Notes from Saratoga Opening Weekend

Garden City NY

27 July, 2021

6:31 PM

Description

After a year of not having horse racing fans in attendance, NYRA was happy to be able to open for the 153rd meeting at Saratoga Race Track with no restrictions. Saratoga Springs has become one of the key summer destinations in New York state, predominantly during racing season. It has also become an excellent vacation spot year-round because of a now sprawling downtown area that will remind you of Garden City's Seventh Street. But if you're up there during race season be sure to make reservations or you could be out of luck or eating very late! If you are an early riser, I would suggest getting to the track for the early morning workouts, as well as jumping on a tram to the barn area for a quick glimpse of the work that goes into racing. Maybe even a sighting of that horse you will be rooting on later in the day! Tickets for reserved sections are mostly sold out but there is a big re-seller' market for some of the best seats in the house. My favorite thing about Saratoga is the picnic area – whether you are bold enough to make the mad dash as the gates open to reserve a table or can get a reserved table in the Miller Lite Picnic Paddock section. What could be better than bringing in your cooler, enjoying the weather under the trees and watching some great races. For a different view, sitting in the newly created Cutwater Stretch gives you a picture perfect view of the horses as they come around the last turn and into the stretch. And of course is you're looking for a seat to call home base during the day, getting a reserved grandstand seat is always an option. After the races while in town you won't go hungry or thirsty. If you're looking for an Italian restaurant that hits on all cylinders, I would highly recommend Solevo Kitchen, you have to try the eggplant chips – they are amazing! Looking for a casual dinner with great bar food there are plenty of options with two of my favorites being Druthers Brewing Co. on Broadway or Whitman Brewing Company a few blocks off Broadway with their take on Detroit style pizza. For a unique menu give Boca Bistro a try with their tapas menu, and a paella for 2-3 that is delicious. Weekend brunch is very popular and a tough seat to get, but I would suggest The Merc or Max London's. Both will help start your day off with a win! And if it's a NY style bagel with your morning coffee that you're craving, head over to Uncommon Grounds. Don't worry if the line is out the door, they move very fast. A go to spot a little outside of Broadway is The Olde Bryan Inn, great for the option of take out for those still avoiding crowds. If you're looking for a lunch spot off the beaten path, make it a point to get to Eddie F's New England Seafood for a lobster BLT or lobster grilled cheese, you won't be disappointed. Or you could just wait to get to the track and enjoy the many options that are offered there.