hidden in a buzzing corner, the Pepper is known for its great drinks and localized Mexican food. Huge portions, interesting taste. The all-classic American-Mexican deep fried chimichanga burrito with plenty of beans and rice on the side is the bomb.
Michigans Plus (313 Cornelia St., 518 561-0537) Classic diner food, booth seating, humble staff, free delivery. Thirteen kinds of comforting hot dogs, nine kinds of sizzling omelets, three pages of amazing dishes. If you are looking for a heavy breakfast, get the garbage plate — home fries topped with sausage, gravy, eggs and cheese. Heck, make it deluxe with extra onions, green pepper, bacon and ham! Don't let the look fool you.
Naked Turtle (1 Dock St., 518 566-6200) This seasonal restaurant offers a beautiful view from the dock. Sit outside to enjoy fresh breezes and sunset on Lake Champlain with OK-ish food, great atmosphere and amazing bar. Mingle with friends, locals and fun staffs in great music in the afternoon.
Bistro and Fine Dining
Latitude 44 Bistro (5131 U.S. Ave., 518 310 1311) If you are feeling a bit fancier, take your date on a ride to Latitude 44. Spacious seating, striking for upscale food. Decent taste and plating from the wonderful chef. Get the sizzling grilled half rack of Australian lamb with rosemary jus and cry for some more blackened salmon with citrus aioli. Wine ranges from $32 to $130 per bottle.
Anthony’s Restaurant and Bistro (538 State Route 3, 518 561-6420) With cozy, candle-lit tables, white plates and silver spoons, Anthony’s can customize a fine dining experience to your budget with 335 wine selections ranging from $25 to $1,100 per bottle, and entrees ranging from $9.95 to $26.95. Don’t forget to grab a martini or two at its vibrant lounge.
P.S.: Enjoy Sunburgh and sit outside while you can.
