The Best Pizza in Glens Falls, According to Readers

Glens Falls might be a little city, but we’ve got a big love for our pizza. So, we enlisted the help of our Instagram and Facebook community to help us find the very best pizza in the area. Not surprisingly, there were a lot of opinions on the matter, but out of the many recommendations, there were a few clear winners. 

And so, if you’re looking for the best pizza within 15 minutes or so of Glens Falls, we’ve got you covered. Read on for the top picks from your neighbors, and start planning your pizza night (we have to try them all now, don’t we?!).  

Cheese Pizza, Chef Salad, and Wings from The Harvest • Photo: Bri Lyons for Glens Falls Living

#1 The Harvest

This was the top pick amongst those who responded! Readers love the sweet crust, flavorful sauce, and just the right amount of cheese.

There’s also a big nostalgia factor here - we got quite a few notes from people who have moved away from Glens Falls and list The Harvest pizza as one of the top things they miss from home! As one reader wrote in, “I live in Rhode Island and my family brings it to me because I love it so much!”.

It should be noted that while Rachael Ray did not weigh in on this poll, if she did, word on the street is that she would have picked The Harvest too. Just sayin’.

4 Cronin Road, Queensbury / Website

The Works Pizza from Talk of the Town • Photo: Bri Lyons for Glens Falls Living

#2 Talk of the Town

A close second, Talk of the Town pizza has big fans as well! Their homemade dough and sauce were frequent mentions amongst lovers of their plain pizza, and there were quite a few votes for The Works (including sausage with “just the right amount of spiciness”), and the Buffalo Wing pizza served with bleu cheese. Bonus points for their location which makes for easy pickup in the city!

74 Hudson Avenue, Glens Falls / Website

Angelina’s Cheese + Pepperoni Pizza • Photo: Bri Lyons for Glens Falls Living

#3 Angelina’s

Another frontrunner, Angelina’s scored big for their thin crust pizza, with one reader noting, “It’s the closest thing to NYC style pizza in the area”. Large slices, crispy crust, and plenty of specialty pizzas (one reader swears by the Grandmah - a square pizza with a mozzarella base topped with tomato sauce, parmigiana, & oregano!). Oh! And they deliver!

410 Bay Road, Queensbury / Website

#4 Queen of Harts

Regulars here love the consistency, flavor…and yes, the delivery, too! One reader declared this the “best tasting pizza in the area”, and there were quite a few who shared their love for the specialty pizzas, including the Joker (white pizza with ricotta and garlic), and the Hawaiian (with ham, pineapple, and bacon).

10 Lafayette Street, Queensbury / Website

Image courtesy of Common Roots

#5 Common Roots

Topped with everything from chicken parm to Italian sausage, the gourmet open hearth pizzas at Common Roots were a top choice amongst those who responded. “I like the combinations they come up with,” noted one reader, and another agreed, citing the 3B’s Knees as their favorite (which features hot honey, local bacon, brussels sprouts, and bleu cheese crumbles!). Whichever variety you choose, you can’t go wrong with a pie and a pint in their taproom!

58 Saratoga Avenue, South Glens Falls / Website

#6 Southy’s

Southy’s was another fan favorite, with top praises for their consistent quality. “Always consistently delicious!” said one reader, with another echoing, “Never hit and miss”. Important qualities in a pizza, don’t you think?! It doesn’t hurt that they just so happen to serve ice cream next door, which also got quite a few mentions. Pizza and ice cream - sold!

75 Saratoga Avenue, South Glens Falls / Website

Honorable Mentions

You can never have enough pizza, right? Here are a few more recommendations we received:

Downtown City Tavern • 21 Elm Street, Glens Falls / Website

Rocco’s • 132 Glen Street, Glens Falls / Website

Would love to hear which is your favorite in the comments below! Pizza for dinner tonight, anyone?

My Glens Falls: Jen Wright

This content in this article is sponsored by Hudson Headwaters Health Network.
Thank you for supporting the local businesses that support our work at Glens Falls Living.

We caught up with Jen Wright this week, who you might recognize as a Physician Assistant with Hudson Headwaters Health Network! She shares what she loves most about working in the field of medicine, some favorite local activities, and more…

Tell us a bit about yourself! 

My name is Jen Wright and I reside in Washington County with my husband and our daughter. I work as a physician assistant at Hudson Headwaters Health Network. One of the things I enjoy most about my job is the incredible variety that it offers. Whether I’m working in our urgent care centers, or helping out with sick day visits in our primary care offices, or seeing patients for gynecological visits, each day presents unique challenges and opportunities.

However, the aspect of my job that I enjoy the most is delivering gender affirming care for patients who are transgender. Many individuals within the transgender community face obstacles in accessing safe gender affirming hormone therapy and preventive health care. This can result in individuals avoiding necessary care, jeopardizing their overall health. By integrating transgender care into our services, Hudson Headwaters is following its mission to provide the best healthcare, and access to that care, for everyone in our communities.

