SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (May 29, 2026) – The Ruck, the premiere craft beer destination for the nearly 30 years, has announced it will expand to a second location, in Schenectady, for the first time in its history.
Named The Ruck Squared (preferably The Ruck²), the new location will take over the former Unbeetable vegan bar and arcade. At 4,000 sq. ft., it will be nearly twice the size of the original bar in Troy.
The Ruck originally opened in 1998 in Troy, in which owner Dave Gardell acquired the bar in late 2004. Since acquiring the bar, Gardell elevated The Ruck into the true craft beer destination of the Capital Region and the Northeastern United States.
“The Ruck has been my passion and my love for most of my adult life. Opening another Ruck is not something I’ve decided to on a whim, but after looking at this particular location, my connection to Schenectady through the community college’s brewing program, and welcoming support here, I couldn’t resist,” said Gardell.
The bar will feature 22 draft lines to start and will retain a select number of arcade games from Unbeetable.
“It is great news that the Ruck will open a second location in downtown Schenectady,” said Schenectady Mayor Gary R. McCarthy. “We thank Dave and his team for seeing the opportunity to grow with Schenectady.”
“The Ruck is a destination in Troy and we welcome them to downtown Schenectady just around the corner from Proctors,” said Ray Gillen, chair, Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority. “The Ruck will be a great addition to downtown.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Dave Gardell and The Ruck to Downtown Schenectady with their new space The Ruck Squared. Already a beloved name throughout the Capital Region, we are certain that their unique business model and culinary expertise will be a fantastic addition to the Downtown Schenectady Community. We cannot wait to help host their grand opening to celebrate this new space along with the owner,” said Maureen Neufeld, executive director, Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation (DSIC).
Opening day is scheduled for Friday, June 26. Details to be announced in the coming weeks, in addition to days and hours of operation.
For more information about The Ruck, including career opportunities, please visit getrucked.com.
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