Yes, Virginia!
A Theme Restaurant
442 Saratoga Road
Glenville, NY
518.399.0525
A friend and I recently enjoyed a thoroughly delightful evening out at a new theme restaurant in Glenville, called Yes, Virginia. When we went, they had only been open for two we went, they had only been open for two weeks, and were in the middle of their Christmas theme. The place was dripping in all things Christmas. Christmas trees, wreaths, garland, lights, red and green tablecloths and poinsettias… you name it! There was a pianist playing Christmas music, Christmas skits being performed (original and very humorous), and Christmas songs being sung. This of course, is all going on while you dine. There were interludes of quiet and then a skit or a song. We never knew what would come next. The owner and employees all got in on the act, and it was much fun for all!
Yes, Virginia is the brainchild of Elizabeth Meehan, who is a special needs teacher in her other life. Elizabeth is one of the most energetic and enthusiastic people that I have had the pleasure to come across, in quite a while. Apparently, Elizabeth has always loved throwing theme parties at her home, and has gone to great lengths to make them special. She has even been known to have her husband construct walls to get just the effect she was looking for. It is obvious that Elizabeth has a terrific husband. (He must be happy that Elizabeth has a new place to express her creativity!) Elizabeth Meehan told me that some of their up and coming themes will include Mardi Gras (after Christmas), Arabian Nights, Rat Pack, the Old West and Guys and Dolls. A local author will also be writing murder mysteries to tie into the theme of the moment. Elizabeth is in the process of hiring local talent to help put together the various themes. For example, she will need jazz musicians to help celebrate Mardi Gras, and belly dancers for Arabian Nights.
The building that Yes, Virginia is located in dates back to the 1600’s. It is loaded with character and charm. Old distressed hardwood floors and a handsome solid wood antique bar are two of the outstanding features in the dining room. Tremendous effort has gone into making this a place to enjoy a super night out. You must be wondering about the food by now. I am happy to report that it was excellent. Chef Christine Hazard is responsible for everything that goes on in the kitchen. Chef Christine has previously worked as a personal chef, and as a chef at Putnam Market, in Saratoga. Judging from our meals, Chef Christine is off to a fantastic start. We began our meal with warm, homemade raisin bread. It was oh so yummy. After that, we enjoyed a crisp Caesar salad. I had the turkey roulade (turkey breast rolled and stuffed) for my entree, and my companion had the prime rib. My meal came with wild rice, and my companions with roasted potatoes. Both of our entrees were accompanied with a beautiful assortment of fresh sautéed vegetables. The food was well prepared, fresh and of high quality. We devoured every bite. For dessert, we had Fantasia chocolate cake and New York cheesecake. They were both wonderful! The food at Yes, Virginia was delicious. This is truly a place where you can enjoy a wonderful meal, while being entertained in style.
Yes, Virginia is by reservation only, and has a 6:30 seating on Friday and Saturday nights and a 5:00 seating on Sundays. Break out of your rut and try something new, exciting and different, all the while, dining on fine food.