Yelpers and hard-to-please Redditors praised Umana Yana but I was initially unclear on the "must have" items given the fusion aspects. Umana Yana is named after a Guyana location but much of the fare is African. In addition to scouring photos I even looked on DoorDash for popular items. The jerk lamb lollipops and red curry fish tacos were excellent. Umana Yana is an expert in spice and sauce, and also has a knack for combining fire and sweetness. The lamb has plenty of built-in flavor but was also adorned with a topping vaguely in the pico de gallo paradigm along with pineapple, and there's a green sauce on the side. read more

Umana Yana - Fish Tacos - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

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LOVE this place. Consistently interesting and fabulous food, without pretense. Fun selection of mocktails as well as cocktails. It's a great spot to meet friends after work or to take out of town guests. Plan your parking strategy before you head out. read more

I really wanted to like this place, but the service was a bit rude and the lamb was mealy. The drink was good and the place was really cute.

This place has AMAZING food and drinks! Best Ethiopian food I've ever had, and I've had food made by Ethiopians several times. They make food from many places, and do it well. Awesome Tamarind Margarita. My husband also lived his food and drink, whatever that was. Chris was a great server. Can't wait to go back. read more

I took one look at the food and saw the Senegalese lamb and could not wait to place my order. I loved it so much I went right back the next day and ordered the same glorious lunch + a slice of their banana cake. Pictured is their Umana mini lunch (don't be fooled by the "mini" size, it is plenty for like $12-13 bucks). That lamb must have been marinating overnight. It was so tender and flavorful, it transported me to the best of places...wowie. The spices were on point...the lamb had a nice kick to it without tasting spicy. The coconut rice and sides complimented the lamb perfectly. 12/10. No crumbs left. Wiped clean. Would have licked the container in private. The banana cake ($2.50) was also perfection and tasted like it was made with so much love with the best hint of cloves (?). Honestly, I am not certain what in the world hit me, but please believe the cake was understated but amaziiiiing. I am damn sure I would have gone back a third time, but my stay in Albany came to an end. If you ever find yourself in the Empire State Plaza Concourse Cafeteria, do yourself a favor and get your life together with some heartwarming food. I need to make it to the full restaurant! Thanks, Umana! read more

Umana Yana - Roasted lamb, coconut rice, Sweet Yellow Plantains, cabbage mini lunch - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

Was in town for work, and worked an appetite. Scrolling through Yelp and Umana caught my eye. Walked in on a Thursday and was the only customer like due to the frigid temperatures. However the service was great and they had an open mic/karaoke. I ordered the enjare platter and with the casava puffs and boy I was not disappointed! Healthy portions bursting with vibrant color and flavors will be back next time 1000% read more

Umana Yana - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

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I made reservations at Umana Yana for a special live music event and was sat immediately upon walking in. A server came over to greet us shortly after and gave us the drink menu, dinner menu as well as a specials menu. For drinks, we ordered the Spiced Sangria and Rum Moscow Mule. The Sangria was delicious as was the Mule, which included housemade ginger beer. For an appetizer, we started with an order of patties - one jerk chicken and one ground beef. They were the perfect size to start and had so much flavor! For our entrees, we ordered the Ethiopian Injera Plate with chicken, which comes with stewed veggies and cold salads on top of Ethiopian injera bread. If you've never had Ethiopian food - I highly recommend you order this to get a taste of an Ethiopian speciality. You use the thin, spongy bread to eat the meat and salads. Everything is incredibly flavorful! We also ordered one of the specials - a steak and shrimp "Surf & Turf" dish. It was absolutely incredible! The steak was cooked perfectly and was marinated in the most delicious garlic sauce. I also had to order a side of Sweet Yellow Plantains, which came with two dipping sauces - spiced honey and garlic sauce. Having one sweet and one savory sauce was such a great addition. They were delicious! Overall, we had such a great time listening to live jazz music, enjoying the most incredibly flavorful food and drinks, and being so warmly welcomed by the staff. I cannot wait to return and I will definitely be recommending Umana Yana to those looking for an incredible dining experience in Downtown Albany! read more

