Even Caffe Italia’s move from Albany to Guilderland for triple the space — and, finally, a bar! — didn’t come close to challenging the dominance of D’Raymonds, now with its 17th win in Best Italian, 16 of them consecutive. Cafe Calabria became Cafe Calabria II two years ago with an ownership change, but stayed within the same family and retained most staff, ensuring continuity and enough support to make it to the finalists in this category for the first time. When you find Italian food impastable to resist, turn to these picks for best Italian restaurants in the Capital Region.
D’Raymonds
Caffe Italia Ristorante
Cafe Capriccio
Canali’s Italian & American Restaurant
Cafe Calabria II
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D’Raymonds
For the 16th year in a row, D’Raymonds has been named the best Italian restaurant in the Capital Region; now that’s amore. If you’re looking for great pasta near Albany, this Italian eatery in Loudonville has it. Before indulging in one of its signature pasta dishes, from classic bolognese to unique plates like the Gnocchi Genovese, featuring a lobster pesto sauce, try the braised short rib ravioli. While most everyone loves good Italian bread, gluten-free guests will be delighted to know that there are many options on the menu for you.
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Caffe Italia Ristorante
Caffe Italia has a classic atmosphere that most good Italian restaurants near Albany share. White tablecloths and rustic decor make it a great spot for date nights or birthday celebrations. Start with an Aperol spritzer or other concoction on the cocktail menu, and prepare to enjoy some of the best Italian food in the Capital Region. The menu has something for everyone, from Italian appetizers to classic entrees and pastas. Save room for dessert; whether you like Italian pastries like a cannoli or smooth lemon ricotta cheesecake, you’ll find a sweet ending to your meal at Caffe Italia.
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Cafe Capriccio
For over 30 years, Cafe Capriccio has offered guests authentic, inspired Italian dishes. If you want fresh handmade pasta in Albany, this might become your new favorite local Italian restaurant. The team here makes ravioli, tagliatelle, tortellone and lumache daily for diners to enjoy with various sauces, proteins and vegetables. If you’re craving a more protein-focused dish, you’ll find dishes like stuffed eggplant, duck scarpariello and veal osso buco on the Cafe Capriccio menu. Book an intimate, elevated dining experience at the chef’s table for special events, available for groups of 10 to 16 guests.
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Canali’s Italian & American Restaurant
Canali’s Italian & American restaurant in Schenectady has been in business since 1947, and its website states that its high-quality Italian food results from using superior canned tomatoes. Dine in and start your meal with fresh, crusty Italian bread or an assortment of Italian appetizers, or keep it light with a salad. Five types of pasta are made in-house: manicotti, ravioli, cavatelli, fettuccine and spaghetti. Entrees include many beloved chicken, veal, seafood and steak dishes. Note that Canali’s is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and is open on Wednesdays for take-out only.
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Cafe Calabria II
Cafe Calabria II, a popular Italian restaurant in Albany, offers an extensive menu of authentic Italian cuisine featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes. If you’re searching for great Italian food in Albany, this restaurant provides many options. From appetizers like calamari fritti and eggplant rollatini to main courses including pappardelle bolognese, lobster ravioli, chicken marsala and the seafood-rich frutti di mare, Cafe Calabria II is a standout destination for Italian dishes and pasta in Albany. Guests can cap off their meals with the restaurant’s signature gelato-based desserts.
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