While spending a "Day at the Races" at the famous Saratoga (N.Y.) race track, I took some time to venture out and explore the beautiful surrounding area.

A delightful find for all of us was Longfellows Hotel/Restaurant and Conference Center the likes of which are from a bygone era of service, and luxury accommodations with fantastic food; sunsets over the Adirondacks and nature walks. Located a few minutes east on Route 9P South from I-87 (Exit 14).

This old world atmosphere was created by an imaginative renovation of two 1915 dairy barns. The end result has pleased multitudes of corporate personnel, to vacationers and locals.

The Inn boasts a 3,000 sq. ft. indoor courtyard for showers, weddings, family reunions and conferences, replete with the most modern audio-visual or computer equipment in the most congenial spaces.

A library with fireplaces, an open loft room, courtyard and intimate dining rooms.

My favorite is the massive fireplace in the lounge bar area that is as inviting as the single malt scotches and award winning wine list, all for your pleasure.

If all this isn't enough to keep you between the bar, restaurant and your luxurious accommodations, then venture out and visit the Saratoga National Golf Club, the world famous Museum of Racing and the Victorian Saratoga Race Track, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, and so much more to do in this mecca of fair seasons activities.

But when the sun goes down head for Longfellows Restaurant and have a libation from this well stocked and cozy bar. And when you are ready a scrumptious meal awaits you.

The Food

Escargot Focaccia - Hand made focaccia topped with sliced tomatoes, garlic rubbed escargot and baked with a five cheese topping @ $8.99

Southern Florida Crab Cakes - Pan seared shrimp and crabmeat cakes served over mango puree with crispy root chips @ $9.99

Hot Maryland Crab Dip - Tender Artichoke hearts and lump crab combined with creamy three cheese spread served with crispy tortilla chips @ $9.99

Mesquite Grilled Bourbon Salmon - Mesquite grilled Canadian salmon filet served over crisp seasonal greens with fresh strawberries, beefsteak tomato, spice pecans and tender asparagus. Tossed with balsamic vinaigrette @ $14.99

Veal Sausage Garganelli a La Vodka - Roasted veal sausage made in-house over fresh Italian penne style pasta in a five cheese tomato vodka sauce @ $21.99

Pear & Ricotta Sacchette Alfredo - Small pasta purses stuffed with sweet pear and ricotta cheese tossed in a creamy spinach alfredo sauce @ $22.99

*BONELESS PORTERHOUSE STEAK - Specialty of the House. Hand cut choice aged sirloin and tenderloin. Uniquely presented on a bamboo skewer with roasted red pepper and grilled vegetables @ $35.99


*All entrees include your choice of freshly tossed Caesar salad or fresh baby greens & mandarin orange salad. Also your choice of baked potato or sweet mashed potato.

Kentucky Bourbon Glazed Salmon Filet - Center cut, fresh Canadian salmon filet marinated in pineapple, aged shoyu and ginger. Topped with fried leeks @ $19.99

Mesquite Grilled Colorado Lamb Chops - A trio of Porterhouse lamb chops served over grilled vegetables and a side of apple mint jelly @ $28.99

Gorgonzola Encrusted New York Strip Steak - USDA Choice center cut aged sirloin steak. Served with sautéed sweet onions and chef's demi glace @ $25.99

Lone Star Cajun Rib Eye Steak - Well-marbled center cut Texas spiced Delmonico steak grilled to order and topped with caramelized onions @ $25.99

Coquille St. Jacques - Jumbo Diver Sea Scallops sautéed with fresh mushrooms, Garlic, parmesan cheese and splashed with heavy cream. Served with toast points @ $24.99

Seafood Puff Pastry - Shrimp, scallops and Alaskan King Crab simmered in a lobster sherry cream sauce over puff pastry with pear and ricotta sachettes @ $27.99

Guys and Girls, this is a destination - catch a plane, train or ride and steal away for a few days at the very least; have dinner or a party at Longfellows, because this is what the good life is all about.

Hey, you may see "Your Love Chef" sitting at the bar because this too will be one of my stops when I go up and down New York State doing local TV shows and personal appearances.

email: lovechef@thelovechef.com