26 Best Restaurants in Saratoga Springs, NY

This article was written by local contributor Skye Burke & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Skye Burke

Jun 25, 2023 • 22 min read

As someone who's lived in Saratoga Springs, New York, for years, I've had the pleasure of experiencing the diverse culinary scene this charming town has to offer.

From cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments, there's something for everyone in this historic upstate New York destination.

It's truly a food lover's paradise, and I'm excited to share my personal recommendations for the best restaurants in Saratoga Springs, New York!

So grab a fork and join me as we embark on a mouthwatering journey through my favorite eateries and hidden gems in this beautiful town.

The District

One of my favorite spots to enjoy a nice evening out with friends in downtown Saratoga is The District.

This charming restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a fun weekend dinner.

During my last visit, my friends and I savored some incredibly delicious Kofta and Hummus appetizers, and each of our main courses was absolutely divine.

What truly sets The District apart is their attentive and friendly management, as well as the live music they feature during dinner.

It creates a lively and enjoyable dining experience that keeps us coming back for more.

I've also had the pleasure of trying their Sunday brunch, which was just as delightful, with fresh and scrumptious dishes and outstanding service.

Currently, The District is awaiting their liquor license, but they've been accommodating guests with a BYOB policy.

With the addition of a liquor license, I have no doubt this wonderful restaurant will become an even more popular hotspot in Saratoga.

Humpty Dumpty Ice Cream & Subs

One of my all-time favorite spots in the area has to be Humpty Dumpty Ice Cream & Subs.

I absolutely love their ice cream – they offer the best flavors that change every week, keeping things fresh and exciting.

I've made it a personal goal to try out all their unique flavors, and I'm never disappointed!

But the goodness doesn't stop with just the ice cream.

They also sell amazing subs that are perfect for a satisfying and quick meal.

I've introduced many of my friends to their subs, and now, it has become our go-to spot for a tasty and enjoyable meal.

Their excellent service, combined with the fantastic food, makes Humpty Dumpty Ice Cream & Subs a must-visit place for anyone in the area.

Whitman Brewing Company

This past weekend, I decided to try out Whitman Brewing Company with my partner.

We stopped by at lunchtime, and I must say, we were not disappointed!

I had the Blueberry beer while my partner tried the NEIPA "in suspension."

Both were so good that we each ended up having two each.

For our meal, we ordered the Abe Forman pizza special, which was absolutely delicious.

The crust was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with plenty of toppings and cheese to satisfy our cravings.

While we were there, we noticed that they also make their own bagels.

The overall atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with good lighting and a nice ambiance. We definitely felt that hometown comfort when we walked in.

Their Detroit-style pizza, homemade bagels, and variety of beers make it a must-try spot in Saratoga for any local or visitor.

KaffeeHouse

I absolutely adore visiting KaffeeHouse in my neighborhood.

It's my go-to place for a quick breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch.

The atmosphere there is so clean and cozy, making it a perfect spot to enjoy some delicious food or catch up on work with a pastry by my side.

I've tried quite a few items from their menu, but my personal favorites are the breakfast egg wrap and the roast beef sandwich.

And, of course, I cannot resist their freshly made pastries!

My kids love their chocolate croissants, and I've recently discovered ice cream coffee with an almond horn.

Trust me, dipping the almond horn in the coffee is a delightful treat you won't forget!

Triangle Diner

I must say, Triangle Diner is hands down the best diner I've ever been to.

Their food quality is top-notch, and the ever-changing menu keeps me coming back for more.

The attentive service is just another reason why I love this place – I never have to ask for a refill on my coffee, they've already taken care of it.

There's always a crowd here, which is a testament to how good it is.

So, it's no surprise that there's often a wait, but trust me, it's worth it.

This popular daytime eatery serves generous portions of classic diner fare in a charming, retro setting.

Their weekend brunch is my absolute favorite – especially their Benedicts.

With so many different styles to choose from, it can be hard to decide, but I've never been disappointed.

The blueberry pancake I once ordered was enormous, and the chorizo hash and cornbread muffin were simply divine.

