Gai Chicken & Rice Opened at Empire State Plaza

The restaurant has launched its third Capital Region location in the former Auntie Anne’s food court space.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A modern, clean food service counter with stainless steel and light wood accents inside a brightly lit public building. — Gai Chicken & Rice has expanded its footprint in the Capital Region, opening a third location within the Empire State Plaza food court in Albany. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Gai Chicken & Rice has officially opened its doors in the Empire State Plaza food court in Albany. This marks the restaurant's third location in the Capital Region.

Why it matters

The expansion brings the chain's specialized menu to a high-traffic government and office hub. It follows the recent opening of a site at Clifton Park Center.

This marks the chain's third Capital Region location, joining sites in Troy and Clifton Park Center. The new storefront operates Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The players

Gai Chicken & Rice

This restaurant chain specializes in Southeast Asian chicken and rice dishes and currently operates locations across the Northeast.

Empire State Plaza

This complex in Albany houses multiple state government offices and includes a central food court for employees and visitors.

The details

The restaurant occupies the space formerly held by Auntie Anne's within the Empire State Plaza food court. The chain also maintains two locations in New York City and one in New Jersey.

The first Capital Region location opened in Troy in January 2026.
The Empire State Plaza location opened on September 29, 2026.
A grand opening ceremony will take place on September 30, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.

Market Landscape

The opening follows the broader trend of fast-casual chains prioritizing high-traffic business districts over traditional standalone retail sites. This expansion positions the brand to capture the daily lunch crowd within the state office complex.

Office workers and visitors at the Empire State Plaza now have a new lunch option available during standard weekday business hours. Customers can visit the new location between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The takeaway

The addition of this location provides increased dining convenience for those working within the Albany state office hub. Residents can expect consistent weekday access to the restaurant's menu during standard lunch hours.