“I had no idea [we were even being considered.] When they announced it, everyone started whooping and hollering,” said Desadora. “After 32 years, to get this recognition is wonderful. How great for Saratoga.”
The Parting Glass was named number three worldwide by the readers of the international lifestyles magazine Ireland of the Welcomes. First published over 60 years ago, the magazine is the largest subscription-based magazine in the world aimed at people with Irish descent. Published six times a year, it has a readership of over 190,000. The magazine asked its readers to send in their votes on the best Irish pubs worldwide and The Parting Glass was named number three.
“We had no idea,” said Joan’s daughter Susan Thomas, who along with her sister, Linda DiBlasio, manages the pub. “We had never seen the magazine before, so it was a total surprise.”
Desadora purchased the tavern in 1981 and opened on St. Patrick’s Day. It was the 75-year-old tiger oak bar that convinced Desadora she wanted to buy the former Italian restaurant and turn it into an Irish pub and restaurant.
“Mom wanted this because of the back bar – it is one of the oldest standing bars in Saratoga,” said Thomas, who, along with her sister, have been involved in the restaurant business since childhood.
Desadora herself has over 45 years in the business – her uncle owned and operated Leo’s Dinner in Ballston Spa. She managed the restaurant for 15 years before opening The Parting Glass.
Thomas said nothing much has changed over the years for the tavern where regulars visit for a drink and traditional Irish breakfasts of Irish bacon (rashers) and Irish sausage (bangers,) black and white pudding and Heinz beans.
“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day in Ireland,” said Thomas. “It is a nice gathering place – authentic. It seemed like we were busy the moment we opened the door.”
The tavern has become of favorite hangout for people with Irish descent and a backdrop for aspiring and established musicians. Kevin McKrell, Hair of the Dog and others played on the stage in their early years, establishing a solid following. There are also Celtic musicians who jam a couple of times a week, as well as Irish step dancers and Irish folk musicians.
“The music, the atmosphere and the menu are definitely a part of our success,” said Thomas. “And we are known for a very good pint of Guinness Stout.”
In fact, she explained, musicians from Ireland would travel to the Spa City to play at The Parting Glass and would oftentimes stay in their family home. In return, the family would travel to Ireland where the hospitality was reciprocated.
“A lot of musicians would come here from Ireland and stay with us,” said Thomas, adding that the country and culture was in their bones. “I love it there.”
This is not the first award bestowed on the tavern. In 1999 it was named one of the top 10 in the nation by USA Today and over the years it has won in various categories during the Chowderfest competition. For Chowderfest this year, they won for serving the most bowls of chowder.
“We served over 5,000,” said Clay Howell, marketing manager for the Parting Glass. “But in the past we have won several times for best chowder.”
The 5,000 square-foot tavern at the corner of Lake Avenue and Henry Street features three separate rooms, with the traditional tavern in the front, a dining area with a stage in the back and off of that room, another full service bar area with a juke box and nine English dart boards. They have over 100 beers with 36 of them on tap.
Thomas explained that the bar and restaurant was named for an old Irish song and proverb that wishes everyone a safe journey after having their “parting glass” at closing time.
“It is a beautiful song,” said Thomas, noting that some of the bands end their sessions with it.
She pointed out that the tavern offers a full menu from opening hour until closing and that they are known for their traditional Irish fare as well.
“We do a lot of parties, buffets and wedding rehearsal dinners,” said Thomas, adding that in March they will be bringing in a comedy group. “It is the first time we are trying it – the Irish Comedy Tour is coming for one night March 13.”
In celebration of their 32nd anniversary, Thomas said they plan on having an event the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day, complete with Irish step dancing, live Irish music and Irish specialty food.
“It is a good day for families and there is no cover charge,” said Thomas. She added that the recognition and success they have achieved would not have been possible without the support of their customers.
“All of our regulars who have stayed with us from when we first opened – the people have been very loyal to us,” said Thomas. “We could not have done it without them. It makes you feel like all your hard work paid off – it is a good compliment.”
As for their next accomplishment, Desadora said she is aiming at making it to the top of the list next time.
“Next time, we’ll be number one,” she said.