9 Miles East Farm

I have to tell you about my experience at 9 Miles East Farm, one of my favorite hidden gems in Saratoga.

This farm-to-table restaurant uses all local ingredients, and some of them are even sourced from their own farm.

The dining room is on the smaller side, but it adds to the cozy atmosphere of the place.

I absolutely love their amazing brunch menu, which offers a variety of tapas-style options.

At just $18, it's a fantastic value for the quality of the food.

One of my go-to dishes is the Argentina Sandwich, which never disappoints.

If you're looking for a drink to pair with your meal, they offer fresh local apple cider, as well as a selection of local beer and wine.

I've also tried their takeout options, and I was thrilled with the perfectly cooked chicken and the delicious sauce and root vegetable mash.

Their pizza, salad, and blueberry bars were also outstanding – all perfect for a family dinner at a reasonable cost and made with clean ingredients.

Augie's Italian To Go

As a frequent customer of Augie's Family Style Italian To Go, I can confidently say that their takeout specials are truly a delight.

Not only do they provide generous portions, but the quality of the food is just as good as their sit-down restaurant counterpart.

I often order their dishes for my family and friends, and we all love the dining experience it brings to our home.

The ordering process is efficient as well.

I usually place my orders ahead of time through the Mealeo website before the restaurant even opens, and it's always ready for pickup when I arrive.

Dizzy Chicken Barbecue

One of the perks of living in Saratoga is the incredible food scene in the area, and Dizzy Chicken Barbecue certainly doesn't disappoint.

I've walked past it numerous times, always smelling the mouthwatering aroma of their expertly grilled meats.

When I finally got the chance to dine there, it was truly a gastronomical delight.

Their recommendations were spot on, and I was pleased to find that the barbecue sauce wasn't too heavy, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.

The ribs were exceptional, while the pork belly easily made it into my top 3 favorites.

I also appreciated the ample portions and pricing that I felt were quite fair, considering the culinary expertise and quality of ingredients.

The hot sandwiches were delicious, and the presentation of the dishes was a feast for the eyes too.

The roasted potatoes and coleslaw were perfect accompaniments to the main dishes, while the cornbread was hands down my favorite part of the meal.

It was cakey with a subtle hint of lemon, making it a delightful pairing with a cup of hot tea.

It's no wonder that Dizzy Chicken Barbecue has received glowing reviews from satisfied customers, including a group of Canadian linemen who were in the area to help restore power.

Their praises for the juicy chicken, amazing ribs, and outstanding coleslaw echo my own sentiments.

15 Church

There's a reason why I keep coming back to my favorite spot in town, 15 Church.

Every time I dine there, the experience is nothing short of spectacular.

I've visited this restaurant on several occasions, whether to celebrate anniversaries or birthdays, and it never fails to impress both me and my guests.

From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with an elegant atmosphere, perfect for any special occasion.

But what truly sets 15 Church apart is their undeniably amazing service and delicious food.

I remember starting with the French Batard, which was hands down the best bread I've ever had.

On one occasion, I tried their melt-in-your-mouth Tuna, and it was just as delicious as I expected.

The variety of dishes served here is impressive - from seafood and filets to lamb and craft cocktails.

My partner once ordered the Singapore Street Noodles with crispy pork belly, and she couldn't stop raving about how amazing they were.

Even their desserts, like the heavenly Zeppolis, are crafted to perfection, leaving you wanting more.

Seneca Restaurant

The other day, I decided to treat myself to a night out in the beautiful Saratoga Springs.

I had heard great things about Seneca Restaurant and finally decided to give it a try.

Let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the rustic-chic ambiance, which set the perfect tone for a relaxing evening.

I started my meal with their lobster Bao buns as an appetizer, and they were truly delicious.

I've tried many appetizers around town, but this was something different that really stood out.

For my main course, I opted for the Caribbean jerk chicken, and it was cooked to perfection.

The dish came with an entire half chicken served over mashed sweet potatoes - such a delightful combination of flavors!

Apart from the amazing food, the cocktails at Seneca are definitely worth trying.

Their creativity and use of top-notch ingredients make for a refreshing and enjoyable drink.

After my meal, I took a stroll around the charming town of Saratoga Springs, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.

