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“Pour yourself a cup of ambition in Schenectady”
154 Jay Street was built circa 1870. What happened between 1870 and 1908 remains a mystery. However, there has been speculation that the building was once home to a brothel and gambling parlor. In 1908, Asbury B. Christian purchased the building, laid the Greek tile floor, and operated Twentieth Century Lunch until 1915. Between 1915 and 1944, the building was occupied by a number of businesses including a florist, a smoke shop, and other restaurants. In 1944 Stanley Karwin purchased the building, installed the bar, and named it Jay Tavern, which soon became a Schenectady landmark, and remained in business until 2000. We purchased the building in 2000 and on April 10th Ambition was born! While cleaning out the upstairs, we found a number of old relics from the building’s early days such as gambling tokens and a corset. However, we unknowingly awoke the spirit of Asbury B. Christian. Because of similar descriptions, we’ve nicknamed him Blackboots. His spirit has remained in the building and has been seen in the restaurant by staff and customers alike. So if you’re eating and somebody touches your shoulder and when you turn around, no one is there, just give Blackboots a nod. He just wants to make sure you have a good visit!
Service was exceptional. Very attentive staff. The orange juice tasted like fresh squeezed. The sandwich was delicious. The pancake was fresh. Pay to park is a little ridiculous, but did it... Read more
From the moment you step in the casual, cool, welcoming vibe can be felt. The retro decor and background music exude chill & fun. And that is exactly what we were looking for before we got back on... Read more
What an adorably kitschy place. The wall decor is so eclectic and fun to look at. The staff was very friendly. The food was absolutely delicious. We loved the fun menu names for some items.... Read more
Ambition Coffee & Eatery
Hours
- Sun: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm
- Mon - Sat: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
- Reservations
- Takes
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Lunch
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Brunch
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Coffee
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Dinner
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Drinks
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Takeout
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Breakfast
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Outdoor Seating
Parking, Dining
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