When people think of food in New York State, they’re quick to think of New York City, and rightfully so. The list of lauded restaurants within the city’s radius is long and winding. However, there’s a new foodie-haven entering the NYS scene — Saratoga Springs. Sweet Mimi’s Café took home the 2025 New York State Restaurant Association RISE Award for Best Restaurant in Eater NY, with Panza’s finishing as a finalist. Salt & Char has been awarded the Wine SpectatorAward of Excellence for 8 consecutive years. Hattie’s earned OpenTable’s “Diner’s Choice Award” and Chianti Ristorante snagged Tripadvisor’s “Traveler’s Choice Award.” Safe to say, the restaurants in the idyllic Spa City know how to keep diners happy. With a population under 30,000 people, the number of delicious spots seems unreal, but more and more people are learning the Spa City is beyond just for the horse racing fans and culture vultures, it’s now becoming a place for great eats.
15 Church
Within a historic building that once stood vacant for more than two decades, 15 Church is brimming with life and flavor in the heart of Downtown Saratoga Springs. Brought to life by the brilliant minds of Thomas Burke and Paul McCullough,the acclaimed restaurant boasts elevated American cuisine with European influences, featuring the best ingredients including fresh seafood flown in daily and prime aged beef. Executive Chef Michael Mastantuono is a true master in the kitchen, holding his first head chef position when he was all of 20 years old. With their beloved starters (Grilled Spanish Octopus and Shrimp Calabrese) and standout entrées (Filet Mignon), you can’t go wrong with a meal at 15 Church.
15 Church St, Saratoga Springs, NY
1.4 mi from SAR
Hamlet & Ghost
Fittingly located in an 1870s feed and grain store, Hamlet & Ghost has been feeding Saratoga foodies for years. The New American restaurant is focused on bringing the classics to a new level. If hearty and delicious is what you’re looking for then look no further than either their Duck Fat French Fries or Bistro Steak with a Crab Bearnaise. Best part? You get to wash it all down with incredible craft cocktails. Try the Nectar of the Gods, a combination of wheated bourbon, Hibiscus mead, Cocchi rosa and bitters or the Fennel Martini made with Hudson Valley vodka infused with fennel or the Sea of Cortez made with cachaca, lime, blackberry and Curaçao. And if you’re not a cocktail person, the extensive wine list will definitely have something that suits your celebratory mood.
4 Caroline St, Saratoga Springs, NY
1.6 mi from SAR
Salt & Char
Located in the iconic, award-winning Adelphi Hotel, Salt & Char is staking its claim as the Spa City’s premier steakhouse. Despite the history of the building it sits in, this spot remains a modern embodiment of elegant and sophisticated design. With steaks and seafood sourced from local farms and purveyors—the filet mignon melts in your mouth—there’s no question that you’ll be thinking about this meal for weeks. Then there’s the classic steakhouse sides from mac & cheese (available with lobster) to baked potatoes served with a caviar crema. Even better, the popular eatery just went through a massive renovation in 2025 so you can enjoy a refined dining experience in their updated dining room. If you’ve ever wanted to treat yourself to an unforgettable meal, Salt & Char is the way to go.
365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY
1.5 mi from SAR
Osteria Danny
Looking for the undisputed best Italian restaurant in Saratoga? Look no further than Osteria Danny. Step inside and feel like you’re a part of the family as smiling faces of generations adorn the walls. The restaurant focuses on two simple goals: creating original dishes infused with tradition and the importance of simplicity. The intimate trattoria—owned by the affable couple Danny (executive chef) and Patti Petrosino (front of house)—features a constantly evolving menu centered around seasonal products. Some past highlights include Danny’s Porky Sauce with fresh garganelli, simmered pork, cherry peppers, tomato and stracciatella and Pan-Seared scallops with lobster risotto and blood orange panna. With an ever-changing menu you’ll never know quite what to expect, just that it’ll be really great, and you’ll leave deeply satisfied. Bravissimo!
26 Henry St, Saratoga Springs, NY
1.6 mi from SAR
