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8 of the Best Places for Craft Cocktails In & Near Albany, NY: Find Your New Favorite Drink!

If you're searching for the best craft cocktails in and near Albany, NY, you're in luck! Discover must-try spots with creative drinks for every mood, from relaxed evenings to vibrant nightlife. Raise a glass and cheers to new favorites!

New Scotland Spirits

Nestled at the corner of State & Lark Streets in Albany’s vibrant Center Square neighborhood, New Scotland Spirits' tasting room has become a go-to place for craft cocktails. Located just 10 miles away from their home in New Scotland, this elegant whiskey lounge exudes charm and sophistication.

Their expert barkeeps are ready to mix up innovative cocktails like the New Scot (rye whiskey, apple cider, spiced sugar rim, and cinnamon stick) and Sheriff of Lark Street (maple bourbon, vodka, espresso, whipped topping, and dark chocolate).

Customers can also check out a large selection of cocktail classics (you can't go wrong with a Whiskey Sour) and a variety of mocktails too.

New Scotland Spirits' dedication to local craftsmanship brings a unique flavor to every glass, making them well worth a visit for any cocktail lover!

The Fox and The Burn

three cocktails on a counter

Get ready to experience the ultimate dining destination in the Capital District: River Street Market! Boasting 7 excellent eateries, you can find all sorts of delicious items, such as zesty tacos and burgers or smoothies and juices.

If elevated drinks are your thing, be sure to check out The Fox and The Burn—they have an incredible selection of small plates, local beer and wine, and craft cocktails. This spot has whatever you want, from seasonal cocktails like their Mistletoe Margarita to boozy hot chocolate.

Savoy Taproom

drink sitting on a bar counter

Get your appetite ready for Savoy Taproom! Located on Lark Street in Downtown Albany, their menu features delicious sandwiches and wraps, hearty burgers and wings, or larger plates with chicken, salmon, and steak options. Pair your food with a unique cocktail like "Pink Jeans," where spring fruit flavors are blended to create an unforgettable taste experience.

Wellington’s

chairs in front of a large bar

Enjoy a taste of amazing fare at Wellington's, Albany's premier bar and restaurant inside the Renaissance Albany Hotel. Order delightful craft cocktails surrounded by all that Downtown Albany has to offer. You can choose a drink from their extensive menu to complement your delicious fares, like Faroe Island Salmon or Capitol Burgers, for an unbeatable experience in this historic capital city.

City Line Bar and Grill

a drink in a mule mug with a mint sprig and lemon. lemons and strawberries around the glass

Visit the City Line Bar and Grill on Western Ave for a great experience during any meal! Whether you're in the mood for lunch, dinner, or a weekend brunch with friends, indulge yourself with their incredible selection of fare and drinks. They have an expansive menu featuring cocktails and mocktails with unique and fun names like “Wanna Peach of Me” and “I Mint to Leave the Booze Out.”

The Loft @205

Figtini - The loft@205 cocktail with flower in it

Check out The Loft @205, a chic dining and drinks venue on Lark Street. Their menu boasts a Creamy or Black Espresso Martini for coffee enthusiasts. The martini is crafted with a local company’s Death Wish vodka, Baileys, hazelnut liqueur, Kahlua, and cream. In addition, the Lark St. Poké Bar, their sister location, offers healthy fare for your refueling needs.

Dove + Deer

Stop by Dove + Deer in the heart of Downtown Albany - a neighborhood pub with something for everyone. Enjoy delicious sandwiches and full-plate meals. For a refresher, try "The Grocer," an exquisite vodka-based drink featuring elderflower, grapefruit, lemon, and rosemary simple syrup. With plenty on the menu at this local treasure of Albany's eatery scene, it'll be hard not to have a good time.

Albany Distilling Bar & Bottle Shop

Looking for a one-of-a-kind atmosphere to enjoy some craft cocktails? Check out the Albany Distilling Company Bar & Bottle Shop! Sit outside and soak up some sun with friends while enjoying their delicious cocktails, crafted with their made-in-house rum, vodka, and whiskey. While you’re there, munch on tasty fare from DeFazio’s Pizza, right next to the Bar & Bottle Shop.

Try one of these spots the next time you’re in the mood for something exciting and different. Albany has many fabulous bars with signature craft cocktails just waiting to be discovered. So cheers, and enjoy your Albany cocktails adventure!

Looking for food instead? Check out our 8 must-try restaurants >>

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man with glasses with forest background
About the Author: Joe Legault Joe is a dedicated editor from Lake Luzerne, NY, with a passion for hiking the Adirondack high peaks, running half marathons and 5Ks, and visiting local craft breweries like Common Roots and Dancing Grain. He enjoys writing about the region's can't-miss attractions and activities.