We’re chatting with Alexandra Barbieri this week! A registered dietitian by day and a server at Raul’s by night (yes, that’s where you likely recognize her from!), she shares her favorite places to hit the trails with her sweet pup Willow, the club she’s starting for people who like to run, drink some beer and mingle, and so much more!
Tell us about yourself!
Hello! My name is Alexandra Barbieri. I’m an avid hiker, foodie (a fancy term which means I just really like going out to restaurants), rock climber and proud mother of a 3-year-old Yellow Lab/Golden Retriever mix named Willow. We love to get outside in all conditions and seasons to run through the woods and go swimming, once it’s warmer of course. Lake George makes me the happiest girl during the summer, as I’m very lucky to get on the lake multiple times a season. It really is the most beautiful lake.
I just accepted my dream job as a Registered Dietitian with Hudson Headwaters about 6 months ago. My specialty is working with patients on their journey to living a healthier lifestyle; whether that be through weight loss, increased activity, managing their diabetes or navigating the food aisles at the grocery stores to help pick more wholesome options for their families. I love being part of the preventative side of nutrition instead of just part of the treatment. The network is wonderful and provides my services at no charge to our patients. During the day, I meet with patients about their nutrition and lifestyle and at night you will often find me as one of the old school servers at Raul’s Mexican Grill. I’ve worked at Raul’s Mexican Grill for the last 8 years, which is how most people downtown recognize me.
My family and I grew up in Hudson Falls. I’ve had strong ties there, as my father and uncle owned Dajon’s, a bridal store right across from the park. They also had a second location right here in Glens Falls on Glen Street. When I was 9 or 10, I remember walking down Glen Street with my dad to get a pair of shoes and thinking how downtown was very bare. My parents had always described Glens Falls as a former bustling small city, however the opening of the mall lead to a decline of small local businesses, including both Dajon’s locations.
After high school, I completed 2 years at SUNY ADK then went away to SUNY Cortland, Sage Graduate School and lastly Syracuse University to complete my schooling. It took a long 9 years to finally finish (“no, I’m not a doctor” I would tell my family). After finishing school, I moved home, but I remember thinking it would just be temporary as I had plans to move to Burlington, VT. However, I soon realized how much Glens Falls had developed and had even become quite the destination. I immediately got a job as a server at Raul’s and started “one last summer of freedom” before taking my RD exam and starting my career. Long story short, I stayed and fully immersed myself in the Glens Falls scene. Willow and I did take a brief hiatus to move to Troy for 10 months last year (right before Covid) but realized that Glens Falls was our home. Here we are closer to the trails, mountains and to the lake. I found an apartment just outside of downtown, and we love it. Willow has a yard and we’re also super close to Haviland’s Cove so we can play in the river with our nearby friends. I’d like to buy a home in the next year or so, but I’m not in any rush.
Some Glens Falls Favorites
My favorite part of Glens Falls is the “hometown” community feel. People who work and live downtown are considered neighbors, friends and even family to one another. I was fortunate to live downtown for over 3 years and I loved running in to the other locals every day. Most of the coffee shops, restaurants and stores contain the friendly and familiar faces I enjoy seeing every day. I consider it my own kind of “Cheers” vibe spread throughout this city.
When I was away during college, I would tell friends about our little “hidden gem” West Mountain, which isn’t exactly hidden. We’re super fortunate to have this right outside of the city, and growing up, I really enjoyed night skiing overlooking the city lights with my dad. I appreciate that I can run home after work, grab skis, and get some runs in before the night is over. I don’t ski as often as I used to, but I make sure to visit West Mountain a few nights every year and prove to myself that I still can ski. I truly enjoy it, just as I did when I was a little kid.
A Perfect Glens Falls Day
My ideal day in Glens Falls would be one with no set plans. I would start the day with Willow, friends, and their pups on the Hudson Point Trail, or the new expanded Half Way Brook trail right outside of downtown. From there, we’d go visit our friends at Spektor for coffee and an omelet. I may go Rock Climbing at Rocksport, if the weather isn’t optimal for more outdoor activities, and then head back into town to grab my 12th pair of Goodr glasses at Fountain Square Outfitters or my 38th dress from Minky Mink. I’d then make a reservation at [farmacy] with friends for dinner, because I like to attempt to order most of the entire menu. Their staples are a no brainer (sourdough bread and shishito peppers), in addition to whatever new entrée and dessert they have on the menu. My crew knows the deal when they are with me - the night isn’t over yet, and we will make our way to Mean Max or Raul’s for drinks afterwards.
On the Past
What I miss most about downtown Glens Falls is Bistro Tallulah. My high expectation for what dining and service should be was established at 26 Ridge Street and created by my good friend, the late Chef Shawn Whalen. I would describe the Bistro to many as the party you wanted to be invited to; where great minds, foodies and misfits would gather.
On the Future
If I could wave a wand, I would bring a music scene back to Glens Falls (can we get another Sandys?). There are many talented musicians who would play at the drop of a hat once allowed, but there are limited venues to do so.
On a smaller scale, a corner store or a bodega would be a fantastic addition. I’d love a place downtown to grab my milk, eggs, fruit and toilet paper on a whim if I need it. You know, the basics.
Lastly, I’d love to see more social avenues for people who want to be active. I have some ideas in mind to start a Runners Club downtown for people to run, drink some beer and mingle (6 feet apart of course). [Editors Note: She already made it happen! Find the Glens Falls Running Club on Facebook here!]
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P.S. Check out more from our My Glens Falls series here!
