Before the Hudson River Valley gets entirely gentrified into another soulless tourist corridor, we’ll treasure South Glens Falls. This stretch between the Adirondack foothills and Saratoga Springs has stubbornly kept its gritty authenticity—the kind of place where you’re as likely to stumble upon a maple syrup collective as a historic tavern. While that spirit endures, here are the essential dining spots to discover.
Sorrentino’s Delicatessen & Market
$ | (518) 798-0273 | WEBSITE
As one of the few spots in South Glens Falls serving authentic deli classics, Sorrentino’s is clutch when the sandwich cravings hit. You won’t find a more impressive butcher counter in the area than the one at Sorrentino’s (sorry other markets, we still love you). You’ll often see families with kids and shopping carts the size of minivans because the place is so packed with unique items.
To avoid the crowds entirely, go earlier in the day and get a local craft soda and the tortellini salad, which is a perfect blend of pasta, cheese, and dressing. It feels painfully obvious, but if you’re going to Sorrentino’s for a full meal, you should get a sub. It just makes sense. We recommend the roast beef on a hard roll or the popular BLT on a wheat roll.
McDonald’s
$ | (518) 761-2430 | WEBSITE
South Glens Falls isn’t exactly synonymous with gourmet dining. But fast food? Yes indeed. So when we want to participate in two of our favorite activities, we head to McDonald’s at the end of the strip to grab a meal from their classic menu and enjoy the clean, familiar atmosphere. The standout here is the generally polite staff, who keep the place tidy despite the occasional longer wait times–and we’re suckers for some well-maintained cleanliness.
McDonald’s food is typical fast-food fare, but they do offer those classic menu items, in which familiar flavors are served quickly and consistently with the usual fixings.
Dunkin’
$ | (518) 792-5255 | WEBSITE
Dunkin’ isn’t on the main strip of South Glens Falls, so it’s a little easier to miss if you’re just passing through, but we think their coffee alone makes them a worthy destination. The familiar, cheerful orange and pink exterior is matched by their efficient interior that accommodates roughly 15 tables, which are often occupied.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast on your way to work, treating the kids after soccer practice, or picking up a dozen donuts with colleagues before a meeting, anything goes here. Dunkin’ opens at 5am and serves as an early-morning hub for the community, so come by to get any of their coffee options (they’re all reliable) and be sure to order an extra glazed donut because it’s perfectly fresh and we always leave satisfied.
Panda Garden
$ | (518) 812-0909 | WEBSITE
With classic Chinese dishes, fast service, and reasonable prices, Panda Garden is a reliable spot when indecision among hungry friends sets in. With just a few standout menu items, Panda Garden might seem like a simple takeout joint, but those few dishes pack a punch. We’ll grab the heavenly sesame chicken and satisfying chicken and broccoli combo while our friends head to the game. We’ve got all the cravings covered in our go-to guide.
Jam ‘N’ Eggs
$ | (518) 741-0425 | WEBSITE
For years now, Jam ‘N’ Eggs has been serving up huge, home-cooked breakfasts in a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere, which gives you that comforting grandma’s kitchen feeling with every bite. You can’t see it but we’re doing the satisfied sigh motion right now like we do every time we think about their generous servings.
South Glens Falls really isn’t with all the fussiness you’ll find in other breakfast spots, so keeping it on brand, this hidden gem sticks to the basics with the usual country breakfast fare—the only show you’ll get is from the chef’s weekly specials that appear like clockwork, then make for satisfying meals as fresh as the morning dew. The friendly and efficient staff provides fast service that adds to the relaxed weekday experience, though the bathroom situation could use some attention.
Those Mickey pancakes are popular with kids, and while summer weekends get busy, this tasteful spot remains a go-to for breakfast lovers seeking delicious food without the typical hotel breakfast vibe.
Giavano’s Pizzeria
$ | (518) 743-9999 | WEBSITE
When you’re craving a classic pizza but also want to try something a bit more substantial, this is your spot. A mix of worn-in booths, checkered tablecloths, and a bustling open kitchen make up the interior of Giavano’s Pizzeria, and somehow they all come together in this cozy neighborhood dining room. Spend time watching the pizzaiolos work their magic as you enjoy a slice or three—get one loaded with extra pepperoni like their signature pie, which also features that perfectly well-done crust.
And then move on to the generous portions of their other offerings, though maybe skip the manicotti if you’re looking for something truly memorable. There’s also a straightforward beer selection and a few house wines, but we like sticking with a cold draft to wash it all down.
Lam Fong Yuen
$ | (518) 798-1986 | WEBSITE
Lam Fong Yuen has come a long way from its humble beginnings in South Glens Falls. Stepping through the door of their current location feels like a portal into authentic Chinese dining, with servers in crisp uniforms and warm smiles, preparing sauces in house (try the garlic ginger and add a dash of chili oil). The whole place is very welcoming, with wooden tables that look like polished mahogany, and red lanterns that cast a soft glow over the dining area.
There’s a variety of meat dishes, vegetarian options, and family-style platters, so grab one of their signatures like the classic General Tso’s chicken with generous portion sizes or create your own with their variety of flavorful sauces.
Mi Rancho – Mexican Restaurant
$ | (518) 741-6025 | WEBSITE
With its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, Mi Rancho is serving up some of the best Mexican food in the South Glens Falls area. Operating with quick, attentive service that brings dishes out in just 5-10 minutes, this colorful spot is building a loyal following. And we’re happy to grab a booth and watch the friendly staff check in on every table. We can vouch for the steak fajitas with tender meat and perfectly seasoned vegetables.
And the House Special Fajitas are a winner, too—truly the best in the region. But everything is good since their menu of fresh, bold flavors has so many hits you’ll want to return again and again. The margaritas are tasty, the chicken chimichanga comes recommended, and with many vegetarian options available, there’s something for everyone at this authentic Mexican gem.
House of Pizza
$ | (518) 793-2280 | WEBSITE
House of Pizza began as a local spot serving classic New York-style pies. The popularity of their crisp-crust pizza and wings combo, priced at just $28, led to a steady stream of regulars. Now it’s served alongside loaded subs piled high with toppings—another reason why this pizza joint is one of our favorite welcoming spots for any meal.
The open counter runs the length of the compact dining area, so you can watch as the staff boxes up fresh pies and separates veggies and ranch from the wings all evening. For a change of pace, grab your order to go and enjoy the leftovers at home, which we like to pair with a cold soda.
Massie’s Restaurant
$$ | (518) 792-3383 | WEBSITE
What does a house burger, garlic bread, eggplant Parmesan, and a plate of calamari all have in common? Nothing, which is why we always question why they’re all sharing the menu at Massie’s, a welcoming, much-beloved Italian spot in the heart of South Glens Falls. Nothing really goes together, but no one really cares because they’re eating generous portions and enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere.
To blend in, grab some garlic bread and order the eggplant Parmesan—their amazing version of a vegetarian classic that has marinara sauce, cheese, and herbs melting over the sides—it’ll satisfy anyone who has had one too many bland meals.
