Saratoga Living Fall 2024 by saratogalivingmagazine

DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED

{ saratoga’s most likable bartenders }

saratoga living’s 2024 food + drink issue

THE CITY. THE CULTURE. THE LIFE.

BRIANA LIN DOES IT AGAIN

The serial entrepreneur is opening her seventh Capital Region restaurant this fall. Saratoga, get ready to welcome Omakase Sushi and Grill to the Spa City scene.

BY NATALLI AMATO

ORDER UP!

Dishing on Saratoga’s beloved diners

EATING IN?

The Spa City’s hottest private chefs make it nice

LOSE THE BOOZE

8 local mocktails you have to try

photography by SHAWN L a CHAPELLE

Create

For details, scan below or visit subzero-wolf.com/promotion.

VISIT 9 HOMES

IN THE LAKE GEORGE AREA

Nestled in the Southern Adirondacks of Upstate New York, the Lake George Area seamlessly blends awe-inspiring landscapes with diverse venues, attractions and amenities, creating an experience that combines romance and the joy of uniting with loved ones in a breathtaking setting. Contact the Lake George Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau for complimentary venue ideas, service referrals, guest activities, and more!

INTERIOR DESIGNS ATELIER

SEASONED EXPERTISE. BESPOKE LUXURY DESIGN.

starting gate

ON THE COVER

saratoga living is published six times a year by Empire Media Network, Inc.

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To order a subscription or gift subscription, please email subscribe@saratogaliving.com.

saratoga living

8 Butler Place Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518.294.4390

Volume 26, No. 5

The Races 2024

No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission from Empire Media Network, Inc.

All editorial queries should be directed to editorial@saratogaliving.com; or sent to 8 Butler Place, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

saratoga living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited submissions.

Natalie Moore EDITOR

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kathleen Gates

DESIGNER Linda Gates

SPORTS EDITOR Brien Bouyea

EDITOR AT LARGE Susan Gates

WRITERS

Vanessa Geneva Ahern, Natalli Amato Lisa Arcella, Chris Carola, Jeff Dingler, Sara Foss Teresa Genaro, Tom Pedulla, Kathleen Willcox

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Morgan Campbell, Francesco D’Amico, Samantha Decker, Dori Fitzpatrick

Elizabeth Haynes, G. Sonny Hughes, Hannah Kuznia, Shawn LaChapelle Rachel Lanzi, Konrad Odhiambo, Nate Seitelman, Alex Zhang

Annette Quarrier DIRECTOR OF SALES

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER Tina Galante

PUBLISHER, CAPITAL REGION LIVING Teresa Frazer

SALES DIRECTOR, CAPITAL REGION LIVING Tara Buffa

ART DIRECTOR, MARKETING Steve Teabout

SALES ASSISTANT Tracy Momrow

SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER Rachael Rieck

Anthony R. Ianniello , Esq. CHAIRMAN

Tina Galante

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

Briana Lin photographed by Shawn LaChapelle at Azuma Sushi Bistro in Malta exclusively for saratoga living.

from the editor

8 Years Later

In the spring of 2016, I was doing homework in my college’s student center when I got a call from an unknown number.

“Hi, it’s Maria Bucciferro,” the voice on the other line said, before launching into what I can only imagine was a slightly frazzled soliloquy about fact-checking and copy editing that went right over my head.

“I’m sorry,” I said. “Who is this?”

In my defense, I’d reached out to several local newspapers and magazines in the weeks prior while searching for a summer internship, and hadn’t yet memorized that Maria was the editor of saratoga living

To be honest, even though I grew up in Saratoga County, I’d only been to the city of Saratoga Springs a few times. Once I got a handle on who Maria was and why she was calling me, I had to cut her off again. “Can I call you back?” I asked. “I have to go to volleyball practice.”

Thus began my involvement with the very magazine you’re holding in your hands. Before I even met Maria in person, she had me fact-checking names in the captions of party photos in what I assumed was something of a tryout for a summer internship. But when I got to the High Rock Ave office for my “interview,” she sent me into the other room to call the mayor’s office to get permission to use a photo. “I won’t be home anytime soon,” I texted my mom. “I think I work here now.”

Eight years later, I’ve once again found myself in a new role at saratoga living. The good news? By this point, I’ve been to Saratoga Springs more than a few times.

It’s been a blast getting to know this city and the people in it, both by way of the print magazine and our newer offerings: SARATOGA LIVING AFTER HOURS and the Saratoga Living Insiders Club (learn more about both on page 74). A big part of that has been exploring the city’s food scene, from brand-new restaurants such as cover star Briana Lin’s Omakase (page 28) to legendary favorites such as Panza’s (page 80).

Come to think of it, one of my early assignments as an intern in 2016 was to edit a story about the opening of Fish at 30 Lake, the restaurant whose space Omakase is now taking over. By that point, I’d become somewhat accustomed to what I then considered Maria’s throw-you-in-the-deep-end management style. I’ve had the opportunity to work under some amazing editors since then, but looking back, I am where I am today not because Maria “threw me in the deep end,” but because she trusted me before I trusted myself.

Thanks for picking up this magazine. The world of print media has changed a lot since 2016, and it’s because of our readers and advertisers that we’re still here.

Natalie Moore EDITOR

@natalie_rae_moore / editorial@saratogaliving.com

maria maria (from top) Editor

Natalie Moore with Maria Bucciferro, the former editor of saratoga living, at a LifeWorks fundraiser earlier this year; with the current Empire Media Network team—Teresa Frazer, Steve Teabout, Tracy Momrow, Tina Galante and Annette Quarrier.

We’ll fill

READERS’ FAVORITE!

The 37 Dishes & Drinks You Have to Try in Saratoga

these days, I’m pretty limited in what I can order at restaurants. Whatever the plant-based option is, I’m getting it. (Shoutout to Scallions for having more than one option for us herbivores!) But I remember my pre-veganism days when I had free reign of any given menu… And I’d still get the same thing every time. Humans are creatures of habit, and if you only go to a restaurant, say, once a month, how can you justify not getting the dish you already know you love? I’ve been out of the meat-and-cheese game for too long, so I turned to the omnivores of Saratoga to find out what Spa City dishes—and drinks—they simply can’t stop ordering... See the list here

just desserts

you in on one of the 37 dishes and drinks featured in SLAH’s most popular foodie story to date: Osteria Danny’s coconut cream pie.

saratoga living Fall in Love with Local

30-Minute Hit

Created just for women, 30 MINUTE HIT is a fresh, bright and vibrant place where you can leave the stresses of your day behind while training like a champ! With specifically designed equipment, guided instruction and inspiring soundtracks, you’ll never dread working out again. Each two-minute round based on boxing, kickboxing, general self-defense and core stability training will challenge you to improve your fitness and reward you with amazing results. All in just 30 minutes! You’ve got nothing to lose except pounds, inches and stress, so book your absolutely FREE trial today!

3 HAMPSTEAD PLACE, SUITE 104A, SARATOGA SPRINGS

518.450.1154

30minutehit.com/ saratogasprings

Into Mischief

Unique and beautiful: That’s the shopping experience you’ll get at this wonderful little boutique store in the Saratoga Marketplace. INTO MISCHIEF has great gift options, including home décor items, handbags, accessories and a bunch more: Every time you visit there’s something new to see. Not sure what you’re looking for? It’s a pleasure to browse in this pretty boutique, which is rapidly becoming known as the place to find that special gift or perfect handbag you’ve been looking for. Into Mischief: It’s vibrant, it’s elegant and it’s unique!

454 BROADWAY (SARATOGA MARKETPLACE)

845.866.0658 ● intomischiefboutique.com

Alpine Sport Shop

For the last 83 years, ALPINE SPORT SHOP has been Saratoga’s go-to store for all things winter. Shop skis, ski boots, snowboards, cross-country gear, snowshoes, helmets, goggles, hats, gloves and accessories, or get your ski gear tuned up by the experts at this full service shop. There’s plenty for those who prefer to spend the coldweather months strolling up and down Broadway, too— top-of-the-line fall and winter clothing and accessories await in Alpine Sport Shop’s beautiful ski chalet–style building!

321 CLINTON STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS

518.584.6290 ● alpinesportshop.com

Curtain & Carpet Concepts

Looking to level up your home’s décor and develop a style that’s uniquely you? CURTAIN & CARPET CONCEPTS can help. Stop by the Saratoga showroom to browse a wide selection of curtains, draperies, blinds, window shades, carpets, wall paper, wall coverings and area rugs. Have a vision you’d like to bring to fruition? Ask about custom bedding and upholstery for head boards, chairs and chaise lounges. Go online today to schedule a free consultation with Curtain & Carpet Concepts’ team of design experts.

46 MARION AVENUE, SUITE 7, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.886.1389 ● curtaintocarpet.com

Crown Salon

At CROWN SALON, you don’t have to let your schedule interfere with looking your best. Opened in 2019, Crown is the only salon in Saratoga that specializes in luxury express maintenance—in other words, the experienced team offers professional salon and skincare services that exceed expectations but still get you back to your regularly scheduled life in a jiffy! Stop by Crown's locations in Queensbury or on Ballston Ave, or check out their new spot coming to The Adelphi Hotel this October.

