***Albany Restaurant Week*** April 9 - 14

Okay, I admit it, I'm a foodie. What does that mean? It means that I enjoy really good food and the whole dining experience. Foodies are experiemental in their choices of cuisine and tend to scope out new tastes, new flavors and then contemplate the occasion. Usually foodies enjoy the social aspect of the experience and often dine in groups. Foodies aren't just drawn to the food though, the atmosphere of a restaurant and the ambience is also important.

When I lived in NYC, one of my favorite seasonal events was Restaurant Week! It happened twice a year where fine restaurants would offer a three course sampling of their typical menu. The price of the pre-fixe changed annually to coincide with the year, so in 2002 the Restaurant Week deal costed $20.02, drink not included. Delmanico Steakhouse, Vine, Roy's New York, are just some of the well known establishments that participated in this event.

I was thrilled last year when I found out that Albany has it's own bi-annual Restaurant Week! For $16.09 you can enjoy a three-course meal which includes an appetizer, main course and dessert! (psst...1609 is when Albany was founded) I went last year and had a wonderful time with friends from my program! All the restaurants are just downtown! (A great way to support local businesses.)

This season the event starts on the 9th of April and runs through the 14th. That's in two weeks right after spring break. Some of the restaurants that are listed include: Jack's Oyster House, La Serre, Mansion Hill Inn. I believe reservations are necessary so if you're interested in this I recommend calling early. This is great way to try new restaurants without having to break the "graduate student " bank. For a complete list click on the link of participating restaurants.