The Caldwell House Restaurant & Martini Bar: A Lake George Classic That Still Gets It Right
Some restaurants chase trends. Others perfect the art of comfort.
Photos courtesy: The Caldwell House Restaurant & Martini Bar in Lake George.
For more than seven decades, The Caldwell House & Martini Bar has quietly perfected the art of comfort—serving generous portions, classic American fare, and a sense of warmth that feels especially welcome in the Adirondacks.
Five years after our original review, it’s clear this Lake George stalwart hasn’t lost its footing. If anything, it’s leaned harder into what it does best.
Tucked just south of Lake George Village, The Caldwell House remains a year-round favorite for locals and visitors who value consistency, hospitality, and a meal that leaves no doubt you’ve been well fed.
A log cabin with soul (and a fireplace that seals the deal).
Walking into The Caldwell House still delivers that unmistakable exhale moment. The log cabin setting, glowing stone fireplace, and softly lit dining rooms feel intentionally timeless.
In winter, it’s downright hygge—snow boots by the door, martinis in hand, and dinner unfolding at a relaxed pace. In summer, it’s a welcome contrast to the bustle of the Village: calm, polished, and reassuringly familiar.
Online reviews consistently echo the same themes: cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and a dining room that feels special without being stuffy. It’s the kind of place where anniversaries, family celebrations, and “let’s just go somewhere good” nights all make sense.
Chef-owned, legacy-driven, and proudly old-school.
The Caldwell House is currently run by third-generation chef and owner James Domino, part of a family legacy that spans more than 70 years and four generations. That continuity shows—in the menu, the service style, and the confidence to stick with classics rather than chase novelty.
This is not a restaurant trying to reinvent American cuisine. It’s a restaurant honoring it.
What to order (and why you won’t regret it).
The menu is broad, but a few dishes stand out—both by reputation and repeat demand.
Beef in all it’s forms is always a good choice at The Caldwell House.
Start strong
Creamy Liver Pâté – A house specialty for a reason. Rich, silky, and served with grilled bread, it’s a throwback appetizer that still wins fans.
Oscar’s Smokehouse Bacon – Thick-cut, applewood smoked, glazed with brown sugar. This is indulgence with intent.
Baked French Onion Soup – Deeply savory, properly cheesy, and ideal on cold Adirondack nights.
From the land
Prime Rib Au Jus – The signature. Slow-roasted, tender, and available in multiple cuts while it lasts. Locals know to order this early.
Filet Mignon – Flame-charbroiled, expertly cooked, and best paired with a classic béarnaise or au poivre sauce.
Drunken Ribeye – Bold, rich, and unapologetic, finished with a mushroom-bourbon sauce that leans into steakhouse comfort.
From the sea
Caldwell Crab Cakes – Lump crab, minimal filler, and consistently praised online.
Stuffed Shrimp – Broiled jumbo shrimp with seafood stuffing and house béarnaise—decadent, but well balanced.
Faroe Islands Salmon – A lighter option that still delivers, finished with a caper cream sauce.
Classic comfort
Chicken Piccata – Lemon, capers, white wine, and cream—still a top choice for regulars.
Manhattan Sandwich – Thin-sliced prime rib, melted provolone, au jus. A sleeper hit for lunch-leaning dinners.
Delicious seafood entrees are a highlight.
Save room for a martini (or two).
The “Martini Bar” part of the name isn’t decorative. The cocktail program leans classic and generous, with martinis that feel appropriately celebratory—especially before dinner or as a nightcap by the fire.
It’s another detail frequently mentioned in reviews: strong pours, friendly bartenders, and a bar that feels like its own destination.
When to go and who will love it.
Best times to visit
Winter evenings, especially midweek, for peak coziness
Shoulder seasons (November, April) when Lake George quiets down
Early evenings, if prime rib is your goal
No matter when you plan to go, reservations are strongly recommended
This place is ideal for
Locals seeking a reliable year-round favorite
Visitors who want a polished dinner without pretense
Couples, multi-generational families, and celebratory dinners
Anyone who believes comfort food can still feel special
The bottom line.
The Caldwell House doesn’t need reinvention—it needs appreciation. In an era of fleeting food trends, this Lake George institution continues to offer something increasingly rare: warmth, generosity, and confidence in its own identity. It’s not trying to be the newest thing in the Adirondacks. Its focus on excellent food and service is one of the most enduring in the area—and that’s exactly why it still works.
For more information, visit their website or Facebook page.
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