On Life in and around Glens Falls

I have always been somewhat local to the Glens Falls area. My hometown is Galway in Saratoga County. I moved to Queensbury twelve years ago, following the completion of PA school and the beginning of my career with Hudson Headwaters. The area feels like home, and I am so happy to be here. 

Downtown Glens Falls has some amazing restaurants and shops. The easy access to Lake George, Saratoga, and the Adirondacks can’t be beaten. It’s a great place to live and raise a family.

On Favorite Local Activities

The Adirondacks have always held a special place in my heart. In the days before becoming a parent, I spent a lot of time hiking in the High Peaks and became an Adirondack 46er. However, it has been hard to find the time for big hikes since then, and I have been focusing more on hiking some of the smaller mountains around Lake George.

Last year I decided to take up running. One of the best things about running is its flexibility. I can lace up my sneakers and get out there whenever I have free time. It has been fun to explore all the different running trails we have in our area. I also like participating in different races on the weekends. I finished my first half marathon in October and am training for another one this spring.

On Making an Impact

While it probably sounds cliché, the most rewarding aspect of being a PA and working in the field of medicine is the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Throughout most of my career, my focus has been directed towards serving underserved populations, with a particular emphasis on extending care to the transgender community. My goal is to provide a safe space for transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals to receive healthcare.

On Teamwork

One of the best things about working at Hudson Headwaters is the teamwork. I feel fortunate to be working with a large network of skilled providers and support staff that are committed to helping patients with all aspects of their health.

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Special thanks to Hudson Headwaters Health Network for making this story possible!

Discover the difference that comes with a rewarding career at Hudson Headwaters!

The non-profit network of nearly two dozen community health centers brings comprehensive primary care to North Country residents, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. The growing organization is constantly looking for talented, passionate individuals to join them in clinical and administrative capacities. Perks include comprehensive benefits, regular business hours, opportunities for growth, and an emphasis on work-life balance. Hudson Headwaters was named to Albany Business Review’s 2023 “Best Places to Work” and earned the distinction of “Best Medium-Sized Company to Work For” in The Post-Star’s 2023 Best of the Region.

Click here to see open positions and apply online today!

Thanks for supporting the businesses that support Glens Falls Living!

First Look: Northern Power and Light

This content in this article is sponsored by Northern Power and Light.
Thank you for supporting the local businesses that support our work at Glens Falls Living.

Have you heard about Northern Power & Light? They’re making a splash around town with their mission to connect energy users directly to new and existing local renewable resources, and we’re excited to spread the word! We caught up with the team at NP&L to hear more about the inspiration for starting the company, how hydroelectricity works, the benefits, how you can be a part of it, and more…

Warrensburg Hydro Facility • Image Courtesy of Northern Power & Light

A Bit of Background

Northern Power & Light is an independent renewable energy company based in Saranac Lake. We [brothers Emmett and Ethan Smith] founded the company with Louise Gava in 2018. It began with the purpose of connecting small-scale renewable energy generators in the North Country with local energy consumers using New York’s Community Distributed Generation system.

Our family has a background in electricity, and the first generator to have its power offered through the new platform was Azure Mountain Power, which was built by our father Everett and uncle Matt Foley in the early 1990’s. Azure Mountain Power is a 750 kW hydroelectric dam on the St. Regis River in St. Regis Falls.

Prior to founding Northern Power & Light, Emmett was the Curator at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, New York, and Ethan co-founded and co-owned a successful restaurant in Manhattan, Hecho en Dumbo, with his friend Danny Mena. Louise Gava was working for the Municipal Electric and Gas Alliance on a semi-related program. She now works in the energy industry and is a silent partner in Northern Power & Light.

On Starting Northern Power & Light

We have been around hydro since we were kids, but it had never been our focus.

In 2014, a large flood partially collapsed Azure Mountain Power’s old timber crib structure. The low and volatile price of power did not support financing a new concrete dam, so working as a family, we built a new timber crib. Emmett left his job at the museum to devote his time to the project, and that experience refocused his attention on the power plant and how it wasn’t financially viable at the current prices the utility company offered.

With so many new developments in the power business and New York’s support of renewable energy, it seemed like there must be a better way. After studying Energy Regulation at Vermont Law School, Emmett participated in a series of working groups in Albany developing the Community Distributed Generation program, which Northern Power & Light now uses. We [Ethan, Louise and Emmett] then developed the final business model. Louise was already working in the industry and brought essential knowledge about the regulatory landscape, while Ethan had experience in founding and running a business.

Financially, we knew we had to find a better way to support the local renewable resources, knowing how this existing infrastructure is important for both the economy of the North Country but also for the State’s Climate Goals. New York State’s Community Distributed Generation program allows the sale of community renewables like solar but also hydroelectricity directly to customers.

Azure Mountain Power was Northern Power & Light’s first project, but from the beginning it was clear we would need to grow beyond one small facility. In 2021, we partnered with Boralex Hydro to build a Community Distributed Generation program around Sissonville Hydro, their 3.1MW power plant on the Raquette River in Potsdam, New York.