15 BALLSTON AVENUE, SARATOGA SPRINGS 518.886.8445 ● mycrownsalon.com

Bobbles & Lace

If you haven’t already checked out BOBBLES & LACE, one of Broadway’s hottest new boutiques, it’s high time you pop in. The staff prides itself on offering high fashion at affordable price points— everything from workday wardrobe essentials to statement pieces for a day at the races. Beyond carrying a carefully curated selection of shoes, accessories, jewelry, jeans, tops, jackets and dresses, Bobbles & Lace aims to be an empowering and comfortable experience where every woman can have the confidence she deserves.

322 BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS

518.932.1287

bobblesandlace.com

Bellatas Medical Aesthetics

Since opening in 2019, Saratoga’s BELLATAS MEDICAL AESTHETICS has been enjoying steady growth, and recently hired a new office coordinator to offer an even higher level of customer service to its clients. The company has also recently rebranded with a new logo and website, and is set to launch new services and treatments in the coming months…Stay tuned! But despite all these changes, Bellatas owner Laura Newey, FNP-C hasn’t lost sight of the reason she opened her practice in the first place: to provide treatment and care in a way she would expect as a patient herself. Some of those treatments? Injectables for wrinkle control, SaltFacial treatments, IV infusion therapy and RF Micro needling. In short, the best of what the beauty industry has to offer. Call today for a free consultation to get started on your journey to a more youthful appearance.

28 CLINTON STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS

518.306.6197

bellatasmedspa.com

Cozy Corners

Dreamy Nights

Inspired Dining

first turn

CHIC PEEK

Bank on It

THE STYLISH, NEW MILAS RESTAURANT & BAR OPENS IN A CONVERTED BANK IN SCHENECTADY.

photography by JP ELARIO

Before we get into all things Saratoga restaurants, can we take a moment for Milas?

The new Mediterranean restaurant is the latest project in Schenectady’s ongoing revitalization saga, and, when it comes to the look and vibe of the place, owners Kaytrin and Devin Ziemann pulled out all the stops.

“It was Schenectady Savings Bank in 1904 and most recently a Bank of America,” says Kaytrin, who also co-owns comfort food hotspot The Nest with her husband, of the space. “Devin did most of the layout design, while I did all of the finishes. We always wanted a curved bar and had a clear vision, but when the original floors from 1904 were uncovered, it helped drive the final design choices.”

The only thing left to do? Serve awesome food and drinks. And if what we’ve been hearing is true, it sounds like Milas is more than just a feast for the eyes.

—NATALIE MOORE

what’s in a name Milas was named after owners Kaytrin and Devin Ziemann’s twoyear-old daughter, Mila, whose portrait hangs on a wall at the restaurant.

on the clock In addition to weekend nights, Stanley and Spiegel both work Tuesdays and Thursdays— Stanley for happy hour and Spiegel at night.

The Jake and Margaret Show

PUB’S JAKE SPIEGEL AND MARGARET STANLEY MAY JUST BE DOWNTOWN’S MOST LIKEABLE BARTENDERS.

BY NATALIE MOORE n PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN L a CHAPELLE

Some people go to Caroline Street Pub to play darts, while others go to grab a drink (they now serve Aperol spritzes, people!) in a laid-back setting. But there’s a strong contingent of industry workers and bar scene regulars who go to hang out with the CSP staff—namely, bartenders Jake Spiegel and Margaret Stanley.

“I love it when Margie is mean to me,” says Justin LaViolette, who fits in both of the aforementioned categories. “And I like it when I go in and Uncle Jake automatically cracks me a Miller Lite.”

“It’s an elusive skill the way they're able to efficiently handle a packed bar while holding a conversation,” says Michael Scialdone Sharkey, another regular, of the duo. “Any one of the bars in Saratoga will serve me a drink, but CSP is the only one that makes me feel like the bartenders have been waiting for me to get there.”

While it may seem like the pair has been working weekends together forever, The Jake and Margaret Show has actually only been going on since Stanley, a Saratoga native, started working at the bar three years ago.

“She was pretty new to bartending when she got here,” Spiegel says

of Stanley. “She kind of just learned as she went. Because on the weekends, you get thrown to the wolves. If you’re not ready… Well, you’ve got to be ready.”

These days, come Friday night, Margaret’s ready.

Spiegel, on the other hand, is a CSP veteran. He started bartending there when he moved to Saratoga from Chazy up near the Canadian border 11 years ago, and is now a part-owner.

“I stay out of his way,” Stanley said when asked if the duo had any system for when it gets busy behind the bar. As for her bartending philosophy? “Be yourself, because it makes other people feel comfortable.” To

that end, if you catch Stanley at the bar on Tuesdays or Thursdays, when it’s less busy and she has more time to chat with customers, chances are you’ll be treated to several of her signature self-effacing jokes. And if you’re lucky, she’ll give you a piece of candy.

Spiegel’s no-BS, tell-itlike-it-is attitude also seems unapologetically him. And while he’ll tell you not to vape in his bar to your face, he’ll never tell another soul about that embarrassing thing you did last night.

“I remember everything, so I always have it in my back pocket, but I’ll never repeat it,” he says. “It’s never really my story to tell.”

MVP s

CAROLINE STREET

Kristen Suraci @saucysuraci

DRINK: Espresso martini from Morissey’s— Perfect drink to start your night

APPETIZER: Parker House rolls from Seneca—If you know, you know

ENTRÉE: Penne alla vodka from Chianti—My fav vodka sauce in the 518

DESSERT: Cookie skillet from Brook Tavern— Warm and gooey chocolate goodness

Jerry Papandrea

@derryx

Alexis Connor @saratogadining

DRINK: Strawberry rhubarb margarita from Next Door Kitchen & Bar—So refreshing!

APPETIZER: Tuna tartare from Rhea— Served atop crispy rice

ENTRÉE: Prime filet mignon from 15 Church—Always perfectly cooked

DESSERT: Rye brownie sundae from Hamlet & Ghost—So rich!

What’s Your Dream Saratoga Meal?

WE ASKED FIVE FOODIE INFLUENCERS TO CONCOCT THEIR ULTIMATE SPA CITY SPREAD.

DRINK: Beer flight from Druthers—A chance to sample their seasonals

APPETIZER: Cheese curds from Hamlet & Ghost—With sticky and sweet pepper jelly

ENTRÉE: Wagyu burger from Seneca—Smoky, char-grilled deliciousness!

DESSERT: Churros from Boca Bistro: Crispy, cinnamon-y bites

Ashley Dingeman @ashleydingeman

DRINK: Gin Gin Fizz from Hamlet & Ghost—Dangerous in the best way

APPETIZER: Bada Bing Shrimp from Osteria Danny—Kicks off a meal with a bang

ENTRÉE: Tagliatelle marinara from Solevo—But I also LOVE the bolognese

DESSERT: Pistachio cheesecake from Taverna Novo—Perfectly savory, sweet and creamy

Nellie Ackerman @feedme518

DRINK: Whole-leaf tea from Whistling Kettle—I order a different one every time

APPETIZER: Grande sized beef carpacci from Chianti—you’ll want more if you order the smaller size. Trust me.

ENTRÉE: Red curry seafood bolognese from Lake Ridge—I once ate this dish four times in one week

DESSERT: Nutella Budino from Prime Restaurant— It’s absolutely divine

Is it Time for a Remodel?

Ballston Spa’s family-owned Hinman Construction has been updating Capital Region homes for more than 35 years.

IHinman Construction has been honored with numerous awards for design and remodeling, and was most recently awarded the 2023 and 2024 Chrysalis Awards for a custom kitchen, bathroom and mudroom.

f you aren’t happy with the home you live in now, but don’t want to delve into the crazy world of the 2024 real estate market, don’t despair—there’s a simple solution. The familyowned and -operated Hinman Construction is ready to turn your current house into your dream home.

Known as “The Remodeling Experts,” Hinman specializes in whole-house remodels, additions and kitchen and bath renovations.

“Our clients are spending more time in their home for many reasons, and desire to have their living space enhanced to better fit their lifestyle,” says Kim Hinman, who owns the company with her husband, Jami, and children, Jesse and Caroline. “Really, it comes down to putting the investment into the space you already have.”

One popular investment Hinman clients have made in recent years? Major custom kitchen renovations, which can include removing bearing and non-bearing walls, combining rooms, modifying windows, inserting custom cabinetry and more. To help clients visualize such renovations, Hinman uses CAD drawings that present a photo-realistic virtual reality experience.

And the best part: You can trust the Hinmans to be with you through every step of the process, from the design phase to move-in day. “We work as a team, and everyone has their specific duties and areas of expertise,” Kim says. “We love what we do and it shows!” ■

518.885.1835 | hinmanconstruction.com

first turn

TRACK STAR

Chasing Greatness

IRISHMAN GRAHAM WATTERS HAS BECOME AMERICAN STEEPLECHASING’S TOP RIDER. AND HE’S JUST GETTING STARTED.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIEN BOUYEA

With two riding championships under his belt on the National Steeplechase Association circuit, Graham Watters has established himself as one of the brightest stars in the American jump game. The 32-year-old Irishman, however, is far from satisfied with the success he’s had.

