I had a frustrating experience at The Scene today. I was excited to try a new place, and I thought the ambiance was nice. It was not very crowded inside, but the staff at the front seemed a bit overwhelmed. I ordered a drink that was delicious and came out promptly. However, I also ordered their fall special salad but specifically requested no meat on it. The salad came with bacon, but I am unable to eat pork. It took about 25-30 minutes for the salad to come out (which was fine, I was not in a rush), but there was a lot of bacon on top of it. I alerted the woman working at the front, and she was very kind and apologetic and said it would be remade for me. I asked them at this point to just make it to go. I was promptly brought the remade salad in a to go box, and I left to go home. When I arrived home and opened the salad, under the cheese/spinach at the top I discovered a large handful of bacon. I ended up just having to throw the salad out, which is a huge waste. While this is not the end of the world, it was frustrating to have had this experience and to spend $16 on a salad for nothing. I should have checked the salad again before I left, but this error also should not have happened twice. With the high prices, mistakes made, and slow service, I will not be returning to The Scene. read more

The Scene is a beautiful place. When it comes to the food, though, the breakfast/brunch items need work. People who don't eat bread, etc. would be happier to have an option that includes eggs and other items along a healthier track. Also, I suggest you do not cook the prosciutto or overcook the fried egg in the sandwiches or, at least ask how people how they would like their eggs done. My first latte was not very warm. On another note, the service was good and staff helpful and friendly. read more

The scene is an upbeat, chill atmosphere that offers instagramable backdrop and food that tastes as good as they look. I got the strawberry stuffed cheesecake waffle and I was happy with that choice. The waffle was on the larger side but it was light and fluffy. The cheesecake stuffed inside was actually strawberry yogurt, so I was a bit thrown off by that but it was not disappointed. I wish that there was more stuffing in the waffle though, for the size of the whole thing I think the ratio was off. The service was good and the staff was nice, however there wasn't enough staff for the amount of people coming in. I'm not sure if this was a lighter staffed day or that they are short of staff, but there was a bit of a wait time for the waiter to get to us when we sat down and for our food. The space is good for small groups of 4 to 5 or eating solo, so there's options and the decor is super cute. The Scene is a spot you should check out. read more

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Excellent food and a different atmosphere to try. Never had any of the alcohol drinks, but the non alcoholic ones I had were good. Decent portion sizes and very good food. read more

I've been to The Scene several times since they opened. The food quality and service has steadily diminished. Today was my last time. We arrived at 10:30 and it was not busy at all. After ordering, we waited nearly 30 minutes for GF avocado toast and a stuffed waffle. When the waffle arrived, it was apparent that the avocado toast order had been missed. Ten minutes later, it arrived. Unfortunately my waffle was cold. We were given a coupon for $5 off our next visit, but I feel the avocado toast should have been comped. read more

The most unique cafe/cocktail restaurant I've been to. The menu is very unique and delicious. The menu was at first not user friendly but quickly was able to figure it out. I liked ordering via bar code because it gave you a better feel for menu. Everyone was helpful. The music vibe is nothing that you might be used to for breakfast- but I really really liked the energy and great vibes of the whole establishment. The outside patio is such a great place to sit. Enjoy read more

Such a cute place for a bite to eat. Loved the ambiance and feel of the place. We sat outside and had no problem finding a table. Ordered our food and drinks at the counter. When we sat we decided we wanted to try another toast and ordered through the QR code which was super easy. Runners brought food and drinks as they were ready. We ordered a sweet toast with almond butter, fruit, honey drizzle which was AMAZING! Also the avocado toast which was excellent. French toast was thick and cooked perfect. Turkey and cheese panini was also perfect. The lavender lemonade was really good and the specialty coffee was great too. Overall, we had a pleasant visit and will definitely be back! read more

The Scene - Turkey panini, waffles, sweet toast, lavender lemonade - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Albany, New York

This is probably one of the most popular coffee joints around. Service is very efficient with its cashless operations. I would say this place has a West Coast vibe in New York. read more

So many great and delicious choices. Cash free, so remember to bring a card. Beautiful decor. Wonderful choice of dining alone or a friend.

