When visiting Saratoga Springs, residents and tourists have a plethora of options for dining and drinking. The city is home to nearly 200 places with bar and restaurant licenses, according to the Saratoga County Chamber. Instead of providing an exhaustive list, we have curated a selection of must-visit establishments in four categories, along with some beloved classics and unexpected choices.
Please note that due to the nature of the hospitality business, operating hours and offerings may change. It is always advisable to check directly with individual establishments for the most up-to-date information, either by phone or online, rather than relying on search engine listings.
Breakfast/Brunch:
1. The Merc (430 Broadway) – Don’t miss their weekday and weekend brunch options. Try the No Huevos Rancheros with veggie scramble, black beans, quinoa, and soy chorizo. For lunch, indulge in a salade Nicoise with a twist – swap tuna for salmon. The Merc Burger, made from a blend of short rib, chuck, and brisket, is also highly recommended.
2. Shirley’s (74 West Ave) – This classic diner offers an extensive menu, but their Montreal-themed section is where they truly shine. Choose from five types of poutine or enjoy a Montreal smoked meat BLT, which some argue is even better than corned beef.
3. Sweet Mimi’s Cafe & Bakery (47 Phila St) – Chef-owner Jeannette B. Liebers showcased her culinary skills by competing against Chris Bonnivier, the former head chef at The Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga, on the Food Network show “Beat Bobby Flay.” Although Liebers didn’t win the competition, her zucchini bread platter with berries, whipped cream, and honey is a definite winner.
Other notable breakfast/brunch options include Country Corner Cafe (Southern Benedict with fried green tomatoes and a flaky biscuit), Max London’s (brunch), Morrissey’s Lounge & Bistro at The Adelphi Hotel (brunch and sushi), Mrs. London’s Boutique Bakery (pastries and quiche), and Kaffee House (authentic apple strudel).
Casual Dining:
1. The Local Pub & Teahouse (142 Grand Ave) – Delight in English and Irish specialties like shepherd’s pie, Irish breakfast, and fish ‘n’ chips. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their mushroom tartine, and don’t forget to sample their house herbal tea, which combines peppermint, ginger root, licorice, and clove flavors.
2. West Ave Chicken and West Ave Pizza (99 West Ave) – This sibling duo knows how to do rotisserie and fried chicken right. Their pizza stands out with a crust made from wild yeast and a 24-hour fermentation. Don’t miss their Guatemalan menu, which pays tribute to their family’s heritage and includes street corn, taquitos, churrasco, and delectable empanadas.
3. Whitman Brewing (20 Lake Ave) – Visit the beer hall at Whitman Brewing for a unique and diverse menu to accompany their house-made beer. Enjoy cold Sichuan noodles, sesame-tuna tacos, and Detroit-style pizza topped with three varieties of mushrooms, feta, red onion, and fresh basil.
Other notable casual dining options include 9 Miles East (pizza), Dizzy Chicken (barbecue), the recently opened 550 Waterfront by Druthers (lakeside brewpub), and Rhea (ramen and street food from the owners of Seneca).
Fine Dining:
1. 15 Church (15 Church St) – Celebrating its 10th summer, 15 Church is the go-to destination for special occasions or indulgent meals. Chef Mike Mastrantuono’s technique and flavors deliver exceptional dishes, albeit at a higher price point. Treat yourself to the best patio in Saratoga (not on the water) while sipping on a Basil Exposition cocktail, featuring reposado tequila, basil, mint, lemon, lime, cane syrup, and Chartreuse elixir.
2. Chianti il Ristorante (18 Division St) – This restaurant remains a top choice for beef carpaccio in Saratoga Springs and recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Venture beyond traditional dishes and explore options like the Festa di Legumi, a vegetable and quinoa bowl, or the unique Ital-Korean BBQ, which combines Bulgogi-style beef with grilled polenta.
3. Salt & Char (353 Broadway) – While known as a fancy steakhouse, Salt & Char offers more than just great cuts of meat. Look out for unconventional choices such as charred octopus with gigandes, duck rillettes, and veal tenderloin with sunchoke puree, asparagus, fennel, and Gorgonzola. If you can’t resist a dry-aged, 18-ounce Kansas City strip steak, make sure to order a side of morel mushrooms.
Other notable fine dining options include Prime at Saratoga National (swanky country club feel and outstanding outdoor dining spaces), Osteria Danny (quality Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere), and Soleva Kitchen + Social (lively ambiance and quality pasta).
Drink-focused establishments:
If you’re looking for a night out focused on drinks rather than food, Saratoga Springs has plenty of options:
1. The Parting Glass – An Irish pub with regular live music performances.
2. 9 Maple Ave. and The Bourbon Room – Whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive selections at these establishments.
3. Bocage – Indulge in champagne at this charming and intimate bar.
For a more casual experience, check out Clancy’s (open from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m.), Desperate Annie’s, and Tin & Lint (a proudly patriotic dive bar).
Please remember to enjoy responsibly and make sure to adhere to local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption.
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