9 Maple Ave is by far my favorite bar in Saratoga Springs, NY.  With over 150 different Single Malt Scotch whiskies to choose from, they have the largest selection between NYC and Montreal.  And their assortment of Irish Whiskey, Bourbon, and Rye is none too shabby, either.

They also make great cocktails, and have the largest martini list I’ve ever seen.

Friday and Saturday evenings, starting at 9 PM, 9 Maple is home to some of the best live jazz around.  It can get pretty crowded, so arrive early!

Several other things that make 9 Maple truly special are the welcoming environment, the knowledgeable bartenders, Friday sub sandwiches, and the gracious owner, Mike Sirianni.

Knowledgeable Bartenders

When I arrived in Saratoga in 2013, I enjoyed whisk(e)y, but my knowledge and exposure to different styles was limited.  I was lucky enough to find this place my first summer in town; and the staff was able to guide me to new whiskies that I have enjoyed immensely.  Each time I came in, after a few simple questions, they helped me find a dram that they knew I’d like; and, they facilitated my experimentation with new flavors, as well.

Friday sub sandwiches

Part of the great karma of 9 Maple is the community environment that they’ve created.  On Friday afternoons, anyone can stop in for a complimentary slice of a 6-foot-long sub sandwich to pair with a cocktail, beer, wine or whisk(e)y.  I’ve had wonderful conversations, and satisfied my late-day hunger and thirst, all at the same time.

Mike Sirianni, the warm and cheerful owner since 1990, has created one of the most inviting places in town.  With dark wood, local artwork, friendly staff and clientele, great weekend music, and an amazing whisk(e)y selection, it can’t be beat!