BY LIZ WITBECK
Fans of Carney’s Tavern will be pleased to
know that after a brief hiatus the restaurant
back in business.
Matt Finnigan, co-owner of the restaurant
since November 2013, recently reopened the
restaurant with his wife, Stephanie.
Carney’s Tavern, 17 Main St. in Ballston Lake,
now offers a more tavern and pub-style menu.
Previously the menu leaned more to fine dining.
Finnigan has several years of experience in
the restaurant industry. He grew up as a teenager
running snack bars at local bowling alleys, which
initially sparked his interest in food service. He
moved on to Orchard Tavern in Albany, where he
worked for five years, and also worked for a time
at a Ground Round restaurant.
Finnigan is excited to bring the restaurant
back to life.
“I see a ton of potential here. I love the town. I
love the people. The locals really want to see the
place succeed,” he said.
Chef Mike Troidle oversees the kitchen. The
sous chef is Alex Carney.
Items on the menu include a homemade
chicken tender, several hot sandwiches, and various
specials. Finnigan said some of his favorite
items include the fish and chips.”It is a fresh fish,
dipped in our own Yuengling batter.”
He is also a fan of the classic Reuben. “The
roast beef is cooked right here, as well as all the
other meats.”
The chili served at the restaurant is Finnigan’s
own personal recipe. It is served on its own, but
also often ordered as a topping for nachos, hot
dogs, and more.
“Everything on the menu is less than $17,”
said Finnigan.
The kitchen has been completely remodeled,
receiving new appliances. Restaurant renovations
also include new bar stools, a pool table and air
conditioning for the summer. Carney’s Tavern also
has a dartboard.
“I was going to bring in a dartboard myself,”
said Finnigan, “but one of the patrons donated a
dartboard and hung it for us. That shows the love
this community has for this restaurant.”
The tavern has a new loft area he said is perfect
for couples who are looking for somewhere to
enjoy a romantic evening together. The area is set
apart from the rest of the restaurant, quiet and
dimly lit. Finnigan refers to it as “Lover’s Lane.”
There is live music every Thursday, Friday
and Saturday night. Carney’s Tavern will have a
grand opening ceremony, tentatively scheduled
for September.
Carney’s offers lunch and dinner. Hours are
Tuesday and Wednesday from 4-9 p.m.; Thursday,
noon to 9:30 p.m.; Friday, noon to 11 p.m.; Saturday,
4-11 p.m.; and Sunday, 2-7 p.m. It is closed
Mondays. For more information, call 280-7959. Its
website is www.carneystavernny.com.