Early visions of The Point–the lively area where Madison and Western diverge, notable for it’s funky intersection, greenery, and eateries–as a fashionable neighborhood on the outskirts of Albany didn’t initially come to fruition exactly as planned. It was the location of the last train station on the edge of the city, where commuters could stop before heading downtown for work, and in the late 1800’s was billed as having potential as a fashionable, even edgy suburban neighborhood.
However, it remained rural for a longer than developers hoped until specific legislation began to change the tenor. For example, laws put in place in 1878 prohibited chickens and pigs from roaming free on Western Avenue, and this impacted the character of the neighborhood nearly as much as the prohibition of dumping dead horses at Manning Ave in 1902. The eventual arrival of The College of Saint Rose in the 1920’s further spurred development and shifted the neighborhood to a more urban feel. Fast forward one hundred years, and some specific attempts to rejuvenate the neighborhood,like investments in the Madison (once a single-screen theater for 1,400!) and The Point is both a thriving hub of the Pine Hills neighborhood and a walkable destination point for several surrounding neighborhoods, as well.
There’s a lively and eclectic collection of eateries at The Point. Whether you are in the mood for pub grub, international, a hearty local brunch, delicious coffee and lighter fare, or even skipping food to sample a new and exciting adult beverage, your needs can be met in this hip little Albany enclave, with easily accessible transportation: free parking lots, a CDTA bike share and several bus stops within a few yards.
We’ve included links below to the some of The Point’s popular establishments. Check them out here, or take a wander down this section of Madison and see what calls you; you won’t be disappointed.
Madison Theater 80’s movies, .05 flix, current features, stand-up comedy, live music and more!
The Point An impressive and delicious array of pub-influenced American fare
Cafe Madison A not-to-be-missed Albany favorite. You’ll understand the Sunday am lines once you try it!
Tierra Farm Coffee, gelato, fresh roasted beans, comfy seating and used books to buy or borrow. What’s not to love?
Kismet Mediterranean Grill Casual, fresh and delicious fare in this new and increasingly popular Albany restaurant.
