Photo by Seth Caplan
Lil’ Deb’s Big Goodbye
One of Hudson’s gayest, kindest, and tastiest restaurants is officially closing its doors on October 12. For more than a decade, the aptly named Lil’ Deb’s Oasis has been a true oasis for queer folk and low-income residents in Columbia County. Not only is Lil’ Deb’s known for its tropical comfort food and vibrant, eclectic building, but it also prides itself on multiple mutual aid programs such as a community fridge and a shared plate fund. As the countdown towards Lil’ Deb’s series finale nears, the restaurant is welcoming celebrity guest chefs from Kaur Food, Leo +, and Brothers Rockaway for pop-up nights. Stop by for one of those or attend Lil’ Deb’s End of Life Block Party on October 4.
Coffee Break
Get caffeinated at JulieB’s Coffee & Bites, now open in the Schoharie County town of Esperance. This cafe prides itself on simple ingredients, a seed oil–free kitchen, and homemade syrups. Pair the JB’s Chicken Salad Sandwich with a banana bread latte. Prefer matcha? JulieB’s has you covered.
Ready, Set, Scare!
Things are getting spooky in the 518! Production for The Conjuring’s prequel is taking place on North Pine Avenue in Albany, as well as in Schenectady and Troy. The cameras are scheduled to roll through October, capturing the early lives of real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. If you drive by Pine Hills and spot vintage vehicles from the 1940s, you may have gotten a glimpse into The Conjuring’s next installment, scheduled to land in theaters by September 2027.
A Slice of Japan
Do you have Japan on your travel bucket list, but haven’t splurged on a plane ticket yet? Head over to Ebisu, the biggest Japanese store in the Capital Region. Based in Osaka, Japan, Ebisu Life Store shares pieces of Japanese culture through stocked shelves in select US cities. Shop kitchenware, stationery, blind boxes, beauty, snacks, and more on Wolf Road in Albany.
Sweet Beginnings
Craving a sugary bite? Head on over to the new Scotia Sweets in Schenectady! From Galaxy Brownies and blueberry lemon scones to fun-flavored iced lattes and sour lemonades, you can’t go wrong. Head inside for the full experience, or get your sweet treat to go in the convenient drive-thru.
It’s Electric!
A new Black woman–owned business is turning up the voltage in the Electric City. This August, Electric City Bar & Grill opened its doors to the public, inviting Schenectady residents to explore a flavorful Americana menu including seasoned crab legs, juicy burgers, and a famous potato salad, plus all manner of signature cocktails to wash it all down.
Opening The Vault
NeoVista Hospitality, the same company that remodeled Jack’s Oyster House, recently renovated the building at 60 State Street in Albany into not one but two must-try dining experiences: The Vault Japanese Chophouse, specializing in wagyu and prime cuts of steak, and Izakaya Kinko, a Japanese gastropub serving up ramen, sandwiches, and more.