Warrensburg is Northern Power & Light’s third project, bringing us to a new part of the North Country. For Boralex, based in South Glens Falls, it is fun to be doing a community project in their own backyard.

Inside the Warrensburg Hydro Facility • Image Courtesy of Northern Power & Light

On Making Connections

We do not own any hydro plants ourselves. Our business is the connector between plant owners and National Grid customers, making sure that folks in the upper and lower Adirondack region can access local, renewable, hydroelectricity.

We currently work with three plants: Azure Mountain Power in St. Regis Falls, which is owned by Emmett and Ethan’s father, Everett Smith. Sissonville Hydro is located in Potsdam and is owned by Boralex, as is the plant in Warrensburg that we are currently partnering with for the Glens Falls Community Hydro Project.

Azure Mountain Power in St. Regis Falls • Image Courtesy of Northern Power & Light

How It Works

The Glens Falls Community Hydro Project is a partnership between Boralex, Northern Power & Light, and the municipality of Glens Falls.

Northern Power & Light uses Community Distributed Generation, a New York State program, to sell locally generated hydroelectricity directly to National Grid customers, at no extra cost.

Long story short, folks can sign up for free, pay the same amount for power they’re already paying, with the same service they’re used to, support renewable energy, and support a local company — all while helping Glens Falls qualify for sustainability grants in the future.

When a customer signs up, we review their past electric bills and allocate them a portion of the plant’s power. Every month, a customer still receives a bill from National Grid, but they see a credit from Northern Power & Light. The customer pays their generator via Northern Power & Light for the power they receive.

The customer is still serviced by National Grid, but their energy dollars are now supporting local renewable hydroelectricity. Northern Power & Light customers have an online dashboard where they can keep track of the power they received and make payments, though most customers use our auto-pay option to save time.

Signing up though our website www.npandl.com or via our customer service line is very easy. You just need your name, phone number, email, address, and National Grid account number.

There is no long term commitment. If a customer decides to cancel service or is moving, they just notify us via phone or mail and we start the process of disenrolling from the program.

Warrensburg Hydro Facility • Image courtesy of Northern Power & Light

On The Benefits

Electricity is a resource that everyone relies on, but most sources of power have hidden costs, especially to the global climate.

Unlike electricity generated by coal or oil, hydroelectricity does not produce any carbon dioxide. Climate change is caused primarily by a buildup of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels.

People who are conscious of their climate impact are increasingly looking for carbon-neutral sources for the things they rely on. Hydroelectricity is not only carbon-free, but it is already integrated into our communities and our landscape.

We believe that the most efficient option is to maintain what you already have, and in this region that means our existing hydro facilities.

This also means that when people buy hydro power through Northern Power & Light, they are investing directly in their community, supporting local business and local infrastructure.

Hydroelectricity is a very old form of electricity generation and here in the North Country, “run of the river” hydroelectric plants (like the three that we work with) are the first forms of electricity generation for our region. Maintaining this existing local energy infrastructure is essential to helping the state meet its climate neutrality goals, but also supports a long-existing and established local industry.

At no change in cost, switching to NP&L is a very simple and cost effective way to make that switch. And not only that, but it keeps your dollars in your community and makes for a more resilient economy but also electrical grid. We believe that these existing hydroelectric plants are important resources, and we want to keep them active for another hundred years.

On A Partnership with The City of Glens Falls

The City of Glens Falls is not just a customer of Northern Power & Light, running on clean, sustainable locally-produced energy. They have actually partnered with Northern Power & Light to bring the City to the next level.

The City of Glens Falls was designated a Bronze Certified Climate Smart Community in 2021. Climate Smart Communities (CSC) is a New York State program wherein communities complete and report on a wide range of sustainability and climate actions in order to earn a designation.

The CSC Committee of Glens Falls has been approved by the state CSC program to run a Community Campaign promoting community hydroelectricity with Northern Power and Light. We are calling this the City of Glens Falls Community Hydro Project.

We need 169 residents and businesses inside the village to sign up for community hydroelectricity with Northern Power and Light. When we reach this goal, the City of Glens Falls will earn $40,000 in grant funding to support additional Climate Smart Initiatives for the city.

We’re also working with the city to provide electricity to 70 residents who meet Low to Middle Income (LMI) requirements. This isn’t something we are required to do, but it’s something we feel good about doing in order to give back to the community.

These residents will receive a 25% discount on their electricity bill and their households will count towards the total number of qualified residents that meet the City’s CSC Goal.

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Interested in learning more about City of Glens Falls Community Hydro Project and want to ask questions before you consider signing up? Join them for a casual happy hour event at EDC Warren County on the second floor of the Empire Theater on South Street on Thursday, December 14 from 4:30-6pm! The event is free - learn more and sign up here!

Northern Power & Light
Website / Facebook / Instagram
(518) 293-4075

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This article is sponsored by Northern Power & Light. Thank you for supporting the local businesses that support Glens Falls Living.

