New & Noteworthy 9–10 Downtown Works

Score big with these meals

Where can you find lobster grilled cheese and 16 beers on tap? At MVP Arena’s newest eatery, Albany Stadium Restaurant & Bar. The full-service restaurant is home to lunch, dinner, and event menus to satiate every craving, from hot dogs and burgers to salmon and salads, all with multiple TVs on both levels so you don’t miss a moment of the game.

51 S Pearl Street | albanystadium.com

A ‘Unieke’ shopping experience

Through the clothing line and store, new Downtown retailer Be Unieke encourages you to think outside the box and shop for outfits that reflect who you are. Using the African spelling of “unique,” their mission is to provide clients with innovative and quality-driven products.

132 Madison Avenue | be-unieke.com

Photo: Be Unieke

Store’s contribution recognized

A Downtown retailer that’s been in business for more than 150 years has been honored for its longevity and contributions thanks to Assemblymember John McDonald. B. Lodge & Co. is now on the Historic Business Preservation Registry, which highlights businesses in operation for at least 50 years that have contributed to their communities’ history.

75 N Pearl Street | blodgeandcompany.com

Edu-great addition to Downtown

World-class amenities are kind of our thing, and now we can count a school among the features of our neighborhood. Castle Island Bilingual Montessori moved into Downtown in early 2022, and students aged 3-12 are immersed in English and Spanish lessons with a focus on collaboration, critical thinking, and establishing self-confidence.

602 Broadway | castleislandmontessori.org

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Menu you have to ‘C’

He’s been serving up delicious food in Albany for years, and now Chef C has opened his own eponymously named eatery right here in Downtown. Located inside the Albany Coliseum, drop in to try his more than 12 chicken wing flavors, breakfast sandwiches, lunch and dinner options, and daily specials.

153 S Pearl Street | 518.496.2113

Still deli-cious, now with more space

A popular deli known for its roast beef sandwiches has moved to a larger location and expanded its services. Maurice’s Deli is now located across from the MVP Arena, just two blocks from the previous space, with the extra 1,500 square feet resulting in more seating and expanded offerings including soup and salad bars, fried dough, and larger coffee selection.

50 S Pearl Street | mauricesdeli.com

Gallery supporting more makers

Albany Center Gallery has expanded their support of local artists and makers through a partnership with the Lark Street Mercantile. The Mercantile at ACG is aimed at strengthening the creative economy through collaboration and supporting local artists with additional opportunities. Located inside the gallery, stop in and shop for cards, jewelry, pottery, and more.

488 Broadway | albanycentergallery.org/mercantile

New name, same great venue

Downtown’s 17,500-seat venue has a new name thanks to MVP Health Care winning the naming rights in late 2021. More than just the name, MVP Arena, plans for the company include contributing funds for community events in the atrium, year-round community youth sports programs, and shuttle service for seniors and individuals with disabilities attending events.

51 S Pearl Street | mvparena.com

Breakfast leveled up

Restaurateur Jaime Ortiz expanded his Downtown offerings with the opening of Primrose Café in the building that’s home to 677 Prime. Level up your day with two dozen drink options, breakfast items ranging from muffins to sandwiches including smoked salmon, egg, and gribiche cream cheese on croissant, and for lunch enjoy freshly prepared salads and sandwiches.

677 Broadway | theprimrosecafe.com

Retailer on a mission

Downtown is now home to a mission-based retailer as The Vandy Thrift Shoppe opened its doors at 412 Broadway. Here, you’ll find high-end clothing, home decor, and accessories sold at low prices. Owned and operated by Vanderheyden, proceeds from the store support the nonprofit agency’s work to empower youth, adults, and families in the region.

412 Broadway | 518.650.6770