NEW & NOTEWORTHY
We are the champions
Banh Mi (oh my)
Arena football is back in Downtown as the Albany Empire took to the Times Union Center’s field – this time under the National Arena League umbrella. With games attracting thousands of people to Downtown, the team’s winning season led to a 2021 NAL championship title. Head Coach Tom Menas is returning in 2022, so more great things are expected.
The availability of authentic world cuisine in Downtown is growing thanks to the opening of Banh Mi 47. The eatery specializes in Vietnamese menu items with sandwiches featuring meats cooked in-house. Family-owned by couple Mike and Stacy Nguyen, the name pays homage to the Saigon street address where Mike’s grandfather runs a market and pho shop.
51 S Pearl Street | albanyempirenal.com
74 N Pearl Street | banhmi47.com
Moo-ve over, ordinary ice cream I scream, you scream, we all scream for Boozy Moo! ice cream. Why? Because this alcohol-infused treat is delicious, that’s why. Made with premium alcohol at The Yard Hatchet House & Bar, flavors of this small batch, craft ice cream include Cawfee Tahwk, Mint Chip Julep, and Peanut Butter Love. 16 Sheridan Avenue | boozymoo.com
Dining on cloud nine
Lacrosse our hearts Football isn’t the only big sports news to come out of the Times Union Center – December 2021 also brings the new National Lacrosse League team to Downtown. The Albany FireWolves, named following a call for community suggestions, mark the return of box lacrosse to the Capital Region for the first time since 2002. The team will have nine home games during the regular season, followed by playoffs and league championship series. 51 S Pearl Street | albanyfirewolves.com
Shrimply the best There’s a new place to enjoy seafood in Downtown. Ballistic Shrimp, located outside the Times Union Center, is serving up favorites like fried fish sandwiches, fried scallops, lobster tails, and steamed clams, plus wings and burgers. Stop over to dine in or order through their pick-up window and enjoy on the go. 51 S Pearl Street | ballisticshrimp.com
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downtownalbany.org
App-based eatery The Cloud Food Hall brings an entirely new experience to downtown Albany. The food hall provides pickup, dine-in, and patio dining experiences from multiple cuisines – including Korean BBQ, waffles, and Mexican food – at the touch of a finger. To order, download their app (available for iOS and Android), place your order, and use your text confirmation to pick up your food and beverages when they’re ready. 55 Columbia Street | thecloudfoodhall.com