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This restaurant is a women owned minority restaurant. The restaurant has consistently great food. The restaurant moved from their prior location down the street a year or 2 ago to the current location. We ordered vegetarian injera, chicken injera and Lamb chops. Not a big fan of lamb but I tried it as I was told it was really good, however I'll pass on the lamb (though the pineapple mint chutney/sauce was excellent and may request it on the side) as i still can't get my mind to like lamb or red meat. I made a mistake of ordering 2 injeras, I should have ordered something else. I was so eager to eat the bits and bites plate that I had tried last time but they had an updated menu and left that dish out. I would definitely recommend that the restaurant management adds it back at some point in the future. I would definitely recommend the restaurant and now they have a brunch menu that I would like to plan for soon. read more

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The food, service and ambiance are all excellent. We enjoyed our Sunday brunches and Saturday dinners.

The staff/owners were all very friendly. The food was delicious. My boyfriend got the Walkin chicken and was literally licking his fingers. I had the vegan injera plate which was delicious. Unfortunately I just started a new med which hurt my appetite but i brought the leftovers home. Cute spot too. We will definitely be back! read more

The space is inviting and warm, the food is delicious, and the staff are kind and dedicated. Highly recommend.

Thanks to Dale and the Umana Yana staff for another awesome Sunday brunch ! My Southern Style Shrimp and Grits were delicious! So was the guava cocktail. I actually meant to visit in March for Women's History Month. Yelp suggested it would be great to highlight women owned businesses and Dale is a fantastic business owner! Unfortunately, my plans got delayed but what a gorgeous, sunny Sunday we picked to go to brunch at Umana ! It was so nice out that I wanted to sit outside and there is outside seating. My husband, however, wanted to be inside. Our server, Alexis, gave us a window seat which turned out perfect. She was welcoming and helpful. The food arrived beautifully presented and Alexis came back to make sure we were happy with our meals. We were. We cleaned our plates. Compliments to the chef! read more

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So I arrived in Albany late and needed dinner... I called because they closed in 45 minutes and asked if they would be able to accommodate me so late. Without any hesitation, they said to come in. The place has a cool eclectic vibe. The decor is afro Caribbeanish. They have a full bar, and I ordered the sorel champagne vodka coctail... delicious!! The sorel is homemade, tangy and not too sweet! I ordered the injera with the chicken. I usually prefer lamb tibs, but that wasn't an option... I went with the chicken because they said it was jerk chicken.. which I assumed would be like Jamaican jerk chicken.... but it wasn't... it was closer to butter chicken... honestly, the chicken was the only part I didn't like.... all the different veggies were awesome... the hot spicy kale was fantástico... the lentils were perfect... the beets good, the cabbage and potatoes good, the salad good... the injera good. The injera wasn't one large round piece... it was a couple of pieces... and on a square plate, but otherwise good. I would definitely go back! The food wasn't cheap, but you got a lot of it.. read more

Was on my way to another restaurant to do a take out. I looked at this restaurant and was impressed with their ambience, menu, crowd and couldn't resist not entering the restaurant. I have been wanting to take my husband to an Ethopian restaurant for a while and I'm proud to say, my instincts weren't wrong. We ordered the vegetable injera and bits & bites. The flavors, variety of dishes, spice level were just perfect. Yelp check in gives you a free drink. At the time of my visit they were still awaiting their liquor license so had to settle for nohito. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, can't wait to go back for my next visit. read more

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We stumbled in here after the recent Tulip Festival, partly due to its location (very close to Washington Park) and its favorable yelp reviews, of course. This cute eatery did not disappoint! It's a very cozy, colorful and eclectically designed turn of the century storefront with huge windows. I ordered one of their specialty cocktails with sorrel, and bf and I shared the curry fish tacos and the Ethiopian veggie platter. The seasoning was flavorful and ingredients were very fresh. Service was very great. No complaints at all. Would love to come back if we return to Albany. read more

Amazing freshly cooked food and friendly staff. Definitely my go to place when I am in the area.

