February 01, 2017
Resolutions are made to be broken, right? I mean, they're basically just a list of things people want to do but feel like they can't, which is why I've never subscribed to them. So as I thumb my nose at the tradition of resisting temptation, allow me to be the devil on your shoulder. I know you want to break that food indulgence resolution. Doesn't a heaping platter of chorizo sausage and plaintains topped with an enormous dollop of sour cream sound irresistible? Follow me, I know the way.
Start things right
I'll keep things light. This Saranac Lake indulgence tour only includes two of my favorite resturants in town, but there are plenty of others to choose from. Let's start with breakfast at Blue Moon Cafe, which is somewhere between a greasy spoon and fine dining. I love the atmosphere here, especially after their recent remodeling job, and the food is always interesting and top-notch.
If you're a coffee drinker, you'll definitely get to scope the place out because the java here is self-serve, meaning you'll never have to wait for a fill up. Insider's tip: I love coffee, but I'm not a big fan of the flavored varieties. That said, the Bavarian chocolate coffee at Blue Moon is one of the best things I've ever tasted. Seriously. Give it a shot.
On your way to the coffee carafes, be sure to check out the specials board. As much as I like the regular menu items, which include a whole slew of omelettes, scrambles, and lumberjack-breakfast delights, the specials are always interesting and worth trying.
I ordered the Mexican stand-off on my most recent trip, and my wife, Anna, ordered the fried green Benny. Both were as good as they sound.
Yes, that's two poached eggs served on two fried green tomato slices instead of English muffins. Delicious. But if you prefer English muffins, do try Blue Moon's — their breads are made from scratch.
My order consisted of rice, beans, eggs, and a slice of grilled turkey, all over a bed of spinach. And yes, that's a mug filled with Bavarian chocolate coffee behind the plate.
If you're not into breakfast food, stop by Blue Moon in the afternoon or evening — they also serve lunch and dinner, and it's just as good as their morning offerings.
End the day with a bang
Feeling inspired by the deliciousness of the Mexican stand-off, Anna and I visited Casa del Sol for dinner. This Mexican restaurant serves a bunch of common dishes like enchiladas and tacos, but that's not even half the menu. You'll also find duck adobo and frijoles, plancha style pescado, and carne asada. I haven't tried everything yet, but what I have had was delicious.
Everything at Casa starts with homemade chips and salsa, which never lasts. This was our second bowl of chips.
It's never long before the food arrives, though.
Before I get into our main courses, I should say don't let the above photo fool you. We got there early, around 5 p.m., and the place was absolutely packed by the time we left.
Anna ordered huevos rancheros, a dish that includes chorizo sausage, refried pinto beans, sweet potatoes, red salsa, and two fried eggs. It didn't disappoint.
I went for chorizo, batata, and plantain tostada, and as always it was amazing. If you order this, do squeeze lime over everything, and do make sure there's a gob of sour cream in every bite. It's there for a reason, after all.
It's worth stopping by Casa del Sol frequently, as they have regular food and drink specials. And when summer hits the outdoor bar and seating areas open up, creating a party-like vibe every night of the week.
There's no need to feel too guilty about indulgence in Saranac Lake. Instead, simply strap on a pair of snowshoes and climb one of the 6ers, or grab your skis and hit the trails. You can work off that hearty dinner and besides, there's always next year, right?
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