Saba Cafe

I found it on maps after loading my laundry minutes away so I walked over here. Upon entering, the man who seemed like the owner welcomed me in and I wanted to try the adeni tea. He goes to make it and when I ask how much he gives it to me on the house! I haven’t gotten that ever so it felt really nice and left me smiling for the rest of the day lol definitely will come back.

My fiancé and I were traveling to Albany together for the first time this past weekend. We of course were very unfamiliar with the city but saw Cafe Saba had great reviews so we stopped by. When I say that the already high reviews do not do this place justice! Very fresh, beautiful ambiance; world class service; amazing music. Cafe Saba really has it all! Will be moving to Albany next year and cannot wait to make Saba our second home!

*FOR MY LADIES: LISTEN UP* I decided to check this place out after seeing a friend post it on their socials. NOTE: There is an entirely separate door for the cafe and a stair case that leads directly up to it (DO NOT ENTER THE RESTAURANT ENTRANCE). My friend and I had made the mistake of doing just that and we had the unpleasant experience of being cat called by the diners within it. One of the restaurant staff was kind enough to show us to the door. THEY ARE SEPARATE BUSINESSES. The place was empty, which is a little expected for a mid afternoon tea time. We were greeted and told to take a seat anywhere. There seems to be a side for women and a side for men (which is good for Muslims). The man provided us with menus and gave us some time to order. My friend ordered the Yemeni black tea and I ordered a karak chai and a pastry. While we were waiting on the drinks, we were served the pastry and complimentary tea. Later, when our drinks came out, the staff even offered us a pudding of some sort. The drinks were wonderful (on the sweet side for sure). The pastry was savory and not too sweet, the pudding was a new experience and it seemed to be made from some type of toffee (It was welcoming for my sweet tooth). The total may have been discounted but I’m not too sure. But it was super, super cheap. My friend and I spent a total of an hour and a half there and there was no sign of any other customers. After we paid, I asked the staff to lend me a box for the pastry that was left over. The staff gave me an entirely new pastry to go. The service was phenomenal. We will definitely be coming back. ***For my Muslim ladies: I would avoid coming at night due to the presence of shisha and a more male dominated demographic. I would recommend potentially installing a barrier of some sort to separate the men and women’s side. I don’t know whether I would have been as comfortable with any male customers around. Overall, this is a gem of a place and I’m glad to see it open. They are open late nights, which will be welcomed during Ramadan.

My new favorite spot. The ambiance is sexy and decorated beautifully. The type of place you find in NYC. The smoothies were delicious and made with fresh fruit. Top-notch customer service. Perfect date night

I LOVE THIS PLACE!!!! We need more restaurants and cafes like this in the area! Super nice owner, IMMACULATE vibes, amazing food, amazing atmosphere! I will be back over and over. I have zero complains. I had the time of my life. Upstate NY is missing out on culture and I feel like this place defies it. Since it was our first time they only charged for hookah, not the tea and pastry. Love the hospitality! Prices are really good! Love love love and will be back! Definitely recommend!

This place is very welcoming! I loved the cozy and relaxing environment—it feels so comfortable and inviting. The seating area is perfect for relaxing. I absolutely loved the karak tea! If you’re looking for a cold drink, I highly recommend the banana and date smoothie. Their dessert, and cheese, was warm and refreshing. It’s the perfect place to hang out with friends or have a get-together. Overall, such a lovely and welcoming experience—I loved it!

Amazing place! Visiting Albany for the first time as I’m planning to move there soon and stopped here after dinner. Very clean, very comfortable and good atmosphere. Argileh was great, good selection of flavors. Turkish coffee was great too. But what stood out the most was not only friendly wait staff but also friendly owner who cares his customers are enjoying everything. Had good music, stopped by twice to make sure we were enjoying everything. This is going to be my regular place once I’m settled in the area!

This cafe was the best experience! It was very welcoming. I really liked how good the food and drinks were. I especially loved the Karak tea—it had the perfect amount of sweetness and was light and refreshing. This is the perfect place to hang out and enjoy the night vibes. I can’t wait to come back again! Decor and lighting was perfect and relaxing.