This place was outstanding! My husband and I live an hour outside of Albany and were in town to see a play nearby. The food, service (thank you, James) and atmosphere at Umana Yana was well the trip. The tofu injera plate (with a fried egg) and the walking chicken with sorrel jam were highlights. Can't wait for our next visit. read more

Umana Yana - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

Just randomly stumbled on this place and let me tell you, I was impressed. The food was *immaculate.* I got the special oxtail over grits and my friend got the Brazilian Breakfast (Egg option) and we were silent for the meal, tells you how good the food was. I recommend the sorrel iced tea if you have a sweet tooth (which I do) and I don't recommend the corn bread (it was dry). I forgot to ask our server's name but she was a curly haired lady and she was so welcoming and kindly, give that woman a raise. If you have enemies, I recommend to tell them this place is bad, deprive them of city-level soul food. Will come again! read more

Umana Yana - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

It's unfortunate that I'm downgrading my 8 year old review for Umana's from 5 to 3 stars. Frankly I'm finding it hit and miss these days for food and God knows for service!! I've been to private events that have been excellent but as a patron with and without reservations it's been below par in terms of service and the food inconsistent. My biggest reasons for the downgrade is: Food - when it's right OMG! So good! When it's wrong which lately has been more than is acceptable , no one gives a care if you're satisfied. No ONE. Service - I go back to no one cares if you're happy and don't ask a question about your meal because they don't know! Example: Me: What is this sauce? Waitress: it came with your meal. Me: (staring at plate with sauce) Yes I know but what is it? What is it made of? Waitress: I don't know. (Walking away). Me: uhmm could you ask the kitchen? Waitress: (clearly annoyed) Yeah, sure. Atmosphere: one of the hottest days of the summer. There is STILL no AC at the Central Ave location. I had to ask for ice for my water. Yup, over 90 degrees outside. No AC and you had to request ice!! She brought just enough for me not the other people. Explained we'd need more and that was rationed. Are they really rationing ICE?! Lastly, the bar - here I'm going to say.... There are plenty of licensed bartenders on Lark street have your cocktails at one of those places!! And whatever you do don't order the bottle of champagne mimosa that's on the menu for $35 because they are no longer providing you what's clearly written on the menu and are instead pouring HALF a bottle of champagne in a pitcher and filling the rest with juice! All in all a let down. read more

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What an amazing experience! Our server was attentive and patient when we had questions. It was quiet inside and a window table gives you great people watching opportunities! I ordered the oxtails and was so happy I did. I ate every bit of it even though I was stuffed. I normally don't like sweet plantains, but these were caramelized and slightly chewy and I ate all of them too! We both had the flourless cake for dessert and I was perfect. I'm always happy when a restaurant has a gluten free desert option that involves chocolate. We will be back!! read more

Umana Yana - Oxtail and Sweet Yellow Plantains - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

Some great chicken and rice with friendly service. If I were in Albany, I would go back! Really enjoyed the plantains too.

The long wait at the Iron Gate brought us over to this AMAZING spot!! So grateful to have discovered it. The plantains, pone sticks, garlic ginger sauce, eggs, masala omelette... and ginger juice Demi shots! Wow. Service was great too! Highly recommend. read more

Umana Yana - Masala Omelette - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