The Mouzon House

I've always wanted to try The Mouzon House but never really had the chance until recently.

And let me tell you, it was absolutely worth the wait!

I highly recommend checking out their website here to learn more about their fascinating history, dating back to the 1800s.

The Mouzon House offers farm-to-table Creole dishes and wines, making it a unique dining experience in the area.

I love the fact that the menu is filled with locally sourced ingredients from organic or sustainable farms. Even the shrimp and crawfish are wild-caught!

The ambiance of the place is simply amazing, with a cozy and romantic vibe.

I especially enjoyed sitting on the porch, but the indoor seating was equally charming.

Solevo Kitchen

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Solevo Kitchen in Saratoga, and I must say, it lived up to its reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in town.

My partner and I decided to treat ourselves to a romantic dinner, and we were not disappointed.

The moment we walked in, we were greeted with a cozy atmosphere and the delightful aromas of Italian cuisine.

We made reservations beforehand, which I highly recommend as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

We started our meal with the Eggplant Chips, which were crispy and flavorful, followed by the freshest Oysters I've ever had.

For our main courses, I had the Sunday Sauce, which features the most delicious meatballs I've ever tasted.

My partner had the Spaghetti with Clams, and the entrees came out piping hot and bursting with flavor.

I also couldn't resist trying their scallop dish, which turned out to be the best I've ever had.

Brasserie Benelux

I recently visited Brasserie Benelux and had a fantastic dining experience.

For my meal, I tried the potato leak soup and the French onion chicken schnitzel, both of which were perfectly cooked and delicious.

The dessert, a strawberry shortcake, was the perfect way to end my meal.

The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients and serves a wonderful selection of European beers and wines.

The service and atmosphere are warm and inviting, making it a perfect addition to Saratoga Springs.

Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagels

One of my favorite places to hang out and grab a bite in Saratoga is Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagels.

The atmosphere is so warm and welcoming, with local art on the walls and a spacious indoor/outdoor seating area.

Whenever I visit, I usually order their delicious egg, avocado, and veggie cream cheese bagel, and I can't resist their oatmeal raisin walnut cookies!

Their peach mango smoothie is also a refreshing treat on a hot day.

I've noticed some reviews mentioning issues with wrong orders, so I just make sure to confirm my order twice and haven't had any problems.

The outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying the nice weather, and the indoor area has plenty of seating for when it's colder or rainy.

I love that they have a variety of menu options, like the everything bagel avocado toast and cold brew coffee with a shot of mocha.

One thing that really sets Uncommon Grounds apart is their house-roasted coffee and homemade bagels.

The quality and size of their bagels are impressive, especially for the price.

Hot chai tea is another one of my favorite beverages to enjoy while I'm there.

On weekends, the place can be quite popular, but the line moves quickly, and tables usually free up just in time for your food to be ready.

Saratoga Coffee Traders

One of my favorite spots to grab a morning coffee is Saratoga Coffee Traders. It's a compact and quaint little hangout that offers organic coffee, delicious sandwiches, and amazing cookies.

The front patio is a lovely place to sit and enjoy the morning sun.

The last time I visited, I tried the Carousel breakfast sandwich, which had a fantastic combination of salmon, bacon, sriracha, and other delightful ingredients.

My friend ordered a latte, and he absolutely loved it.

I have to say, their latte list is quite extensive!

On another occasion, I tried "The Mainer" breakfast sandwich, which wasn't as impressive as the Carousel but still quite decent.

What I particularly appreciate about this place is their focus on sustainability.

If you bring your own mug, they offer a discount, which I think is a great incentive to be eco-friendly.

The crowd at this place is always bustling, which speaks volumes about the quality of their coffee and food.

Their menu offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, and the line to order is consistently long.

While we were there for over an hour, people kept pouring in to get their caffeine fix.

On a side note, they also have a coffee flight option, which allows you to try out multiple flavors in one go.

Compton's Restaurant

One of my favorite places to grab breakfast in Saratoga Springs is Compton's Restaurant.

This retro-inspired diner not only offers a warm and cozy atmosphere but also incredibly fast service - I swear, one time, I barely finished placing my order when the food arrived at the table!

