Java Cafe

A new coffee shop has opened in the Lark Street area! I was looking for a cup of coffee in a relaxing environment and I found it at Java Cafe. The owners are Kurdish, so you can get Kurdish tea or Turkish coffee which is stronger than your typical American coffee. They also sell Turkish pastries and cold drinks like juice, iced tea and soda. I tried the spinach borek and it was delicious. And it has my favorite architectural feature: an exposed brick wall. What a great addition to our neighborhood.

I have attended grand opening Java cafe today, friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. It is a good place to study, meet with friends. Location is a bonus, right next to Washington park.

I walk past the building numerous times a week for work and saw the signs a while ago that a cafe was opening and was very excited! I went this past weekend and it was amazing! Everyone was nice and it was the perfect amount of noise (not eerily quiet, but not hard to listen to someone else talk).

What a welcome addition to our neighborhood. There are other coffee shops, including a very well known establishment 2 doors down, but the coffee here is better! Plenty of space to do work as well. .

A cafe open till 8pm! Is this for real!! Yes it is NOW! Omg loved this place, visited with a friend, we ordered iced and hot coffee and they both were nice. Highly recommend this place! Support LOCAL!!!

The wait is over, Albany! Java Cafe is officially open! ☕️ While running some daily errands, I stumbled upon this gem and I am so glad I did. The grand opening was a beautiful sight, and the offerings were even better. I started with the chocolate baklava and the pistachio baklava, and the flavors were absolutely heavenly. The pastry had an out-of-this-world crunch that perfectly complemented the soft, decadent layers. It was sweet, but not overwhelmingly so—just right. I also grabbed a latte for only $4, which is an unbeatable price for a decent-sized, in-house brew. The coffee was creamy, rich, and strong without being overpowering—exactly what any coffee lover wants in their cup. The atmosphere was just as impressive. The cafe's friendly, appealing vibe and modern, contemporary decor were so inviting that I couldn't resist sitting down, even though I was pressed for time. The ambiance made my morning. But the real showstopper was the customer service. The owner greeted everyone with a warm welcome, and the staff worked flawlessly to make sure every customer was happy. The people here are truly lovely, and I hope everyone stops by to wish them luck because Java Cafe deserves it. Don't forget to try a free sample of the baklava today! You can find them at 460 Madison Ave, Albany, NY. Be sure to tell them SimplyZakkai sent you! Food: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Atmosphere: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Overall rating: 5 🌟’s Thank you for tuning in, where every bite tells a story!

Such_a_Delight

A new coffee shop has opened in the Lark Street area! I was looking for a cup of coffee in a relaxing environment and I found it at Java Cafe. The owners are Kurdish, so you can get Kurdish tea or Turkish coffee which is stronger than your typical American coffee. They also sell Turkish pastries and cold drinks like juice, iced tea and soda. I tried the spinach borek and it was delicious. And it has my favorite architectural feature: an exposed brick wall. What a great addition to our neighborhood.

Seattle-xplant

Coming from Seattle, we were hoping for flavorful coffee and were not disappointed. My husband’s oatmilk latte was creamy and tasty. My oatmilk matcha latte was also very nice, smooth and not sweet (the way I like it). We paid about $5 per drink. Unfortunately they didn’t have vegan pastries, but the regular ones on display looked appealing and they don’t serve any meat. Friendly, kind service. Inviting table and easy chair seating, with a small sofa and near the front door. Cheerful but mellow music, just loud enough to mask conversation. Directly across from Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop.

HASAN YILDIRIM

I have attended grand opening Java cafe today, friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. It is a good place to study, meet with friends. Location is a bonus, right next to Washington park.

Liam Sperrazza

I walk past the building numerous times a week for work and saw the signs a while ago that a cafe was opening and was very excited! I went this past weekend and it was amazing! Everyone was nice and it was the perfect amount of noise (not eerily quiet, but not hard to listen to someone else talk).

Vishu Saumya

A cafe open till 8pm! Is this for real!! Yes it is NOW! Omg loved this place, visited with a friend, we ordered iced and hot coffee and they both were nice. Highly recommend this place! Support LOCAL!!!

Gina Feliciano

What a welcome addition to our neighborhood. There are other coffee shops, including a very well known establishment 2 doors down, but the coffee here is better! Plenty of space to do work as well. .

