The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen Restaurant
4.7 Customer ReviewsOverview
Discover The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen, a culinary gem located in the heart of Albany, United States. As a food blogger constantly seeking standout local dining experiences, I was genuinely impressed by how this vibrant spot blends comfort, creativity, and community into one memorable visit.
Situated at 12 1/2 Delaware Ave in Albany, NY, The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen in Albany is known for its approachable yet elevated American cuisine, paired with an impressive craft beer selection. With a phone number of +1 518-462-0050, reservations or quick inquiries are easy to manage. This venue has built a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Albany for casual yet refined dining.
The menu strikes a balance between classic pub fare and modern culinary twists. Prices are reasonable for the quality, with most entrées ranging between $14 and $28. I started with their famous “217 Wings,” perfectly crisp with a bold, house-made sauce that hits a sweet-spicy harmony. The “Local Burger” is another standout-juicy, cooked to order, and topped with melted cheese and fresh ingredients that elevate it beyond your average bar burger. For something heartier, the “Braised Short Rib” melts in your mouth, served with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables that round out the dish beautifully.
Customer feedback echoes my experience. One diner noted, “The flavors are consistently spot on, and the beer list is one of the best in Albany.” Another review highlights the friendly staff and quick service, even during peak hours-a testament to the restaurant’s efficient management and welcoming vibe.
The space itself is warm and inviting, with rustic wood accents, exposed brick, and a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Whether you're seated at the bar enjoying a craft IPA or dining with friends at a cozy table, the ambiance feels both energetic and relaxed. Amenities include a full bar, takeout options, and a casual dress code, making it accessible for various occasions.
What makes The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen in Albany truly special is its attention to detail-from thoughtfully curated beers to consistently high-quality dishes. While the menu leans heavily into comfort food, it does so with finesse. One minor limitation might be the noise level during busy evenings, but for many, that adds to its charm rather than detracts from it.
If you're exploring local dining experiences or searching for the best restaurants in Albany, this spot deserves a place on your list. The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen offers a satisfying blend of flavor, atmosphere, and value-making it a destination worth revisiting.
Amenities
- ✓ Outdoor seating
- ✓ Delivery
- ✓ Takeaway
- ✓ Dine-in
- ✓ Fast service
- ✓ Great beer selection
- ✓ Great cocktails
- ✓ Serves local specialty
- ✓ Dinner
- ✓ Solo dining
- ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating
- ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- ✓ Assistive hearing loop
- ✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park
- ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- ✓ Alcohol
- ✓ Beer
- ✓ Cocktails
- ✓ Coffee
- ✓ Comfort food
- ✓ Happy-hour drinks
- ✓ Late-night food
- ✓ Quick bite
- ✓ Small plates
- ✓ Spirits
- ✓ Vegan options
- ✓ Vegetarian options
- ✓ Wine
- ✓ Dinner
- ✓ Catering
- ✓ Dessert
- ✓ Seating
- ✓ Table service
- ✓ Bar on site
- ✓ Toilet
- ✓ Casual
- ✓ Cosy
- ✓ Trendy
- ✓ Groups
- ✓ Tourists
- ✓ Credit cards
- ✓ Debit cards
- ✓ NFC mobile payments
- ✓ Credit cards
- ✓ Good for kids
- ✓ High chairs
Menu & Pricing
Location
Customer Feedback
• "Food and service were absolutely fantastic."
• "Loved the atmosphere and the staff were all super friendly!"
• "Cozy, clean, and authentic with good bar food and rotating soups & specials."
Customer Reviews
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Your rating for this listing
Even though it was a Saturday night it wasn’t busy and the service was exceptional. My whiskey quesadilla was excellent and the chicken capris sandwich was delicious. Do yourself a favor and stop in. You will be happy.
Calling all Albany foodies! We’ve unearthed another gem that’s about to become your new favorite local haunt. Get ready to settle in and savor the flavor at The Local 217 Taproom & Kitchen (123 Main Street, Albany, NY From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a chill, welcoming vibe. This isn’t just a taproom; it’s a sprawling escape with multiple inviting rooms and a stunning outdoor patio – perfect for any mood. The authentic decor truly brings that “back home” comfort. Today’s culinary adventure featured their Breaded Chicken Cutlet Sandwich , a masterpiece of crispy, succulent chicken, perfectly thick bacon, cheddar, fresh greens, roasted tomato, onion, and mayo, all nestled on a brioche bun. And those homemade potato chips ? Absolutely divine. To wash it all down, the Peach Tea Mixed Drink was a revelation. Made with Bulleit 10 Year Aged Bourbon, it offers a surprisingly smooth, strong kick that expertly balances the peach sweetness and a hint of citrus. Highly recommend! The experience was elevated by the exceptional service. Our bartender was a true star – knowledgeable, engaging, and genuinely welcoming, even when we were capturing content. Ratings: Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Overall: 5 Stars Don’t walk, run to The Local 217! This cozy spot is a must-visit. Let me know what drinks you discover, and remember to drink responsibly. Thank you for trusting my tastebuds, where every bite tells the story! #foodporn #food #foodie #518foodies #foodlover #ny #albany #foodgasm #follow #foodblogger #foods
Got here early Saturday night. Very few people in with just the bartender as server. He was polite cordial, and accommodating. We sat in the back room next to the fireplace. I ordered 2 appetizers (chicken bacon ranch quesadilla, and tator tots) both were excellent. the cbr was actually on a garlic tortilla and was amazing. Wife had grilled chicken which was juicy and flavorful. Will recommend this place to everyone
We absolutely love the spinach artichoke dip! It's amazing! The Lady the works the bar is so very nice! She always makes us feel very welcome there!
Quiet early evening meal with a close friend. I had the Meatball sub special w/ marinara and a pesto mayo on great bread. My date had the cream of celery soup in the bread bowl. The soup was fabulous! prices are reasonable and our bartender/wait person was kind and attentive but unobtrusive. They were out of the zucchini fries but the reg fries were freshly cut and crispy.
I’m here almost every Thursday. I absolutely LOVE Bri. She’s efficient gives great service and never forgets what I drink. She holds the entire place down by herself. She’s a rock star!
Food was pretty good my wings were a little burned but they werent bad at all. The atmosphere is excellent, it waz very personal just me and my partner. The staff was receptive to needs and was very nice, great drink menu. Highly recommend.
I got the corn beef dinner and hubby got the fish fry both were great!! They also made extra effort to make sure the meal didn't have any lemon (food allergies)