Dinner and Romance in Saratoga Springs

Romance can be found everywhere in Saratoga Springs. If you are in the mood for fine dining and a romantic start to your evening then head to one of these three amazingly romantic restaurants.

Olde Bryan Inn
123 Maple Ave
518-587-2990
www.oldebryaninn.com

Both historic and romantic in nature, the Olde Bryan Inn is a favorite among many Saratogians. The first thing you notice when you enter this establishment is the large wooden tables. The tables give you the feeling of an era gone by. Hanging plants and expressive artwork make up the decor at each table/booth. By repeating the same theme throughout the restaurant it gives you the feeling that the place is set just for you and your date despite each setting being the same.

The menu here ranges from light options of salad and soup to a more hearty choice like their Balsamic Bleu Filet Mignon. Dozens of other food choices are represented throughout the vegetarian menu, sandwich selection, and a plethora of delicious desserts. The prices are great for couples on any budget. A mere $10 can get you a sandwich and salad or you can spend an upward of $27 for a New York State Strip Steak.

Longfellows Hotel Restaurant and Conference Center
500 Union Street
518-587-0108
www.longfellows.com

Longfellows offers all the charm of Saratoga wrapped into a beautiful setting. Enjoy a romantic meal for two and then head over to a lavish hotel room right on the same grounds. This restaurant is warm and charming. The brick walls and fire places remind us of the long standing history that Longfellows has in Saratoga. The atmosphere is relaxed; casual dress is appropriate and encouraged as you sit back and sip on superb wine. All menu items are prepared with the freshest ingredients and when available, Longfellows, likes to use locally grown vegetables in their dishes. Just to give you an idea of how romantic this place is, Longfellows host many weddings throughout the year.

There are over five different dining options. For a romantic meal I would suggest two places. The wine cellar with fireplace is a great option during the winter months or the rainy days of spring. The warmth of the fire place and the shadows it casts on the brick is extremely romantic. During the summer months the courtyard is the place to be. The tables are placed so you enjoy an intimate setting with your date among amazing blooming flowers.

The menu offers everything that one can desire. Tavern fare, amazing home made soups and appetizers, to out of this world seafood. The Lollipop Shrimp Tempura (jumbo shrimp dipped in fresh herbs and spices) and Kentucky Bourbon Salmon Filet are must haves.

Chianti il Ristorante
www.chiantiristorante.com
18 Division Street
518-580-1081

What is more romantic than Italian cooking in a sophisticated setting? Head over to Chianti's for an incredible night to remember. Chianti's offers a small intimate setting; not a lot of tables. Since the restaurant itself does not seat large amounts of people at one time (given the small space) you can expect to wait at the bar. The bar is large and comfy and offers many specialty drinks. Take a peek into the open kitchen as you wait and order and appetizer.

Everything in this restaurant screams romance. The wait staff offer impeccable service. They are all dressed in black and every server is educated about food, wine, and the fine art of serving. Metal accents along the walls, a beautifully painted ceiling, long golden drapes, and dim lighting only adds to the ambiance. The menu is full of great Italian dishes. All the menu items are in Italian so if you would like to impress your date before heading out take a quick look at the website. Each menu item is listed along with the pronunciation. The website is really informative, they even suggest what the right wine is to complement your meal.

I would recommend the Risotto Asparagi Gamberi which is a delicious combination of tomato and basil, asparagus, and shrimp for $18. For dessert you cannot go wrong with the Tortino di Cioccolato which is this unique flour less chocolate cake topped with wild berry coulis and smooth whipped cream. This plentiful dessert only cost $8. Chianti's also offers take out if you want to grab your meal to go. Want to learn how to make the perfect Italian dish? For $45 a person you can take cooking lessons from the Chef himself!

Sources:
www.oldebryaninn.com
www.longfellows.com
www.chiantiristorante.com