“I have high expectations for myself,” Watters said after winning the Grade 1

A.P. Smithwick Memorial Steeplechase at Saratoga Race Course aboard Ziggle Pops on July 21. “My goal and the mindset that drives me is to become one of the all-time great riders. I’m hoping to ride at a high level for the next 10-12 years. I’m working hard to be at the top and determined to maintain that standard. There’s no room to be complacent in this game and I’m extremely competitive.”

Watters began riding ponies as a 9-year-old at an equestrian center

thrill ride “There’s nothing as thrilling as riding a fast horse, especially a jumper,” Watters says. “I’m doing exactly what I love to do and that’s a great feeling.”

in his native Ireland. His family didn’t have any involvement in racing or even an association with horses, but Watters was intrigued with the sport and loved the concept of speed. His breakthrough took place at Britain’s Newcastle Racecourse in 2015, when he piloted 9-year-old Milborough more than four miles over 27 jumps to win the prestigious Eider Chase. He moved his tack to the US five years ago and settled in Maryland, where he has formed a close association with Hall of Fame trainer Jack Fisher.

“He thinks,” says Fisher of Watters. “I know that sounds simple, but he knows how to analyze what’s happening around him. “I don’t really give him instructions. The old saying is that a good jockey doesn’t need instructions and a bad one probably couldn’t execute them anyway. Graham is just a good rider, period.”

Watters has enjoyed his greatest success with the Fisher-trained Snap Decision, one of the elite American jumpers of recent years. He first rode the bay gelding in the 2021 Temple Gwathmey in Virginia, when the pair won the Grade 2 event by 3½ lengths. They’ve been partnered ever since, notching eight graded stakes wins together including a scintillating 13½-length victory in the Grade 1 Jonathan Sheppard at Saratoga in 2022.

Watters topped the NSA rider standings in 2021 and 2023 and held a 12-11 lead over Jamie Bargary as of early August in search of his third title in four years.

“Leading rider means a lot and it’s something I hope to be competing for every year,” Watters says. “I’m always aiming for the top. It’s hard work, but if you have a passion for it you don’t think of it as work. I’m blessed to do this job.”

fine china Briana Lin moved to the Capital Region from China, where her family runs restaurants.

saratoga living’s 2024 food + drink issue

OMAKASE, AT LAST

Saratoga has its fair share of sushi joints, but with her new downtown Japanese restaurant, Capital Region restaurateur Briana Lin is bringing something all-new to the Spa City.

BY NATALLI AMATO

portrait by SHAWN L a CHAPELLE

t’s become a common occurrence across Briana Lin’s six Capital Region restaurants: Regulars often ask her to order for them. Always striving to bring new food experiences to her guests, Lin maintains a trust between her customers that she doesn’t take for granted. Now, that spirit is being taken even further as Lin readies her newest restaurant, Omakase Sushi and Grill, for an October opening.

What is omakase, exactly? Briana brought saratoga living up to speed. “So, omakase— you don’t order,” she says. “The chef makes the choice of the fresh ingredients, making it in front of you.” The word omakase is Japanese for “I’ll leave it up to you”—something Lin has been hearing for quite some time now. Handing over the discretion to the chef invites diners on a culinary journey that is to be savored and experienced fully; the multicourse meal often introduces diners to creative flavor and ingredient combinations that they wouldn’t otherwise have tried. Lin gives a tantalizing example: king salmon sushi with black truffle. Clearly, this isn’t going to be your average upstate New York sushi restaurant.

An avid traveler and foodie whose family owns restaurants in China, Lin found inspiration for her latest concept during trips to New York City and Japan. “I love food,” she says. “Everywhere I go, I try different food.” Part of the excitement is figuring out how she can bring the spirit of these experiences back home.

Kobe Hibachi and T-Swirl Crêpe in Latham; Sawa Sushi Bistro in Glenmont; Volcano Asian BBQ and Hot Pot in Niskayuna; and Azuma Sushi Bistro just down the road in Malta. She even has an eighth restaurant in the works: Prince Tea House, an Asian-European fusion dessert/brunch/ afternoon tea franchise that will take over the Hong Kong Bakery & Bistro space on Wolf Road in Albany. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. “This one,” Lin says of restaurant No. 7, “is going to be high-end, upscale sushi.”

While Omakase will certainly be a swanky environment (the former 30 Lake space has been completely remodeled), what truly makes Omakase Sushi and Grill a must-try culinary experience is the carefully selected ingredients themselves.

“I’m always thinking about how to bring something different to the Albany area,” she says. “All of my restaurants have a different concept.” Omakase Sushi and Grill will be Lin’s seventh greater Capital Region restaurant to date, building on the reputation she has earned from Yang’s Asian Bistro,

For all of her restaurants, Lin orders directly from a Japanese food company three times per week. However, for the upscale Omakase, she’ll be selecting ingredients she hasn’t been able to integrate into in her more casual concepts before. Think: tuna belly and fresh wasabi.

Lin takes pride in being able to bring an all-new experience to the local food scene.

“That’s why I keep opening new restaurants,” she says with a laugh. “Customers always tell me, ‘Oh, you should open a sushi restaurant in Saratoga!’ It's a good opportunity right now. People like to try new things.”

However, Lin isn’t aiming to push anyone fully out of their comfort zone at Omakase—unless that’s what they want.

In addition to omakase, her new spot will also have an a la carte sushi menu, as well as a menu of other Asian dishes that folks can order for lunch and dinner, dine-in or takeout, seven days a week. Omakase Sushi and Grill will also have a full bar. While reservations aren’t a hard and fast requirement, Lin recommends making one. And one thing’s for sure: You’re going to want one.

friends and family

Briana Lin (second from left) with her employee Anna; brother-in-law, Sky; and husband, Jason; (opposite) dishes available at Lin’s Malta restaurant, Azuma Sushi Bistro.

Her Saratoga spot will offer omakase in addition to a la carte sushi and other Asian favorites.

saratoga living’s 2024 food + drink issue

THE GUIDE

From IPAs and CSAs to the chart that will (finally) help you decide where to go to dinner, our second annual everything guide to Saratoga’s food and drink scene is back and more delicious than ever.

PHOTO BY SHAWN LaCHAPELLE

fresh to death Vegan watermelon and cucumber salad from 9 Miles East; (inset) Henry Street Taproom’s oysters.

The Best WEEKNIGHT SPECIALS in Saratoga

VEGAN NIGHT AT 9 MILES EAST

It’s hard to find one vegan course in Saratoga, let alone three. But you’ll get three prix fixe plant-based courses for $35 when you dine in or order takeout at 9 Miles East on Tuesdays.

KITCHEN SINK NIGHT AT AUGIE’S TO-GO

On Thursdays, get a family-style portion of Augie’s penne with shrimp, sausage, prosciutto, chicken and tomato cream sauce, plus salad and bread, all for $22.95 (normally $34.95).

DOLLAR OYSTERS AT HENRY STREET TAVERN

You can’t beat one dollar! Slurp down as many oysters as your sea-faring heart desires at Henry Street’s coziest hangout. They’re available from 4pm to close, or until HST runs out.

THE

BEST SARATOGA IPAs

ARTISANAL BREW WORKS’ G.S.L. JUICE

The ABW taproom’s most popular beer by far, the G.S.L is citrusy, hazy and downright crushable.

WHITMAN BREWING’S RIDE FOR RUIN

Whitman Brewing’s hottest IPA of fall is a 7 percent ABV brew with notes of tropical cocktail, peach and passion fruit.

TREE HOUSE BREWING’S JULIUS

Billed as a beer that converts beerdrinkers into beer-lovers, Tree House Brewing’s Julius isn’t here yet, but it’s coming soon.

DINER DASH

Order Up! The tea on Saratoga’s five diners is piping hot.

CLAIM TO FAME

Compton’s Restaurant Triangle Diner

Shirley’s Diner

The incredible speed with which they prepare food

Home of the French Toast Club sandwich

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

It’s cash only, but there’s an ATM.

You might have to wait for a table, especially during track season and on weekends.

Only diner in Saratoga that’s open for dinner seven days a week

It closes between lunch and dinner from 2-4pm.

CELEBRITY CUSTOMER

PANCAKE DIAMETER (IN INCHES)

Bobby Flay and actor Louis Mustillo 73/16

Bill Parcells and Jim Boeheim 93/4

SARATOGA PARKING LOTS THE 3 BEST

The Best BREAD & BUTTER in Saratoga

WARM BREAD AT KINDRED

Kindred’s focaccia served with black garlic mushroom butter is best summed up by this viral Tweet: “Man, I just do not know how to act around warm bread.”

PARKER HOUSE ROLLS AT SENECA

All the rage on the West Coast, Parker House rolls are served with whipped honey butter at Seneca and have developed a cult following.

FRENCH BATARD AT PANZA’S

You don’t even have to order Panza’s bread, which comes with a house-made garlic and herb compound butter— it’s complimentary.

SCALLIONS

Scallions is one of the few downtown restaurants with a dedicated parking lot, but it does share the spots with Henry Street Taproom and tend to fill up on busy days.

FORNO BISTRO

At the north end of Broadway, Forno Bistro shares a lot with Jacobsen Rugs— but only for the half hour both businesses are open at the same time.

MOUZON HOUSE

Mouzon House has a few parking spots… plus a few hundred in the City Center parking garage right next to the restaurant. Parking in the lot is free for the first hour.

focaccia; (inset) Seneca’s Parker House rolls.

