On the Verge of Closure, the Parting Glass Will Live On

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Saratoga’s long-standing popular Parting Glass pub will live to fight another day, after receiving a much-needed financial boost from Dave Portnoy’s Barstool Sports. Portnoy launched an online fundraising drive to assist small business owners in need of help due to the impacts of COVID. The fund has thus far raised more than $23 million and has supported more than 120 businesses. 

“Safe to say that 2021 has not gotten off to the best start. That’s why a phone call today from Joan Desadora, owner of the Parting Glass Pub, made my day and my year so far,” Saratoga County Chamber President Todd Shimkus reported in a social media posting. “Thanks to David Portnoy – El Presidente with Barstool Sports this local business will be saved. I smiled during our phone conversation. Joan was so excited. She wants everyone to be hopeful. There are people out there who want to help. I’m still smiling now. She was so happy. We are so happy. The Parting Glass is an institution in Saratoga Springs.”

The Parting Glass, which is located on Lake Avenue,  was formerly known as the “Royal Spring Tavern,” and first opened a century ago as a full bar that served Italian food and thin crust pizza – a local favorite. In 1981, the property was purchased by Joan Desadora and family and established as The Parting Glass — Saratoga’s Original Irish Pub and Restaurant, expanding its space into the back room where live music takes the stage. 

According to NewsChannel 13, the Parting Glass’ 81-year-old owner Joan Desadora was designing “we’re closing” signs when she got the call from Barstool founder Dave Portnoy that they’ve committed about $200,000 to help the restaurant stay in business through the pandemic.