First time at the new location, brought some coworkers down for lunch. Services was great, water and ice tea refilled without asking food came out in a timely manner. Got the loaded Mac and cheese because how can you not. Just as good as the other locations. It was a nice day to so the view at the harbor beat expectations as well. read more

Druthers Brewing - Brewpubs Near Me - Schenectady, New York

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Beautiful setting with the open doors off the bar to the patio! The bar was busy, so service was a bit slow, but very friendly! We sat on the patio for dinner. The tuna nachos were delicious! I had the veggie burger, which was great and a side salad that was deliciously fresh! Very friendly service! read more

Meh Not bad not great. Menu is lackluster but beer is decent Lots of potential just executed poorly. Willing to give another chance. read more

What a disappointment all around. I say that as someone who loves the Albany Druthers and has determined that's my solid go-to place for beer and food. Albany Druthers can remain my go-to, but I'm not going back to Schenectady. I started out the evening by getting excited for the free parking garage by Druthers, as the one not awesome thing about Albany is parking. Then it all fell apart. The Yelp waiting list wasn't accepting any names, so I had to go to the restaurant itself, where we were told it was an hour wait. It would have been a significantly better night had I been able to put my name on the list before we left the house. The wait wound up being just over an hour and a half. At the Albany Druthers, there's always some new and interesting beer to try. At Schenectady Druthers, you get the basics and the basics only. Don't come here if you're coming for the beer because it's a huge letdown. Had I known they had such a limited beer selection, I never would have bothered. So, then there's the food. We ordered the Mexican Street Corn Dip which was actually delicious. I was surprised at first to find it cold instead of warm, but it was actually very refreshing and perfect for a summer evening. As other reviews note, though, it is very runny and be prepared to wear half of it as it slides right off the chips. Perhaps serving it with something the naan chips that could soak up the liquid (instead of red tortilla chips) would be a good idea. We also tried the KFC Bao Buns and were divided on those. I found the chicken to be overcooked and chewy to the point of being inedible, but my boyfriend decided he liked them a lot. We also ordered the steak kebabs, which didn't seem like a very good value at all, especially what I'm used to from the Albany Druthers. I will say that at least the steak came medium rare, which is what I would have asked for had they asked us how we wanted it done. Service was hit and miss; there would be long disappearances (which unfortunately came when we were starving after the super long wait and just wanted some food), but then regular check ins after the food came. So, if you are coming to Druthers for beer, go to Albany! Don't waste your time here if you want anything seasonal or interesting/new to you (unless you've never been to any Druthers before). That's where you'll find me. read more

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I wonder if the new location in Clifton Park will be as severely lacking in the quality of food as the other 3 locations. After so many years of dominance in these areas you would think to maintain their reputation they would keep serving a high quality product but every time I go back and try to give it another chance it seems to get worse and worse. I wish people would finally realize this and stop going. Browns in Troy is far superior in every aspect, probably why they have decided not to try and build there. If enough people stop going and complain about the quality maybe they'll change their ways and go back to what made them famous around here in the first place. read more

We've dined here twice. First time we were looking for a place to eat out because we lost power during the heat wave and needed some nice AC. On this count, Druthers let us down a little bit. There was AC, but I'd say the place was an uncomfortable 78 or 80 degrees, not that cool 68 you are looking for coming in from the heat. It was about a week after they opened and maybe the AC just couldn't keep up, hopefully they figure it out because as of now I'd be very hesitant to go there on a hot day. Our second visit was for lunch, and we sat outside. This time the problem was that with the wind they couldn't put up the table umbrellas. So direct sunlight was shining down right on us. Not very comfortable. We've had the wings, veggie burger, calamari and the loaded mac and cheese. The wings were well cooked, but small, and only 10 of them. Generally I'm ok with 10 if they are large, 10 small wings for the price seemed like a ripoff. As I said, they were cooked well, but not really buffalo sauce (I got mild) it was more of a BBQ sauce, which I'm ok with but others might not be. Overall, because of the small size I'd give them a C. My wife enjoyed the veggie burger 2x, really enjoyed it. May have said it's the best veggie burger she's ever had. no complaints what-so-ever. Have to give it an A. The calamari was delicious, slightly higher cost then most local places but really tasty and well cooked. Seasoned with some parmigian cheese and served with a tasty sauce. I'd give this an A for taste and a C for cost. Finally, what they are famous for, the mac and cheese. I had the loaded version, which I know had chicken and bacon and some other stuff in it. I have to say, I do think it's the best Mac and Cheese I've ever had in my life. It was $17 but was 2 full meals worth or for someone with a lesser appetite maybe even 3 meals. Even at the cost I'd give in an A. Craving it right now just typing about it. Overall I'd give the place a very solid B. If they give the AC a boost I'd move them up to an A or A- with the only downside being cost compared to other places in the area. That being said, location, location, location, they are right on the harbor and next to the casino. The place is really well put together and on nights there are concerts outside on the harbor I'm sure you can hear, and most likely see the acts from the patio. We will be back, as our budget allows. read more