’s GUIDE TO DECIDING

Saving relationships since 2024

DO I WANT TO... Dress Up

Walk There

(I’m Craving...)

See What They Have...) PASTA Solevo LOBSTER 15 Church

THE ROOFTOP Coat Room

Brasserie Benelux

Karavalli

Bocage

Sushi Thai Garden

Morton’s

Drive There

THIS SIDE OF I-87 Duo

Haru

OLD FAVORITE Panza’s

THE LINKS Prime IN A PARK Putnam’s Restaurant ON A LAKE Harvest & Hearth

WHERE TO GO TO DINNER

DO I WANT TO...

LAKESIDE Dock Brown’s FROM ABOVE Carson’s

Parking On Site

TRACKSIDE Kings

IN TOWN West Side Stadium

Parking Not Guaranteed

TWO BARS IS ENOUGH Bailey’s

NEEDS TO HAVE 5 BARS MINIMUM Saratoga City Tavern

EAST SIDE Harvey’s WEST SIDE The Local (Irish) THERE TO PLAY

SHUFFLEBOARD Henry Street Taproom POOL Trotter’s GOLF The Bunker

TACOS Taquero SHAWARMA Sara’s Kitchen SALAD BARE Blends BURGER BurgerFi (Get it Elsewhere) OUTSIDE DOWNTOWN

DESSERT, PLEASE Farmer’s Daughters’ A DRINK, PLEASE Artisanal Brew Works PIZZA PIZZA PLACE (Dinner Time)

ADD A FOCACCIA SANDWICH Gennaro’s

ADD A CHICKEN SANDWICH West Ave Pizza/Chicken (Open Late)

SWEET CRUST D’Andrea’s SAVORY CRUST Pizza 7

PLACE WITH PIZZA

SOURDOUGH CRUST 9 Miles East DETROIT-STYLE Whitman Brewing WE ALL KNOW YOU’RE GONNA GET AN OBOY ANYWAY Esperanto

Caroline Street Pub …and if you still can’t decide, you can’t go wrong with Cantina.

HUH? WHERE?

If you’ve never grabbed dinner or a drink at these five hidden gems, you’re not alone. But Saratoga’s best-kept secrets may not be secret for long.

Quarters Bar

Dubbed Saratoga’s friendliest watering hole by SARATOGA LIVING AFTER HOURS (the Spa City’s preeminent source for intel on places that serve alcohol), this townie bar is located in the Market 32 plaza on Ballston Ave. It’s somewhat of a modern day Cheers— a place where everyone knows your name. Come for the laid-back daytime vibes (the bar opens at 10am) and stick around for Wednesday open mic night or weekend jam band shows.

Mangiamo Homemade Pasta Shop

You’ve probably seen yard signs posted around Saratoga promoting a mysterious place called Mangiamo, which isn’t an actual restaurant but instead a small Woodlawn Ave shop selling homemade pasta, ravioli, gnocchi, tortellini and more. You can certainly stop in to pick up small portions WednesdaySaturday, but owner Rose Contadino recommends calling ahead for larger orders. Want to sample before you buy? Kindred, BuonaSera and Hattie’s all use Mangiamo products.

Yeh Mon Jamaican Restaurant

A Knights of Columbus building might be one of the least likely places to get oxtail and fried green plantains, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at the one right off Route 29 heading west out of town. Gregory Parnell, a longtime fixture of Saratoga’s restaurant industry, serves his authentic Jamaican fare (jerk chicken, anyone?) out

of the kitchen for take-out five days a week; call (518) 307-1401 to order.

Kaleidoscope Café

Head the other direction on Route 29 (towards Schuylerville) and you’ll eventually come to what looks like a ranch-style home—except with waving flags touting homemade ice cream and house-smoked barbecue in the yard. That’s the home of Kaleidoscope Café, which serves classic ice cream flavors (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry) alongside Lavender Honey, Matcha Madness and Mango Habanero Thursday-Sunday.

Dunning Street Station

Just outside of town on Route 9 heading towards Malta is what appears to be a retro diner…except it’s not a diner at all. Home of Dunning Street Station, the restaurant was originally the Malta Ridge Diner, but after changing hands many times, was purchased by Lake Ridge Restaurant’s Bob McKenna and Chef Scott Ringwood in 2016. These days, the dinner spot serves American favorites and Italian classics from 3-9pm Tuesday-Saturday.

Rose Contadino

we’re stuffed Mangiamo’s roasted red pepper ravioli.

The Best ROOFTOP BARS in Saratoga

SARATOGA CITY TAVERN

The OG Saratoga rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the city from the five stories up. The City Tavern was recently put on the market. Just how much do you like the rooftop? It could be yours for a cool $4.9 mil.

CANTINA

Nothing screams summer like margaritas on a rooftop, but Cantina’s hottest floor (both in temperature and vibe) is open on select days through the fall.

COAT ROOM

The newest member of Saratoga’s sky-high scene, Coat Room has hosted several special events on its rooftop and expects to have it open for full service this fall.

THE BEST SARATOGA CSAs

THE DAY DREAM FARMER

Pick up one of two sizes of seasonal produce boxes every week or every other week in Wilton.

PITNEY MEADOWS COMMUNITY FARM

Harvest the veggies you like to eat yourself for $35 a week from June through September.

FEATHERBED LANE FARM

Choose your own produce— and how much you want— every Saturday year-round at this Ballston Spa farm.

raise the rooftop The rooftop bars at (from top) Coat Room; Cantina; and Saratoga City Tavern.

HOLD THE LIQUOR

MORE AND MORE, SARATOGIANS ARE LOOKING FOR A FUN NIGHT OUT, WITHOUT THE HANGOVER. HERE ARE EIGHT LOCAL MOCKTAILS THAT PROVE YOU DON’T NEED BOOZE TO HAVE A GOOD—AND TASTY—TIME.

HAMLET & GHOST’S HIGH SOBRIETY

A twist on the classic chestnut club cocktail, this libation is made with Seedlip Grove, lemon, chile-infused NA aperitif, orgeat and orange oils.

PRIME’S SASSY BEE

Sweet. Spicy. Sassy. That’s what you’ll be when you order the Sassy Bee, a fruity mocktail made with orange, pineapple and hot honey syrup.

RHEA’S STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER

This house-made strawberry rhubarb lemonade will be replaced with a blackberry pear lemonade at the end of September.

COOPERSTOWN DISTILLERY’S FALL MULE

This cold glass of autumn gets by without the vodka thanks to a tart blend of ginger beer, cranberry juice and vanilla simple syrup.

COAT ROOM’S AMARETTO SOUR

Amaretto NA liqueur, lemon and egg white combine for a drink that’s equal parts nutty and sweet.

THE MISFIT’S TROPICAL TWIST

Rehydrate and refresh with the perfect mix of coconut water, honey, lime and ginger, topped with a sprig of mint.

KINDRED’S ISLAND TIME

Aquafaba takes the place of egg white in this vegan concoction made with pineapple juice, coconut water and wood-fired peach simple syrup.

HATTIE’S FRENCH 75 LIBERTE

Mix Seedlip 94, lemon juice, simple syrup and Vinada sparkling chardonnay and you’ll get this NA twist on a French 75.

saratoga living’s 2024 food + drink issue

YES, CHEF

THE CHEFS ARE GOING PRIVATE… AND YOUR DINNER PARTIES WILL NEVER BE THE SAME.

BY KATHLEEN WILLCOX PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWN L a CHAPELLE

In movies and TV shows, both reality and fictional, the restaurant world is not without drama. In the real world, working in a restaurant kitchen is decidedly less glamorous—think long hours and low wages. That’s why, at a certain point in every ambitious chef’s career, they’ll probably decide to either a.) open their own restaurant, or b.) do something a little more private.

That was the case for local chef Michael Blake, who, after working in distinguished kitchens across the country, most recently as the head chef at Yaddo, decided to chart his own path and open MB Culinary Concepts. His new gig, which offers private dining, pop-ups, culinary instruction and consulting, allows him to make his own rules—and schedule.

“After getting divorced, private cheffing allowed me to be in my children’s lives much more than a full-time chef role would,” he says. “I get to create an experience that’s under my control.” And so far, business has been booming—Blake was booked up for the entire summer.

On the flipside, customers love that hiring a private chef allows for more customization and creativity. We want the pho, the pudim, the takoyaki and the dal makhana, not to mention the juicy burgers, heaving plates of ravioli, endless charcuterie and deep-fried doughnuts with dipping sauces…but we might want them vegan, keto or organic. We also might want them from the comfort of our own home, where we can host the most fabulous dinner parties without having to go through the trouble of actually cooking said dinner.

