The 10 Best Healthy Food Options in Albany

Albany is known for its culinary delights, but increasingly restaurants are taking health into consideration too. Check out these 10 best healthy eats in Albany! Enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes filled with nutritious ingredients that will energize your day and leave you feeling satisfied.

Top 10 Places to Eat Healthy Food in Albany

Honest Weight Food Co-op

Address: 100 Watervliet Ave, Albany, NY 12206, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.6 (1967)
Phone: +1 518-482-2667
Website: Link
Opening hours:

Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Reviews:

So I’ve had the luxury of some down time in the past week in the Schenectady / Albany area of New York, where I’ve never been to before and if you’re me, you’re going to look for vegan restaurants and co-op markets to hang out and make friends with all the vegetables in the produce section.

So I roll up into Honest Weight co-op, thinking “I hope this is almost as good as the Wedge in Minneapolis,” because to be honest, I’ve never seen anything close to that anywhere I’ve traveled to.

Well I spent THREE and a HALF hours there. That’s just yesterday. Because today, I went back for another hour and a half.

Mind = blown. This place has everything and I mean EVERYTHING. Certainly everything I could imagine that was on my wishlist.

Fresh, cultivated oyster, maitake & shitake mushrooms; wild harvested chaga chunks and reishi & cordyceps mushroom powder. Everything I’ve been learning about and becoming interested in the last several years. I also rounded out and tightened up my spice collection, especially the Indian spices that can sometimes be so hard to find, especially in a bulk section.

Amazing, beautiful produce, a lot of it locally sourced, combined with friendly staff – and enough staff both to serve the customer load and keep it a tight, smoothly run ship. The staff couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful.

Did I mention the fresh made nut butter section with everything you could imagine and then some? Or the oil & vinegar section? Same thing. Want almond or spelt flour or dead sea salt about 50 different varieties of flours, salts, powders and so on? Just go to such and such aisle and you will find all things baking that will blow your mind.

Nut section? Same thing. Tea section? Same. Coffee, sea vegetable section, grain section, bean section, vegan section, gluten free section, deli, fresh baked breads? Kombucha section? Plant milk section? Health and beauty section? Same. All of ’em, same thing. And more.

My mind still hasn’t fully grasped how they’ve managed to squeeze all these amazing products and all their awesome, super freindly staff and just.. all this awesomeness into a footprint that would probably be similiar to what some of the largest, corporate, name brand grocery stores in the midwest are, yet still feel like there’s no rush, plenty of room in the aisles and lots of friendly, knowledgeable staff nearby who are happy, and have the time and patience to, actually answer all of your questions and trade a friendly conversation with.

Discovering this place has adjusted my estimation of what a food co-op can be. I still love my Wedge co-op in Minneapolis, and they are really great, but Whole Weight is a whole other level. And I have to assume that the proximity to the major ports on the Atlantic surely must be a major advantage in comparison to the midwest. Still, I’m humbled and super psyched to see and learn and grow more and that there is still a lot to see in this world that will make you smile. If you’re in the area, check it out!

✭✭✭✭✭ By Matthew (10 months ago)

My favorite section of this store is the cheese department that sells a wide variety of domestic and imported artisan cheeses. They also sell outstanding dry cured ham products from Iowa. This store is a treasure trove of gourmet food.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Michael Zuker (4 months ago)

Everything I bought here was seriously so delicious. Unfortunately I don’t live in Albany so I can’t go here regularly but it’s worth seeking out when in the area. Excellent bulk food selection, produce, dairy. I didn’t get around to the meat, but the compound butter, bread, cheeses and teas I got were all excellent. The Bulgarian feta was outstanding and not expensively priced.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Amanda Kirkpatrick (2 months ago)

This is the best co-op that I have ever been to. This is also the only one I’ve been to but I assume it’s the best in the world.
Super friendly staff to start off.
They have a wide variety of fresh fruits, veggies, and fungi(Many of which are organic). The vegan options in the grab and go section and the deli/hot foods area were off the charts. The choices in the bulk area were again, better than I have ever seen. The non dairy milks and cheese section was incredible as well. Don’t get me started about the frozen food options and dry goods/ sauces section haha.
I didn’t even get to venture to a few parts of the store because we were on our way through town.
Anyways, killer store. Shop here if you like good food and other cool stuff.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Seaturkey Photos Kevin Mitchell (3 months ago)

Don’t sleep on their house plants section! And come spring they have so many starters for your garden! Just amazing! We love the co op! And that harissa cheese they house make is absolutely fire!!!

✭✭✭✭✭ By julianna merwin (6 months ago)

Cafe Madison

Address: 1108 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.5 (1095)
Phone: +1 518-935-1094
Website: Link
Opening hours:

Monday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Thursday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Friday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Saturday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Sunday: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Reviews:

We’ve been here twice now and both times have been totally delicious and worth the drive. The sweets are sweet but extremely flavorful (not JUST sweet, you know?) and the savory stuff is also incredibly delicious and well done. I even liked the home fries and I’m not one for potatoes. The dill and onion bread is absolutely delicious, I want to buy loaves of it. What a gem!