My Glens Falls: Jaime S. Casey

This week, we chatted with Jaime Casey! She shares a bit about her behavioral support business for children and families, her favorite restaurants downtown (for date night or dinner with the family!), a hidden gem for the best soups, and more…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Jaime S. Casey.  I am married to my best friend and husband Sean Casey, and we have two amazing children together, Jonny and Mary. I am also lucky enough to have a bonus daughter, McKenzie, a son in law, Dakota and their two beautiful boys, Westin and Ryder in my life as well as my wonderful and supportive parents, Jon and Justine Sutherland and my talented and funny brother, Justin. 

I am the owner of BehaveYour Family Support, LLC,  a behavioral support business in which I contract with schools, organizations and families to help support them and their children with varying needs and abilities. I created this business about 10 years ago. Actually, it will be 10 years in 2024 which is hard to believe but it's true what they say: "Time flies when you're having fun" and I could not feel more lucky to do what I love for a living. When I first started this business, the intention was to help people in our community navigate varying abilities and provide support and advocacy for children, families and schools. Since 2020, I have expanded to more areas within the state as well as across the country and one international client. Offering virtual services allows me to be able to support more people and that has been such a cool and rewarding experience. My goal is to ensure more families know about these types of services that are available to them so that they know and feel that sense of community and support, which is something that we all need. 

On Moving to Glens Falls

I grew up in a small town in Parksville, NY and my parents took us to Lake George almost every summer growing up. I have always loved this area. I went to the College of St Rose and received my Bachelor's Degree in Childhood Education.  When I graduated and began working on my masters, I worked for NYSARC, Inc. in Albany. I was able to experience, from an administrative point of view, the support and services they provided to people of varying abilities all over the state. I knew then that I wanted to get my Masters in Psychology and be a part of this in some way, in the future. A local agency in Queensbury was developing a behavior department and I began working there. While working there, I fell in love with the work itself. I worked mostly with adults and realized I wanted to put both of my degrees to use. This is when I realized I wanted to start my own company and work with children, as well as adults. I met my husband here and even though neither of us are originally from this area, we both always loved how Glens Falls truly feels like Hometown USA while also having so much to do and experience close by. We love raising our children here and the strong sense of community we felt immediately and continue to feel. 

On Life in Glens Falls

We own a home near downtown Glens Falls. We love the location and how easily we can walk to the shops and restaurants in town as a family. We talk about how lucky we are to live here, often. We love our home and the charm and history that it has, the location and also the neighborhood itself. Our neighbors are kind, welcoming and we look out for one another. It is such a comfort to have that type of "village" especially in a time where that can be harder and harder to find. 

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite thing about Glens Falls used to be the charm and the Hometown feel. During the holidays, especially, it feels like a Hallmark movie town. That is still true of course, but since having children and sending them to school here, my favorite part of living here without a doubt are the people and the community itself. We are extremely lucky to be raising children in a town who celebrates and is accepting of diversity, people who genuinely look out for our children  and one another and who are kind and are consciously raising kind children. The friendships and connections we have all made here are some of the most important of my life. I feel very lucky to live and raise a family here. I have had many people look out for me both personally and professionally and I am forever grateful. I will always pay it forward when I can because I know, first hand, how important that is and how welcomed and accepted it made me feel. 

One business that I would say is a hidden gem (it was to me at least until recently) is Dickinson's Delights. Their homemade soups and baked goods are delicious and they emulate exactly what I love about this little city; their kindness and the warmth you feel from the moment you walk in. They genuinely want you to have a good experience and are so nice and helpful. Their garlic potato soup is perfect for a cold winter day! 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

A perfect day would include some kind of nap! lol All joking aside, this is tough because I really love so many places here. I love to go for walks or bike rides in our neighborhood and take it all in. I always feel better and even more grateful after a stroll around my neighborhood. I love shopping at the local stores downtown like Minky Mink, Grow and Hallwear. One of my favorite spots for coffee and breakfast is at Kelly's Roots, a place for my friends and I to meet after school drop off or to meet for lunch. I also love Juicin' Jar for a smoothie or baked good. A really great spot for unique gifts, as well. Their whole vibe is just so lovely and inviting. For cocktails or a date night, my husband and I love Flight, Morgan and Co and Radici. The food, the vibes and the drinks are all delicious and we always have a great time. When we are out and about with our children, we love Flour Child Bakery, Downtown City Tavern, New Way Lunch and Pizza Jerks. It's so great to have all of these options right here within walking distance from our home. I also love walking into these places and them recognizing our children and their sweet interaction with them! Their faces light up, and really, nothing beats that feeling as a parent. 

On the Past

One of my favorite Glens Falls memories is the engagement shoot my husband and I did years ago. We started in Crandall Park and ended the shoot downtown. Seeing the city from that perspective, all of the businesses, the lights, the charm — the general feel was really romantic and so much fun.

One of my favorite things to do then and now is to walk through the city during the holiday season, now with our children. It truly feels so magical, especially at night. 