It was disappointing given the hype of this place. If you are looking for an impersonal, sterile experience, this is the place for you. I called to ask about the wait list and the woman who answered the phone was rude. No one greeted us when we walked in, so we weren't aware of how things worked. We found a spot on the patio, but the floor was dirt filled and filthy. We had to ask the folks sitting next to us how to order because no one came to our table to explain it to us. You order from a QR code at your table. We ordered a mimosa and a bellini and they brought the juice to our table and gave us a token to put in a vending machine for the prosecco. I ordered pistachio french toast which looked amazing but was nothing but thick, dry pieces of challah bread that were not even egg battered like true french toast. The pieces were only toasted on the top and drizzled with box mixed pistachio pudding. You have to try several times to flag wait staff down to get a glass of water. Truly disappointing. We will not be back. read more

Very nice place. Recommend the chilled relaxed vibe. Sit outside and enjoy the outdoors. Recommendations- 1. Find your own table (outdoors easier). Hopefully it's been wiped down (we had to ask for ours) 2. The place can be a madhouse during busy times (organized chaos) 3. Order your own food by scanning the QR on the table. Be patient as it will be a while. A big "while".. 4. If you're on a budget limit yourself to coffee drink and MAYBE a pastry. Cocktails can set you back $15 and a ""brunch platter" upwards of $35?? It has waffles and sausage/bacon, guys... My "lox of love" breakfast was a measly piece of toast, spread with cream cheese, some greenery, everything bagel seasoning, and a sliver of smoked salmon (granted, rolled up like a fancy rose) for $15. Ouch. Maybe I'd have been more satisfied putting that $15 toward a cocktail.. I was still hungry so ate have of my better half's egg white wrap. And still hungry lol. Also, Scene staff, if you put fake flowers/plants on the inside tables (especially in full sun), please clean/dust them once in a while. The bright sun just highlights how dirty they are . read more

This place is pretty and very feminine. I saw more women in here than anything. Maybe a couple guys that were dragged there. Not a big place which is why it gets packed so much so fast. It's also relatively new in the area. The food was delicious and they have good cocktail options. I had the American dream bagel sandwich and an espresso martini. I've had a better espresso martini but it was still an ok drink. The sandwich was my favorite. They have a lot of GF, vegetarian and vegan options. I was impressed with that. We waited for a while before we realized the scanner on the table where you order from. They never pointed it out. After ordering, it asked for a tip, which is kind of ridiculous. I'm not tipping if I don't have a waiter. The site doesn't allow you to order waters or extra napkins. We were on our own with any spills or extra stuff, like cups with lids for the kids. A good place out with the gal pals but not too family friendly. Also kind of pricey, our brunch for three people and two cocktails was $80. Definitely prefer a regular diner for that kind of bill. read more

The Scene - American Dream Sandwich and Espresso Martini - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Albany, New York

Awful. If you enjoy going to a place where you cannot have a conversation with the person sitting w/i a foot from you, sitting on dirty upholstery covered in other people's long hair, ordering from a table q-r code, paying from your phone, having people drop food on your table and walk away, getting your own water, napkins all while paying for less than mediocre food, then this is the place for you. Truly stunned at how busy this place is, because it is truly terrible. And dirty. read more

Food was great. Ambiance and service is excellent. I would recommend to come in early because of the wait. Since the place is busy you might need to wait a couple of minutes before you get seated. But once seated you can order via phone or thru an app. I also saw an option to order ahead. Everything is amazing! I would recommend this place to anyone visiting the area! read more

A great place with fun atmosphere. Excellent service ( Ava and Hope were really on top of things - they were also very familiar with the entire menu which helps a lot!) Love this place - very efficient, excellent food, coffee alone makes it worth the trip. Best Oatmeal I've ever had. Highly recommend breakfast bowl, and French toast and lox. read more