✭✭✭✭✭ By Witch-King of Angmar (8 months ago)

This is our 2nd visit, ordered ham,cheese omelet, eggs was light and fluffy, delicious, home fries a bit dry, would be great if onions,peppers were added to give more flavor as a base to the potatoes. Also ordered buttermilk pancakes ,a bit disappointing ,dough tasted a bit raw and processed taste, simple recipe of fresh flour, eggs etc would go a long way if Madison changed their product to home made. Also would like to see sausage breakfast links instead of patty. Cinnamon swirl bread was delicious. Madison is a quaint breakfast /lunch establishment, staff is very professional and friendly.

✭✭ By Epicurean Chichi (2 months ago)

I was super disappointed. This was the first time I had a bad experience here. We checked their weekend specials. I was excited to try the poutine Benedict special and my son ordered the pumpkin pancakes. The service was slow even though we arrived before 9am. After about a 45 minute wait the food came to the table. I took one bite and knew it had been sitting in the window quite a while. The gravy was ice cold as were the eggs. Cold yoke is just gross. No one ever came over to check on our food or refill our coffees till my son had completely finished his meal. They offered to make me a new order but I didn’t have another hour available to wait. I wasn’t charged for the entree, literally took only 1 bite so I would have been upset if I had been. They comped our coffee but I think they should have included the pancakes too. It wasn’t very busy and it appeared that socializing amongst the staff was the priority. I’m not giving up on the place because I have had many delicious meals there but today I was so disappointed. Left hungry and went to Dunkin Donuts next door for a breakfast sandwich. It was not their best effort today.

✭✭✭ By Kathleen Sheedy (2 months ago)

My First Time there with a few of my GirlFriends for Brunch…We didn’t have to wait to be seated that was a plus and I ordered the Chicken and Waffles it was delicious with that Hot Honey and it came out Hot too. I was impress I definitely will be back oh and The Mimosas was delicious also I had 2

✭✭✭✭✭ By tamiko williams (2 months ago)

Mornings Made Better by Cafe Madison

This was our first visit to Cafe Madison and we’re planning to go back…many more times. There was immediate seating at the bar so we bellied on up and started our meal with hot and frothy cappuccinos brewed up right before our eyes.

The restaurant was filled with energy as the staff buzzed around ensuring patrons were well tended to. Our servers at the bar helped us with making suggestions and engaged in conversation when time permitted.

We ordered Huevos Rancheros from the specials menu and the Hash Breakfast. The staff said the Rancheros used to be a staple on the menu but they only bring it back for specials these days; they highly recommended it saying they usually sell out of quickly. The chorizo was a tad spicy but still delicious.

The hash dish was just as good as the Rancheros. As if corned beef hash is decadent on its own, they add a cheese sauce that puts it over the top. The only missed was I paired it with onion/dill bread; you should definitely get rye bread with corned beef.

The eggs were cooked perfectly on each dish and the side potatoes were well seasoned.

The restaurant is clean and offers a comfortable and fun atmosphere. There seems to be plenty of street parking and they offer outdoor seating when the weather permits.

If you haven’t been yet, go! Be sure to sign up for their rewards program for takeout and delivery orders.

UPDATE: 4/10/22
We got the chicken and waffle…crispy chicken tenders served on top of a roasted corn and jalapeno waffle. If you like flavors of the Southwest, you’ll love this waffle. The taste of jalapeno comes through with the slightest hint of heat. Topped with maple butter and a sweet hot-honey syrup. Definitely worth trying!

We got sides of over-medium eggs which were perfectly cooked and crispy bacon.

Sadly, the menu still offers their winter selection of adult coffee beverages but they aren’t making most. If the salted caramel coffee is still being served, give it a try. It’s like dessert and coffee wrapped up in one.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Garrick: Just Another Self-Appointed Critic (8 months ago)

Mamoun’s Restaurant

Address: 206 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12210, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.5 (389)
Phone: +1 518-434-3901
Website: Link
Opening hours:

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
Reviews:

Was passing by in Albany and stopped for a bite and I’m glad it was Mamoun’s. The chicken falafel was amazing! Never tried that combo before.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Anas Tolba (a week ago)

My go-to place whenever I want to order food. They never skimp on portions, the food is consistently great, and the ingredients are fresh. Couldn’t recommend a better place for Mediterranean.

