Best Block (Capital Region)

Madison Ave. Between S. Allen and W. Lawrence

Albany

When local hospitality dynasty BM&T Management bought and forced out the beloved beer mecca Mahar’s, hard-core beer fans voted this company “Worst of.” Yes, the grungy, beer-snobby, and unique Mahar’s is missed, but BM&T replaced it with the more welcoming, but still interesting, Madison Pour House. Along with BM&T’s Junior’s, Café Madison, and the Point — all with outdoor seating — this short block in the Pine Hills neighborhood has joined Lark Street and the Madison Avenue/Spectrum Theater district as a prime spot for Albanians of all ages and appetites to eat, drink, and enjoy an urban vibe. 518-813-9824