~90% of the menu is vegetarian and they make my beloved tempeh Reuben. I definitely need to try their breakfast sometime, maybe the Moroccan eggs...
Tucked away in the Stockade of Schenectady there lies a little place called the Moon and River Cafe. I've been there three times, and all three times I've been happier than any person alive after eating my meal. I honestly can't choose between my three meals which one was my favorite. Between the African Peanut Stew I had my first time, the Vegan Antipasto I had the second time, or the Vegan Reuben I had last Friday night, I can't choose which one was the absolute best. The decor is incredible. The ambiance of the music every Friday night is incredible. And most importantly, the food is incredible. Love this place.
This place is great. Came here with my boyfriend and had many vegetarian options to choose from. Both of our meals were absolutely delicious and the food didn't take that long provided that we were the only ones there for a little while. This place appears to be a one man operation so if there is a crowd it could take long, but the food is so delicious it would be worth the wait. The environment is homey and cozy. So many great menu items to choose from. We can't wait to go again.
The food is great ! Ambience is that of a tiny local cafe. Just loved the food here. Would definitely recommend the Moroccan eggs on the breakfast menu. The chef is very good and knows what he is doing. Will definitely visit the place every time I'm in Schenectady.
An intimate, warm cafe with a huge menu. Personable staff and regular live, acoustic music. A great place to accompany an evening stroll or dessert date.
When Shades of Green in dowtown Albany closed, I was devastated. Who could move on with life without the delicious potato melt? I still miss it.
I Found The Moon and River Cafe!
I cannot believe it took me this long to find Moon and River. Another place right around the corner from my rock gym, one of my climbing partners suggested we grab a bite after an exhausting night of climbing.
While I don't think anything will replace Shades, this was as close as I think anything could come. The menu is amazing! Dozens of vegetarian choices that not only included tofu, but tempeh as well. (Don't you feel like tempeh is harder to find?) I got a veggie stir fry with tempeh sticks- delicious.
And what's more, a normal portion size. Usually when I go out to eat I come home with half the meal (or I end up eating the whole thing and then clutching my stomach in pain from eating too much). This was a freshly prepared meal with lots of flavor and just the right amount.
Further, the atmosphere was very pro-peace, which I fully support. Anyone who supports sewing light in the world is worth my time. :-)
So why four stars, not five? Personally, I never carry cash, so a restaurant that doesn't accept cards is kind of a bummer for me.
And, because it's so small, it does take a while for them to prepare the food.
Also, one night I went with friends and we were sitting enjoying our dinner when a performer went on. It was just four of us, and we were talking pretty quietly (and we were in the back of the cafe), but people were shooting us daggers. We felt unwelcome by the customers, even though it is a place to eat, in addition to being a place to hear music.
That aside, the place is wonderful, delicious food, and lots of veggie options. I will definitely be going back!