Their bacon is always cooked to perfection, and there's something about their pancakes that just transports me back to my childhood with every bite.

Whenever I have friends or family in town, I make it a point to take them to Compton's, and they never leave disappointed.

Scallions

I absolutely love dining at Scallions, their vivid decor and cute, homey touches create such a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The American menu has something for everyone, even offering vegan options.

My favorite dish is the falafel wrap, which is packed with flavor, and their fried green tomato is simply delicious.

I recently celebrated my birthday there and was impressed to see the place fully packed, even on a weekday lunchtime.

Their malted chocolate caramel pie was a delightful dessert to share with my partner, and the non-alcoholic beer selection was a pleasant surprise.

One thing to keep in mind when planning to dine at Scallions is to make a reservation, regardless of the time or day.

The place is quite popular and can get busy, so reserving a table in advance is a smart move.

Taquero

Every time I walk downtown, there's one place that I never miss to make a stop, and that's Taquero.

As a food lover, I'm always on the hunt for the best tacos and donuts in town, and this magical place never disappoints.

I still remember the very first time I tried their Korean pork taco.

It was loaded with tender, juicy meat that dripped with grease, and that's exactly how I knew it was a great taco.

Since then, I've made it a point to try each of their meat options, and they're all just as mouthwatering.

The birria tacos are among my favorites, perfect for a mid-week treat.

But Taquero isn't just about tacos - their donuts are just as amazing.

The fruity pebbles donuts taste even better than the actual cereal, and the maple bacon donuts remind me of a delicious pancake breakfast.

Whenever I treat myself to their mini donuts, I love discovering new flavors and can't resist the fruity pebbles ones.

King's Tavern

One of my favorite places to spend an evening in Saratoga Springs is King's Tavern.

I absolutely love their Tuesday night trivia at 8 pm and the karaoke sessions on Fridays from 8 to 11 pm.

The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the service is amazing.

I remember one afternoon, my partner and I were craving a quick bite and a drink, so we decided to head to King's Tavern, even though the parking lot was packed.

We initially tried finding another place near Saratoga Springs but couldn't find any parking spots.

Eventually, we went back to King's Tavern and managed to find a spot.

As soon as we walked in, the bartender jokingly announced that he had just given the last call and the kitchen was closed.

After the initial shock, we shared a good laugh and proceeded to order.

I opted for their house-made chicken tortilla soup, which was simply fantastic.

My partner tried the hot dogs with French fries and couldn't stop raving about the fries.

What I particularly enjoy about King's Tavern is that it feels like a local sports pub where everyone seems to know each other.

Although it can get quite loud, especially when groups of friends gather and chat, it adds to the overall experience.

Comfort Kitchen

One of my go-to spots in town, whenever I crave some delicious American comfort food, is Comfort Kitchen.

They serve thoughtfully sourced dishes, and their beer and wine selections perfectly complement the meals.

I remember one rainy morning when serendipity led me to this modern, relaxed restaurant for breakfast - the sausage and bacon were top-notch, and their Greek yogurt bowl was surprisingly filling with lots of fruit.

I couldn't help but come back for more - their brisket sandwich made with locally raised beef was insanely juicy, and the Pierogies were absolutely mouthwatering.

The atmosphere is laid-back, with cool music and a good vibe - it's definitely the kind of place that makes you feel right at home.

Plus, their service is quick and efficient, so you can enjoy your meal without any delays.

I've even brought my family here on several occasions, and they all agree that Comfort Kitchen is a total winner for satisfying those comfort food cravings.

Olde Bryan Inn

Whenever I crave some hearty American fare with a touch of history, I always head to the Olde Bryan Inn.

The old stone house has Revolutionary-era ties and makes you feel like you've stepped back over a century in time.

As someone who appreciates history, I find it fascinating to dine in a place that has seen so many interesting times.

Their French Onion Soup is hands-down the best I have ever tasted, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting.

While I found the New York Strip to be a bit lacking in flavor, the chicken and meatball sub definitely made up for it.