This has got to be my new favorite restaurant. We've been several times over the last couple months. The Mac n cheese is incredible and the side or lunch size portion is just perfect. The pizza is fantastic with a light crust. The pretzel bites were so plentiful, they'd probably feed 6 people. I'm not a beer drinker, so Margaritas are my go to drinks and they home make their own sour mix. The first time I had one it was pretty good but last time it was very bland. I love how they can open the doors to the patio during the summer. If you're looking to go during prime time make sure you make a reservation. read more

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Excellent food, beer and service . Will be back! We had the fried spare rib app us I had the Pig Burger and my wife had the Druthere Mac & Cheese. Everything was awesome! read more

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First time here. Main purpose to try a new beer and that I did. I enjoyed an IPA and it was very good. I ended up eating dinner here as well. I had the steak tips bowl w/ potato and greens. Overall it was okay. I was hoping for a better taste more unique flavoring for this pick. Id go back but would try something else on the menu. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the bartender was great read more

Druthers Brewing - Steak Tips Bowl - Brewpubs Near Me - Schenectady, New York

The beer is not half bad and the macaroni and cheese is mediocre. One of the reasons I will not be returning is the bad attitude on the bartender at the Schenectady location. She was slamming dishes in front of me and glasses yelling toward my earshot all while being very coy. people like her are in for a rude awakening when you hit the real world. And after and during the circus I asked for a takeout box and she proceeded to wipe it all into the box and smash it down making a mess and not very appealing. I won't mention the young lady's name however if this can save one person from having a bad experience then it was all worth it thank you for your time. Acoustics are horrendous. I was not thrilled with anything other than the cool location. read more

The food is very good, very different menu with a little of everything to choose from. What's nice is it's above the harbor and amphitheater so you can hear music at 6 pm if you opt to dine outside, weather permitting. The hostess and waitstaff are helpful and thorough. Happy hour is the way to go for reduced drinks until 6 pm weeknights. The deep fried ribs are to die for. The Mac & Cheese entree's are enough for two. Wings and pizza are good as well as the fried calamari. Try something new each time you go! The crowd is mixed ages and def. a people watching place as the bar is big. Great selection of craft beers! Parking is convenient and right across the street in a parking garage. Can't wait to go back! read more

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Hostess put our names down for an outside table, waited a half hour only to find out she had us down for inside seating.

LONG Wait + Rude Staff = First and Last time visitor. Our group of 6 was informed the wait would be over an hour after we had already been waiting 30 minutes. That's a tough thing to hear as you see several vacant tables open which could accommodate our needs. Those tables were never sat in during our entire time at this place. So we moved to the "bar" area to get out of the way of the entrance, what a mistake. RUDE staff walks into you, bumps you and gives the customer a bad nasty look. At this point I was ready to leave. The "Manager" came over to address our displeasure with the wait time, his response was inadequate since we still could see 3 tables unoccupied that our group could have sat in. I will give the manager credit that he did offer to provide a juice for one of our party members who was diabetic. His efforts increased my rating of Druether 1 star above what it really was. Finally we were seated in one of the vacant tables that had been vacant since we arrived. After hearing this was a good place for food and experiencing such a wait we were all excited to see a menu. WOW, interesting choices, rather weak I felt in the variety. We ordered and the food arrived in an acceptable time frame. The food was warm at best, the texture of the fries was a cold soggy like french fry. The steak sandwich was small, lacked flavor and assembled wrong to be an enjoyable sampling of flavors with each bite... Note to self Go to Morette's down the street for a real steak sandwich. My friends food was similar, we get together twice a month to go out to eat, this was the first time ever that No One said how good their meal was or "You need to try this". The check came, pricey for what quality they delivered. But considering how unhappy the wait was it didn't surprise me. If your looking for college food with college minded servers and management this place is for you. As for adult professionals, I'd opt to a fast food chain over going here again. read more

We have been here twice and ordered take out once, and that's probably it for us. There is just nothing special about the food. Husband was really surprised that they don't do any pairings between their food and their beers since they are a brewery. The menu is very static and not exciting. The outdoor seating is nice, but it's not like there is anything special to look out. We both just feel like it's overhyped. read more

