Not Enough Staff, Popular Albany Lunchtime Eatery Shuts Down

bethany121 from Pixabay

Its last day was Friday

The last several months have seen a lot of changes at the Empire State Plaza concourse. Bombers Burritos and McDonald's both shut down operations at the concourse in 2023. As of February 9th, the bakery Au Bon Pain has closed its location at the plaza.

The New York State Office of General Services, which operates the concourse, tells News 10 the bakery had a difficult time making sure the location was properly staffed. Au Bon Pain is a national chain known for its croissants, sandwiches, coffees and espressos.

This comes just as a local favorite, Herbie's Burgers opens in the former McDonald's spot on the concourse. 

OGS says it is in negotiations with other restaurants to take over the available spaces. The plaza still offers a number of different dining options at the concourse food court including: 

  • Herbie's Burgers
  • Honest Weight Cafe
  • Umana Yana
  • Pho Yum
  • Kuma Ani
  • PBD Kitchen

 

More from Capital Region

Latest Posts

What's Happening

  • Cool Song Of The Day

    Weekdays at 430pm, John Gabriel digs into our library to play his Cool Song Of The Day.

  • This Day In Music History

    Weekdays at 1230pm, Bill Williams presents This Day In Music History... a look at music and news events that happened on that day.

  • Guess Who SPAC July 14 2026

    The Takin' It Back Tour featuring THE GUESS WHO with special guest DON FELDER

  • Come Work with Us

    We're hiring!

  • Herzog Law Firm

    Listen Saturday mornings from 8am-830am for The Estate and Medicaid Planning Hour with Herzog Law Firm.

Events

  • Forrest Frank

    Don't miss Forrest Frank: The Jesus Generation Tour at the MVP Arena with special guests Tori Kelly, Cory Asbury and The Figs on Saturday June 13, 2026 at 7:00...

    at MVP Arena
  • Ronald McDonald House Albany 5K Family Fun Run

    Join us on Saturday, June 13, 2026, for the 4th annual RMHC 5K Family Fun Run — a fundraiser benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region! ...

    at Albany College of Pharmacy
  • Gas Up

    The annual Gas Up exposition of antique and vintage vehicles, tools, and machinery takes place in Gallupville, New York on June 13, 14, 20, and 21 from 10:00 am

    at Gas Up
100.5 FM & 590AM
Online
Mobile
Alexa