The mozzarella sticks are fried to perfection, and the poutine with short ribs is a unique and tasty dish, even if the fries are thicker than expected and cheese curds are missing.

While the prices may not be as high as you might expect for such a historic and delicious dining destination, it's worth every penny for the amazing food and atmosphere.

Osteria Danny

One of my favorite spots for a delicious meal is Osteria Danny.

Their modern and classic Italian fare never disappoints, and the convivial atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date.

Just last week, I went there for dinner and had the chicken Romano.

It was cooked to perfection and served in a mouth-watering sauce with bacon bits, small round pasta, peas, and carrots.

The side salad was fresh and a great complement to the dish.

I've also heard rave reviews about their pistachio pesto pasta, so that's definitely on my list to try next time.

I've enjoyed everything I've tried at Osteria Danny, including the pork chop, prime rib, pan-seared scallops, and indulgent desserts like peanut butter pie and coconut cream pie.

Pennell's Restaurant

Ever since my parents moved to Saratoga, they couldn't stop talking about this amazing Italian restaurant they found.

So, when I visited them, they took me to Pennell's Restaurant, and let me tell you, they were absolutely right.

This place has been a neighborhood institution since 1922, and it's no surprise why.

Their house salad dressing and lasagna are simply the best I've ever had.

It's become a family tradition for us, and every time we have friends or relatives visiting from out of town, we make sure to take them to Pennell's for an amazing dining experience.

The tomato sauce is simply divine, and the Clams Blanco is, hands down, one of the best dishes I've ever tasted.

Pair that with their fantastic wine selection, and you've got the perfect meal.

Hamlet & Ghost

One of my go-to spots in town has to be Hamlet & Ghost.

This trendy spot, set in a former feed & grain store, offers a delightful combination of seasonal fare and craft cocktails that are perfect for any occasion.

Whenever I've dined here, I've been impressed by the variety of dishes on the menu.

Some nights, I would order a table full of small plates shareable, and each plate would be beautifully presented and expertly finished.

I can confidently say I've never had a bad experience here.

Now, let's not forget about the cocktails.

With a seasonally rotating food & drink menu, I've tried many delicious concoctions, and I can't wait to go back and try more.

And, as a little insider tip, make sure to save room for dessert and an espresso martini – trust me, they're just as delicious and packed with unique flavors.

Taverna Novo

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Taverna Novo, an Italian gem located in a quiet neighborhood of Saratoga.

As soon as I entered, I was captivated by the beautiful outdoor patio, complete with twinkling lights and plenty of shade.

My friends and I decided to order two pizzas to share, and they were more than enough to satisfy our group of four.

The bartender at Taverna Novo was incredibly pleasant and attentive, taking pride in the establishment.

It was refreshing to see someone genuinely care about the quality of service they were providing.

In addition to the fantastic service, the food was absolutely amazing, and the portions were quite generous.

We were also impressed with the extensive wine list, which was quite remarkable for a small restaurant.

Taverna Novo is a delightful boutique restaurant that offers a haven of deliciousness amidst the more touristy options in Saratoga.

I feel lucky to have this authentic Italian restaurant in my town, and I can't wait to go back and try more dishes on their menu.

Fat Paulie's

Every once in a while, I find myself craving a good Italian sub, and I've got to say Fat Paulie's Delicatessen in Saratoga Springs has become my go-to spot.

This place is part deli and part shop, offering everything you might need and want to go with your food.

They have a big drink and chip selection, which is always a plus for me!

The service at Fat Paulie's is pretty good, and the sandwiches are even better.

I love their soft bread, fresh-cut veggies, and generous portions of cold cuts.

Sometimes, the sandwiches are almost too much food for me, but they're so delicious that I can't help myself.

I also enjoy their coleslaw and grilled cauliflower, which are light and tasty.

Final Thoughts

With such a diverse range of restaurants and eateries to choose from, every meal in Saratoga Springs, New York, feels like a new adventure.

From the cozy atmosphere of Olde Bryan Inn to the innovative dishes at Seneca Restaurant, there's always something to satisfy my taste buds.

As the city continues to grow and evolve, I am excited to discover even more hidden gems and share my love for this vibrant food scene with friends and family.

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