National Geographic nods to local hospitality

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September 29, 2009

By KIM SMITH DEDAM The Press Republican Tue Sep 29, 2009, 11:28 PM EDT

SARANAC LAKE — Wild-woods adventure and the unique perks of the All-America City earned Saranac Lake a berth in the top 100 Best Adventure Towns.

Published by the National Geographic Society, the Adventure version of their magazine included Saranac Lake as one of four towns in New York state to earn the distinction, calling this the "unofficial capital of the wild, rugged Adirondack Park."

The 100 Best Adventures are among a series the magazine does both exploring lifestyle, environment and backyard American journeys.

Sylvie Nelson, executive director of the Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, was pleased with the award.

"Hey, it's the top Adventure Town, but really, it's good to be recognized for something that we value here. Then for others to appreciate our assets and make it to National Geographic Adventure, a prestigious organization, it is just great. It's certainly an honor."

BUSINESSES CITED
Accompanied by a kayaking picture with cloud and blue sky mirrored in still water, the story mentions Eat 'n Meet Grill and Larder, a restaurant on Broadway, as a place that "may be the classiest, quirkiest take-out joint you'll ever visit. The tiny, three-table dining room doubles as the pantry, and an Elvis statue presides from the second-floor porch, but it's the food you'll remember after you leave."

The story also nods to lodging establishments the Adirondack Motel and the Porcupine Bed and Breakfast, both located in the village.

'GREAT FOR AREA'
John Vargo, owner and chef at Eat 'n Meet, said Saranac Lake is a great adventure.

"I think (the National Geographic feature) is great for the whole area. I just think Saranac Lake is a top 100 destination, and it's nice to be recognized."

Vargo said the Elvis out front has been a longtime emissary for his business.

"Elvis, he's a friend of ours, he came along with us from our last restaurant, where he used to be emcee when there wasn't a band on stage."

'GRATIFYING'
At the edge of Lake Flower, where snow threatened to fall even on the first day of October, spirits at the Adirondack Motel were warm and cheery.

"We're thrilled, a friend of mine told me about it the other day," owner Fred Mueller said when asked about the article.

"We're fortunate, you know, we've got a great waterfront location, and for a little place with only 13 rooms, it's pretty gratifying. This was a retirement project, and it's just great. Saranac Lake has such a different feel from Lake Placid, and I guess it's still one of the last spots where some Mom and Pop motels can make it."

'FLATTERED'
At Porcupine Bed and Breakfast, a lodge that counts Mark Twain as a former guest to its historic rooms, the mention was well received.

"Neat," said owner Meg Amy. "I think it's great. I'm very flattered that The Porcupine has been mentioned in NG Magazine. It's an honor for me, my business and the Village of Saranac Lake."

With winter knocking, it might be better giving hats on here, rather than hats off while taking a bow in the national limelight.

E-mail Kim Smith Dedam at: kdedam@pressrepublican.com