On the East side of the Hudson River sits a city full of life, history, and food. I can’t deny that I once had pre-conceived notions about the City of Troy, often hearing that it was run down and unsafe. Those assumptions were wrong. Because I know I am not alone with the pre-conceived notions, and because I have since learned of all the awesome places Troy has to offer, I decided to highlight some of the best places to visit in Troy.
The Hill At Muza
On the top of the Congress Street hill is a family run Polish restaurant called Muza, but slightly hidden behind Muza is it’s accompanying bar The Hill at Muza. A beer garden type bar with just a few indoor and outdoor tables, the Hill’s menu is an intricate collection of American cuisine infused with Eastern European flare. Want to visit The Hill at Muza? The garden is open all year round with heaters to keep you warm, but if you want the true experience you’ll have to join the Dyngus Day celebration in early April for homemade pierogi.
Brown’s Brewing Co.
Brown’s sits on the bank of the Hudson River providing one of the best outdoor seating options in the Capital Region. The beer selection is full of variety, always expanding and changing to make room for something new. Classic Brown’s brews like the Pale Ale and the Cherry Razz are always a good bet, but keep an eye on the menu and use the Brown’s suggestions to find the perfect pairing for your meal.
Rare Form Brewing
While Brown’s Brewing is the popular kid in class, Rare Form Brewing Company is home to a different kind of vibe. Offering an intimate bar area, a great selection of beers, and boards games to keep you entertained all night long, Rare Form is rarely a bad time (see what I did there?). As a small tap room, Rare Form doesn’t have a extensive food selection, but rest assured there are always snacks on hand.
Sunhee’s Farm And Kitchen
If you’re looking for naturally sourced food that’s flavorful and unique, Sunhee’s is the spot to visit. If you’re looking for a cocktail at an intimate and quiet bar, Sunhee’s is the spot to visit. If you’re looking for authentic Korean or to shop for some Korean groceries, Sunhee’s is the spot to visit. Bibimbap is a must, but for a more in depth look at Sunhee’s check out this post.
Slidin’ Dirty
First it was a food truck, and then it was a brick and mortar restaurant and bar in Troy New York. Today it has two locations, and the food truck is still often found at breweries and popular Capital Region events. Slidin’ Dirty has become a quintessential part of not only the Troy foodie scene, but the Capital Region’s foodie scene as a whole. Not sure what to try when you get there? Get an order of Fravos and a dirty duo with the old faithful and the colonel. Want more? Check out this post.
Superior Merchandise Company
When my friend first told me about a coffee shop in Troy called Superior Merchandise Company I was confused. I wasn’t interested in merchandise, I was interested in coffee. But after getting a quick iced coffee to go on a very hot Chowderfest day, I quickly became enchanted by Superior Merchandise. The outdoor patio with picnic tables, umbrellas, and white lights is my new favorite place to write, and with a selection of coffees, teas, ciders, and beers, I’m all set to stay from early morning into the night. My current favorite: the gingersnap latte.
Lucas Confectionery
If you’re looking for a date night spot look no further than Lucas Confectionery, a wine bar with a great selection from white to red, and a tap list for the beer lovers as well. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a charcuterie plate full of locally sourced meats and cheeses or to dive into a piece of chocolate cake off the dessert menu, Lucas Confectionery is the place for you.
Little Pecks
Colorful wall paper and plentiful outlets make Little Pecks the perfect spot for getting some work done. Order a coffee from the counter and choose from a selection of sandwiches, salads, and rotating brunch items, then get comfortable at table amongst the pineapple wall paper for the afternoon. Catching up with a group of friends? A bright space, full of large picnic tables laced with greenery makes for the perfect space to gossip for a few hours.
Liza’s
For a long time the area was lacking quick and easy cafes offering health foods and acai bowls. Liza’s filled that gap, and not surprisingly quickly outgrew it’s first home. With an Instagram worthy acai bowl and a variety of good for you treats, from wheatgrass shots to sweet potato toast, Liza’s is a must visit in Troy.
The Dutch Udder
Ice cream is always a good idea, and the Dutch Udder is home to some of the most interesting flavors in the area. With flavors like Cookies-N-Irish Cream, Apple Cider Sorbet, and Cookie Budder, the Dutch Udder creates outside the box flavors, but always delivers. Stop in and try a few samples. Still can’t decide? No worries. You can even get a flight of hard ice cream here!
These are only a few of my favorite Troy spots– some honorable mentions include Dinosaur BBQ, The Whistling Kettle, and Muddaddy Flats Quesadillary. In no particular order, I highly recommend visiting at least one, if not all of the above locations and with fun events always happening in Troy, there is always ample opportunity and reason to visit.
What’s your favorite place in Troy? Let me know on Instagram