And private chefs are often hungry for the challenge. They can offer onenight-only restaurant pop-ups starring their latest culinary musings, or cater directly to ours. Hungry for all the Saratoga region’s private chefs have to offer? Meet five of them here:

CHEF: XAVIER JONES

PAST EXPERIENCE: Thirsty Owl and restaurants across Massachusetts

SPECIALTY: Dinner parties and cooking lessons

FAVORITE THING TO COOK: Homemade pasta with hempseed pistou

MOST PEOPLE DON’T REALIZE…

“How affordable and convenient hiring a private chef can be. It allows hosts to enjoy their guests without worrying about the food, providing a personalized and stress-free experience.” chefxavierjones.com

Shot on location at Franklin Square Market

CHEF: LAURA BELLINGER

PAST EXPERIENCE: Cooking for celebrities, musicians and writers in Los Angeles

SPECIALTY: Tailored meal-prep services and Californiainspired casual cuisine

FAVORITE THING TO COOK: Grilled steak with Italian salsa verde MY FAVORITE MEMORY AS A PRIVATE CHEF WAS WHEN… “Ryan Gosling texted me to rave about my black bean brownies.” laurabellinger.com

Shot on location at Franklin Square Market

CHEF: DAN SPITZ

PAST EXPERIENCE: Beekman Street Bistro and Max London’s

SPECIALTY: Outdoor events for up to 40 people

FAVORITE THING TO COOK: Whatever’s freshest at the farmers’ market

MOST PEOPLE DON’T REALIZE… “We private chefs don’t usually get deliveries—we do all the figurative hunting and gathering, and in the literal sense, I actually go into the woods to forage for mushrooms and other wild edibles to use in my preparations.”

chefdanspitz.com

CHEF: BRANDON SCHATKO

PAST EXPERIENCE: Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid, Plumb Oyster Bar in Troy and Whitman Brewing Company

SPECIALTY: Cooking over an open fire

FAVORITE THING TO COOK: Family recipes like Grandma’s pierogis or Grandpa’s Italian sausage

I DECIDED TO BECOME A PRIVATE CHEF

WHEN… “I got sick with a neurological disorder a few years back. I was scared to get back fully into the kitchen and decided it was time to work on my own schedule so I could have time to still do the things I love and care for myself.”

chefhumble.com

CHEF: MICHAEL BLAKE

PAST EXPERIENCE: Yaddo and restaurants in Boston

SPECIALTY: An eclectic range of culinary experiences, from ramen and izakaya pop-ups to intimate dinner parties for 10-20 people

FAVORITE THING TO COOK: French and Japanese cuisines

SARATOGIANS ARE HUNGRY FOR… “New and different things. Nothing against the American Italian restaurant, but there’s just so much of the same thing in Saratoga. People want exciting, newer, diverse concepts.”

mbculinaryconcepts.com

Shot on location at Franklin Square Market

The End of Fully Remote Work?

Walrath Recruiting has seen a surge in desire for in-person work post-pandemic.

While Covid-19 isn’t in the rearview mirror yet, many are looking to move past those dim days. Where has that become most evident recently?

Our workplaces.

“We’re seeing more people who’ve been remote but want to return to the office for social reasons,” says Renee Walrath, founder and president of Walrath Recruiting. For nearly 15 years, this NY Certified Woman-Owned Business has provided recruiting services to the Capital Region at no cost to its applicants. “There’s no social life working remotely, no feeling of camaraderie,” she says. “That’s what we’re hearing from candidates right now.”

Walrath says the in-person work surge began about six months ago and hasn’t relented. Surprisingly, many of the new applicants seeking office work are Gen Z. “These are people who graduated during a pandemic, and this community-based work environment is something they welcome,” says Christopher Walrath, Renee’s son and head of innovation and go-to-market at the family business.

“At the end of the day, people still want flexibility. That looks different for everyone, but we’re here to help them figure it out, ” says Renee Walrath, founder and

president of Walrath Recruiting.

“People think this generation doesn’t want to go into the office. That’s not true—they want coming into the office to have a purpose. Young professionals want to be in person to learn from and collaborate with others.”

Christopher points to mentorship programs and increased training and development opportunities as workplace benefits. While in-person work has suddenly become more popular—other factors include tech

industry layoffs and pandemic work burnout—fully remote and hybrid jobs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. “At the end of the day, people still want flexibility,” says Renee. “That looks different for everyone, but we’re here to help them figure it out.”

Christopher agrees with that philosophy. “People who have kids, single working parents, primary caregivers…these are all people who need that flexibility,” he says. “They need to come in late or leave early because of other life obligations. That’s where we find balance, a cohesion, between what our candidates and the employers want.”

Striking the right balance seems to be in the Walraths’ blood. Renee started Walrath Recruiting in Albany in 2010. Since then, the Capital Region company has opened a satellite office in Saratoga, and Renee was among Albany Business Review’s Power 50 in 2022 & 2024. “I love helping people,” she says. “I am changing people’s lives and helping companies find top talent resulting in growth for their organization.” ■

Christopher Walrath, head of innovation and go-to-market; (above) Walrath Recruiting Founder and President Renee Walrath.

Designed with outdoor recreation in mind, Belmonte Builders’ newest community has something for everyone.

In a real estate market where quality homes at affordable price points are increasingly hard to come by, there’s never been a better time to build. And with Belmonte Builders’ new Forest Grove community now entering phase two of development, there’s never been a better time to build a Belmonte home.

Located in the town of Wilton in the Saratoga Springs City School District,, Forest Grove is a new-home community consisting of both twin homes and singlefamily homes, all on heavily wooded lots. (The mailing address and school district is actually Saratoga, but homeowners will enjoy lower Wilton taxes.) With 19 different floor plans to choose from, Forest Grove has something for everyone, from maintenance-free, premium twin homes starting in the mid-500s to single-family homes with larger lots, both in a variety of floor plans.

“People started moving in earlier this year, and they’re all very excited about the amenities to come,” says Peter Belmonte, secondgeneration owner of the family-run, Clifton Park–based company. “It’s a master-plan community with all the amenities that people in the Northeast ask for.” Some of those amenities? A 5,000-squarefoot community center complete with a kitchen, gathering room, full gym, swimming pool, pavilion and pickleball ball courts. Plus,

original buyers of newly built homes in Forest Grove get 50 percent off golf course memberships at McGregor Links Country Club, which is only five minutes away. The Northway is also just minutes away, making commuting a breeze. Other perks of Forest Grove living include seven miles of walking trails, a dog park and well-lit sidewalks throughout the community.

Forest Grove is clearly a hit with homebuyers—phase one sold out in just 18 months. In other words, if you’re interested in a Forest Grove home, act fast—we’re already a month into phase two.

“We have three models on site—two decorated,” Belmonte says, “and are proud that both are award-winning. The Westerly model home won Best New Construction Floor Plan and Best New Merchandised Model in the 2023 CRBRA Best in Building Awards, and the community itself won Best Twin Home Project. We enjoy giving tours of the property and our model homes. It’s the best way for people to see up close the quality that goes into each and every Belmonte home.” ■

Forest Grove’s sales center/model home is located at 2 Daintree Drive, Saratoga Springs. Hours are noon-5pm Tuesday-Saturday, and Sunday by appointment. Contact Sharon Byrne at 518.527.4914 or sharon@belmontebuilders.com to get started on your journey to Forest Grove living!

Forest Grove’s model homes (above) and interior views of the homes (below).

From nursing to administrative roles, there’s a position for you!

Enjoy a family-first, work-life balance culture, flexible work schedule and comprehensive benefits package. Full-time, part-time and per diem positions available at 24 locations. Apply today!

Adirondack Lifeline: Hudson Headwaters Health Network

Established in 1981, the nonprofit system of primary care centers serves patients throughout seven counties in the North Country and Glens Falls regions.

Some of the Empire State’s most underserved communities are right here in Saratoga County and the North Country. For many families across nearly 8,000 miles of rural Adirondack terrain, there exists only one primary care provider: Hudson Headwaters Health Network.

“We’re the frontline to help people live their healthiest lives in our communities, and that starts with primary care,” says Sue Corney, executive vice president of human resources at Hudson Headwaters. “Our providers see everyone regardless of health insurance status or ability to pay. As a nonprofit safetynet provider, our mission is to ensure everyone has a place to get high-quality, comprehensive primary healthcare.”

The Queensbury-based nonprofit and Federally Qualified Health Center has grown rapidly since its founding in 1981. “When I started with the company seven years ago, we had around 700 employees, and today we have over 1,000,” says Corney. “We had 17 health centers, and now we have 25 and growing.” Looking ahead to 2025, Hudson Headwaters is planning new health centers in Salem in nearby Washington County, and Malone in Franklin County.

Weekly, Hudson Headwaters serves approximately 9,100 patients.

In addition to medical care, the Network offers programs and services that positively impact the health of the overall population. This includes the new John Rugge Center for Community Impact (named after the Network’s founder, John Rugge, MD), which focuses on addressing community priorities such as access to nutritious foods, affordable childcare, reliable transportation and the ability to meet everyday needs.