On the Future

This is another tough one for me because I feel like we are lucky to have so much and so many options close by. If I had to pick one, I'd love a really big health food store with a lot of different healthy food options that are affordable, locally sourced and accessible. So many people have specific dietary needs and it would be nice to have something like that close by. My business model is "when we feel better, we can do better" and nutrition and feeling healthy is a great stepping stone for feeling our best. This can allow us to be able to feel well and therefore generate more positivity to give back to our community. This ripple effect of positivity that can make an impact on all of us, locally and globally. That's really my goal, overall. As a woman, a mother, wife and as a business owner, my goal is to generate as much positivity, support, and kindness as possible for as many people as possible. That's when we effectuate real, positive change and I want my contribution to this community and to the world, to be exactly that. 

My Glens Falls: Kathleen Goutos

We caught up with Kay Goutos this week! She shares her many passions, from yoga and massage therapy to stand up comedy, her pick for a downtown restaurant with Manhattan vibes, fond memories of family nights in Glens Falls as a kid, and more…

Tell us about yourself!

Hey there! My government name is Kathleen Goutos. I have many aliases but most people know me as Kay or KayKay. Call me what you want! I am free spirited, fun loving, and adventurous. I have a 5 year old dog named Cleo, and she is the light of my life.

I come from a long line of entrepreneurs. My parents, Ted and Mary, own a boat tour business on Lake George with my big brother, Tim. It’s called Bolton Boat Tours and they do an amazing job. My family is incredibly close — we support each other immensely and for that I’m incredibly grateful. 

I’ve owned my own business Kay G, Healing Artist, for over 6 years. I’m a licensed massage therapist, certified yoga instructor, aromatherapist, and energy healer. I specialize working with people in the music industry.

Glens Falls has welcomed me and my business since day one with open arms. This community is something truly special and I am so grateful for it. I sublet a studio out of Acupuncture Nirvana and my clients are simply the loveliest people. Holding space for them brings me so much joy and peace.

Last spring, I embarked on another passion/career — stand up comedy. I’ve wanted to perform for people my entire life. I am beyond thrilled to have found something that I feel so passionately about and that makes me feel so empowered. Making people laugh means so much to me and I love it with my entire being.

I am now booking gigs locally and I’m also hosting open mics at The Trap in Fort Ann every Thursday at 7pm. It is for comedy, music, and poetry. Facilitating an atmosphere for people to step out of their comfort zone and realize how talented and powerful they are has been so very fulfilling. We have an incredible amount of talent in this area and I just love to see it!

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I was born and raised in Lake George. My parents owned a motel for 25 years right on the lake. I graduated from Lake George High School in 2012 and after a short crack at college, I realized I just wanted to travel and experience new places and things.

After backpacking Australia for a year, I fell in love with massage therapy and decided I wanted to go to school for it. So once I got home, I applied to the Center for Natural Wellness School of Massage Therapy in Albany for the following Spring.

After being alone abroad for awhile, I knew I couldn’t be under my parents roof any longer. I found a small room for rent in Glens Falls off of Craigslist and absolutely adored it. My first apartment ever being in Glens Falls was like a dream. It felt like big city living! I could walk to my doctors appointment and I thought it was the neatest thing.

Since then, I’ve hopped around a bit, but the community always felt so strong to me in Glens Falls. I’ve always admired how this small city loves their people so and is committed to growth. That’s why when I started my business 6 years ago, I knew where I wanted it to be.

I do prefer living in the mountains for easier access to adventures, so these days I rent an apartment in Warrensburg, but I spend lots of time downtown between work and spending time with friends. 

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

My ideal day in Glens Falls would start with an iced matcha oat milk latte from SPoT. Afterwards, I would head to the library and find a new book to read as each sip brings life into me.

I’d then head over to Juicin’ Jar to say ‘Hi’ to the loveliest gals, Nicole & Cristina, and get a juice to go.

Off to the park I go with my fresh drink, but I’d have to make sure to stop by to see the mural by my bestie Hannah Williams first. It always makes me feel so grounded to nature and fills me to the brim with inspiration. 

I would find myself a cozy spot and read a bit of my new book. I’d then answer some work emails and work on some comedy bits. If you see me in Crandall Park talking to myself, I’m fine, I swear!

After the park, I’d need some retail therapy. I can’t resist a pit stop at MinkyMink to see their new arrivals. Maura would help me find the perfect dress as she always does and I would put it on instantly. Luckily it’s a one-stop-shop, so you know I’m grabbing a beautiful jewelry piece from my other bestie, Tess Bannon of Buffalo Bannon Designs, to complete my look.

Eventually, I’d text a friend to see if they’d want to meet up in town for a bite. We would go to Mint for an espresso martini and dinner. The atmosphere there makes me feel like I live in Manhattan, just without the headache.

I can’t resist a game of pool so we would have to hit up Downtown Social for a round of drinks and a couple games. Once we get there, we’d realize a local band is playing so we’d get to jam out as I kicked my friends butt at pool.

