Ayelada is one of those places that I wanted to get to for a long time, but for whatever reason couldn’t quite manage. It’s not as though we’re not in Pittsfield regularly. It’s not as though the restaurant is in an area that’s difficult to get to. Ayelada had definitely received high praise from many of my friends. And it’s been open since 2013. But for whatever accumulation of reasons, it took me until this summer to get to there to try their locally crafted frozen yogurt.
When I finally made Ayelada the objective of an outing with a friend, I was really pleased with what I found.
Though the outside of Ayelada isn’t much to look at, the interior is pleasant, clean and bright. There are a variety of table sizes, free wifi, and an overall welcoming atmosphere. There are also a couple of benches outdoors to sit on and enjoy your frozen yogurt.
The selection at Ayelada on any given day is not impressive, but that’s part of the point. Each week they switch out one or more of the 4 flavors they have available for something new. Flavors are always infused with seasonal, local ingredients (even the milk and yogurt are locally sourced!). The list of partners they’ve worked with is impressive and includes Assembly Coffee Roasters, Barlett’s Orchard, BOLA Granola, Harney and Sons, and Mountain View Farm.
Ayelada is not a self-serve yogurt location, which is another thing I like about it. There’s a flat price for each size and additional costs for 1, 2 or 3 toppings. I like this approach because it makes the shop feel like you’re getting actual service and it keeps me from going overboard with yogurt or toppings.
I liked Ayelada so much that I returned just a couple weeks later with Brian. On that trip, he enjoyed Blueberry Pie yogurt topped with walnuts and I had dark chocolate yogurt with toasted coconut. We both very much enjoyed our selections and Brian, like myself, wondered why we waited so long.
Local friends, learn from our example. If you haven’t tried Ayelada yet, make the trip. Albany-area friends – they have a location in Latham as well!