All of these efforts have contributed to the Network’s growth. “It’s a really nice place to work,” says Corney. “A consistent message from our workers is that they seek ways to easily take care of themselves and their families. As the region’s largest primary care network, we offer free access to healthcare to all staff members and families within the Network. This helps reduce barriers to getting good care such as forgoing doctor’s visits to avoid high deductibles. We also offer scheduling flexibility and are open to creative work solutions. We invest in our employees, providing career advancement and continued education opportunities. It’s amazing how many young people start here and tell me they plan to stay at Hudson Headwaters their whole careers.” ■ hhhn.org

Providers at Hudson Headwaters Moreau Family Health facility

Pitney Meadows’ Fire Feast

JUNE

Christian McBride and Ursa Major October 24

Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center October 26

A.I.M by Kyle Abraham November 9 & 10

Dorado Schmitt and the Django Festival Allstars with special guest Hot Club Saratoga November 22

Christian McBride and Ursa Major Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

A.I.M by Kyle Abraham

Dorado Schmitt and the Django Festival Allstars

CAPTAIN’s An Unbridled Affair

JULY 18 • SARATOGA NATIONAL

Racing & Rosé Fashion Show

JULY 27 • NATIONAL MUSEUM OF RACING AND HALL OF FAME

Horses

JULY 29 • NOVE ITALIAN RESTAURANT

SARATOGA’S HOTTEST TICKETS

photography by NATALIE MOORE

photography by SAMANTHA DECKER

photography by MORGAN CAMPBELL

A Tribute to Transforming Lives Fashion Show

AUGUST 18 • 1863 CLUB

photography by JESSICA TROISI

Saratoga Hospital Gala

JULY 31 • THE POLO MEADOW AT SARATOGA CASINO HOTEL

NY Racetrack Chaplaincy’s Jockeys vs Horsemen Basketball Game

AUGUST 1 • SARATOGA SPRINGS RECREATION CENTER

JULY 31 • THE ADELPHI

SARATOGA’S HOTTEST TICKETS

photography by CATHY DUFFY and JOE PUTROCK

HOTEL photography by

TINA MARIE DEVINCENZO

photography by

JANET NAPOLITANO

The Saratoga Book Festival Returns!

More than 30 events—including a new “Beyond the Book” series— highlight the October 4-7 festival.

You may think you need to be a literary type to enjoy a book festival, but the Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library is here to tell you: At the Saratoga Book Festival, there’s something for everyone.

Returning for its fourth year this October 4-7, the Saratoga Book Festival is a city-wide celebration of books featuring dozens of author talks, panel discussions, readings and youth programs, plus a local author showcase and KidZone. New this year is a “Beyond the Book” series featuring ticketed events including a comedy night with Sally Chaffin

Brooks at Putnam Place and a boozy brunch with Gossip Girl author Cecliy von Ziegesar at Universal Preservation Hall (see below for tickets!)

Of course, there’ll also be plenty of traditional, a la carte book festival events for bookworms to geek out on, including can’t-miss sessions with authors Kelly Link (Book of

and Roxana Robinson (

“Whether you like literary fiction, romance, fantasy, horror, graphic novels, mystery or pop culture,” says festival co-chair Ellen Beal, “you’ll find something at this year’s Saratoga Book Festival.” ■ Learn more at saratogabookfestival.org.

Spotted: You at the Saratoga Book Festival’s Gossip Girl Brunch date

time Sunday, October 6

VIP: 11-11:30am

GA: 11:30am-1pm

location

Universal Preservation Hall

Well, well, well, look who showed up for the Saratoga Book Festival’s boozy brunch party with C (that’s author Cecily Von Ziegesar, who wrote the series that inspired hit show Gossip Girl, for you newcomers). Sources tell me you drank one too many DeCrescente Distributing Co. cocktails, spent all your money at the Caroline + Main pop-up shop and almost forgot your complimentary signed copy of the C’s book! Oh, wait—that hasn’t happened yet. Scan the QR code to get your tickets for the event of the fall. You don’t want to become yesterday’s news.

xo xo GOSSIP GIRL

Love), Paul Tremblay (Horror Movie)

Leaving

Authors Paul Tremblay, Kelly Link and Karen McManus

Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Golf

COPAKE COUNTRY CLUB 44 GOLF COURSE ROAD, CRARYVILLE

“Public Golf, Private Quality” is the motto of Copake Country Club, a 160-acre, 18-hole golf course nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire and Catskill mountains. Having celebrated its 100th anniversary last summer, Copake features pure greens and meticulously maintained terrain, more than 15 different membership rates, weekday specials for local service workers, discounted twilight packages and a rustic-chic restaurant overlooking the fairways.

518.325.0019 | copakecountryclub.com

CRAIG WOOD GOLF COURSE 141 COUNTRY CLUB WAY, LAKE PLACID

Craig Wood Golf Course offers a challenging round of golf in a spectacular setting. Designed by Seymour Dunn in 1925, this carefully maintained municipal course was strategically carved into the Adirondack countryside. The back nine is narrow, tree lined, and an excellent challenge! With quick, true greens, Craig Wood offers the perfect opportunity for a great round, plus a pro shop and restaurant with impressive views.

518.523.9811 | craigwoodgolfclub.com

HIGH PEAKS GOLF COURSE SANTANONI DRIVE, OFF ROUTE 28N, NEWCOMB

Snuggled up to sweeping views of the highest mountains in the state, High Peaks Golf Course offers golfers exceptional scenery that will make keeping your eye on the ball a challenge. Located in Newcomb, the heart of the Adirondacks, this 9-hole, par 33 course is ideally situated for days full of golf and other outdoor adventures including hiking, paddling and birding.

518.582.2300 | newcombny.gov/high-peaks-golf-course

LAKE PLACID CLUB GOLF COURSES 88 MORNINGSIDE DRIVE, LAKE PLACID

The Lake Placid Club offers 45 holes of spectacular golf in the Olympic Village. Award-winning courses offer a unique variety of golf for players of all abilities. Choose from a Seymour Dunn–designed classic Scottish links course laden with bunkers; the straight, tree-lined mountain course; or the short iron–friendly “Pristine Nine.” Discover why presidents and legends golf at the Lake Placid Club!

518.523.4460 | thelakeplacidclub.com/golf

LAKE PLEASANT GOLF COURSE 2537 STATE ROUTE 8, LAKE PLEASANT

Fans of Donald Ross courses adore his design for this tree-lined, 9-hole, par 35 course in the scenic small town of Lake Pleasant. Overlooking Sacandaga Lake, the course, with four back nine tees and five black tees for longer play, is a hidden gem in Adirondack golf. The challenges on this course are plentiful, packing a lot of play into nine holes.

518.548.7071 | lakepleasantgc.wixsite.com/lpgc

Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Golf

SARANAC INN GOLF CLUB

125 COUNTY ROUTE 46, SARANAC LAKE

The Saranac Inn Golf Club is one of the Adirondacks’ most stunning courses, and has been challenging golfers since 1901. Legendary course architect Seymour Dunn called it his masterpiece! Noted for its lightning-fast and true greens, the classic Scottish design has a great mix of long, medium and short par threes, fours and fives, and is fun for a range of skill levels.

518.891.1402 | saranacinn.com

SCHROON LAKE GOLF COURSE 36 CLUBHOUSE DRIVE, SCHROON LAKE

The Schroon Lake Golf Course is a 9-hole, par 36 course close to the amenities of the classic Adirondack vacation town for which it’s named. Make your way through rolling hills and over a picturesque landscape as you glimpse Pharaoh Mountain in the distance. This public course has been in action for nearly a century, but its fun holes surrounded by natural beauty never lose their appeal.

518.582.2300 | schroon.net/golf%20course.htm

TICONDEROGA GOLF COURSE 609 STATE ROUTE 9N, TICONDEROGA

Friend to beginners and seasoned golfers alike, Ticonderoga Golf Course is built into the Historic Adirondack Lord Howe Valley. Scenic panoramic views, babbling brooks, and treelined fairways make for a truly memorable round. A par 71 with 18 holes, the course is ideal for those looking to fine-tune their game in a historic, legendary town. Exceptional dining at Seymour’s Restaurant caps off an ideal day.

518.585.2801 | ticonderogagolfcourse.com

TUPPER LAKE GOLF CLUB

141 COUNTRY CLUB ROAD, TUPPER LAKE

With stunning views of lakes and the Adirondack Mountains, the Donald Ross–designed Tupper Lake Golf Club is a “must play.” Established in 1932, this mountain course provides the perfect balance of challenge and beauty. Rolling terrain, tree-lined fairways, and undulating greens offer a rewarding round of golf to both the low and high handicapper.

518.359.3701 | tupperlakegolf.com

WHITEFACE CLUB & RESORT

373 WHITEFACE INN LANE, LAKE PLACID

Luxury awaits at this historic course. Perched on the shores of Lake Placid, it's the only course on the lake. Tight, rolling fairways pair with challenging greens that keep golfers exhilarated and on their toes. Opened as a 9-hole course in 1895 and later expanded to a full 18 holes by architect John Van Kleek, the Whiteface Club is known for excellent play and rewarding post-round celebrations.

518.523.2551 | whitefaceclubresort.com/amenities/golf

home stretch

fashion & style :: food & drink :: spa & beauty :: design & real estate

Throwing Shade

GRAB A NEW PAIR OF GLASSES—THE SUN STILL SHINES IN AUTUMN.

BY NATALIE MOORE

just because summer’s drawing to a close doesn’t mean you have to hang up your statement sunglasses! “Look at your glasses as an accessory,” says Heidi Owen West, owner of Broadway boutique Caroline + Main. “Whether they’re sunnies or readers, they’re the first statement that people notice.”

In recent years, Owen West says, sunglasses trends have skewed retro—think cat-eye, vintage aviator, tortoise, retro bug lenses and wire-rimmed. Her personal favorite? Oversized geometric frames, like these $20 lenses from the brand still available at Caroline + Main in tortoise, powder blue, champagne, chestnut, pearl and black.

