It’s rare these days that we find a summer day that is not packed with adventures to Lake George, golf matches or family commitments. Last Saturday was just one of those days. Dad was away, and I was looking for some way to keep the monsters busy. As close as we are to the Saratoga Race Course, we usually venture up to the lake to avoid the weekend craziness. But with the weather being perfect and boys who needed to burn some steam, we walked to the racetrack. Of course… to see the horsies. But really, I wanted to check out the new yet nostalgic Carnegie Deli Pop-Up and treat the boys to a fun, surprise lunch.

We rarely bring the boys to the track, so they were eager to be reminded of what lies beyond that main gate that they pass hundreds of times a year. Add the promise of a turnstile and escalator and they are THERE. It really doesn’t take much. It’s one of the many reasons why I love them. We weaved our way through the picnic parties and passed many-a-food stands. And as excited as they were about the huge selection of snack options, I assured them that we were on our way to a super fun and tasty spot.

We headed to the historic grandstand, where the red and white awning and neon logo was recognizable from across the building. The boys quickly pulled up a stool and were greeted by two sweet servers, filling their order and smiling every step of the way. Their logo-ed tees were a quick reminder that Carnegie is a collaboration with Broadway’s Adelphi Hotel.

Because the boys are much more hot dog kids than hot pastrami kids (they’ll come around), we ordered a round of hot dogs and fries, adding a pickle to each order. And we acknowledged that it wouldn’t be a TRUE deli experience without indulging in a black and white cookie. (Fun fact: black and white cookies are ALWAYS stocked in our cupboard. Probably more than bread).

Despite the fact that my pre-teens are inching their way into those “too cool for school” years, we still had a chance to enjoy a few laughs with the adorable hats and buttons they were given. (Giveaways are still a “BIG DILL” to my kids.) In addition to the giveaways, there were a variety of other gifts available, as well as a wicker basket with a picnic lunch for eight… a trackside favorite this summer.

Trust me when I say that we didn’t need YET ANOTHER hot dog this summer. But as any mom with little boys will share… an adventure that involves a favorite food and fun giveaway will always remain one of “the best ever!”.

Adding this special stop to their once-a-year walk to the race course will surely imprint memories for years to come. But likely not as many as the ketchup imprints (above) all over my walls when we arrived home.

The Carnegie Deli Pop-Up will be open through the remainder of the meet, and is surely worth a ride up that escalator.