The Scene
Thanks to the racetrack's single month of operation, Saratoga really hops in August. The Gideon Putnam hotel is the place to be as movie stars, rock icons and other high rollers line the drive with their costly SUVs. (Good luck finding a place for your Honda!) During the rest of the year, however, the only competition at this five-star complex is from usually staid conventioneers. The elegant Georgian Room is one of two dining rooms set amid the lush parkland of Saratoga State Park.
The Food
The menu offers few surprises, but there are some creative touches like grilled lamb with goat-cheese puree. Tender, grilled filet mignon gets a roasted-garlic demi-glace, while pork tenderloin receives a barbecue rub. For seafood lovers, the Georgian Room does an elegant sautee of lobster, shrimp, scallops and mussels tossed in a saffron cream sauce. The magnificent Sunday brunch is perfect for a special occasion.