In 2016 O’Toole’s Restaurant Pub decided to acquire the space next door where Hobby Town once resided. The plan was to add a private party space and utilize the remaining area for a small retail shop to offer O’Toole’s merchandise. In addition, we asked ourselves “What else, what does our area lack/want?”.
Great Gourmet Popcorn!
This is when the research began. We soon learned that to find the best popcorn shops, we’d have to visit Chicago; the “popcorn capital”.
While in Chicago, we experienced the best tasting popcorn and quickly uncovered the secrets of the trade. We learned a whole new vocabulary; “caramelizers, tumblers, poppers, organic monster mushroom kernels, white coconut oil, premium cheeses, rich caramel”. We also learned that mixing flavors can potentially satisfy almost any palate.
We decided to adopt a little something from each store we visited and bring Chicago to Albany, NY (with a twist).
The flavors, the gifts, the themes; the possibilities are endless…
We equipped our store with sophisticated, commercial poppers; and we started poppin!
After perfecting several flavors, we found ourselves frequently asking “what’s poppin’ today“? Hence the name “What’s Poppin” was born.
What’s Poppin Opened in Albany, NY
Our store opened May 1st, 2018 with one goal in mind. To provide the best quality popcorn at prices affordable to all.
Popcorn shops in the east just didn’t seem to have the flair and flavors we discovered in Chicago.
So, in addition to great gourmet popcorn flavors, we offer mixed popcorn gift bags, themed popcorn tins (including local and national sports teams) and favors for all occasions.
Flavored Popcorn!
In our store you will always find “Moo-Vee” theater butter, Caramel, Cheddar and Cheddar-Hot popcorn. You will also find weekly and seasonal flavors like Dill Pickle, Red Velvet Cheesecake, White Chocolate, Caramel Apple and (the area’s favorite Kettle Corn) and possibly the area’s new favorite, “Kajun” Kettle Corn.
Custom Popcorn Products
The flavors are limitless, the gift ideas are plentiful. Create your own unique mix and theme; whether a treat for yourself or a great gift for someone special.
See What’s Poppin Today!
So, “pop” on in to see “What’s Poppin” daily and sample our popcorn flavors – including recommend mixed flavors like Caramel and Cheddar – A classic Chicago mix, now available in Albany!