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David Lindley |
Roy Book Binder |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Caffe Lena like?
Caffè Lena seats eighty in a relaxed, intimate, alcohol and smoke-free setting. Our atmosphere is casual and very neighborly. Expect to share a table with other visitors. During the concert we maintain a no-talking, attentive atmosphere in which the performer receives the audience's undivided attention. It's this rare combination of informality and deep respect for the music that makes Caffè Lena unique. Top
How do I make reservations?
See the Purchase Tickets page. Top
Do I have to have a reservation?
It's always recommended because our room is small and many shows sell out. Top
When should I make a reservation?
As soon as you find out about the concert, even months in advance. You can buy tickets until noon on the day of the show. Unsold tickets are available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis for an extra $2.
To find out if a show has sold out you can call our office voicemail at 518-583-002 after 12:30. If it is sold out, we'll announce that right in the main mailbox. Top
Why are there two prices for tickets?
Caffè Lena is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. One of the membership perks is reduced admission to the concerts. The lower price is for members and the higher price is for the general public. To find out about becoming a member, please click here.
We don't list the buy-at-the-door price on every show, but please be aware that tickets purchased at the door cost $2 more than the listed price.
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Where is Caffe Lena and how do I get there?
See our Directions page.
We're located on the second floor and are not currently handicapped accessible.
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When are you open?
Caffe Lena is open Wednesday through Sunday for a wide variety of performances (see our performance schedule for complete listings). We are not open to the public during the day, although the office staff can often be reached on Tuesday through Thursday from 9 to 5. Call 518-583-0022 or e-mail sarah caffelena.org.
We also sometimes offer weekend matinee and Monday/Tuesday evening theater productions in our Black Box Theater. Top
Are children allowed?
Yes, but they must be able to remain quiet and seated throughout the performance. Most shows are fine for all ages. If you have questions about the suitability of a particular show, please contact the staff by phone or write to sarahcaffelena.org. Tickets to all concerts are half price for children 13 and under. Top
What kind of food do you serve?
Refreshments include our own signature blend of organic coffee, teas, specialty iced drinks and homestyle desserts baked on the premises. We also offer cheese and crackers, humus with warm pita bread, and a variety of grilled panini sandwiches.
Food orders are taken before the show and during intermission only, so please arrive early if you'd like to order before the concert starts. Top
Can we bring a bottle of wine?
Sorry, but no. Hattie's right downstairs has a full bar. You're welcome to step out for a drink during intermission, but you can't drink any alcohol here. Top
Can you recommend any hotels or restaurants?
Saratoga Springs has an abundance of hotels and restaurants. Our local Chamber of Commerce offers a comprehensive directory for visitors . If you are coming in late July or during August, be aware that the horseracing track will be open and you will need to plan well in advance to secure in-town accommodations. Top
Our favorite neighborhood restaurants are:
Four Seasons - a unique vegetarian buffet combined with a natural foods store located one block west of Caffe Lena at 33 Phila Street. For information call 518-584-4670.
Ravenous - offering European street fare including sweet and savory crepes and belgian french fries. 1.5 blocks west of Caffe Lena at 21 Phila Street.
Sushi Thai Garden - Award-winning Japanese and Thai cuisine right across the street from Caffe Lena. Surprisingly inexpensive. Call 518-580-0900 for reservations.
Hattie's (www.hattiesrestaurant.com)- A Saratoga landmark located downstairs from Caffe Lena. Hattie's has offered Southern and Louisiana-style cooking since 1938. Call 518-584-4790 for reservations. Top
Our favorite places to stay overnight are:
For casual accommodations we recommend the Saratoga Downtowner (www.saratogadowntowner.com), located at 413 Broadway, about 3 blocks from Caffe Lena. Call 518-584-6160 for information.
The Six Sisters Bed and Breakfast (www.sixsistersbandb.com) offers beautiful accomodations and a lavish breakfast in a meticulously restored Victorian house. Located at 149 Union Avenue in Saratoga Springs, about a 10 minute walk from downtown. Call 518-583-1173.
Or try staying about 15 minutes from Saratoga in historic and burgeoning Schuylerville at the Old Saratoga Motor Inn (www.oldsaratogamotorinn.com). Tell the folks there that we sent you. Rates are cheaper than Saratoga, it's a lovely drive to town, and you'll discover all sorts of off-the-beaten-path attractions. Call 800-990-9940. Top
Is Caffe Lena really the longest-running coffeehouse in the country?
Yes! Lena and Bill Spencer first opened their doors in May, 1960. Neither one had ever done anything like this before, but they figured Saratoga Springs was a good place to open a cafe and make enough money to travel and pursue their individual interests. Bill was a sculptor and Lena was an actress.
In the ensuing years, Lena created a legend. Our remarkable roster of artists includes Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Bob Dylan, Emmylou Harris, Arlo Guthrie, Don McLean, Nanci Griffith, Dave Van Ronk, Odetta, Rev. Gary Davis, Utah Phillips, Ani DiFranco, G.Love, and hundreds upon hundreds of others. For a more complete history of Caffe Lena, please visit our special history website at www.caffelenahistory.org. Top
How can I support Caffe Lena?
Thanks for asking! Visit our Membership & Donation page, and our Friends of Caffè Lena page. Check back soon! Top
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Photo:
Chris Smither, 2005
© 2005, Joseph Deuel
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Photo:
David Lindley, 2005
© 2005, Joseph Deuel
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Photo:
Roy Bookbinder, 2005
© 2005, Joseph Deuel
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Copyright © 1998-2008, Caffe Lena, Inc.
All Rights Reserved |
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