A local favorite, Mamoun's Mideast Café serves up some of the finest falafel in the city along with tamarind juice and Turkish coffee. This small, 12-table restaurant has sit-down and counter seating, but you can also get food to go. There are plenty of vegetarian options and sweet treats that you can get to accompany your meal.

Inspired by Cape Cod's beach houses, Emack and Bolio's fashions its very own cottage that serves a splendid array of desserts. With a cute picket fence and backyard patio, this dessert shop attracts families with kids all throughout the year. As you feast on their hand-dipped chocolates, fresh smoothies, ice-cream cakes and decadent pastries, enjoy open mic night performances that held here every Tuesday. A cozy fireplace keeps you warm during winter months, while a garden patio hots make-your-own-sundae parties. For tiny tots who accompany their parents, there is quite a selection of toys and gifts here to play around with.

Kurver Kreme has been an Albany favorite since 1953 thanks to its loyal customers that return summer after summer for delicious soft serve ice cream and loaded hot dogs. There is an overwhelming menu of Signature Sundaes, thick milkshakes, Boston Shakes, Italian Ice, ice cream floats and great hot dogs with meat sauce. Can't decide? You can bring home a pint or quart, or order an ice cream cake or pie to indulge in later on. Make sure that you come early in the evening to avoid the post-dinner rush, but worry not - the four windows can run through lines in a jiffy. Located near the Colonie Center in the suburb of Colonie.

Serving fresh small plates and light lunch options, the Albany outpost of this iconic American chain is located within Colonie Center. The Cheesecake Factory serves innumerable types of signature cheesecakes, ice-creams and frozen desserts. The expansive dessert menu also includes a smattering of healthy options such as Low-carb Cheesecake and Craig's Crazy Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Those who prefer to drink their sweets instead of eating them will love the creamy milkshakes on offer.