Great looking place menu ordering easy but Should bring food items at the same time for the table

It's a very cool place with great creative breakfast options. I just wish they had some kind of juice for sale lol I don't drink coffee, I don't drink tea, that leaves my two options at sparkling seltzer or champagne. read more

I tried this place for the first time for a nice brunch with friends before the NYS Fair and to be honest I would label this as a fancier Starbucks more than a restaurant. We sat outside where they have very low tables. There are two separate chairs on one side (that were higher than the table) and on the other side of the table a hanging chair swing. I have to say it wasn't very comfortable but the food was pretty yummy, they had very convenient ordering and the place it's self is BEAUTIFUL inside. Definitely a coffee lovers paradise but for me personally, just a little too fancy fancy. read more

We had the French toast and the American dream on a croissant. Everything was delicious

I work in Albany and this is my new favorite breakfast place. The ambience is simple chic with lots of comfortable outdoor seating, original fresh breakfast/ lunch foods, and easy self-service via QR code but lots of very friendly servers available as of this post in case you need help. Because I like to eat healthy, my favorite so far is the breakfast bowl with added, probably the best I've tried to date. They have cute tiny tomatoes and fresh ingredients. Also loved the hazelnut gelato which tasted like subtle nutella. The prosciutto panini nothing surprising but very up to par and cold brew/ iced latte the same. Strongly recommend. read more

The Scene - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Albany, New York

While readers of my reviews know that I focus on taste and generosity of portions above ambience all day, the scene steals the show with its fun decor and lively environs. Even the silverware is modern and gold. read more

Very clean place friendly good food I I just loved if they had home fries. But a very good place to go to.

As an avid business traveler I have the pleasure of traveling all over the United States and drinking coffee and dining out at tons of independent establishments. I happen to live in Albany and have been to The Scene dozens of times since they've opened. The coffee is perfect, the food is very good, the people working there are very pleasant. I like that you can just walk in and grab a table and order from your table. The interior is beautiful and very tastefully done. I cannot recommend this place enough. This is my go to coffee shop, breakfast, and lunch spot when I'm home in Albany. read more

This is a new place in Albany. The ambiance is extraordinary. Service is excellent. I liked the menu which had a variety of cold and hot drinks. We went for late breakfast and ordered their small board which is a mix of breakfast pastries as well as fresh bacon. Enjoyed it thoroughly, will be back again. read more

The Scene - Breakfast board - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Albany, New York

Nice ambiance but the food and drink were underwhelming. Coffee delivered with no sugar, got no knife with my silverware and the food was pretty mid. However the place itself is cute. read more

This visit was OK, but only as we had several issues. This place is new and has possibilities. I had to add the place to yelp. Good things: They have lots of serve staff to help. Good/Different/more upscale menu selection. Place looked clean. Manager came over to ask if we were OK and if she can check to see where our food is. The eh, part... Manager never came back and neither did our food. Ordering is a mess. Drinks are on line, but food is not. We ended up ordering our drinks and I went in immediately to order the food. Stood in line for 15 minutes as only one register. Drinks were cold by the time I got back to the table and drank by the time I had to go find someone to get our food. Half our order was bland and needing seasoning badly. After the table next to us had their food (and arrived 20 minutes after us), I had to go flag someone down and had to provide what it was we ordered. 5 minutes later, food arrived. French toast was tasty and wife liked it. Pesto Chicken Panini was very bland. I did find what looked to be some salt and pepper shakers and had to disassemble the sandwich to add a good amount of salt to the chicken... little pepper for measure. Sandwich was great after that. People seemed to be having a good time and not everyone was having same issues as we had. Ordering was a nightmare though. I work for a retail outfit and every single store employee has the ability to ring people up on their handheld devices to deal with influx of customers. They do ordering from the table, but only drinks and not sure why the food is not done the same way... it would alleviate the nightmare at the register. The place has potential. Hopefully just growing pains and we'll try it again another time. read more

The Scene - PESTO CHICKEN PANINI - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Albany, New York

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I've been there three times and each time I've been there the customer service was not great. The workers were passive aggressive Honestly, felt racially profiled because other customers were getting help, but when I would ask for help I was ignored. I don't think this is meant for people of color which is very unfortunate because it's such a beautiful restaurant but the customer service is horrible. read more

The setting is bright, cheerful, and comfortable. A great selection of seating inside and out. Tasty menu, reasonably priced. Great service!

