Lis B. ‎ - May 25, 2011
"I had no expectations walking in (I'm out of town and did zero research; it was the closest thing around I could walk to!) but was pleasantly surprised. Very pleasant staff and cool bar area. I didn't go upstairs to the dining room, but I enjoyed the atmosphere downstairs. ..."‎ - The burger was cooked medium, the way I like it, and had a nice charred exterior.  Inside it was moist.  The bun was fine - it tasted like griddle which can be a plus - and the condiments were crisp lettuce and two small tomato slices.

Rich F, Shelter Island, NY, 12/3/2010
Love it ......get the pulled pork, calamari, pizza of the day. Lots more to choose from!!!

BLiz B, San Francisco, CA, 10/8/2009
I give this family-owned restaurant 5 stars because of the UNforgettable ASIAN CHICKEN WINGS. OMG. I've never had anything like it. It's truly, sincerely THE best Asian chicken wings I've ever had. The wings had so much flavor. If you're in downtown Albany, you have to go here for the wings.

Jess P., Chicago, IL, 11/28/2008
My boyfriend just started working at a law firm around the corner, and apparently this is where they like to go for post-work drinks. I joined them here the other evening, marking my first time at FT's. It's a fun place to go for drinks, although I didn't try the food. I think the bartender may have been one of the better bartenders I've experienced in Albany, and my dirty martinis were prepared absolutely perfectly everytime.  The decor is fairly simple, with dark wood booths and photos of old icons like Jerry Garcia. It's a nice change of pace from so many of the other bars in this 'hood. I'm looking forward to heading back.

Ticia G., Albany, NY, 3/27/2008
I am astonished that this hasn't been reviewed. but i guess the fact that it is a bit hidden/out of the way from the rest of the downtown dining establishments may contribute to that. if you go down state to the end (broadway) and take a right at the suny building, it is a few in on the right. and let me tell you. it is SO worth it. i have only been here for lunch several times and keep forgetting to come back for dinner. but now that i have read their menu, that won't be something i do for long. a warning: the menu just for lunch was so delightful that i needed the very friendly and patient server to come back several times. the selections were so varied and mouth watering that i just couldn't decide. and when i did i was overjoyed. and then... they have creme brulee for dessert.  so not fair. i live and breathe for creme brulee. the decor is really cool and funky with very cozy highbacked booths. the service was efficient and warm without being intruding.  i would recommend that anyone try it, you will Not regret it.

Pootnami, long beach, new York,  Reviewed August 9, 2009
"Great Place" Just spent a few days in Albany. Weird town! Nothing was opened, except Frankiln's Tower. Awesome food and the friendliest bartender ever!! I would go back in a second.

HRB4, Albany, New York, "Restaurant week", Reviewed April 16, 2011
I brought my family down to experience restaurant week and we decided on Franklins tower. Well I must say I usually dont blog but I had chilean seabass with a lychee mango ginger glaze.. Outstanding, I had to try a piece of my wifes prime rib because she kept saying it was delicious and she was right cooked beautifully... I will be back for sure.. Thank you guys for a great nite out.. See you soon

Dmcglynn, Clarkston, MI, Reviewed July 7, 2010
"Fantastic food, Very friendly people..." My family and I were on a trip to Albany to visit my mother-in-law, and ended up downtown seeing some sights. We were hungry, and randomly stopped at Franklin's Tower for some lunch. We ate outside, and had such memorable food that we had to make a point to return this year when we were visiting again. The food is a little pricier than I would have liked, but it's downtown, so I expected it. The staff was very friendly, and we had a great time. The building is historic, and gives the place a very cool atmosphere. I highly recommend the place at least for one try, if for no other reason they always seem to have Guiness on-tap.

★★★★★ Great Place!!
Frank C.| Insider | Rank: 22,095 5 Franklin's Tower, September 10, 2008
This is a place for every age group. I wish the people who run Franklin Tower would run the City of Albany. You really should check this place out...Food and Music are A+

★★★★★ WOW!!!
Carlene V.| Insider Expert | Rank: 12,673 5 Franklin's Tower, August 10, 2008
Unique food in a unique setting. This restaurant takes food that you've eaten before and puts a unique twist on them to create a new flavor sensation. Sit at the beautiful bar and have appetizers or eat a full dinner in the dining room. Live music as scheduled. A little pricey, but a great treat once in a while.

★★★★★ A Real Surprise
by gdfan991 at Citysearch 5 Franklin's Tower, January 26, 2007
I came across this place while in the Albany area on business. It might not look like much from the outside, but inside is a classic old time bar area with character to spare. I got a friendly greeting from Barry the bartender and settled in with a fresh Guinness. The real surprise here, however, is the food.
Plenty of surprises on the menu, from the casual pulled pork sandwich and Asian style wings, to the Carpetbagger filet mignon stuffed with fried oysters and served with awesome garlic mash and a chipotle bernaise (!). I ended up eating here every night of my stay.
Open mic on Tuesdays and a great happy hour. If you're looking for a fun place with a mature and professional crowd and great food, seek this place out.