The best part of my day would be that every stop I would take, I know I’d see a smiling face. Whether it be an old or new friend, or even a stranger, I know I’m going to feel the warmth of the small, tight-knit community. What more could you ask for in a day?

On the Past

Growing up, my family would only go into Glens Falls for dinner. It felt like such a treat going into the city coming from Lake George. It was always in the winter time as my parents were too busy in the summer, so the Christmas decorations were so beautiful and captivating to me.

We would go to Mikado at their old location on South Street. It had a lovely family vibe — I remember them being so kind and having the chopsticks with the rubber bands for the kids! The hibachi was the coolest thing I had ever seen and I loved the production of it all. 

On the Future

The future for Glens Falls shines so bright. Between the murals bringing this town to life and the small businesses being the backbone of this area, I see it continuing to grow exponentially.

I may be biased but I think a comedy club in the heart of downtown would be incredible. Laughter is medicine and it brings people together in a positive light. I think that would be so fun and so beneficial to our community. Fingers crossed I’d be able to perform there one day!

My Glens Falls: Jaime DeLong

We chatted with Jaime DeLong this week! She shares a bit about her handmade winter hat business, her favorite local activity (a hidden gem!), the beauty of owning her childhood home, and more…

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Jaime DeLong, and I live just over the Glens Falls border in Queensbury with my family. In addition to managing Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course and Tubby Tubes River Co, I recently started a handmade hat business called Hudson Hats. After seasonally retiring from 15 years of crazy busy winters in the ski industry, I decided to turn my winter hat obsession (I’ve somehow acquired 120+ over the years) into a fun hobby. I took a couple knitting classes last December, and then things escalated quite quickly from there!

My mom was an incredibly talented knitter, so it’s definitely in the genes. I do wish that my grandmother was alive to see this though, as she always told me (in good fun) that I was “a consumer, not a producer, and that I was good for the economy!”. She was not wrong, as I did pay someone in my 7th grade home economics class to sew my locker pocket for me (sorry if you’re reading this Mrs. Brown). I’ve made over 200 hats so far, and am still having so much fun — look out for me at some upcoming community events!

On Life In and Around Glens Falls

I was born and raised in the Glens Falls region, and feel quite rooted in the community here. I initially stayed in the area to raise my daughter here, and now I can’t imagine living anywhere else, though I do love to travel and go explore the world at any chance I get! My daughter/best friend is currently attending Northern Arizona University, so that alone gets me lots of travel time.

I actually own my childhood home about two miles from downtown — it’s so convenient to bike to the library or to dinner in the warmer months! The home has been in my family since 1962, when my grandparents decided it was time to move to “the country” (a whopping 1.8 miles north from Ridge Street to Ridge Road).

I think that all houses around 75 years plus in age can be considered fixer uppers to a certain degree, but fortunately my grandmother was incredibly meticulous in maintaining the home. The interior layout is very unique, and the property itself backs up to the wetlands by the airport, so I have a beautiful backyard! Growing up I had a few hot air balloons land in my yard, so that’s a favorite memory for sure!

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite thing about the area is that there is a wide variety of things to do, see, and eat, but we still have that small town/community vibe.

We’re very fortunate to be in such a close proximity to outdoor activities — with Glen Lake right there for paddle boarding and kayaking, beautifully maintained mountain biking trails at Gurney Lane, and being within a 2 hour radius of at least 10 ski areas.

My absolute favorite activity is a hidden gem — white water rafting on the Hudson River. I’ve been a guide with Wild Waters Outdoor Center since 2008 (very part time now), and I can probably count on one hand the number of local residents I’ve taken down the river. New Jersey residents, however — I may have taken them all at this point!

A Perfect Glens Falls Day

Ahh! I have two “ perfect day” scenarios…

Sunday — first stop is Hot Yoga Queensbury, followed by Sunday brunch at Farmacy. Chef Joe’s Benedicts are world class! Dessert would be some shopping at Fountain Square Outfitters.

Days that aren’t Sunday — Latte retrieval at Kru, a workout at Lake George CrossFit, and while there, hopefully a phone call from Poopie’s telling me that there is buffalo chicken soup on the menu (yes there is a special soup phone list and it is the best).

Family dinner the crew will usually be Sweet Rice Sushi Thai, and date nights are spent back at Farmacy, or at Radici.

On the Past

I love Taste Of The North Country, so I’m really hoping that event will return next fall. I have fond memories of going across the bridge to The Joy Store with my grandmother, and also going to Ames with my mom so she could by yarn!

On the Future

Personally, a yarn store carrying indie dyed wool would be lovely! I know lots of past Glens Falls Living featured people would like a bookstore or a rooftop bar, and I think those would be great additions as well. I’m very much looking forward to checking out The Golden Monkey, and seeing the continued revitalization of South Street.

