Albany Spotlight: 677 Prime

677 Prime is a premier, upscale steakhouse and fine dining destination located in the heart of downtown Albany’s Theater District. It is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, world-class wine program, and sophisticated, romantic ambiance.

Here is a detailed overview of the restaurant, its history, unique features, menu highlights, and all the relevant contact information.

What Makes 677 Prime Unique

• Upscale Ambiance and Location: Situated just a block from The Palace Theatre and minutes from The Egg and MVP Arena, its location is ideal for pre-show or celebratory dining. The interior boasts an upscale environment with hardwood floors, cherry walls, and plush leather chairs, creating a chic and luxurious setting.
• Chef-Driven Cuisine and Quality: The restaurant is known for its uncompromising commitment to quality, featuring Prime grade steaks and Kobe beef as the anchors of its menu. It also offers the freshest sustainable seafood.
• A Seed Oil-Free Kitchen: A notable feature is its commitment to being a seed oil–free kitchen, ensuring dishes are crafted with thoughtful, premium ingredients from start to finish.
• World-Class Wine Program: The restaurant maintains an extensive wine list featuring over 400 varieties, curated to complement its signature dishes.
• Event Venue: Beyond the main dining room, the venue features five different private event spaces, perfect for everything from intimate business meetings to grand wedding receptions.

History

677 Prime was initially established around 2005 by Mazzone, who recognized a void in the Capital Region’s upscale dining market. The downtown Albany location was immediately successful, quickly becoming a fixture for business executives, politicians, and couples celebrating special occasions.

The restaurant is currently led by Owner Jaime Ortiz and Executive Chef Ken Kehn, who continue the tradition of excellence and culinary innovation, constantly working to improve the guest experience. The 20th Anniversary Party, celebrated in 2025, marks two decades of service to the Capital Region.

Highlight Menu Items

While the high-quality, perfectly cooked Prime steaks are the core offering (including the highly praised Wagyu steak that “melts in your mouth”), customer feedback frequently highlights these standout items:

• Seafood Tower: A delicious starter, with one reviewer specifically praising a spicy dish of shredded crab within the tower.
• Jalapeño Creamed Corn: Frequently called the “best way” a customer has ever had creamed corn and a must-try side dish.
• Baked Potato: Described as massive—the size of “two fists next to each other.”
• Other Recommended Dishes: Octopus, Foie Gras (described as particularly decadent), lobster mac n cheese, and the wedge salad.

Customer Feedback

Customer reviews consistently laud 677 Prime for both the quality of the food and the exceptional service.

• “Absolutely amazing food. The steak is what they are known for and for good reason. The temperature chosen will always come out perfect.”
• “The service was impeccable all around… everyone raved about the steak, the dessert was delicious…”
• “The ambiance is very romantic. The staff is very nice with their service… You’re here for the food and experience so you’re getting your money’s worth for sure.”
• The staff is noted for their professionalism and attentiveness, with one long-time server, Mark Bowman, earning a reputation as the “occasions guy” for his dedication to making special moments memorable.

Significant Events & Features

677 Prime serves as a significant social and business hub in Albany, hosting numerous events:

• Private Events: The venue hosts weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, and corporate events across its multi-room spaces, which can accommodate parties from 10 to 150 people.
• Signature Promotions: The restaurant regularly features an “upscale take on happy hour” called Social Hour, often running Monday through Thursday. They also celebrate major holidays with special offerings, such as an annual Thanksgiving Eve All-Night Social Hour and pre-order Thanksgiving dinner packages.
• Live Entertainment: The restaurant frequently hosts live entertainment.
• Community Involvement: 677 Prime has been a participant in prominent regional events, such as the Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival.
• Anniversary Celebrations: Notably, the restaurant celebrated its 20th Anniversary Party, a major event transforming the venue into a celebration with music, martinis, and an exclusive VIP experience.

Contact and Location Information