Ten Places to Eat in Saratoga This Meet

Events / Travel
Farm-to-table dining, like the roast leg of lamb above, has become increasingly popular in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (WikiMedia Commons/Sarah Stierch)

Saratoga is famous for its historic horse racing meet, but it’s also home to some of the most delicious food you’ll ever eat. If you’re heading to upstate New York this summer, here are some restaurants you’re going to want to try!

Enjoy Belle Premium American Vodka, the "official vodka" of America’s Best Racing

1. Hattie’s Chicken Shack

Winner winner chicken brunch!!!! #SWFF @magicof spac

A post shared by Anne Burrell (@chefanneburrell) on

Hattie’s chicken. There aren’t superlatives enough to express how much I love this place. The fried chicken is unforgettably good, and it’s my first stop in Saratoga every year. If you love comfort food, Hattie’s is going to be right up your alley. Even better: Hattie’s has an outpost at the track, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience their magical fried chicken.

2. Mrs. London’s Bakery

It’s Friday. We all deserve some coffee and sweets. Right? - @__just__great

A post shared by Mrs. London's (@mrslondons) on

Pastry lovers, rejoice! Mrs. London’s has been serving Saratoga delicious baked goods for more than 20 years, and it’s still the best place in town to get everything from croissants to macaroons. I’ve been known to pick up a box of baked goods to take home to New York with me despite the fact that New York is packed with bakeries. Seriously: it’s so, so good.

3. Five Points

Walking past it, you wouldn’t think that Five Points Grocery is anything more than a neighborhood bodega; don’t trust that instinct. Inside, you’ll find a deli counter that serves some of the best sandwiches in town. Their menu is a tour de force of heart-stoppingly delicious creations; I’m here all day for the Clark, and the Lincoln is another personal favorite.

4. The Blue Hen

The other side of the food spectrum from Five Points is the Blue Hen: this is true fine dining, offering continental cuisine made from locally sourced products. It’s on the pricey side, but if you’re looking for the ultimate brunch spot, this is it.

5. The Wishing Well

The Wishing Well offers classic American steakhouse fare, but the real reason to go there is to see all of the horse racing luminaries: the Well is a hub for Hall of Famers and the track glitterati, all there to talk horses and enjoy some truly delicious food. Everything on the menu is great, but be sure to order the corn while you’re there: it’s local, and it’s so fresh and sweet that it tastes like the Platonic ideal of produce.

6.  Mouzon House

Offering farm-to-table Creole cuisine, Mouzon House is a must-try spot if you’re a fan of bayou cooking. Everything is fresh, and the menu offers Louisiana classics as well as some innovative creations sure to please the curious epicure.

7. Sweet Mimi’s

3 dates in 1 weekend

A post shared by starr phillips ♡ 林星雨 (@starrphillips) on

Sometimes you just want a decadent breakfast. If you find yourself feeling the urge in Saratoga, head over to Sweet Mimi’s for some of the fluffiest pancakes and waffles you’ll ever have. The restaurant isn’t huge, but the portions sure are, so bring your appetite!

8. El Mexicano

If you’re in the mood for affordable, delicious Mexican food while you’re at the Spa, head over to El Mexicano. It’s a (very) short walk from the track, and it’s a popular dinner spot for racing fans. Grab some enchiladas and a margarita to make it a perfect summer night.

9. Olde Bryan Inn

If you’re a history buff, you’re going to want to check out the Olde Bryan Inn. Established in 1773, the inn and restaurant has been a Saratoga staple for centuries, but their incredibly inclusive menu is thoroughly modern with food for vegetarians and vegans as well as gluten-free options.

10. Oseteria Danny

Fresh Tomato & Burrata! Simple and delicious! #osteriadanny

A post shared by @ osteriadanny on

Oseteria Danny hasn’t been on the Saratoga scene long, but it rose rapidly to the top ranks of Spa restaurants thanks to its innovative American Italian menu courtesy of Chef Petrosino. While the restaurant is pricey, it’s worth it if you hit a big bet; just be sure to make a reservation, because Oseteria Danny is a very popular destination during racing months.

newsletter sign-up

Stay up-to-date with the best from America's Best Racing!

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram TikTok YouTube