A Day at The Races

[phaelon56]

I can weigh in only to agree with the others on the pleasure of both food and company. We were there only for the Sunday meal but it was delightful - the food mentioned for the Saturday dinner was converted to picnic fare. I tried.... cold chicken, lamb salad, potato salad (purple and white potatoes), cold pork with corn, my own duck salad (needs some work!) and the aforementioned brownies, blondies and peach ice cream. All were delicious.

Steven's observation about the track as a place for a picnic gathering are apt - it's a bit crowded and too far from the action. My nomination for a future eGullet NY state summer outing is for a Saturday in late June on the first day of the Saratoga Jazz fest at SPAC. JPW (Joe) of the DC/VA/MD forum is always there with his lovely wife Lynn and invariably someone is at the gates early enough to secure a prime spot on the lawn, large enough to handle a crowd that comes and goes. The music lienup varies but the prime activity during the day has always been hanging out on the lawn and eating - a perfect fit for eGullet folks. Let's consider that as a possibility for next summer.

[Ellen Shapiro]

I haven't had time yet to process all the photos, but here's our fearless team of (left to right) JosephB, Docsconz, and Fat Guy at the pig farm:

And here they are making some gnocchi.

[JosephB]

Great photos Ellen!

Standing next to a 700 pound porker can really be slimming.

[docsconz]

I believe the fine quality of the finished gnocchi had everything to do with the skilled way the cheese was added at the end

[docsconz]

The pig is a Gloucester Old Spot. It's mate (not shown) is a Large Black.

[JosephB]

I believe the fine quality of the finished gnocchi had everything to do with the skilled way the cheese was added at the end

Indeed, but it was Fat Guy's secret blend of Lacatelli and Parmigianno-Regianno that raised the dish to its pinnacle.

[docsconz]

Too true.

[sammy]

Steven's observation about the track as a place for a picnic gathering are apt - it's a bit crowded and too far from the action. My nomination for a future eGullet NY state summer outing is for a Saturday in late June on the first day of the Saratoga Jazz fest at SPAC. JPW (Joe) of the DC/VA/MD forum is always there with his lovely wife Lynn and invariably someone is at the gates early enough to secure a prime spot on the lawn, large enough to handle a crowd that comes and goes. The music lienup varies but the prime activity during the day has always been hanging out on the lawn and eating - a perfect fit for eGullet folks. Let's consider that as a possibility for next summer.

But you can't bet any exactas at SPAC!

[alacarte]

I swear that big pig is smiling. It looks like EVERYONE had fun! Sorry I missed it.

I see Joe's wearing a CIA apron in the gnocchi shot...who's the culinary school grad?

[docsconz]

No grad, but my wife and I have taken the day courses there, at which they provide the aprons.

[markabauman]

So sorry we had to go to New Jersey for a family function for the day! Doc, where is Starhill Dairy; where you get their mozzarella di bufala?

[docsconz]

Sorry we missed you Mark. Star Hill Dairy is located in Woodstock, VT. i order directly from them. I would like to see Putnam Market carry their products, although I don't believe they currently do.

[markabauman]

I checked their website and the store locator- it appears that locally for us the Village Co-Op in Cambridge carries their products. I'll check it out next time I'm out that way.

[docsconz]

I saw the yoghurt at Sheldon's Farm Market in Shushan. I didn't see the mozzarella, but they may have been out.

[rich]

Just received some information from my friends at the Chestnut Tree Inn - B&B at 9 Whitney Place in Saratoga. They still have some rooms available for next weekend (the final weekend of racing at Saratoga). I've stayed there for many years and it's truly a fine B&B and walking distance to the track and downtown. If anyone is going next week call them (518) 587-8681 - ask for Kathleen.

This week (after the Travers) has always been my favorite time in the Spa. The crowds are dwindling, the restaurant reservations are easier to get - it's more of the "real" Saratoga experience.