“Have fun with the look, as trends cycle quickly,” Owen West says. “Don’t take it all too seriously!”

eyes on the prize

These sevensided lenses from Caroline+Main are $20 a pair.

home stretch

fashion

& style :: food & drink :: spa & beauty :: design & real estate

The Lake Effect

NEW SARATOGA LAKE RESTAURANT BUONASERA —WHICH MEANS “GOOD EVENING” IN ITALIAN—HAS ALREADY AMASSED A SMALL ARMY OF REGULARS. n BY NATALIE MOORE

if there’s one thing we know to be true, it’s that Saratogians love their Italian food. Now, Spa City foodies have one more place to get their marsala, alfredo and ragu—and this one’s lakeside. “Italian food is where I started,” says Jimmy Hartwyk, chef/owner BuonaSera, which opened in the former home of Nostalgia Ale Bar on Saratoga Lake in July. “I got a job as a busboy when I was a kid. One day, the owner of the restaurant asked me if I would help in the kitchen doing a little prep work. And that was it. I had the bug.”

That was 30 years ago, and Hartwyk has worked in the restaurant industry ever since. Most recently, he and his wife, BuonaSera co-owner Danielle, owned and operated Biscotti Brothers Café and Saluti, both in Lake George. After selling their interest in those two businesses last year, the Hartwyks signed the lease for the Route 9P property this past April, and immediately began a full gut renovation of the space, which looks north over the lake.

A couple of weeks in, BuonaSera

a taste of italy (clockwise, from left) BuonaSera owners Danielle and Jimmy Hartwyk; the vegan eggplant ragu; the restaurant’s dining room overlooks Saratoga Lake.

had already become a popular neighborhood hangout, in large part because of Chef Jimmy’s quality food. But business is also booming because of the big bar, friendly staff and welcoming vibe. “So far the community has welcomed us with open arms,” Hartwyk says. “We’ve had some repeat business, and word is spreading. Every day, we get a little busier, so hopefully we can keep up that trend.”

home stretch

fashion & style :: food & drink :: spa & beauty :: real estate

The Next Great Saratoga Café

REALTOR BRENT SKINNER LOOKS TO BRING CONVENIENT BREAKFAST AND LUNCH TO THE SPA CITY WITH HIS NEW RESTAURANT, THE NOOK . n BY KATHLEEN WILLCOX

tenants of the Collamer Building are about to welcome a new in-house breakfast and lunch spot—a delicious addition that the rest of the town can bite into as well.

“I’m a foodie and I love to eat,” says Brent Skinner,

a real estate agent with Roohan Realty who’s making his first foray into the food service world with his new café. “I am really looking forward to being a beacon of consistent quality, and bringing creative, fresh-

cooked breakfasts and lunches back to a place that has been serving the community for decades.”

ON DECK

Skinner has dubbed his restaurant, which replaces Spa Café, The Nook Café. At press time, the opening was set for September, and from what Skinner has planned, it sounds like the cozy, homey name perfectly sets the stage for what’s in store.

For breakfast, he’ll offer creative egg sandwiches and handmade seasonal muffins, plus coffee from Kru and breads and bagels from Rockland Bakery.

captain nook “We want to provide not just good food and coffee but great food and coffee,” says Nook Café Owner Brent Skinner.

“I lived in 14 houses in different places around the Northeast before settling in Saratoga for good in 2018,” he says. “So some of our recipes, like our breakfast club—made with two eggs, a meat of choice, cheese and hash brown potatoes on a hard roll—will be inspired by my time in different areas of the Northeast.”

For lunch, Skinner’s planning to offer an array of pre-made classic salads (cobb, Greek, garden, Caesar), with customizable options. “We want to offer more than just grilled chicken, so we will have a lot of different proteins,” Skinner says. “My wife, Hayley, who is helping me launch it as well, is really inspired by healthy grains like quinoa, so there will be a lot of that too.” Some midday standouts? The Gobbler—a sandwich made with fresh-roasted turkey, cranberry sauce and stuffing—and family-recipe soups such as Hungarian cream of mushroom, white bean and kale, and a gingerkissed tomato served with a cheese crostini.

Hungry yet? Head over to The Nook and get to know Skinner, who plans to be there most days from 7:30am-2:30pm.

home stretch

fashion

& style :: food & drink :: spa & beauty :: real estate

On to the Next

AFTER BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL BEAUTY BRAND IN LATHAM AND FISHKILL, IRINA DAMYANIDU AND DR. ZAINAB MOGUL-ASHRAF ARE BRINGING THEIR HEBE MEDICAL SPA TO SARATOGA.

BY NATALIE AMATO

often, when we think about aesthetic treatments, the word natural is not the first thing that comes to mind. However, at Hebe Medical Spa, natural beauty is the north star guiding all of the luxury med spa’s treatments. After building a legion of satisfied

customers in Latham and downstate in Fishkill, the local chain is expanding to a new location in Saratoga Springs.

Expand is a more than fitting word. The new location will be 4,000 square feet—Hebe’s largest space to date. Located at 28 Division Street across

from SPoT Coffee, the med spa will continue its tradition of offering nonsurgical treatments—including laser treatments, botox and dermal fillers, facials, hair removal and restoration, medical weight loss programs, peptide therapy, and IV treatments—in a rejuvenating environment.

“We pride ourselves on delivering natural results to clients,” says Hebe Medical Spa CEO Irina Damyanidu, who opened Hebe’s first location with her business partner, Medical Director Zainab Mogul-Ashraf, MD, in 2018. “We spend a lot of money training our providers on the latest techniques. We always make sure that we restore what people once had—enhancing their beauty versus changing the way they look.”

While upscale med spas can get reputations for being inaccessible to those who are a bit more mindful of their spending, Damyanidu takes pride in Hebe’s ability to offer services that meet a variety of budgets. Hebe offers monthly memberships that grant customers select services at a discount, while also offering savings on products. These memberships, which will be available in Saratoga, range from the $95/month Hebe Facial VIP Package to the extensive $250/ month Hebe Wellness VIP Package.

“Everybody deserves the right to feel really beautiful and do self-care,” says Damuanidu, “no matter what their budget is.”

At press time, Damyanidu and Mogul-Ashraf were getting ready to open Hebe Saratoga’s doors on August 19. “What I’m looking forward to is just being a part of the community,” says Damyanidu. “I absolutely love Saratoga. It’s such a happy town, and I can’t wait to be there.”

girl bosses Hebe Medical Spa CEO Irina Damyanidu and Medical Director Zainab Mogul-Ashraf, MD.

home stretch

fashion & style :: food & drink :: spa & beauty :: real estate

Behind the Scenes: Saratoga Showcase of Homes

THE INTERIOR DESIGNS ATELIER TEAM IS HARD AT WORK

DESIGNING A SPA CITY HOME FOR A COUPLE WITH DIFFERING TASTES—THAT THE REST OF SARATOGA WILL LOVE, TOO.

BY KATHLEEN WILLCOX photography by DORI FITZPATRICK

the designers at Saratoga’s Interior Designs Atelier sometimes like to say that their work saves marriages. That certainly may be the case with their latest project, a 4,300-square-foot Nelson Ave home that will be featured in this fall’s annual Saratoga Showcase of Homes.

“The clients are distinctly different in what they want,” says Senior Interior Designer Diane Meyer. “The husband wanted more traditional colonial, and the wife wanted more modern farmhouse.” Adding to the stress of designing their forever home? The hard deadline of October 5, when the house will be opened to thousands of guests for the two-weekend Showcase.

For those who’ve never been, the Saratoga Showcase of Homes is exactly what it sounds like—new homes constructed by the area’s top builders are opened up for the general public to check out. It’s also a fundraiser that has raised nearly $1.5 million for nonprofits Rebuilding Together Saratoga and Habitat for Humanity to date. This

year’s event, going on October 5-6 and October 12-13, will draw the curtain back on nine spectacular homes, including the one Interior Designs Atelier is currently working on.

Designed by architect Dreamscapes Unlimited and built by DSG Construction, the Nelson Ave home has four bedrooms plus an office/den, and a carriage house in the back. Meyer and Interior Designs Atelier Owner and Principle Designer Linda Gerace-Skinner were brought on after construction started, and are now working overtime to bring the project to completion.

“It’s an updated traditional style that’s fresh, approachable and timeless,” says Gerace-Skinner. “We’ve considered classic marbles in areas throughout the home, including a

swatch and learn (from top) Design details that will be incorporated into the DSG home's main floor; construction is underway on Nelson Ave.

gorgeous Bluette marble for the primary bathroom, a checkered black and Carrara marble for the mudroom, and marble mosaics for the backsplashes. We’re using dark walnut woods, traditional molding and a crisp palette of bold colors, yet keeping it bright and airy.”

Adds Meyer: “We took time to explain to the clients how we can thoughtfully combine their styles and personalities to achieve both of their desires.” In other words, marriage: saved.