This place was located in the new River Place district about a two block walk from our hotel, which was good because after a day of travel is was nice to have someplace close. They have a good selection of beers. I got the Black Lager, which I'm always happy to see on a menu. My colleague got their IPA which he enjoyed. He got the turkey sandwich which he liked and I got the loaded mac and cheese. This is in a giant cast iron skillet and is huge. I was there last night and I had some more for dinner tonight and there's still some left. It's a tremendous amount of food, but man is it good. The ranch and barbeque sauces go well and the homemade pasta and cheese blend is really tasty. I would surely stop by here again. read more

It used to be great. Per the waiter the burgers are smashed and are only come well done. The pulled pork had a funky taste also. I am sorry I went back ! MaXon's in Saratoga road has the best burgers by far. read more

One of our first stops since restaurants allow dine in again. Everything was cooked very well and tasted delicious. We had the gyro and a burger. All nice and quick. Server was very good and we love the atmosphere. read more

This place is great! Good beer, nice servers. Don't listen to the negative reviews. If you are in the area it is great.

Don't bother! It started with not being able to find it. It's at the back of an apartment complex and they covered up their own signs with tacky Halloween scarecrows and corn obscuring the name altogether. We asked the bartender if people had complained about not being able to find it and she looked at us deadpan and said, "All the time." When you walk in there's no signage that tells you what to do, for example, "Wait here to be seated", or "this way to the bar", and the hostess did not acknowledge us at all. After waiting 3 minutes a server came over and asked if we had been helped and offered to seat us. The whole interaction was very awkward and we ended up at the bar where we were presented with ratty menus with the tiniest font I've ever seen. When I ordered a flight the bartender presented me with a card and a pen that barely worked and asked me to write out which 6 beers I wanted. 3 minutes later, I gave her back the card and she told me that I couldn't have 3 of the 6 beers because those ones are in cans and that she keeps telling "them" to put a star behind the ones in a can, but "they" never get it right. When I finally got the flight 3 out of the 6 beers were completely undrinkable. 2 tasted very old and stale and 1 actually burned my throat. For real, it was reminiscent of nail polish remover. There was nothing special about the other 3. The Oktober Fest was at least fresh and the bartender gave me a pint of that, but we were almost done with our meal by the time she checked in to see how things were going. The service all around screamed that the staff has no pride of ownership for the establishment that employs them, but who could blame them? There's clearly a trickle-down effect happening here. The one high point of the meal was the Buffalo Garlic Parm wings. They were crisp and well-sauced, and the blue cheese tasted homemade. The burger came out cooked to death and the patty was small. I guess that's the norm as we were not asked what temp we wanted. The bun was stale and the fries were soggy. It's a 21-dollar burger, btw. There's a huge sign on the wall that says "You are the choices that you make", which seems kinda strange for a place that makes money on selling alcohol, but I guess we learned that lesson. I'll never choose to eat there again. read more

The atmosphere is great. Wide open space with fresh air, huge bar with ample seating, and lovely sunset views over the Mohawk. Service was good. My not-generous glass of domestic white wine was $10. Yikes. The margarita pizza was undercooked (narrowest three inches of each slice was too floppy to eat normally; had to use a knife and fork). The baked Mac and cheese dish was mediocre; nothing made it stand apart from something I could make at home. I'll come again for a beer at sunset, but the food experience pales in comparison to what I've had dozens of times at the Saratoga location. read more

The host and wait staff are sub-par and in need of training in customer service and table management. Arrived last night for a table for seven. Told an hour wait. I mentioned several tables vacant but was still denied as those tables were awaiting seating from the list of people waiting. I put my name on list, went to Nest on State St. Ten minutes later my table was ready from druthers. No thanks. Nest rose to the occasion. Great service, food and atmosphere. Happy Druthers dropped the ball. Their staff is not ready for prime time. Won't be going back anytime soon. read more

I'd bet a years salary the owner just sits in his office and makes money and has no real concept of what's going on. I have no idea how he has multiple locations other than the fact that he just caters to rich people, (Saratoga, soon Clifton park) ALL the food is pre frozen, and I've never enjoyed anything from here, I've tried it several times and each time my mind is blown. The prices are laughable and there is nothing about this place I would recommend to anyone. But rich people like the environment so it's a win. Save you're money middle class or poor people. Service is not executed well, waited forever every single time I've been here. If anyone actually had a palette I don't think anyone would eat here. Oh and if you order a burger "they just come cooked" no medium or medium rare. Is this guy for real? read more

Went here for my birthday last year. Good time. Mac n cheese is good. Will continue to go back.

