Catch Up on Saratoga Springs News, Exciting Business Announcements, and More

Old World Gourmet Market Brings a Global Grocery Experience to Saratoga This May

Saratoga Springs is about to get a flavorful new addition. Old World Gourmet Market, a 10,000-square-foot international grocery and prepared foods destination, is officially opening its doors on May 21 on Route 50 near Wilton Mall.

Owned by longtime summer visitors-turned-locals Maria and John Biagini, the market is their way of bringing the foods they missed from Brooklyn to their new upstate home. “We always said to ourselves, ‘If we ever leave Brooklyn, we would love for Saratoga to be a place we call home,’” Maria told Saratoga Living.

Old World Gourmet Market will serve up authentic specialties from Italian, Greek, Irish, Jewish, and Spanish cultures—all made in-house from cherished family recipes. Expect fresh sausage daily, handmade pasta, bread, ravioli, and hard-to-find offerings like gabagool, hanging beef, Bell & Evans poultry, and even frozen geese, quail, and pheasant.

On top of their own creations, the market will stock imported and locally sourced goods, such as Vermont maple syrup, yogurt from France, and Costa Rican peppers. And yes—there will be pizza, added at the last minute after a taste test inspired John to bring NYC-style pies to Saratoga.

The Biaginis also offer a 35-page catering menu and in-house delivery service. Place an order by 11:30 AM and you’ll have it at your door by 12:30 PM—perfect for busy lunch hours or event hosting.

With warm hospitality and an unmatched range of international foods, Old World Gourmet Market is shaping up to be much more than a grocery store—it’s a flavorful hub for the Saratoga community.

Sources: Saratoga Living | Old World Gourmet Market

Barkeater Chocolates Introduces Summit Sea Salt Bar

Barkeater Chocolates, the beloved artisan chocolate shop in North Creek, has added a new creation to its lineup: the Summit Sea Salt bar. This latest treat blends creamy milk chocolate with a hint of sea salt, delivering the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Inspired by the towering peaks of the Adirondacks, the Summit Sea Salt bar pays homage to the thrill of adventure and the satisfaction of reaching new heights—both on the trails and in taste.

“We’re always looking for ways to elevate our craft while staying true to the bold, adventurous spirit of our brand,” said Deb Morris, co-founder of Barkeater Chocolates.

This new bar is a milk chocolate twist on Barkeater’s popular Downhill Darksider, a longtime favorite among customers. Like all of their handcrafted confections, the Summit Sea Salt bar is made with premium ingredients, ensuring the high quality chocolate that people have come to expect from Barkeater.

Now available at Barkeater Chocolates’ Factory Store in North Creek and online, the Summit Sea Salt bar will soon be hitting select regional retailers. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Barkeater’s treats, this latest addition is one you won’t want to miss.

Introducing a Sweet Treat From Stewart's for Horse Racing Fans

Horse racing enthusiasts can now enjoy a new way to celebrate the Belmont Stakes, thanks to a creative partnership between the New York Racing Association (NYRA) and Stewart’s Shops: The Bel-Mint Stakes.

This limited-time ice cream flavor is a tribute version of Mint Cook Crumble rebranded by Stewart's just in time for the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival.

The ice cream will be available from April 28 through June 8 in honor of the Belmont Stakes, taking place in Saratoga for the second year in a row, June 4 to 8. 

The name was chosen via an online poll conducted by NYRA in March, and the ice cream is available at over 175 participating Stewart's locations.

But the collaboration doesn't stop with dessert: Fans can pick up a 3-day general admission pass for the Belmont Stakes at $99, offered exclusively at Stewart's while supplies last - this is a 15% savings. There's even an add-on savings to include admission for all four days of the July 4th Racing Festival at just $20.

National Museum of Racing Celebrates 75 Years with Exciting Events in 2025

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is marking its 75th anniversary with a year-long celebration filled with special exhibitions and exciting programs. A highlight is Laying the Foundation: The Architecture of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, currently on display, which explores the museum’s evolution since its founding in 1950. Additional exhibitions will be announced this spring and open in June.

The Museum will also host events tied to the Triple Crown, including the 9th Annual Derby Party on May 3, plus special activities during the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival in June. Expect a mural unveiling, a Belmont-themed Bites and Brews event, and a Family Fun Fest.

Saratoga’s summer racing season will feature even more can’t-miss events, including the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Aug. 1, Racing and Rosé Fashion Show (July 19), Travers Eve Wine and Cheese (Aug. 23), and a Casino Night benefiting the Permanently Disabled Jockey Fund (Aug. 18). Plus, weekly Saturday Morning Socials and Drop-In Children’s Programs will keep visitors engaged all summer long.

“This milestone year is an opportunity to honor our rich history while looking ahead to the future of the Museum,” said Cate Masterson, Museum Director. The 75th anniversary celebration is supported by Saratoga County, Churchill Downs Incorporated, and I LOVE NY.

Stay updated on exhibitions and events by visiting racingmuseum.org.

Salt & Char Reopens with a Fresh Look & New Menu

Big news for Saratoga food lovers—Salt & Char is officially back! After a short three-week closure, the upscale steakhouse at The Adelphi Hotel has reopened with a brand-new look, more dining space, and some exciting menu updates.

The renovations gave the restaurant a warm, modern refresh with rich greens, brass accents, and exposed beams, replacing its previous black-and-white aesthetic. Plus, they’ve added extra seating with a new dining room and a private wine room, making it a great spot for special events or business dinners.

Behind the scenes, Salt & Char now shares a massive new kitchen with Morrissey’s Lounge & Bistro, streamlining service and operations across the hotel. This means better efficiency for the team and an even better dining experience for guests.

As for the menu? Expect all the classic steakhouse favorites with a few indulgent additions, including caviar, venison tenderloin, and chicken roulade. The restaurant is still in the process of hiring a new executive chef, but the refreshed menu is already turning heads.

With the Belmont Stakes coming to town and Saratoga preparing for another exciting summer, Salt & Char’s reopening couldn’t have come at a better time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, it’s definitely worth checking out!

Source: Albany Business Review