Growing up with a chef for a father, I learned the importance of the culinary arts at a very young age. Don’t get that wrong, it is an art. From the lowliest McDonalds hamburger to the most expensive caviar, it’s all an artistic practice that takes years to master.
Like every other form of art, some stand above the rest, which is where awards come into play.
The James Beard Award
Much like films have the Oscars and music has the Grammys, the culinary industry has their own award for the best of the best. It’s the James Beard Award, given to the best restaurants and chefs in the United States.
Now, Upstate New York is in the conversation for the award. F.L.X. Table in Geneva, nestled in the Finger Lakes, has been named a semifinalist for the 2026 Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program. It is the only restaurant in Upstate New York to be nominated this year.
What Makes F.L.X. Table so Special?
Sure, obviously the restaurant’s wines and beverages are world-class, but that’s not what draws people in. It’s the concept: one table, no division. There are only 14 to 16 seats available in the entire building, and they’re all at the same table.
Not only that, they’re in the same room as the kitchen. Over the years, since opening their doors, they’ve garnered critical and popular acclaim as one of the most unique and special dining experiences in the state of New York.
The James Beard finalists will be announced on March 15th, and the winners will be announced on June 15th at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
The Capital Region’s 10 Best Italian Restaurants [RANKED]
When it comes to food, the Capital Region is best known for its long list of great Italian restaurants. From chicken parm to veal to amazing seafood dishes and everything in between, here are the best of the best in the greater Albany area according to GNA listeners.
Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff
10th Annual Adirondack Brewery Funky Ice Fest in Lake George
Check out some of the preparations for the 10th annual Funky Ice Festival happening in Lake George. There are several ice sculptures, a carved ice bar, brews, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Cozy up to the heaters and the fire. The theme this year is disco. Wear your bell-bottoms and dance under the stars and disco ball. Funky Ice Festival happens January 23rd and 24th, and January 30th and 31st at the Adirondack Pub and Brewery.
Gallery Credit: Adirondack Pub & Brewery Funky Ice Fest Press Release
The Capital Region’s 10 Best Pizza Joints [RANKED]In the mood for a couple of pies or a slice on the go? The Capital Region is known for its great pizza joints like DeFazio’s, Dom’s, Caputo’s, and so many more. From Troy to Albany to Schenectady, and the surrounding towns and cities, great local pizza spots seem infinite. So to determine the best, we asked our listeners: who serves up the best pizza in the Capital Region? Here are the top 10 in the area – according to YOU! Happy eating!
Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff
Dining and Cooking