Muralthon Artist Rachel Henrich Shares Her Colorful Mural

Six artists, three weeks, three shipping containers, one Muralthon. Six new murals mark a step forward for Muralgarten, a unique destination that will combine public art and native plantings adjacent to The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls. The vision of Eric Unkauf (owner of The Shirt Factory) with the support of a board including Tom Myott, Hannah Williams, Kendra Farstad, and Matthew Martindale, Muralgarten seeks to give artists the creative freedom to paint what they want, in the style that they want. 

We’re excited to introduce you to another one of the talented artists behind Muralthon’s six murals, Rachel Henrich, whose mural is meant to inspire the senses with a bold flow of color.

Tell us about yourself!

I am a Jane of many trades and working towards mastering a few. I feel that almost all aspects of life feed and inspire other areas, such as health, spirit, and energy — they are almost never mutually exclusive. Everything we do eventually reflects back as we create our stories; our masterpiece. 

It has been a natural progression for me to study many fields of interest and learn to love and appreciate how they all flow into a brighter and more aligned life. I am an artist and healer by trade, and for me these two especially flow together because to learn art is a pathway for your own genius to shine, while to learn to work towards your own health is also a brave undertaking that often involves things like growing practices of visualization, connection, conscious consumption, movement, creativity and awareness. Practices that written on paper may sound easy but truly ask a lot of you. Advocating for yourself and living the life you want to live is not always easy but it is definitely worth it.

I am from South Glens Falls, and I am a 2002 graduate of South High. I studied art and photography in college and have been traveling the world since I was 21, studying art and medicine with teachers and travelers from different cultures — some certified and others internships just to learn. I have a great love for quantum energy and plant medicines and I feel the future of medicine lies in a mixture of these with western practices. It’s growing quite rapidly and I love the increasing acceptance and curiosity.

I just moved home a year ago from Costa Rica and have since enrolled myself in studies at UAlbany to continue my deep love for medicine and healing, with potential plans to study Osteopathic Medicine. We will see how it unfolds — life always has its plan next to mine. 

On Becoming an Artist

Art has supported me as I’ve traveled around the world. Commissioned pieces are my most lucrative channel with art. 

It just kind of happens, at events like dance parties on the beach or dinners in new homeowners homes where conversations start and then end with a plan for new art to be made. It's been a dream actually, and a seamless one at that. I have made incredible friends and connections through art and I am forever grateful for being able to continue to express my passion through paint and other mediums.

Currently, I am working on building business practices like a website and art studio here in Glens Falls where people can stop in and see my work. I will always love to travel but building a foundation has been feeling really good these days. It takes time after moving for so long. 

On Inspiration

My work in Muralgarten was all about color play, color theory, and inspiring the senses with the bold flow of color. Color is medicine and we (our systems) are directly affected by it on deep levels whether we are aware of it or not. 

On Adapting When Creating

For this piece I was drawing my lines out with a ruler and taping to get really nice crisp lines. It is easy in theory, but I didn’t factor in the variegated metal and was met with some challenges getting lines and paint down nice and clean. In the end the rippled metal made for an added dimensional effect on the piece and I wouldn't want it any other way. There are always surprises when creating — you learn to adapt while having fun as best as possible.

On Art and Life

I think that everything we do in this life is art.

How we treat each other, how we deal with situations, how we perceive the world, it’s all art.  

I see everyone as an amazing artist painting their canvas of life. Everyone is at a different level of creating their magic.

Art is not always a pretty process. You learn techniques to help shade colors and add brightness to make certain parts shine that maybe sat dull for a while. A key component to making good art is always to step away and get some new perspective and let new energy inspire your life. 

I hope that people know and believe that they have so much power to create their reality and it can be super fun while supporting your life. One of the best steps in this direction is to get out, explore your passions, and be ok with not being good at things. Part of the art is that step alone. Be open and enjoy creating and exploring — it will change your life. 

Some Glens Falls Favorites

My favorite downtown place to eat has always been Mikado. From the old school days on South Street to their expansion on Glen, they always get my patronage and make a pretty solid Ramen. It's great to see Glens Falls growing and keeping its sweet small town essence along the way. 

Rachel Henrich
Instagram

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Rachel is also a certified breathwork facilitator offering transformative breathwork classes in the area - follow @breathwork_journeyz for more info.

First Look: The Golden Monkey Lounge

Have you been to The Golden Monkey Lounge yet? If you haven’t, consider this a sign to head to South Street for a cocktail! We caught up with owners Gregg Singer and Larissa Ovitt to hear more about the inspiration for opening a lounge, what to expect from their menus, how things have been going so far, and more…

On Opening a Lounge

Gregg: Larissa and I went into business together about four years ago, building a portfolio of short term rentals. Being that Larissa is from the area, she happened to spot that this building was on the market, and we pounced on it. We knew we wanted to build out the upstairs for apartments, and our original plan was to rent out the retail space on the ground floor.

With all the momentum on South Street, we really wanted to take the city’s vision and further it. Knowing that the Market Center building is going up across the street, we realized that we didn’t want to let go of too much control with the retail space. We didn’t want it to go in a direction that wouldn’t work with the city’s vision, and the vision that we have for the building as a whole.

