The Contenders

Illusive Restaurant & Bar

Rensselaer

About Us At Illusive Restaurant & Bar, we strive to create unforgettable gastronomic experiences by fusing innovative flavors with traditional techniques. Our talented chefs use only the finest ingredients for dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

The Babbling Brook Watering Hole and Eatery

Berne

The Babbling Brook Watering Hole & Eatery Relaxing place to enjoy lunch, dinner or ice cream on the beautiful brook/creek or hang at the bar watch the game have a drink and some great food & service

Ralph's Tavern

Albany

About us Ralph's Tavern Established over 75 years ago, new owners, Lee Yattaw & Joseph Wein, have kept the tradition of great Italian-American food and providing daily specials. Still claiming, you don't change something that works. And for decades, Ralph's Italian-American fare works. Stop by and taste what the locals have always known.

Texas Roadhouse

Albany

IF IT DOESN'T SAY TEXAS, IT'S NOT TEXAS ROADHOUSE® Legendary means Hand-Cut Steaks, Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs, Made-From-Scratch Sides, Ice-Cold Beer, and of course, our irresistible Fresh-Baked Bread.

Mazzone Hospitality

Clifton Park

Hospitality is Our Passion At Mazzone Hospitality, our goal is to serve great food, make people feel special, and create unforgettable memories. Whether we are catering a wedding or social event at one of our venues, a backyard party or corporate event, or you are dining at one of our PRIME Dining locations, you can count on the highest level of service and the finest food in the Capital District.

Brown's Brewing Company

Troy

At Brown's Brewing Company, we proudly stand as a family-owned brewery boasting two enchanting waterfront locations. Our commitment is to cater to the discerning tastes of craft beer enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike. Here, the art of brewing meets the mastery of fresh scratch cooking, creating an immersive experience that captures the very essence of our ingenuity, passion, and innovation. Join us on a journey where every sip and bite exemplifies the distinctive identity that defines Brown's Brewing Company. We fervently believe in thinking independently and drinking independently, and we invite you to join us at the source. - Garry & Kelly Brown, fearless leaders, pioneers, owners

Carol's Eatery

Troy

Carol’s Place has been a family owned and operated business since 1983. The owner, Carol, lived just two short blocks from here when she opened with only her 3 children as her first employees! Today, you can see Three Generations through the windows of Carol’s Place and many extended family members. We as a family work hard to prepare Quality Fresh Selections for your family, using only the finest ingredients! “From our Family to Yours!”

Tipsy Moose

Troy

Comfort Food & Craft Taps In A Cozy Cabin Vibe Award-winning mac & cheese, smoked-in-house meats and 20+ rotating drafts — in Latham, Troy & Albany.

The Bunker

Rensselaer

What began as a passion project has grown into the Northeast's premier indoor golf and social lounge. Each Bunker location features TrackMan bays, scratch-made food, and curated beverage programs, creating an environment where golfers and non-golfers alike can feel at home. We host leagues, corporate outings, celebrations, and everyday drop-ins—from first swings to competitive practice sessions. Our team is committed to hospitality, continuous improvement, and delivering memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors. Have questions about our story or want to work with us? Reach out through the contact form and we'll follow up shortly.

Recovery Sports Grill

Rensselaer

Recovery Sports Grill is a fan- and family-friendly sports restaurant founded by Don Led Duke in Albany, NY in 2007. RSG is managed by BBL Hospitality and now operates 8 locations across five states. Although we are passionate about sports, our true passion is bringing communities together through food and drinks, local and professional sports, private events, and fundraising opportunities for local teams and organizations.

Bandstand Brew Works

Warrensburg

We are a family friendly brew pub located in Warrensburg, NY! We cannot wait to host you, your friends, and your family for a diverse selection of fantastic craft beers & cocktails, a wide variety of delicious food options, and incredibly fun live music and events, all in a comfortable, warm, and welcoming atmosphere! BSBW also has the BEST team of people ready to make your experience with us special and make you feel right at home! Bandstand Brew Works is Where Community Gathers. You will enjoy your memorable experience with us and leave feeling part of our community, looking forward to your next visit, of course! We have incredible beers brewed on site in a variety of styles and flavors; a full bar with cocktails, mocktails, cider, seltzers and nonalcoholic options; a large and diverse menu of food we something for everyone to enjoy - including a fun and yummy kids menu; and a ton of fun events and live music every weekend. If you want to eat drink and have an incredible time, bring your crew and join us at… Bandstand Brew Works - Where Community Gathers.

Ryan's Wake

Troy

Life Is Thirsty Work A family owned Irish Pub in the heart of Downtown Troy with River Views, Great Food, and Welcoming People.