Fay's Cafe — Restaurant in Albany

I rarely post, but had to for Fay's. We eat Fay's prob 2-3x per week and have done so 3 days in a row. They're arguably in the top 5 restaurants in Albany and unquestionably the best small traditional burger joint here. The owner(s)/operators are also the most chill, lovely people.

Everything I've ordered, I've RE-ordeded, as has my fam. Their BBQ burger is excellent; their onion rings, excellent; their chicken tenders — no exaggeration — may be the best I've had in my entire life. That good. Like, it could be witchcraft. Their chocolate milkshake... again, maybe the best I've had and top 3 without a doubt (I may be physically dependent). My kid loves the potstickers. Only thing I've tried that I think they could improve is their fish. It's not bad, just not amazing like everything else I've had. Maybe I'm just particular about fish... plus it's pretty typical for non-seafood places. Never had their noodles but heard they're great.

Prices are fairly standard for what you're getting and we will continue to gladly pay them so long as the current level of quality is maintained. This is another great thing about Fay's: never any gristle or wilt, nothing hard or undercooked, nothing reheated/reused. The food can be a tad greasy, but not nauseatingly so, not puddle at the bottom or stain on the bag style. It's not fancy sit-down w/ chandeliers and valet parking, but what they do they do so well.

I can't speak on atmosphere, etc. because we order delivery or pickup, but when I have been inside, it's been clean and relaxed. It's a small place but not dingy, hot or smelly. They have a couple TVs, decent parking and a drive-thru. The owners/operators are nice people and as someone with mild social anxiety, they've been pleasant to interact with. Never been treated like a burden or made to feel unwelcome.

One last, important thing: Fay's is the ONLY — and I cannot stress how awesome this is — the ONLY establishment we've ordered from in 3 states and 7 cities, from which we receive all of our drinks/shakes EVERY TIME we order. Every time. Which has made me confident it must be Fay's, not the driver(s), ensuring that happens.

Very slept on. Super easy recommend. 👍 P.S.: Fay's peoples, my spouse really likes the smiley you draw on our delivery bags. 😊 It's a small thing but it's a nice thing in a daily avalanche of not so nice things and makes them smile. Thanks, y'all and...

So, because of all the love and support Fay's Cafe has gotten on my local Facebook page, I wanted to show my support too. My younger brother and I decided to patronize and show our support.

Fay's is a small local cafe with a variety of food, and a plethora of beverages to choose from. They also serve alcohol as well. It is a very casual cafe that allows you to order your food at the counter and choose your own seating. The establishment also has a small room if you enjoy playing video lottery. The cafe and restrooms have always been clean during my visits. It is an older cafe, but I enjoy the nostalgia.

The employees have been friendly and welcoming when I've visited this cafe. They were patient while we looked over the menu, and helpful with any questions. The food is cooked fresh, and it was delivered to our table promptly and warm. The prices are fair and very reasonable, especially for a freshly cooked hamburger.

I recommend trying one of their burgers. The burgers were juicy and seasoned just right. The fries were also great. They are not as crispy as I prefer, but they appeared to be homemade. The portion size is more than enough for myself, but they are a little smaller than some establishments, so I recommend ordering an extra side if you have a hefty appetite. I cannot give an opinion on their specialty beverages as I've only had the fountain drinks.

Overall, I would recommend Fay's if you're looking for a local business to support. I'm sure there is something on the menu that you'd...