To see the finished project, check out the DSG house at this year’s Saratoga Showcase of Homes, or pick up the holiday issue of saratoga living

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Lake Ridge Restaurant

Tucked away in the Village of Round Lake, just off Exit 11 of the Northway, Lake Ridge is only 10 minutes from Saratoga Springs and 15 minutes from Albany. The romantic establishment—which boasts seafood, steak, pasta, small plates and more—is a great, laid-back alternative to dining in busy downtown Saratoga. Whether you’re sitting down for a full meal or bellying up to the mahogany bar for a specialty cocktail, you’ll always have a great time at Lake Ridge, which this year is celebrating 23 years in business. Open 4-8:45pm Tuesday-Saturday. 35 BURLINGTON AVENUE, ROUND LAKE lake-ridge.com • 518.899.6000

Panza’s Restaurant

TCantina

Broadway dining hotspot Cantina has been serving up fresh Mexican dishes and signature margaritas in the heart of downtown Saratoga for the last 17 years. Guests flock to the restaurant for its festive vibe, creative and delicious fare, and craft cocktails—

happy hour, anyone?! Grab a seat on the patio or in the stylishly airy interior to enjoy south-of-the-border favorites including salads, seafood, tacos and fajitas, or head up to the Cantina Rooftop, open on warm weekends through the fall. Open daily noon-9:00pm. Cantina Rooftop hours updated daily on Instagram. 408 BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS cantinasaratoga.com • 518.587.5577

reasured family recipes have kept Panza’s a Saratoga staple since 1938. Expect authentic Italian food that meets modern American fare in a classic setting, an ever-evolving menu that keeps regulars coming back for new takes on their favorite dishes, and weekly live music at the intimate piano bar and on the Starlight Lounge stage. And don’t forget to try the ‘Say No S’more’ delicacy (at left) for dessert! The Panza’s team would like to thank all who helped vote the restaurant Best Romantic Dining, Best Italian Restaurant and Best Saratoga County Restaurant in this year’s CAPITAL REGION LIVING Bestie Awards. Open Wednesday-Monday 5-9pm; closed Tuesday. 129 SOUTH BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS panzasrestaurant.com • 518.584.6882

Kindred

From the owners of Henry Street Taproom, Kindred is a wood-fired restaurant and wine bar focused on great food, fun wine and good times. The owners’ goal is a simple one: Make wine fun again in a comfortable, chic atmosphere. On the food side, Kindred offers small plates (think pork schnitzel, Brussels sprouts, hog island clams and burrata toast), flatbreads (topped with buffalo burrata, prosciutto or lamb ragu), and select entrées (the new fall menu boasts NY strip steak, burgers and Moroccan chicken). And don’t forget Sunday brunch! Open TuesdaySaturday 4pm-midnight; Sunday 10am-3pm.

The Lagoon

What’s better than woodfired brick oven pizza? Woodfired brick oven pizza served lakeside! You’ll get that and much more at The Lagoon, one of Lake George’s hottest spots for lunch, dinner and late-night dining and drinking. Located in the heart of Lake George Village on the shore of The Queen of American Lakes, The Lagoon is known for its live music, seasonal craft beer, best-selling hot lobster roll and espresso martinis, which are widely accepted as the best around. Open at noon seven days a week.

84 HENRY STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS kindredsaratoga.com • 518.886.1198

Henry Street Taproom

Good food, lots of beer and an atmosphere that’s the perfect mix of relaxed, cozy and chic? That’s what you can expect at Henry Street Taproom, which has been serving local craft beers and ciders, inventive cocktails and locally sourced, made-from-scratch food since 2012. Henry Street is still a go-to spot for locals who never tire of settling in on the patio or cozying up to the fire when the cold weather rolls around. Open Tuesday-Friday 4-10pm; Saturday 2-10pm; Sunday 2-9pm; closed Monday.

86 HENRY STREET, SARATOGA SPRINGS henrystreettaproom.com • 518.886.8938

204 CANADA STREET, LAKE GEORGE lagoonlakegeorge.com • 518.685.5009

Prime Restaurant

Prime Restaurant recently reopened as a contemporary American restaurant for lunch and dinner. Enjoy house-made pasta, fresh lobster, oysters and seafood towers, plus revamped options including beef tartare, Moroccan cauliflower and duck dumplings. Prime’s upscale, modern atmosphere also offers more casual options in the bar and lounge area. The outdoor patio boasts views of the 18th hole of the golf course, while the indoor dining space provides a more intimate experience. Reserve a table now on Resy.com. See website for seasonal hours.

458 UNION AVENUE, SARATOGA SPRINGS primeatsaratoganational.com • 518.583.4653

Putnam’s Restaurant

The Gideon Putnam’s signature dining experience, Putnam’s Restaurant, offers historic charm, first-class service and seasonally changing menus. But the restaurant isn’t just open to guests of the historic hotel—the public is welcome to stop by for breakfast and dinner. Locally sourced and seasonal ingredients are used whenever possible in dishes such as shrimp and lobster risotto, grilled portobello burger and bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, all of which are served by highly trained staff who provide personalized service to each and every customer. Stop by for a meal to remember today. See website for hours of operation.

24 GIDEON PUTNAM R OAD , SARATOGA SPRINGS gideonputnam.com • 866.890.1171

Coat Room

Located on the former site of the famed United States Hotel, Coat Room celebrates the grandeur of an era gone by. It’s hidden off the beaten track in what looks like a coat closet, and while the speakeasy-style restaurant is open to the public, it also offers a preferred guest program for those in search of exclusive perks and priority access. Boasting an amazing craft cocktail program and a scratch kitchen, Coat Room also has a newly finished rooftop that will be open for full service very soon. See website for hours.

385 BROADWAY, SARATOGA SPRINGS the C oatroom.com 518.306.4155

The Brook Tavern

thebrooktavern.com

 518.871.1473

139 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

Coat Room

thecoatroom.com

 518.306.4155

385 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

Dunning Street

Station

dunningstreetstation.com

 518.587.2000

2853 State Route 9, Malta

Kindred

kindredsaratoga.com

 518.886.1198

84 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs

Henry Street Taproom

henrystreettaproom.com

 518.886.8938

86 Henry Street, Saratoga Springs

The Lagoon

lagoonlakegeorge.com

 518.685.5009

204 Canada Street, Lake George

Lake Ridge Restaurant

lake-ridge.com

 518.899.6000

35 Burlington Avenue, Round Lake

Park & Elm

parkandelm.com

 518.480.3220

19 Park Street, Glens Falls

Putnam’s Restaurant

gideonputnam.com

 866.890.1171

24 Gideon Putnam Road, Saratoga Springs

Prime Restaurant

primeatsaratoganational.com

 518.583.4653

458 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs

Radici Kitchen & Bar

radicikitchen.com

 518.804.1007

26 Ridge Street, Glens Falls

The Wishing Well

wishingwellrestaurant.com

 518.584.7640

745 Saratoga Road, Gansevoort

Panza’s Restaurant

panzasrestaurant.com

 518.584.6882

129 South Broadway, Saratoga Springs

Cantina

cantinasaratoga.com

 518.587.5577

408 Broadway, Saratoga Springs

A Tale of Two Saratoga Legends

BY NATALIE MOORE

Today, brothers Tony and Michael Panza operate a wildly successful Italian restaurant on South Broadway. But over the course of the last century, numerous establishments have borne the name Panza’s—so many, that Saratoga Lake was once described in a newspaper article as “a body of water surrounded by Panza’s.” None of the family’s establishments, which date back to a bakery that Tony and Michael’s great-grandmother, Theresa “Ma” Panza, opened in Mechanicville

in 1897, was more famous than Panza’s Starlight Room.

Operating on Saratoga Lake from 1938 to the 1980s, when it became known as Panza’s or Panza’s on the Lake, Panza’s Starlight Room was more than a restaurant—it was a place to see and be seen. “Back before social media, there was Jeannette Jordan’s society column in the Saratogian,” Michael says. “Panza’s was in those, like, every week.” It was also a place to see live music. Jazz pianist Gap Mangione once took a break from his meal to perform for the room,

starlight, star bright

The Carmine DeCrescente Trio—drummer Joe Gaetano, clarinetist Carmine DeCrescente and accordionist Dominick Zappone—performing at Panza’s Starlight Room.

Though the restaurant itself is now closed, its spirit lives on in the Starlight Lounge at Panza’s on South Broadway.

and popular local band the Dave Jarvis Quartet had a summertime residency there. Another band to grace the stage was the Carmine DeCrescente Trio.

Yes, that Carmine DeCrescente.

“Playing clarinet is what he loved,” says Carmine DeCrescente III of his late grandfather, who played a pivotal role in growing DeCrescente Distributing Co. into the company Saratoga knows today.

“My dad’s band played together up to the early ’70s, so my best guess would be that this photo is from the mid-’60s,” says Carmine “CJ” DeCrescente II. But CJ’s father never forgot how to carry a tune on his clarinet; during his career, he was known to light up employee holiday parties and even jumped on stage with the live band at both his 80th and 90th birthday parties, not missing a beat.

“People were always amazed at how he could still be so good without any practice,” CJ says. “He loved playing whatever the tune was, but always seemed to play ‘Won’t you come home Bill Bailey'’ whenever he had the chance.”

DeCrescente passed away at the age of 94 in 2021, and Panza’s shuttered its lakeside digs last year. But the legacy of both lives on—in the company DeCrescente left to his children and the restaurant Ma Panza left to hers.