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One star to any restaurant which takes the time to read their reviews and respond. Another star for responses that show they care. But it's an automatic 5 when they serve food as good as it is at Umana Yana! We just moved into the neighborhood and have been eager to try this restaurant. Umana Yana exceeded our every expectation. My husband ordered the Chicken and Waffle. While the menu states chicken on the bone, it was served boneless (my preference always!). He said the waffle was cooked perfectly and had a hint of...cardamon perhaps? Whatever it was, he liked it. The chicken seems to have been marinated before being battered and fried which added a nice depth of flavor to the poultry. The spicy, syrupy sauce was the perfect match for the chicken, while he opted for standard syrup for his waffle. I chose Shrimp and Grits. Tail-on shrimp lay atop a large bowl of creamy grits with chunky chorizo and tender peppers and onions piled high in the middle. I added hot sauce only because I like a bit of spice but the dish has enough flavor to stand on its own. Wheat Ale with Earl Grey Tea (beer)...it's a winner too! The staff was most pleasant and helpful. The dining room and bar provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. Staff wore masks as did patrons while they were away from their tables. We're excited to have found this gem of a restaurant in our neighborhood. It's definitely worth a visit. read more

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I highly recommend Umana Yana! Cute restaurant with an absolutely unique brunch menu. Definitely do try the pepper sauce, hottest sauce I have had in a long time! Our waitress, Khusbhu, was very kind and provided great service! read more

I came here and had a couple of their items to go. First the service was great and the place has a homey vibe. My boss recommended this place and I heard other people recommend it as well. I had the oxtail and jollof rice, a side of macaroni and cheese. I also had the rum punch and dessert which I ate at the restaurant. I would say the food was very good and a good size portion. The oxtail was flavorful and well cooked. There was enough meat on the oxtail and I liked the taste of it; it had a mix of flavors which I really enjoyed. The rice was also good and well cooked; the order came with plantains which were also good; they were not too sweet which I liked. The macaroni and cheese had a different taste than the usual southern macaroni and cheese; the cheese used did taste like macaroni and cheese from a Caribbean place. The rum punch was good and strong. The dessert was quite tasty and I cannot remember what I ordered but the cake was flavorful, light and airy. I would definitely recommend this place; it exceeded my expectations. I liked the fusion of the African and Caribbean flavors. I will be back when I am in Albany. read more

Insanely delicious and authentic, unique combinations. To start, the lamb lollipops were awesome.. spicy, but perfectly balance with a perfect pineapple mint dipping sauce. The curry goat was theeeee best I've ever had- perfectly spicy and saucy and tender with the herbed rice and naan. My first time trying an injera plate, with all the various sides and the chicken option. Certainly worth all the hype!! The tumeric slaw and lentils were super memorable but the beets, spinach and sunny side egg all added a little somethin somethin. Service was super personal and attentive and the vibe in the place is awesome. Beautiful decor and excellent food. Absolutely would recommend and will definitely be back after snooping on their brunch menu for a mango Bloody Mary read more

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I went here for brunch with a friend. Pros: We were sat quickly & the server was nice. The steak & eggs was great. Made the way I asked & extremely flavorful. I will definitely be returning. read more

I was in town for work and heard great things about Umana Yana so I decide to visit them and I'm so happy I did. I am from Chicago, and I'm a world traveling, foodie. I have tasted some of the best Haitian, West African and Caribbean cuisines/dishes, but Umana Yana has them all in one place! I had the jerk lamb chops that came with a beautiful and yummy mango salsa, the Haitian Pikliz which was absolutely phenomenal & probably my favorite thing, although I loved every dish! And I also had the Jollof which was good. The best part was the customer service! I highly recommend visiting you will not be disappointed! read more

It's hard to find really good food in Albany and this hits the mark! Great location. The African-inspired menu hits right on the mark. Will definitely come again soon. read more

I think that this restaurant is worth trying as you might like it but it wasn't for me. I've sampled a small variety of African cuisines and was not Impressed with the options of this restaurant. One of our appetizers was still frozen in the center. read more

I recently discovered this restaurant and it feels like a hidden gem. The food is really spectacular - I'd especially recommend the oxtail, but I haven't yet gone wrong with anything on the menu. read more

