Albany Welcomes NCAA Hockey—Don’t Miss These Nearby Food Spots

Welcome, hockey fans, to the Capital Region!

For the first time since 2023, MVP Arena in Albany is hosting the NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey Tournament Regionals—and it’s bringing some serious firepower to downtown.

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Top overall seed Michigan headlines the Albany Regional and will take on Bentley Friday at 5:30 PM. Then it’s Minnesota Duluth vs. Penn State at 9 PM.

The winners move on to Sunday’s regional final with a trip to the Frozen Four in Las Vegas on the line.

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So whether you’re pregaming, grabbing a bite between matchups, or celebrating a big win, here are some of the best spots to eat within walking distance of MVP Arena:

The Good Places to Eat Near MVP Arena in Albany

Gallery Credit: Brian Cody TSM Albany

The Capital Region's 10 Best Italian Restaurants [RANKED]

When it comes to food, the Capital Region is best known for its long list of great Italian restaurants. From chicken parm to veal to amazing seafood dishes and everything in between, here are the best of the best in the greater Albany area according to GNA listeners.

Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff

The Capital Region's Best Fried Chicken Joints [RANKED]

It feels like the chicken sandwich wars have really upped the conversation of who serves up the best fried chicken in general. So here are the top 5 spots in the Capital Region, according to your votes!

Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff