The team at Chianti il Ristorante is heating up the happy hour scene in downtown Saratoga. Their Presto Happy Hour now features expanded hours: Monday through Friday 4:30 to 6:30pm and Sundays 4:30 to 9:00pm. They have also added new small plates and cocktails to the lineup. We were invited to try the new menu items — here’s what we ‘happily’ dug in to:
Cocktails
A great happy hour needs a solid drink menu and Chianti’s delivers. Beer, wine, and ciders, including 1911 Cider Donut Hard Cider are joined by fall-themed cocktails perfect for the season.
Blueberry-Ginger Shandy
This cocktail is a great choice for this strangely hot weather and will be just as refreshing on fall afternoons. Blueberry cider meets ginger beer to create a light, crisp beverage. When you’re craving a cocktail but want to go easy on the alcohol, this shandy is a great way to still partake in happy hour festivities.
Raspberry Lemon Drop
A twist on the classic Lemon Drop, this cocktail not only tastes great, but is a visual stunner. Raspberry vodka, Chambord and lemon juice create a beautiful gradient from red to yellow. This cocktail is a great choice for those who like fruit-forward cocktails that aren’t super sweet.
Cranberry Mule
Gingerbeer, lime, and Deep Eddy Cranberry-Infused Vodka come together for this fall take on a classic. While mules have been showing up on cocktail menus across the country, this spin from Chianti is worth visiting for.
Stuzzichini
Chianti’s Presto Happy Hour food menu is perfect whether you want a light snack or want to order a few items as a full meal. It has enough variety that everyone can find a dish they’ll enjoy.
Prosciutto E Gnocco Fritto
These. Are. Addictive. Perfectly golden brown pillows of dough (delicious on their own even) come to life when you add a piece of prosciutto to the mix. The cured meat adds the perfect level of salt to the dish. While there’s plenty to share, you might not want to after your first bite.
Carpaccio Del Chianti
Thinly sliced filet that melts in your mouth is topped with gorgonzola fondue and truffle oil to create a decadent, yet light dish. The garlicky gorgonzola fondue will turn anyone into a blue cheese fan while the truffle oil adds a nice earthy note.
Filet Skewers
While the Filet Skewers are not a new item, they are a favorite and certainly worth writing about. Tender beef is marinated in garlic and then grilled to perfection. The balsamic reduction adds a brilliant tangy note to each skewer.
Gnocco Fritto Dolce
Whether you have a strong sweet tooth or want a dessert that won’t leave you lethargic this dish is a fabulous choice. Cloud-like pillows are covered in semi-sweet chocolate and powdered sugar. Think elegant fried dough, but way better.
Head to Chianti il Ristorante for your next happy hour for refreshing drinks and upscale bites. Whether you’re going out on a first date or want to change up the routine with your coworkers, Chianti is a great choice.