Ayhan Dargin

A welcoming oasis for coffee lovers and remote workers Java Cafe is a delightful new addition to the Albany cafe scene, and it has quickly become my new go-to spot for coffee and getting work done. Located conveniently on Madison Avenue, it offers a warm, cozy, and relaxed atmosphere that feels instantly inviting. The interior design is a highlight, featuring charming decor like exposed brick and plenty of comfortable seating options, including tables, armchairs, and a small sofa. It's the perfect environment for both studying and catching up with friends, and I never feel rushed to leave. The cafe even features a patio area for when the weather is nice. The drinks and food are outstanding. As a fan of unique coffee, I was immediately drawn to their Turkish coffee, which is rich, thick, and perfectly executed. They also offer an excellent variety of specialty espresso beverages, fresh juices, and Kurdish tea. On my most recent visit, I enjoyed a beautifully balanced iced latte with almond milk and caramel—not too sweet, with a great coffee flavor. What truly sets Java Cafe apart is its selection of homemade pastries. The baklava is a must-try; it's some of the best I've had and comes in both a classic and cold, chocolate variety. Their savory pastries, like the spinach and cheese borek, are also delicious and offer a great option for a light breakfast or lunch. The friendly and passionate staff adds to the overall pleasant experience. The owners and baristas are a big part of what makes the cafe feel so special and welcoming. For anyone in Albany looking for a cozy, laptop-friendly cafe with excellent coffee and pastries, Java Cafe is a must-visit.

Hatice Dayan

This is a very cute cafe with its unique decor. The staff is very friendly. Prices are better than similar places. Inside , especially the restroom, is incredibly clean. Every detail has been considered. I also liked that there are plugs right next to the tables. It's just around the corner from Washington Park. I think I have every excuse to stop by here for a coffee after a short walk. The homemade cakes look amazing. I'll have to come back to try them. I think this cafe deserves a try.

I-DO-REVIEWS

Java Cafe is truly a hidden treasure. I stopped in for a Turkish coffee and a Saratoga carbonated spring water, and both were exceptional. The Turkish coffee was rich, smooth, and full of authentic flavor, and the Saratoga water added the perfect refreshing touch. The atmosphere inside is warm, welcoming, and incredibly cozy. It’s the kind of place where you instantly feel comfortable — the lighting, the décor, and the overall vibe make it a perfect spot to relax, unwind, or just enjoy a quiet moment. The staff member working during my visit was wonderful. Friendly, polite, and genuinely attentive, creating a personal and pleasant experience that really stood out. Parking can be a bit of a challenge since it’s public street parking, but once you step inside, you quickly realize the small effort to find a spot is absolutely worth it. Highly recommend this cafe for great coffee, a comfortable atmosphere, and truly friendly service.

Al

Highly recommend the pastries, they’re made in house. Delicious. (No meat options, so yay vegetarian 🌱.) I don’t normally drink coffee. And I especially don’t drink it black. This Turkish Coffee might have changed that. Smooth, delicate flavor, it was kinda like a tea but still coffee. worth stopping in for the experience! Calm music and quiet atmosphere.

Linda Nguyen

Such a cute cafe. First time trying Kurdish tea and it was lovely and strong. The owner was very kind. The decorations and ambient music made it very homey. It would be a great place to study or work.

Alli O

This is the place to be for coffee, pastries, and socializing with friends in Albany. It's local, it's cute, it's delicious. Also the staff is so wonderful. Very clean and welcoming atmosphere for all. The matcha was very good too (not pictured).

J. Whitney

What a gem. Exactly what we needed here in the Historic Center Square neighborhood, a coffee shop that doesn’t have pathetic & insulting hours of business. Stacks and the others close at 3:00 P.M. That’s more draconian than BANKERS HOURS. This place is charming, warm and welcoming, and quality. This is my 5th visit now and I’ve tried their Matcha Latte, iced coffee, iced Latte, Turkish Coffee, baklava, and the croissants. This place is Legit. My new favorite and go-to. Thank you for opening a REAL coffee shop!!

Liam Latorre

Tried Java Cafe for the first time today, it did not disappoint! My latte came out perfect and the pastries are delicious! Wonderful ambiance, a great place to relax. The owners are fantastic too! Will be returning and recommending!

Hanu Park

Came in on a whim to work while waiting for a friend. The owners are from Turkey and run the cafe. Had a borek and Turkish coffee, which were both very good! As a celebration for opening recently, they even gave us a small complimentary baklava sample. They also close at 8, so it’s ideal for a late grind. Overall, a very sweet experience and calm atmosphere good for work and study.

Ahmad Abdulhadi

Java Cafe is such a cute place to visit. I ordered Turkish coffee and Baklava and let me tell you (From a Turkish coffee kinda guy) it was great and very well done! The right amount of strong and the representation was amazing What I like most about this place is how it opens from 7am till 8 pm like finally a place that serves coffee after 4 pm!!! Highly recommended and the staff was super nice

Great cozy coffee spot to chill or get some work done. The coffee is excellent, prices are fair, and there’s a reason it’s ranked among the best in town. The only thing missing would be more substantial food options — like paninis or soups — especially during the chilly winter months.