So one night, we just decided — we’re opening a bar! There are really no other lounge spaces in the area, so we thought that would be our niche. We want it to be a happy and safe space for people to have fun and socialize. There are no TVs, no pool tables, no dartboards, and there’s no craziness.

Larissa: We’re hoping to encourage conversation. Whether it’s with the people that you came with, or with other people that you meet throughout the night. Each one of the seating sections was structured for conversation, and it’s a versatile enough space to accommodate different size groups. Groups that grow as the night goes on! It’s like an extension of your own living room — but you don’t have to clean up after.

Gregg: We spent the last four months fixing, cleaning, and renovating the place. We added a partition wall, upgraded the lighting and audio, built out the back bar shelving. We really wanted the space to have an aesthetic that Larissa and I like personally.

Gregg Singer and Larissa Ovitt

On Specialty Drinks

Larissa: Being a cocktail lounge, specialty cocktails are our thing. Our menu consists of classic cocktails, reimagined. Taking things like scotch, gin, and rum, and turning them into drinks that are elevated. They’re familiar enough that it’s comfortable, but also encourages you to try something new. We also have mocktails — we’re not creating a separate mocktail menu, because we want people to be able to enjoy what we have on our regular cocktail menu without the alcohol. 

For beer, we’re hoping to offer options that you won’t find anywhere else. We don’t offer domestic beer, and our focus is mainly on craft beer and seasonal ciders. We try to stay as local as possible, but not something that you can just run down the street and grab somewhere else. We have a great wine list too. We dove right into wine research and found the best one of each variety.

Our hope is to offer something that feels familiar, but pushes your palate just a bit to help you discover something that you didn’t even know you liked.

On The Food

Gregg: We currently have five or six small plate options on our menu, and we plan to keep building on that. The portions are shareable, but they aren’t entrees. This is a place where you can feel comfortable coming for a cocktail and an appetizer before your dinner reservation elsewhere downtown, and maybe come back to relax after dinner with another drink.

In keeping with our cocktails, we wanted to create options that feel comfortable, but with an elevated twist. For instance, we have a crostini, which many people are used to, but we did a whipped feta topping with wild mushrooms and a balsamic drizzle. We have a cheese platter that has spiced mango chutney, apples, pickled vegetables, and local cheeses. We have a curried hummus and a carrot harissa dip. My favorite is probably the deviled eggs. Who doesn’t love deviled eggs? We’re currently doing avocado and bacon, and we’ve also done a version spiced with Old Bay and filled with pickles and a shrimp on top.

We are trying to cater to everyone’s dietary preferences. We have gluten free options, vegetarian, and vegan.

On The Name

Larissa: We spent a long time racking our brains about a name. There was nothing that really stuck. We were trying to find something that was reflective of us as well as our vision for this space. A little playful, a little mischievous, but yet classy.

We ended up coming across the Golden Monkey — the species — online one night when we were together. They’re amazing. They’re a really pretty golden red color with a bright blue face. They’re an endangered species, and their territory has become very small. There are a couple of refuges — one in India and one in Africa, where their population numbers are coming back up. It feels like an opportunity for us to do something beyond the walls of this place. The name felt like it fit.

Gregg: We plan on trying to create some type of charity so that we can help them in some way.

On Being Eco Friendly

Larissa: There are a lot of eco friendly aspects to what we’ve created here as well, probably the most noticeable being our straws, which are actually ocean biodegradable. They break down within a couple of months. All of the disposables that we use are compostable and biodegradable as well.

Gregg: Our food is always brought out on ceramic plates, but we’ll also provide paper plates for sharing, which are biodegradable, and our cutlery is corn based, so it all breaks down. They are more expensive, but we don’t want to add waste.

Larissa: We try to stay conscious about all of our selections, including the different liquor companies that we carry. Who we support is important to us.

On The First Few Weeks

Larissa: We’ve had an overwhelmingly positive response so far from the community. It’s been awesome.

Gregg: So many people have said that our community really needed a place like this. We’ve heard that from people age 21 all the way up to 75. A safe, comfortable, quiet place where you can talk to friends and hang out, without too much stimuli.

Larissa: There already seems to be a lot of additional foot traffic on South Street between our opening and the opening of Taco Kings Jalisco. On any given day, there are now a lot of cars on the street, especially in the evening, when it had been dead before. South Street has been an afterthought for a long time, and that time is over.

On Next Steps

Larissa: Our front garage door opens, which we’ll be able to take advantage of more in the spring, and that lends itself to people enjoying the energy happening on the street once the building across the street is complete and they start to hold events.

We also have a big, private patio out back, which will be the coolest space downtown. We’re planning on utilizing it a bit this winter, probably by having an ice bar at some point. The full design of the space will happen this spring, and that will be another incredible space to host events.

The Golden Monkey Lounge
58 South Street, Glens Falls
Website / Instagram / Facebook
Open Friday-Tuesday from 5pm to 12am