Saratoga Spotlight: The Parting Glass

The Parting Glass, established on St. Patrick’s Day in 1981, is renowned as Saratoga’s Original Irish Pub and is said to be the oldest continuously run bar and restaurant in Saratoga Springs, New York. Its rich history, authentic atmosphere, and dedication to live music make it a beloved local institution.

Uniqueness and History

The pub’s uniqueness stems from its deep connection to the city’s past and Irish culture:

• Historic Location: The building, located at 40-42 Lake Ave, was originally opened around 1930 as Rocco’s Royal Spring Grill (also known as the Royal Spring Tavern, named for a mineral spring beneath the building). It was a full bar and restaurant famous for its Italian food, including thin-crust pizza. In the old days, a corner door and a dividing wall allowed women to enter a separate section, as they were not allowed on the bar side.
• The Bar Itself: The magnificent front room bar, made from tiger oak, straight-grain oak, and Honduras mahogany, was built in 1936. Its carved faces represent Father Time and the four seasons, a piece of craftsmanship that inspired the current owners to purchase and restore the property.
• The Name: The pub’s name, “The Parting Glass,” is derived from a beautiful, traditional Scottish song and poem that serves as a farewell toast, wishing everyone a safe journey home after their final drink of the night.
• Guinness Pioneer: In the early days, the pub was one of the first in the Upstate New York area to sell Guinness, at a time when the dark stout was unfamiliar to most local patrons. The owner was inspired to bring it back after immersing herself in Irish culture while traveling.
• International Recognition: The Parting Glass has been honored as one of the Top Ten Irish Pubs in the United States by USA Today and the #3 Irish Pub in the World by Ireland of the Welcomes magazine.

Customer Feedback and Atmosphere (Rating: 4.3 Stars)

The pub is consistently praised for its warm and inviting ambiance, with a rating of 4.3 stars.

• Atmosphere: It’s described as cozy and casual, featuring traditional Irish décor and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. It’s considered a community hub where locals and visitors gather.
• Food and Service: The establishment is noted for its good atmosphere and consistently great food. Customers often highlight the pub’s hearty bar fare and Irish specialties, all served with fast and attentive service.

Highlight Menu Items

The menu offers a blend of traditional Irish fare and classic pub grub.

Significant Events and Entertainment

The Parting Glass is a major live music venue in the region, hosting a wide range of talent, particularly in its dedicated stage room.

• Live Music: The pub features live music several nights a week, including a Celtic Music Session on Wednesdays. The venue has earned a reputation for hosting big names, including multiple Grammy winners and famous Irish bands such as Alison Krauss, Béla Fleck, The Kingston Trio, and De Danann.
• Gaming: The Dub-Lin Dart Hall features a second bar and nine English dart boards, hosting leagues and tournaments. The venue also hosts legal, free-to-play Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournaments.
• Barstool Fund Rescue: In a major recent event, the pub faced closure in January 2021 due to the financial impact of COVID-19. It was famously saved by a grant from Dave Portnoy’s Barstool Fund, allowing the oldest continuously running pub in the city to continue operating.

Contact Information and Links