Saratoga Business Journal photo
By Helise Stamos
Tinney’s Tavern, a beloved local establishment since 1952, is under new ownership. In May 2024, Sean and Jamie Wilcoxon, alongside Bill and Karen Miller, took the helm of the historic restaurant, situated on the outskirts of Saratoga Springs, with a scenic backdrop of Lake Desolation.
Sean Wilcoxon brings 27 years of experience in the restaurant industry to Tinney’s Tavern, while Bill Miller, who also owns Performance Industrial, a local cleaning company, contributes his business experience.
The tavern, known for its strong ties to the community, attracts a diverse crowd year-round, including bicyclists, motorcyclists, hikers, kayakers, and snowmobile enthusiasts. The outdoor patio, which offers a stunning view of Lake Desolation, is a popular spot for diners to enjoy the restaurant’s varied menu. The menu includes customer favorites such as wings, burgers, fish and chips, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal offerings. Live music is a regular feature, with bands performing on Thursdays once a month.
Tinney’s Tavern is open year-round, serving lunch and dinner on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 10 p.m. The dining room accommodates 60 guests, with additional seating for 30 on the outdoor patio. The restaurant employs two servers, a bartender, and a hostess.
Hannah Grady, the tavern’s manager, oversees guest services, including greeting customers and bartending. Grady, who previously worked as a supervisor at Saratoga National Golf Club, holds a degree in Physical Education from SUNY Cortland, and brings valuable experience in managing large-scale events and guest relations.
In the kitchen, Kevin DiGirolamo serves as kitchen manager and cook. A local resident, DiGirolamo has been with Tinney’s Tavern since 2006 and boasts 25 years of experience in the culinary field, including an advanced degree in Culinary Arts from Stratford University in Falls Church, Virginia.
“Snowmobilers can take the trails from Galway to Amsterdam, all the way to Canada,” DiGirolamo said. “It’s the kind of place where you can sit down and have a can of beer right next to someone enjoying a single malt scotch.”
Reflecting on the community’s support, Sean Wilcoxon expressed gratitude, saying, “We can’t thank the community enough. We’re looking forward to bringing back the spirit of what Tinney’s Tavern used to be. We appreciate the local community.”