My brother came into town from Florida, and I had been telling him about druthers for the two weeks prior to his arrival. We gathered up friends and family and went to the Druthers in Schenectady. I would have to rate that experience at 0. From the wait time (there was really no one there), to the service (we basically had to get our own water and utensils), to the food itself. Even the beer cheese dip, which is one of my favorite things in the entire capital District was really horrible. My first go to restaurant for friends and visitors is always Druthers and I've always had a good experience at other locations. I would have to say avoid the Schenectady location unless you want to waste money. So disappointed. I did end up taking him to the location in Saratoga, and as usual everything was awesome so druthers was redeemed. I never post reviews because I know every place to have an off day, but this was so bad that it is worth letting everyone know. Even the ambience was horrible. There was water all over the floor and it hadn't rained for days. read more

My first visit to this restaurant was very disappointing. Had the Fish & chips. The fish was very over cooked with more breading than fish. It was very dry. The french fries had so much salt on them, you could barely eat them. Won't be back. read more

Great food! Great beers! Staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Booking reservations were different, we had an odd sized party and had to make two reservations. Upon arrival they were accommodating, however. read more

This restaurant was recommended by our hotel as upscale tavern food. I placed a to go order of the drutherbird chicken and the kale Caesar salad - both were listed as favorites. The chicken was so thin and cooked so long it was like it was petrified. You couldn't even bite through it. The fries were also over cooked. I basically spent $17 on a fresh roll with slaw and pickles. The salad was very bland with crouton sticks that had no flavor. I don't know if it's a new cook or they just forgot about the chicken in the fryer but it was not edible. I would not recommend. read more

Fourth of July concert and fireworks were taking place next door, at Mohawk Harbor, so we expected the place to be busy and made an online reservation for the two of us for dinner before the fireworks. Bar was definitely busy and the dining area pretty busy but we were seated immediately and promptly served. Everyone working there was very professional and courteous and the food was very good. read more

Their food and beer is delicious! They always have a wide selection, and a changing menu. The beer cheese dip and pretzels are amazing! All locations are wonderful, servers are down to earth, and above all the food and atmosphere are awesome! read more

My family stopped by on a busy night. After waiting a long time at the bar we tried to get the bartenders attention but he was an expert at avoiding requests. We ended up leaving before ever getting served but I have heard that their food is not worth the wait. read more

Interesting menu - comfort food recipes elevated to unique dishes. Try the kung pao wings! Welcoming to families with a nice-priced kid menu. Beer flights offer the chance to taste a few beers without ordering a full glass. Cool decor. Saratoga location has a lovely patio. read more

So I'm a HUGE fan of Druthers, but wasn't impressed with this location. The draft list didn't seem to offer half of the variety Albany and Saratoga do. The staff wasn't the friendliest, but it was a busy Saturday night. We ordered the staple - beer cheese pretzels and they were good, per usual, no complaints there. There was something off with the vibe and friendliness of this Druthers. read more

I am just not impressed with the food and service at the Schenectady Druthers. I am giving the two stars because their beer is delicious. I went for dinner with a friend this week. We planned on sharing some apps and mac & cheese along with the yummy beer. Our food came out fast but it was uninspired. The mac & cheese was okay but not amazing like we've had at other Druther locations. The beer cheese with pretzels was just okay. The pretzels seemed reheated, not freshly made. The coconut shrimp were little frozen shrimps with very little coconut flavor in the bland breading. Best part of the night was when the server brought our check before asking if we wanted refills and dessert (yes we did)... We'll probably come back when the weather is warmer, because like I said, I enjoy their beer. However, we'll probably stay away from the bland food options! read more

This is one of my go to spots! The seasonal menu changes provide just enough variety while also still with those favorites I've come to expect. If you haven't tried the beer cheese and pretzels you are missing out. Great beer, great food, great service, you can't go wrong whether it's a quick bite or family dinner. read more

Jill at the bar was awesome and super friendly! Food was fast & efficient! Beer selection was decent, not the best I've ever seen but far from the worse. Roll up doors in the bar area allow for fresh air and sunshine on a nice day. Loved it! read more

Let me first say Lexi are waitress was the sweetest! Not only to us but everyone she waited on! You can tell she loves her job! Great service Great food Great atmosphere Great music! We came back to visit Saratoga Springs after 36 years. We so enjoyed it all. It was our 39 wedding anniversary! Thank you for a great Experience! read more

Overpriced food. Very few vegetarian and no vegan options. A couple decent beers but not amazing.

We came in at the last minute, no reservations, and had about 20+ people showing up for a happy hour throughout the night. The manager worked with us to help us get a table in the back when one became available, and everyone had a great time mingling in our area. Staff was super friendly and quick with service. The burger and fries were amazing and served up so quickly for a Friday night full house. Great spot! read more

Loved the beer flight, fresh pub fare and friendly service on newly reformed waterfront!

Great brewery with amazing food. Beer selection is very good, food is outstanding. The bar/brewery itself has a great layout with outdoor and indoor seating, garage doors that open when appropriate, and a massive outdoor seating area on the river. Looking forward to returning to Druthers. Jamie (bartender) has some great beer recommendations and knows her stuff read more