Marc-Antoine Cayer

Great cozy coffee spot to chill or get some work done. The coffee is excellent, prices are fair, and there’s a reason it’s ranked among the best in town. The only thing missing would be more substantial food options — like paninis or soups — especially during the chilly winter months.

Java Cafe recently opened on Madison Ave across from Washington Park. There’s tons of seating, nicely decorated (I’m a sucker for exposed brick) and lots to enjoy. Coffee, pastries, fresh orange juice and lemonade. I ordered an iced latte with almond milk and caramel. It was nicely balanced, not too sweet and not too much milk. Pet peeve of mine when it feels like you’re jut drinking a cup of milk with a splash of coffee. Also had to order a strawberry croissant once I saw it. Fresh slices of strawberry and a layer of cream tucked in a buttery croissant. It was delicious!!

This authentic Turkish cafe is perfect for studying or working. finally a place that’s actually open when you need it! They’re open early and stay open until 8pm, which is a lifesaver. The pastries are fresh and tasty without being overly sweet, so you won’t feel guilty about having one (or two). Plus they have the cutest cups and plates that make everything feel more special. The whole place has such a friendly, welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay for hours. Definitely my go-to spot for getting work done or just relaxing with good coffee.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Kristen Kiehart

Java Cafe recently opened on Madison Ave across from Washington Park. There’s tons of seating, nicely decorated (I’m a sucker for exposed brick) and lots to enjoy. Coffee, pastries, fresh orange juice and lemonade. I ordered an iced latte with almond milk and caramel. It was nicely balanced, not too sweet and not too much milk. Pet peeve of mine when it feels like you’re jut drinking a cup of milk with a splash of coffee. Also had to order a strawberry croissant once I saw it. Fresh slices of strawberry and a layer of cream tucked in a buttery croissant. It was delicious!!

helia mojtabavi

This authentic Turkish cafe is perfect for studying or working. finally a place that’s actually open when you need it! They’re open early and stay open until 8pm, which is a lifesaver. The pastries are fresh and tasty without being overly sweet, so you won’t feel guilty about having one (or two). Plus they have the cutest cups and plates that make everything feel more special. The whole place has such a friendly, welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay for hours. Definitely my go-to spot for getting work done or just relaxing with good coffee.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Follow up: Came in again today, and I’m still not really a fan of the pastries. This time I tried the hot chocolate — it tasted just like Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate mix. Opening day: This new coffee shop caught my eye because it’s located right next door to another well-established one — and honestly, it holds its own. The vibe is lighter and brighter, offering a fresh, airy ambiance that feels intentional and welcoming. I ordered a coffee and was initially concerned it might be too strong based on the color, but with a little cream and sugar, it turned out to be pretty good. Not the most amazing cup I’ve ever had, but solid — definitely enjoyable. I also tried one of their desserts just to support the spot and give them a chance. It was a pastry with a bread-like exterior (a bit tougher than puff pastry) and a chocolate cake-like filling inside. No icing, so not overly sweet, but it was flavorful and satisfying. There were almonds on the outside and possibly another nut inside — I wasn’t sure — but overall, it was light and delightful. The staff were kind and warm, and one spoke English fluently, which made things easy and pleasant. I also loved the little motivational mirror moment — a sweet touch reminding customers that “you are amazing.” Small details like that go a long way. I look forward to visiting again and hope they find success in what’s clearly a thoughtful, good-energy kind of space. It’s always nice to see a new business putting care into both their product and their environment.

Lakeia Madison

Follow up: Came in again today, and I’m still not really a fan of the pastries. This time I tried the hot chocolate — it tasted just like Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate mix. Opening day: This new coffee shop caught my eye because it’s located right next door to another well-established one — and honestly, it holds its own. The vibe is lighter and brighter, offering a fresh, airy ambiance that feels intentional and welcoming. I ordered a coffee and was initially concerned it might be too strong based on the color, but with a little cream and sugar, it turned out to be pretty good. Not the most amazing cup I’ve ever had, but solid — definitely enjoyable. I also tried one of their desserts just to support the spot and give them a chance. It was a pastry with a bread-like exterior (a bit tougher than puff pastry) and a chocolate cake-like filling inside. No icing, so not overly sweet, but it was flavorful and satisfying. There were almonds on the outside and possibly another nut inside — I wasn’t sure — but overall, it was light and delightful. The staff were kind and warm, and one spoke English fluently, which made things easy and pleasant. I also loved the little motivational mirror moment — a sweet touch reminding customers that “you are amazing.” Small details like that go a long way. I look forward to visiting again and hope they find success in what’s clearly a thoughtful, good-energy kind of space. It’s always nice to see a new business putting care into both their product and their environment.