Finn’s — Restaurant in Troy

I’ve had positive experiences at Finn’s before, but tonight was a major disappointment. Upon entering, I was told we’d get seats at the bar quickly, yet we stood waiting for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, others who arrived after us were seated at the bar while the bartender—who had initially spoken to us—enthusiastically described dishes to them.

After watching four tables get seated and waiting a total of 15 minutes, we were finally given seats at the bar, only to find it cluttered with about 11 dirty glasses and sticky menus. We were eager to eat, but once again, we were ignored. A second bartender approached but deliberately turned their head 90 degrees to avoid making eye contact with us while serving the very people who had taken our spots earlier. My fiancé and I have worked in the hospitality industry for 10+ years, and we would never offer this type of service to a paying guest.

I work hard, and this was my only date night of the month. Instead of feeling welcomed, we were treated like second-class citizens. If you’re considering Finn’s, beware—you may not get the service you deserve. We left and went to Famous Lunch instead, where we had the best service and were treated like family. What a...

This is truly a solid gem of Troy’s dining scene. While everything isn’t always 5 stars, at least two of the three items I order each time, is so. With the third never falling below 4 stars.

The execution of classic concepts is staple while also presenting fresh ideas through garnish and seasoning. You will not find an item on your plate that tastebuds do not notice. Picky eaters will have nowhere to complain and adventurous eaters will have plenty to pick over.

The cocktails are classics and solid riffs. The wine selections are bold and in style. The beer selection means you can bring dads from age 80-40 without complaints.

Finn’s sports a seasoned bar and wait staff of solid industry people. The cumulative whole, could tell you everything you would need to know about Troy for a night out.

The atmosphere is clean cut. It’s not fine dining but, it does not mean you would feel out of place showing up in dress. Plus a pool table. Love a game of pool after dinner.

Find your parking on the surrounding side streets if you can’t park in one of the limited spaces. You won’t be dissatisfied with the architecture of 1st street and Washington park.

This is not a spot...

Okay, buckle up because this review is about to go on a flavor rollercoaster! First off, the food? Incredible. My partner and I had the octopus, bolognese, and the dry-aged burger, and let me tell you—Ay Dios Mio! My taste buds were doing the cha-cha, the macarena, and probably the moonwalk at the same time. It was so good, it made me want to start a food blog

Oh, and the service? Chef's kiss. Seriously, these folks are the perfect balance of kind, down-to-earth, and fun. You know the type—there when you need them, but not hovering like a helicopter. It’s the kind of service that makes you want to tip extra.

This place is perfect for a date night, or if you just want to bring your squad somewhere that'll make everyone go "WOW." It’s got that cozy, Brooklyn-esque vibe, so if you're looking for a chill spot that feels like it belongs in the coolest part of New York without the city prices—look no further. Seriously, be the first one in your group to discover it. Your friends will thank you.

11/10, would...