Bacon not cooked enough. Salad dressing in a gelatinous clump. Nothing else to add, thank heavens.

Quaint place to meet few people for coffee, breakfast or lunch. Food is very good. Service good as well.

Unique spot. Food and drinks are incredible. The only negative take away: slightly over priced. Do recommend and will absolutely return to try other offerings. read more

Such a cute place! absolutely love the vibes and the food was delicious. had a good variety of healthier food and sweet treats. staff was super nice! Got the West Coast Sandwich, Oatmeal, and stuffed waffles with strawberry. read more

I've been a customer since the doors opened and have tried most items on the menu, both food and beverage. The salads, wraps and banana bread couldn't be better. Everything is always fresh and the coffee is out of this world. Can't wait to go back! read more

Absolutely amazing food and drinks! I definitely recommend if you have the opportunity!

It's trendy which usually doesn't deter me. However, I have an issue with ordering, having to pay upfront and tip upfront. A tip is for great service. I have no clue how that will be. And if I want another drink, I have to order again. But first I also then have to go get my own Prosecco to make my mimosas so am I getting tipped? No. I know the intent but all of this but it just doesn't work. read more

Food was good, atmosphere was good. Took forever to get our food. Everyone was waiting and no food was coming out for over 50 minutes.

I've been twice but only for drinks.(including a coffee drink). The first time I had a strawberry margarita and it was strong and worth the price tag. The next time, I got the Paloma and the drink itself wasn't as good (or as strong) but my guess is that it was the bartender rather than the drink itself. So I'm guessing there will continue to be variation. The decor was indeed very cute but there wasn't a ton of seating, and actually the first time I went there wasn't parking in the lot either. I'd suggest ordering at the counter. You can order at the table but the process is a pain (I have to tip before anyone brings me anything? Put in my full credit card on my phone?), and let's all agree everyone hates QR code menus, shall we? Last, there aren't servers but there are food runners. We had a hard time flagging someone down the first time we were there. I'll probably go back because it's nice to be in a nice atmosphere. read more

Very good menu selection, great drinks. Nice ambiance. Only issue is that you cannot order eat-in food from the qcode on the table, you must go up to the counter. read more

The fact that they are cafe style. It does not matter how long you have been waiting to grab a table. People go up to people they know to say hi and take their table knowing we have been patiently standing in that area for almost 30 mins for a table among many other people. We went up to them and was told "Oh well." As another couple came up to us, seeing how upset we were to let us know they are leaving and we can take their seat. As we sit down, the same situation happens right behind us to the people who have been patiently waiting behind us. This has already cause issues and almost created a big fight between multiple people! This needs to be corrected. OTHERWISE I would not suggest going there unless you're ready to get upset, and I hope you can control your anger. read more

Made this place look cute so they can charge high end prices for non existent service and very mediocre food. I know they say that table service isn't a part of their job bc they run on a "fast and efficient dining experience similar to other coffee shops" but then why ask for 18% tip? At least most of the staff were nice when I asked them for stuff but the short lady with the undercut was straight up rude and made me feel unwelcome. I was also the only one to receive my drink in a plastic cup while every one else got it in a glass wtf. It doesn't matter if I came by myself I still ordered a $23 meal for an okay latte and extremely overpriced and bland chicken pesto panini that came out cold after waiting over thirty minutes for it. Fast and efficient, okay. If I come back to this place it'll be to try out another item on their drink list to go but the dining experience is truly not it. They tried to make a bougie place in Albany but it ain't bougie at all. read more