©2016 Saratoga Photographer.com
By Liz Witbeck
Willows Bistro, a new restaurant in Saratoga County, is a casual fine-dining establishment that opened in June.
Owners of the restaurant, at 11 Prospect St. in Ballston Spa, are Sandra James and Kiersten Houck.
Houck previously operated a food truck in Ballston Spa, the Lunch Brake. Before then, he worked at Saratoga Winery.
James served in the National Guard and U.S. Air Force and has a degree in culinary arts. The two teamed up together for their first experience operating a brick-and-mortar restaurant.
"It's always been Kiersten's dream to open a restaurant. We saw this space was for rent and we decided to go for it," said James.
James handles the business side of the restaurant. Houck is the main chef and in charge of the kitchen.
The venue bills itself as a casual fine-dining restaurant. Some of the items on the menu include a lobster macaroni and cheese drizzled with a white truffle oil; homemade stuffed meatballs with mozzarella; bourbon brown shrimp on a bed of polenta; and, for dessert, their best-selling lavender honey crème brulee.
"It's to die for," said James of the popular dessert.
When the space was purchased, it was a completely empty storefront. The crew worked to build a restaurant that has the ambiance that they desired. Many relatives helped with the creation of Willows Bistro.
"Kiersten's step-dad built the benches. Her mom helped with the pillows and drapery," said James. "It's comfortable. It's inviting. It feels like home. People don't feel rushed. There are no televisions. We have light jazz music playing in the background. It's just a comfy, cozy place."
Carry-out dishes are available.
Willows Bistro is still waiting for a liquor license. They plan on serving wine and liquor at the establishment.
The eatery runs dinner specials on Friday and Saturday nights, which are announced on their Facebook page. Every other Wednesday, Willows Bistro has a "create your own pasta" special.
Hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 5-10 p.m. The restaurant is closed Sundays and Mondays.
Reservations are suggested. To make a reservation, call 288-3419.