Winter Foodie Scene

As you walk down the streets of Saranac Lake, you will find a plethora of different food options. But it’s hard to tell what they offer simply by their name or even what their storefront looks like. It’s especially hard to tell what restaurant to choose and if they will be a good fit for your wants and needs. Well, I am here to help you out. I am going to give you a little inside peak of each of the eating establishments that are open for business all year and especially during your next winter vacation.

I have split the local eating establishments into 12 different categories for your convenience. Asian, Breakfast, Casual American, Fine Dining, French-American, Farm-To-Table, Italian, Mexican, Pizza, Pub Style, Sandwiches and last but not least Vegetarian. Also look out for my recommendations for a good Gluten-Free meal as well.

Asian

China Jade is the perfect main street Chinese food restaurant. Here, you may ‘take-out’, ‘dine in’ or have it delivered. They offer traditional Chinese fare, no MSG and are known for its late night service. It has a family-friendly vibe, and it's always a pleasure eating inside too!

Breakfast

Blue Moon Café, a local favorite on Main Street known for their gourmet coffee bar selections and laid back atmosphere. But they are much, much, more than simply coffee. They baked homemade fresh muffins, english muffins and breads daily. They make incredible buttermilk pancakes from scratch, delicious omelets with local farm fresh eggs and their own house cured Norwegian salmon served NY style with a bagel, cream cheese, red onion and capers. This is the place where you can get a frothy cappuccino or a cup of gourmet tea or coffee and a great breakfast while just relaxing and enjoying yourself. Also, check them out for lunch and dinner, they have a great lunch, dinner, beer and wine menu. Insider tip… They have Gluten-Free options!

Casual American

The Downhill Grill is a great family restaurant. I tend to refer to it as that because they offer a little something for everyone. They have some Italian, Mexican, seafood and simple sandwich fare food. This way if one person wants a great beer batter fish fry, another wants a nice crispy chimichanga and you want pasta, this is the place to go. They have great food, a fun atmosphere, a nice bar area and great service - what’s not to love?

In Lake Clear, a few minutes from Saranac Lake is Charlie’s Inn. If you are looking for a great time snowmobiling on your next vacation, then stop by at Charlie’s Inn. They pride themselves on being snowmobiler friendly and have a enjoyable menu to offer up to any riders (or anyone for that matter).

Fine Dining

Lake Clear Lodge & Retreat is an old Adirondack Great Camp set on beautiful Lake Clear a few minutes from downtown Saranac Lake. The Lake Clear Lodge offers an array of options, from a home cooked breakfast, a romantic dinner for two, a wine and beer cellar tour, an interpretive dinner and more. In the wintertime, you can take a romantic horse drawn sleigh ride through their beautiful snow covered property after your delicious meal. The Hohmeyer’s are friendly, accommodating people that will pretty much do whatever you would like to make your experience with them as incredible and unforgettable as possible. They will make you want to come back over and over again.

Read about another bloggers great breakfast adventure at the Lake Clear Lodge.

Closer to town is the Red Fox Restaurant, a nice, sit down Italian restaurant on Rt. 3 on your way toward Tupper Lake. They offer a great selection of mouthwatering dishes that will leave you wanting more.  Whether you and your significant other are looking for a nice night out or you want to treat the family to a meal you won’t forget, you can’t go wrong with the Red Fox.

French-American

Here in downtown Saranac Lake, we have a strong connection to French culture and cuisine. We believe it or not have a ‘Sister City’ in Nohain, France. And being so close to Montreal, Canada, we have many French speaking visitors, so it only makes sense that out little town offers up some French speaking hospitality. The Left Bank Café is an adorable little café downtown that offers up some delicious authentic crepes, rich wines and friendly environment. The manager of the café is a lovely lady that speaks fluent French and English which allows you to feel comfortable if you speak French. The owners wanted to fulfill their dream of bringing a little of their home in France to the Adirondacks.

Farm-To-Table

There are a few fantastic farm to table breakfast, lunch, and dinner locations that bring in the finest ingredients from local businesses that utilize the land around us. Nori's Village Market has what you're craving for breakfast and lunch, while the Fiddlehead Bistro is a great option for some evening dining by the running Saranac River.  

Italian

We have five great options for Italian food here; Belvedere Restaurant, La Bella Ristorante, Little Italy and Nonna Fina (also don’t forget Red Fox mentioned earlier). Belvedere has been family owned since 1933 and has been serving up homemade Italian favorites ever since. Known best for their delicious meatballs. La Bella is not only serving up great Italian entrees, but also fresh seafood and large juicy steaks that will make your mouth water. Little Italy is centrally located in Downtown Saranac Lake serving up great pizza, delectable dishes of pasta and the best garlic knots that you will ever have.  And last but not least, Nonna Fina offers up the best lakeside dining in town. With large picture windows overlooking beautiful Lake Flower and tasty meals, you will not be disappointed. Also, Nonna Fina has gluten free pasta options available.

Mexican

Yes, you read correctly we even have a Mexican restaurant (or two, Downhill Grill offers Mexican options, mentioned earlier). Borracho Taco is the perfect place to stop in and enjoy some food after a night out on the town. They are open well into the night and are offering some great late night snacks and beer.

Pizza

In addition to Little Italy, there is another option for some great pizza. Owl’s Nest is serving up some great thin crust pizza and typical pizza place munchies. You should try their slices, wings and poutine (a Montreal favorite of French fries, brown gravy and mozzarella cheese deliciousness)!

Pub Style

Grizle T's is a local hangout with a great bar and a tasty food! Try one of there many sandwiches, or their uber-popular fry plate!

Sandwiches

Looking for a place to fill up with soup and a sandwich? You need to come to Lakeview Deli. Lakeview is another family owned business that prides themselves on friendly service and fresh products. While visiting make sure to try their homemade soups, fresh artisan’s bread and fresh selection of Boar’s Head meats that will leave you wanting more. And if you’re feeling frisky, grab a beer from their extensive craft beer selection. You won’t be disappointed!

Vegetarian

Many places in town offer vegetarian options, but Nori’s Village Market (despite being a grocery market) offers a broad selection of vegetarian and vegan lunch options. They have a cooler full of salads, wraps and other daily specials. Nori’s is a local, organic and natural food store. It is unlike any other grocery store you have ever been in. So stop in, walk around, grab a scrumptious vegetarian meal to enjoy!

So no matter if you are looking for a nice sit down romantic dinner for two or a night out on the town with your friends, Saranac Lake has it all. So when you are planning your vacation, make sure to stop in and try some of these awesome eating establishments!