In our new series we are showcasing the businesses revitalizing Schroon’s Main Street. In this installment: The ‘New” Pitkin’s Restaurant. SEE MORE PHOTOS IN OUR FOOD AND DRINK SECTION, BY CLICKING HERE.

By Annette Batson

"Want to grab breakfast at Pitkin's?" is something we have not been able to say for months. To our delight, this weekend something so commonplace prior to COVID-19, was elevated to an indulgent experience. After nearly 4 months of restaurant closures, we jumped on the opportunity, on this sunny, warm Saturday morning in Schroon.

The first time you walk into the recently renovated Pitkin's, you might feel some nostalgia, but that quickly faded for our group, admiring  the beautiful workmanship, comfortable booths (and tables 6-feet spaced) in a sunny dining room with huge picture window, and the chalkboard menu of Marie's homemade pies.  Owner Adam McCall and his partner Bridgett Mather have polished an old gem on Schroon Lake's Main Street.

"I feel better now that we are open. The COVID shutdown wasn't actually a bad thing for us, because we were able to finish the ground floor renovation by May 1.  It was the wait after that which was difficult." Adam says they are adding an outdoor seating area, to open soon.  "We can accommodate more people at outdoor socially distant tables, and it should be ready in a couple of weeks.”

And, more good news, at the outside tables, your pooch is welcome! "A big problem we have with dogs here is that boaters come up to the town dock with their pets - they want to stop in for a bite, but can't leave their dogs on the boat.  Now they have a place within walking distance that is dog friendly."  Waitress Stephanie Palmateer, added "this might attract many of Schroon Lake's younger crowd as well."

The upstairs, still under renovation and scheduled to be completed this winter, is an exciting addition. It's a huge, bright space. We peeked upstairs, and noticed an exposed hand hewn beam which must be original to the structure.  Adam plans to make it an extra dining room, and available for family gatherings, bridal showers, or any private event.

But back to breakfast. Our party of four chose the sunny corner table, and ordered the day's special: Belgian waffles with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. We also added the cinnamon roll pancakes, and that satisfied our sweet tooth. We followed with a fluffy cheese and veggie omelette, buttered rye toast and hash browns. We even indulged in a side of onion rings, to cover all the food groups. It was all wonderful, including the steaming coffee, served to us with a smile. (Thanks Stephanie, we'll catch you and your band "The Blonde Roots" at Beck's!) 

Adam updated the menu last summer, adding a couple of items and offering satisfying options for gluten-free/vegetarian diners.  He has expanded the dinner menu, and will be offering specials periodically.  Pitkin's, established in 1907, is open again, 7 days a week, 7:30 am - 8:30 pm for dining and take out.  518 - 532-7918. 1085 US Route 9, Schroon Lake, NY 121870.