03/03/08

DO NOT GO EAT HERE

by Kandiman3583

This was one of the worst dining experiences I have ever had. Being from Boston I am used to some pretty great dining choices. This is the second time I have attempted to have a nice dinner in Albany and they were both terrible. First of all the place was empty and depressing on a Friday night at 8PM. There were only 2 other tables and nobody at the bar, with 1 person working the floor and Bar. We got the French onion soup to start, which basically had no flavor. My girlfriend got the Salmon for Dinner, which was undercooked and still had bones a few bones, which she bit into. I had the Hanger steak, and although this is supposed to be a tougher steak, I could barely chew it. It was basically grizzle and fat. We were scared to order desert and simply got our check and left.

With a $26 bottle of wine and tip our bill was $120 DEFINITELY NOT WORTH IT.

They also entice you with the 3 course Price Fixe meail which basically had no good choices on it, which I assume is by design so people order the more expensive dinner choices.

Definitely save your money and eat buffalo wings at the bayou cafe right around the corner.

• Pros: good service, cheap wine, good bread
• Cons: Bad food, expensive

Nightly specials and a seasonal menu focus on French cuisine with a twist, at this upscale historic house.

by Contributor

The Scene
A few blocks from the Palace Theater on Clinton Avenue, Nicole's Bistro is a cheerful haven in the evening when the streets are gloomy. Perhaps it's the history that makes this restaurant feel so welcoming; it's located in one of Albany's oldest buildings, a Dutch urban structure dating back to the 1600s. Beyond the long bar by the entrance is a compact dining room with another, larger room directly above. Outside the building enjoy the beautiful and authentic colonial herb garden.

The Food
The menu evolves continuously, mixing French cuisine with fusion flavors. Cassoulet, the famous stew of white beans and cured duck, is prepared here with a shellfish variation. When available, the gravlox (cured salmon) is splendid served with potato pancakes and dilled sour cream. Other selections include lamb, steak, chicken and pasta dishes.