Ember & Cork — Restaurant in City of Schenectady

Ember & Cork provided an unparalleled dining experience that was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we walked in, we were enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere that effortlessly blends modern sophistication with cozy charm. Our visit, which included a rather large group, was seamlessly handled by the attentive and professional staff, who made us feel like the most important guests in the restaurant.

We began our culinary journey with a selection of appetizers, each more enticing than the last. A standout was the Stracciatella Toast topped with silky prosciutto. This dish struck a perfect harmony between simplicity and elegance, with each bite showcasing the care and thoughtfulness that clearly goes into every plate. It set the stage beautifully for the courses that followed.

For breakfast, I indulged in the Ember & Cork Benedict, which was a flawless execution of a timeless classic. The poached eggs were perfectly cooked, their golden yolks cascading over a bed of savory accompaniments, all tied together by a luscious hollandaise sauce. My fiancée opted for the Montreal-Style Bagel paired with House-Cured Smoked Salmon. The freshness and quality of the salmon were truly exceptional, complemented by thoughtfully curated garnishes that elevated the dish to a work of art.

And then there was dessert—a moment of pure bliss that deserves its own spotlight. The White Chocolate Bread Pudding was the highlight of the entire meal and, quite possibly, one of the most memorable desserts I’ve ever had the pleasure of enjoying. Its rich, velvety texture and delicate sweetness were balanced perfectly, creating a dish that left a lasting impression. If I could return for this dessert alone, I wouldn’t hesitate.

While the pricing is undeniably on the higher end, the experience is worth every penny. The quality of the ingredients, the creativity in the presentation, and the impeccable service combine to make Ember & Cork an exceptional destination. Whether you're planning a relaxed Sunday breakfast, a romantic evening out, or even an indulgent dinner with friends, this is the place to be.

We’ve already made plans to return, and I look forward to exploring more of what their menu has to offer. A true gem in downtown Schenectady, Ember & Cork has set a new standard for dining excellence...

Update:

Ember and Cork delivers a unique twist on modern dining, offering a distinctive culinary experience not found elsewhere in the region. The staff was exceptional—attentive and welcoming—and the menu lives up to the restaurant's name with a thoughtfully curated selection of wood-fired dishes.

The Magnum Seafood Tower is a standout appetizer, taking diners on a flavorful journey through a fusion of Asian, French, and Hispanic influences. The oysters, in particular, were among the best I’ve had in the area—pristine, expertly shucked, and a true delicacy for raw oyster enthusiasts. As I continue to experience the entire menu, I realize the true genius behind the menu. This is not an ordinary executive chef. With 40 yrs of experience, his talent and mastery transcends in every dish. From careful plating, beautifully crafted flavors, and tasting every component on a plate, you start to appreciate these dishes on a deeper level.

Notable highlights include the Copper Creek NY Strip Steak, which was exceptional, and the Grilled Octopus, a masterpiece of well-balanced flavors and textures. The Potato Reggiano-Parmigiano Gratin side is absolutely amazing. The Crispy Suckling Pig was also very satisfying.

Overall, the experience solidifies Ember and Cork as a valuable addition to the region’s dining scene, offering a truly exciting unique fusion experience. I look forward to returning to explore more of the menu and future seasonal dishes, and highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking an innovative...

We were looking forward to trying something new. When we were seated, we were offered still or sparkling water. We selected still. They arrived opening a bottle of Saratoga water which we later found out we were charged for. The table behind us was very angry that they were charged for water without being offered tap water or being informed that there would be a $7 charge for water. After ordering we waited a significant time for the appetizer. I had thought roasted beets would be a warm dish but it was served cold. Not a fan of cold beets but they were pleasant. But after being served the appetizer, our meals came out pretty quickly at which time they wanted to take the appetizer because there wasn't room on the table for the meal (small tables). I had to say repeatedly that I wanted to finish the appetizer. I was unable to eat my meal because it was was to hot (spicy). The individual who ordered the steak said it was good but the sauce on it was very good. But he was disappointed that the vegetables were such a small serving (although the steak was a larger portion than expected). I ordered what I thought was a chocolate soufflé cake. It was gluten free. It was served cold. It was a flat, thin, very dry piece of dark chocolate. They also label some items vegan or vegetarian but haven't done this consistently. I was told that if it isn't labeled, I should assume it's vegetarian. It was unclear if that only applied to the dessert menu...