Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs is more than a picturesque stretch lined with Victorian mansions and leafy trees. For savvy locals and visitors alike, it’s an essential destination for some of the city’s most distinctive dining experiences. From cozy cafés to upscale bistros and the occasional food truck, Union Avenue offers a culinary adventure, blending Saratoga tradition with contemporary flair—all set between Skidmore College and the famed Saratoga Race Course.
The Heart of Union Avenue: Where to Begin
Start your food journey at the intersections of Union Avenue and East Avenue, a cluster where both historic institutions and modern innovations thrive. This area, just a stone’s throw from Congress Park, is ideal for discovering the neighborhood’s unique blend of gastronomy and charm.
Standout Restaurants: Classics and Trendsetters
- The Brook Tavern (139 Union Ave)
*Cuisine:* American gastropub
*Price Range:* $$–$$$
Set in a converted early 1900s grocery store, The Brook Tavern is a staple for Saratoga foodies. With its warm vibe and a menu that highlights creative takes on pub favorites, it’s equally beloved for crispy calamari starters and decadent lobster mac and cheese. Don’t miss their Sunday brunch—brioche French toast next to the open windows is pure Union Ave magic.
- 1882 Bar & Grill at the Saratoga Race Course
*Cuisine:* Classic American, with a racetrack twist
*Price Range:* $$
Open seasonally but worth planning around, this iconic spot within the grandstand offers themed dishes and impeccable people-watching. The fried chicken sandwich and Saratoga chips, paired with a signature cocktail, make for the ultimate summer lunch.
- Pennell’s Restaurant (284 Jefferson St, just off Union Ave)
*Cuisine:* Old-school Italian
*Price Range:* $$
Family-owned for over 100 years, Pennell’s is a short stroll from Union Avenue and a must for homestyle Italian fans. House-made pastas, tender veal parm, and their renowned red sauce have lured generations of locals.
Cafés & Bakeries: Morning Magic and Sweet Retreats
- Saratoga Coffee Traders (447 Broadway, close to Union Ave intersection)
*Cuisine:* Café fare
*Price Range:* $–$$
Whether you’re fueling up for a day at the track or enjoying a lazy morning, Saratoga Coffee Traders delivers. Their locally roasted beans brew the city’s most aromatic lattes, and their breakfast sandwiches, like the spicy “Bagel Supreme,” are worthy of a detour.
- Mrs. London’s Bakery (464 Broadway, easy walk from Union Ave)
*Cuisine:* French-inspired pastry shop
*Price Range:* $$
This beloved bakery is where Union Avenue’s old-world heritage shines. Imagine flaky almond croissants, ethereal macarons, and tarts that rival Parisian pâtisseries—all crafted daily. The cozy environment and friendly staff make lingering over a cappuccino irresistible.
Food Trucks & Seasonal Finds
- The Racing City Brewing Food Truck (250 Excelsior Ave, often parked near Union Ave during events)
*Cuisine:* American street food
*Price Range:* $
Track season transforms Union Avenue with a parade of food trucks. Racing City Brewing’s truck is a must for smash burgers and creative street tacos. Grab a brew from their selection and catch a summer evening concert nearby.
- Leaning Tower of Pizza (roaming Union Ave near the Race Course grounds)
*Cuisine:* Classic pizzeria on wheels
*Price Range:* $–$$
This locally-loved food truck is a secret among students and late-night snackers. Their New York-style slices are crispy, cheesy, and generous—ideal for a casual bite between races or after an evening stroll.
Hidden Gems: Local Favorites Off the Beaten Path
- Scallions Restaurant (44 Lake Ave, an easy walk from Union Avenue)
*Cuisine:* Inventive American bistro
*Price Range:* $$–$$$
Step a bit off Union Avenue to find Scallions, famous for its vibrant salads, vegetarian-friendly entrées, and top-notch homemade desserts. The eclectic décor (think local art and quirky place settings) is as delightful as the seasonal menu.
- Tonino’s Pizzeria (75 Regent St, steps from Union Avenue’s southern edge)
*Cuisine:* Italian, Pizza
*Price Range:* $$
Tonino’s is an under-the-radar favorite. Their wood-fired pizzas are perfectly blistered, and the creamy burrata salad rivals anything downtown. Locals love it for takeout during a busy weeknight or a relaxed meal on their patio.
Sweets & Treats: The Icing on the Cake
- Ben & Jerry’s Saratoga (34 Phila St, near Union Ave’s downtown gateway)
*Cuisine:* Ice Cream parlor
*Price Range:* $
Cool off with a scoop (or two) of Cherry Garcia or Phish Food at Saratoga’s Ben & Jerry’s. Pop in after a long walk down Union Avenue—it’s a tradition for families finishing a day at Congress Park or the track.
- Saratoga Candy Co. (5 Washington St, a pleasant walk from Union Ave)
*Cuisine:* Old-fashioned candy store
*Price Range:* $
For sweet tooths—and gifts to bring home—Saratoga Candy Co. is legendary. From chocolate “horseshoes” to old-fashioned fudge and novelty treats, this whimsical shop reflects Saratoga’s playful spirit.
Local Food Traditions: Saratoga Chips & Race Course Classics
Union Avenue’s food scene is more than just individual restaurants; it’s about the heritage dishes you can only find here:
- Saratoga Chips: The original potato chip was born in Saratoga Springs, and you’ll find homemade versions at several Union Avenue spots, especially during track season.
- Track day menus: Union Avenue eateries roll out special menus and picnic boxes for race fans—perfect for enjoying classic fried chicken, lobster rolls, or a “Pink Sheet” cocktail while mingling with the crowd.
Why Union Avenue Shines
This stretch is vibrant, walkable, and loaded with culinary character. From sun-drenched brunches at The Brook Tavern, to sweet stops at Mrs. London’s, to unexpected finds at seasonal food trucks, Union Avenue delivers an authentic Saratoga Springs experience. The neighborhood’s food scene celebrates decades-old traditions and the new wave of creative entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a casual explorer, a thoroughbred racing aficionado, or a dedicated foodie, Union Avenue invites you to linger, taste, and savor the genuine flavors of Saratoga Springs.