Welcome to Tara Kitchen Mediterranean Market, Takeout and Catering
Tara Kitchen Mediterranean Market, Takeout and Catering, located at 1785 Western Ave, Albany, NY, offers a culinary escape into the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Known for its expertly crafted tagines, like the Lamb with Smen and Seafood in Tomato Chermoula, this establishment caters to diverse dietary needs—all gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free. Diners rave about the exquisite balance of spices and the vibrant ingredients that elevate each dish. The inviting atmosphere, accented by warm hospitality, enhances the dining experience. With a range of flavorful desserts, such as their creamy cheesecake and delightful baklava, Tara Kitchen promises unforgettable Mediterranean delights for every palate.
- 1785 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203, United States1785 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203, United States Hotline: +1 518-608-4126
Located at 1785 Western Ave in Albany, NY, Tara Kitchen Mediterranean Market, Takeout and Catering is a culinary gem that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to life. Specializing in an exquisite selection of dishes from tagines to biryanis, this market and restaurant offers a delightful array of food options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're seeking a calming dining experience or quick takeout, Tara Kitchen ensures that every meal is a celebration of rich flavors and cultural heritage.
One standout offering is the Seafood Tagines, featuring dishes like the Fish in Tomato Chermoula with Black Olives and the Shrimp with Spinach, Prunes, Tomato Jam, and Harissa, each crafted with care and expertise. Each tagine is gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and soy-free, making them accessible to various dietary needs. Customers rave about how the flavors meld beautifully, creating an experience that is both soothing and exhilarating.
For those craving something with a bit more spice, the Indian Rice Dishes such as Biryani and Mandi are crafted with aromatic spices and offer delectable choices of chicken or lamb. The use of saffron-infused Basmati rice elevates these dishes, giving them a fragrant and indulgent quality that keeps diners coming back for more.
The atmosphere at Tara Kitchen is just as inviting as its menu. Customers have described the setting as a calm, low-key relaxing vibe—a perfect backdrop for enjoying the culinary arts. The staff are praised for their warmth and efficiency, ensuring that even a busy day feels inviting. The initial experience, with refreshing jasmine, honey-mint tea, sets a pleasant tone for what follows.
The Couscous dishes, particularly the Seven Vegetable Couscous, showcase the care taken in preparation, featuring a medley of mixed vegetables, chickpeas, and almonds, beautifully complemented by toasted sesame seeds. This vibrant dish not only pleases the palate but also embodies the ethos of Mediterranean cuisine, which celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients.
The feedback from patrons underscores a shared sentiment: Tara Kitchen isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience laden with aromas, textures, and vibrant flavors. Each dish tells a story, whether it's the powerful flavors of lamb with preserved lemons or the delicate notes of fish steeped in rich sauces. It’s a culinary adventure that leaves one yearning for another visit.
If you're looking to experience Mediterranean cuisine in Albany, Tara Kitchen should undoubtedly be on your list. From delightful takeout to a charming dining experience, this establishment captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors with every dish served.

A gem of a restaurant, beautifully decorated in a calm, low-key relaxing vibe that enables you to partake deeply of the culinary delights they have on their menu. I had the Fish in Spicy Date Sauce with Seasoned Rice and Vegetables. From the first bite I could sense this is something extraordinary- the fish perfectly cooked, soft and flaky, and the sauce had a deep heat which brought out the flavors in a profoundly satisfying manner. Even though it was a very hot day, my wife tried the Chicken Soup with Chickpeas and Vegetables ... its depth of flavors was the perfect antidote for the weather :-)! Our server (and chef!) Txito turned out to be the perfect host, with a warm pleasing personality and prompt, efficient service. All in all, a true find for this New Yorker out and about in Albany :-)!

Shoutout to the Chefs in the Kitchen and the owners for putting together a wonderful menu. I had the Mixed Vegetables with Figs in Spicy Date Sauce. From my meal to the the tea served in the beginning, the potatoes Pattie’s . I enjoyed the entire experience. Staff was nice. I hope more people get too experience these rich flavors.

This was a great experience. We were greeted by a very professional and nice host. After taking our seat we were served with a jasmine, honey-mint tea; it was very smooth and delightful to the palate. The mint flavor was the topping. For starters, I ordered the 3 sampler and each sauce was profoundly unique. For the entree, I ordered the SHRIMP, & FISH IN TOMATO CHERMOULA WITH BLACK OLIVES and oh my was it a different world of flavors for me. The tomato sauce was very smooth and flavorful. The fish and shrimp tasted fresh and delicious. All of it combined with the fruity and pungent black olives was enlightening. The other dish I ordered was LAMB WITH SMEN, SAFFRON, POTATOES & PRESERVED LEMONS . This was the polar opposite of the first dish; it was full of powerful flavors and very enjoyable. The serving of rice was well seasoned and matched well with both dishes. I would love to return to try other dishes and highly recommend anyone to come here.

So delicious. We really enjoyed the wonderful buffet. The selection was excellent. A lentil dish, green beans, cannalini bean dish, fish, orange chicken, and grilled chicken. 3 different sauces on the side and salad fixings. Everything was fresh and the taste so fragrant with exquisitely balanced spices and herbs. We ordered some dinner to go.. also delicious. The rice is an amazing compliment to all the dishes.

I visited Tara Kitchen in Guilderland NY. I always wanted to try Mediterranean food.My first experience was AWESOME! The food was delicious and the server was very knowledgeable as we asked a lot of questions. He was very patient with us and able to answer our questions with a smile. The restaurant itself was very clean. I give the food, sever and restaurant 5 stars!

I’d wanted to try Moroccan food for quite some time, and my experience at Tara has me hooked. The flavors! Absolutely incredible. Generous portions, attentive service, and a truly enjoyable meal down to the last bite. I can’t wait to return.

Went 6 pm on a Saturday, very busy but still had a table open. They could probably use one more server, though there was a help wanted sign in the window, so that made sense. Had the Chicken Tagine with tomato jam, harissa, figs, and almonds, and it was very tasty. The sampler dips were good, as well as the "cigars" with lamb. Parking was full.

Lovely, friendly service. Fairly small dining space but every inch of it radiates "bright & cozy" vibes. Ive found their restaurant menu to be too spicy, but the spice level on the lunch buffet is really good... just be aware that they do have some super spicy sauces that are unlabeled. The lunch buffet selection is small but very good quality and an excellent value even as a daily excursion. This is a must try for area foodies