✭✭✭✭✭ By peacecord (in the last week)

I love this place, the food is delicious and good pricing. I wish they would have dine in because the local is beautiful. The people working in here is super nice.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Alba Tellez (3 weeks ago)

This is the Mediterranean I’ve been longing for around here! The food is fresh, authentic, and flavorful. The service is very friendly and accomodating. I will definitely be back.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Quinn Cavanaugh (3 months ago)

Food was excellent as always. Over the past 20 years Whenever I am visiting Albany I make it a point to stop there for dinner. Although the restaurant has changed hands-on number of time the quality of the food has not diminished. The owner of the restaurant was kind enough to take 25% off of our bill because we were having dinner 45 minutes before the sale price was slated to begin. Woul highly recommend

✭✭✭✭✭ By Business Internship Development “The BID” (3 years ago)

Better Bite

Address: 99 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12210, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.1 (307)
Phone: +1 518-694-4400
Website: Link
Opening hours:

Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed
Reviews:

For “sprint to eatery from cubicle then back again” food, not bad. Tasty, affordable and served quickly, with several options for smoothies. Staff very courteous, and bathrooms are clean. Al fresco section in season.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Daniel Donnelly (5 months ago)

Love this place for the good natured and helpful staff. Although I typically have a late breakfast or brunch, I’ve never been disappointed — other than once when their awesome homemade Corn Beef Hash was not available! However, the suggested Greek omelet was the best ever! Outside porch is a great place for enjoying the nice weather under cover. Bicycle friendly.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Dick Hubbard (6 months ago)

Went for lunch today, even though there was a lunch rush, my order only took about 5 min. I got the Supreme BLT and coleslaw. It was delicious!!! Coleslaw I think is made with apple cider vinegar, and was a nice tangy side for my sandwich. Will return!

✭✭✭✭✭ By Rachel Dunbar (7 months ago)

Loved it, nice quick place. Open layout, staff is friendly and order took all of 10 minutes. Food was great and the prices are very reasonable for what you’re getting. All in all, def. Be back.

Pictured (The Italian Omelet)

✭✭✭✭✭ By Ed C (9 months ago)

The girls there were so very polite and friendly. They saw my husband using a walker and helped him carry his food to the table. When he accidentally spilled his coffee, they came with towels to wipe it up and a fresh cup of coffee – without being asked.
And to top it off, 3 of us had delicious omelettes with great potatoes.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Ethel Kramer (3 weeks ago)

The Spinning Gyro

Address: 38 S Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.8 (253)
Phone: +1 518-227-7783
Website: Link
Opening hours:

Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 1:00 – 9:00 PM

Sunday: Closed
Reviews:

It was solid. Quick to make our food, orders were accurate. The meat for our gyro’s was some of the best in the area, but I think the sauce was lack luster. The baklava was ok, 3/5. Also better in the area. The veggies were all high quality and excellent.

The stuffed grape leaves were nicely seasoned. The hummus was great. If I was closer I’d consider going here more often, but as it’s a bit out of the way for me, the food isn’t quite outstanding enough for the effort.

✭✭✭✭ By Shannon Kauderer (9 months ago)

Visited Albany for a night on our way to Cape Cod and decided to stop here based off the reviews and the short walk from the Renaissance Hotel. Small restaurant but we found a table on a Saturday evening.

Staff was friendly, service was quick and food was absolutely delicious. Some of the bets Gyro’s I’ve had to date. Meat was excellent and veggies that accompanied it were super fresh. Definitely worth the walk if you’re staying nearby or even taking an Uber. Highly recommend!

✭✭✭✭✭ By Alex (5 months ago)

The food at this place is exceptional! Very tasty and well prepared and you can choose among many different menu options, ( they have the vegan gyro as well). I got a mix plate which is the combination of beef, chicken and their vegan meat, and everything was sooo well marinated!
Can’t recommend this place enough, such a warm and welcoming environment!

✭✭✭✭✭ By Kelala Aireti (2 months ago)

Tasty food, with a warm and welcoming staff. I found the beef and lamb gyro platter to be absolutely delicious. The beef and lamb were fairly lean with plenty of flavor. The salad greens were crisp and fresh, well dressed in a nice vinaigrette. The rice was tender with a nice buttery flavor, and the French fries were perfectly crisp on the outside, and tender inside. The Turkish bread was also delightful. My only criticism would be that the platter was very carb heavy. I would like to see them rice or fries replaced with a different vegetable option. Still worthy of 5 stars.

✭✭✭✭✭ By Francis Sager (9 months ago)

Finally, somewhere to get some vegan shawarma! The seitan here is perfectly cut and seasoned, and the vegan white sauce complements it well. Stoked to have a gyro place with so many cheap plant-based options.

✭✭✭✭✭ By dave gunn (8 months ago)

Lark St. Poke Bar

Address: 203 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.5 (250)

CoreLife Eatery

Address: 1229 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 3.8 (239)

BARE Blends

Address: 1475 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.2 (229)

The Bowl (Street Noodle & Salad)

Address: 12 Wolf Rd, Albany, NY 12205, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.9 (211)

Wizard Burger

Address: 74 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, United States
Map: Click here
Rating: 4.8 (187)

Thank you for reading! We hope this list helps you find the best healthy in Albany. If you have any additional information, please leave a comment below!