I used to love Umana in the old location next door, and I might like it even more in this new, light-drenched space. The new restaurant is slightly smaller, but I really love the new, brighter decor (including huge windows and sidewalk seating), and the delicious food (from a very updated menu) and warm service is just as good as ever. I had the tofu satay, which was very tasty, if not a traditional satay -- it was soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a strong lemongrass flavor to the marinade. They're still working on transferring their liquor license, but are currently serving some very interesting-looking mocktails (I didn't try one this time). Looking forward to going back for a drink and some live music (which my friendly waiter said they'd be bringing back) very soon! read more

Umana Yana - Delicious tofu satay! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

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Every time someone comes to visit me, I bring them here and it never disappoints. Great staff. AMAZING food and ambience is perfect. Whether brunch or wine bar. Will always stop in! read more

Umana Yana - Brunch - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

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What a little gem. The menu is African inspired, and offers flavors over three distinct menus ranging from carnivore to vegan. On a whim I decided to try their vegetarian / vegan fare and I dare say it was the tastiest meal I've had in years. From what they were carrying out to other folks the meat dishes looked and smelled wonderful too. Well created menu that is also well crafted. The desserts include no dairy options and also the best cheesecake I've had, imaginatively topped with mango sauce and sorghum(?) jam. Have you ever died after eating a slice of cheesecake at a chain restaurant? Well I have, many times and this was very different. Light, fluffy, not too sweet and entirely survivable. Semi lively bar up front and flat tops scattered across the rest of the locale makes a nice and cozy dining experience. read more

Wow! We were searching for Ethiopian food and we're guided here. That's not exactly what we were found though. That said, who cares? Food here was splendid. The menu, inspired by African cuisine's from around the world. The menu was full of interesting and tasty options. We tried quite a few. We had the injera plate A couple stews and the deserts. All were packed for flavor, and were healthy and tasty! just do yourself a favor and try this place! read more

This place is an absolute find! My friend and I were looking for a place to eat while I was visiting Albany and I stumbled on this place. Boy are we glad I did. Not only was the food amazing here but the service was top notch. Our server was very friendly and super helpful in helping us decide what to get. All her recommendations were great! My friend was bummed she hadn't discovered this place sooner and I cannot said to come visit again! read more

I felt welcomed from the moment I arrived! Greeted with a table and fresh water, yeah! (No wait!) Ordered quickly and amazing flavorful breakfast and their idea of Irish coffee. (Pictures attached) Yummy all together! It wasn't busy when I arrived but got very busy. This cook uses several different types of spices to make delicious meals. Staff is knowledgeable of the menu. Grateful to niece to suggest we attend, vibe was bright! Altogether great time read more

Umana Yana - Ganashe flourless cake with fruity ginger compont - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Albany, New York

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Best restaurant in Albs. Great food great energy great space. Would cross the desert for their spiced chickpeas w Injera. Thankfully just have to cross State st. read more

4/7/2019 UPDATE I always try to give places a second chance to see if it was timing that ruined things. Very happy with my return. This place is spunky and fresh. Catering to different dietary restrictions, some I consider important to me. Everything that touched my tongue today was singing just as great of tunes as the music selection they had playing. Sunday brunch is the spot don't forget to try the mango Bloody Mary, or any of the fruit juices . Get the thyme honey with your coffee . Shrimp and grits =yum 10/20/2018 I didn't enjoy the menu, went for someone else. The Atmosphere wasn't bad and they seemed to have a lot going on, like drinking wine and carving pumpkins. The dish I ended up picking was so spicy I couldn't even eat it, and the menu said nothing about spicy. I'm not one to send a meal back unless something is actually wrong with it. Again I just wasn't into the menu and read more

This honestly had to be one of if not the best meal I've ever had the privilege of shoving into the gaping hole in my face called a mouth. I had the best burger in the world here man no lie, and the yucca fries are ridiculously good. My better half had the lamb lollipops which were cooked to her direct specifications and perfectly seasoned. The atmosphere was pleasant and light the woman that took our order educated us on some of the beautiful art which adorned the wall. It was a the perfect thing to cap off a stressful week. read more