CapitalCorals Research & Restoration

Tucked away in Albany, New York, CapitalCorals Research & Restoration has quietly become the capital region's go-to destination for reef enthusiasts chasing quality coral at fair prices. This isn't your typical pet store — it's a coral-focused facility with a research and restoration mission, where college students study coral behavior and the passion of the operation is palpable the moment you walk in. The selection here is staggering.

Reviewers consistently call it the largest coral collection in the area, with frags and colonies spanning beginner-friendly softies like GSP, Kenya tree, and xenia to rarer specimens that will catch the eye of seasoned reef keepers. The display tanks alone are worth the trip — multiple customers have driven over an hour just to browse, and several say they could spend hours taking it all in. Michael, known affectionately as "Doc" by regulars, runs the operation with obvious devotion.

He's the kind of owner who will come to the store on short notice to help customers, spend real time walking newcomers through their first coral purchase, and offer frank advice on tank issues. First-time buyers describe feeling genuinely guided rather than sold to, and repeat customers speak about him like a trusted friend in the hobby. CapitalCorals also ships orders, and the mail-order experience mirrors the in-store quality.

Customers report receiving healthy frags that are larger than expected, often with a surprise freebie tucked into the box. The pricing draws consistent praise — affordable enough that people choose it over online retailers, with the added benefit of seeing specimens in person. Oh, and there are dogs wandering the shop, which only adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

For anyone in upstate New York maintaining a saltwater reef tank, this place fills a niche that the region has long needed — a dedicated coral shop with deep knowledge, honest pricing, and a genuine conservation ethos behind the glass.