Capital Region Restaurant Rundown: January 13-24

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The restaurant industry is ever-changing with restaurants opening, closing, relocating, or just doing their thing. Here’s a recap of the latest Capital Region restaurant news, January 13 to 24.

New name, new owners for Blessings in Colonie

Blessings, located at 1116 Watervliet Shaker Road in Colonie, has new owners and a new name. Although still called Blessings, the new owners have dropped “tavern” and renamed the place Blessings Family Restaurant.

Uncommon Grounds opens at Empire State Plaza

Uncommon Grounds is now open at Albany’s Empire State Plaza, Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner Jeanette Moy announced on Monday. The coffee and bagel shop will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays.

Off the Beaten Path: Norte Azul Cantina

They go by the tagline, “the only bar in the only Stephentown on Earth.” Norte Azul Cantina, a Tex-Mex restaurant and bar, is becoming a hot spot for locals and skiers alike.

Where to satisfy your National Bagel Day craving

January 15 was National Bagel Day. Whether you prefer your bagel fun, classic, or different every time, the Capital Region has a host of shops that will satisfy any craving.

New pizzeria opens in Voorheesville

Anthony’s by Romos Pizza has opened in the former Smith’s Tavern space in Voorheesville. The pizzeria celebrated its soft opening on Saturday, January 11.

New Italian restaurant opens in Duanesburg

Tarassa’s Italian-American Cuisine is now open in Duanesburg. The eatery opened for business on Monday, January 13.

New comfort food restaurant coming to Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs will soon have a new comfort food option on Phila Street. Standard Fare owners and operators Zac and Clark Gale say the spot will serve several elevated comfort food dishes, from meatloaf to over-the-top pies and cakes.

Downtown Pittsfield to host month-long restaurant celebration

Pittsfield residents are encouraged to dine out this February. Starting on Feb. 1, the city will host “A Taste of Downtown,” a month-long event to celebrate local restaurants.

Karavalli in Latham to celebrate 20 years by giving back

Karavalli in Latham is gearing up for its 20th anniversary in February. The Indian restaurant, owned and founded by Davy Cheeran, opened on Feb. 7, 2005.

Participating lineup for 26th annual Saratoga Chowderfest

Chowderfest is returning to Saratoga Springs. It will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 8. More than 70 restaurants will serve four-ounce samples for $2 to attendees.

Capital Region Valentine’s Day restaurant specials

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner on Friday, February 14. If you’re looking to have a nice dinner with that special someone, several restaurants in the Capital Region are offering specials on Valentine’s Day.

Two Capital Region chefs named James Beard Award semifinalists

Two Capital Region chefs have been named semifinalists in the James Beard 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards. According to the James Beard Foundation, the James Beard Awards are “considered to be among the nation’s most prestigious honors.”

Chocolate shops for Valentine’s Day around the Capital Region, Hudson Valley

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner on Friday, February 14. If you’re looking for something sweet for someone special, here are some chocolate and candy shops around the Capital Region with Valentine’s Day offerings.

For more restaurant news, make sure to check out the Restaurant Rundown category under the Community tab on the NEWS10 website.