Press & Post
Now Pouring: ThoroughbreDZ Lemon Pilsner
Just in time for Saratoga’s summer racing season, we’re proud to introduce ThoroughbreDZ Lemon Pilsner, the latest release from our Helping HanDZ initiative — an annual brewing collaboration between DZ Restaurants and Wolf Hollow Brewing Company.
Crafted with intention and heart, ThoroughbreDZ is more than just a refreshing summer beer — it’s a way to give back. Proceeds from this limited-release lemon pilsner will benefit B.E.S.T. Saratoga (Backstretch Employee Service Team), a nonprofit supporting the health and wellness of the dedicated workers behind the scenes at the Saratoga Racetrack.
This year’s brew draws inspiration from Japan’s premium lagers, brewed with rice to lighten the body and dry out the finish. Expect bright citrus notes and subtle herbal bitterness thanks to Sorachi Ace hops, a variety known for its distinct lemony aroma.
Check out the photos below from our first pour event with special appearances from legendary race caller Tom Durkin, Hall of Fame jockey Ramon Dominguez, and celebrated trainer Chad Brown! Guests enjoyed the first taste of this crisp, citrusy pilsner while showing their support for a great cause. You can now enjoy ThoroughbreDZ on tap at Chianti il Ristorante, Forno Bistro, and Boca Bistro — all summer long.
Cheers to a great cause!
ThoroughbreDZ First Pour On The Patio!
DZ Restaurants is proud to announce the launch of its latest Thoroughbredz brew, an Italian-style lemon Pilsner created in partnership with Wolf Hollow Brewing Co., as the latest installment of their Helping HanDZ initiative—a program dedicated to giving back to the local community.
Proceeds from every pint sold throughout the 2025 summer racing season will benefit B.E.S.T. (Backstretch Employee Service Team Saratoga), an organization dedicated to supporting the hardworking individuals whose behind-the-scenes efforts make Saratoga’s iconic racetrack possible.
To celebrate the launch, Forno Bistro will be hosting a First Pour on the Patio on Wednesday, May 21st from 4PM-6PM, to benefit B.E.S.T. (Backstretch Employee Service Team). Guests can enjoy samples of Thoroughbredz, small bites, and mingle with jockey Ramon Domínguez & legendary voice of the track Tom Durkin. Guests are invited to stay after the event for dinner. 25% of all dinner sales that evening will also be donated to B.E.S.T. to support the backstretch workers.
“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Wolf Hollow Brewing and to release Thoroughbredz—a beer that celebrates craftsmanship while supporting the heart of Saratoga’s racing community,” said Nancy Bambara, VP of DZ Restaurants.
Crafted with purpose and passion, Thoroughbredz is a crisp, floral, citrus-forward brew that pays homage to Italian brewing traditions while celebrating Saratoga’s racing culture. Developed in collaboration with DZ Restaurants’ own beer aficionado Rich Peters and the skilled brewers at Wolf Hollow, this refreshing pilsner is set to become the drink of the summer.
Event Details:
• Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
• Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Forno Bistro, 541 Broadway, Saratoga Springs
• Admission: $15 suggested donation
Donate at the event, or pre-register online at shop.dzrestaurants.com.
The DZ Restaurants Preferred Guest App Is Live!
Download it NOW on the App Store or Google Play and step into a whole new world of delicious perks! Get ready to earn rewards just for dining at your favorite DZ Restaurant — Chianti il Ristorante, Boca Bistro, and Forno Bistro.
Whether you’re digging into tapas, twirling pasta, or grabbing takeout, every bite brings you closer to something extra tasty.
Why You’ll Love the New DZ App:
- Track your points & rewards in real-time
- Earn every time you dine — no more guesswork
- Unlock exclusive offers, birthday rewards & surprise perks
- Get first dibs on member-only events
- Order takeout in just a few taps
- PLUS: You’ll receive a FREE gift every year (To Be Announced) — no need to wait for your birthday to feel celebrated!
Download the DZ Restaurants App now and start earning from your very first visit!
Things to Know
Already a Preferred Guest? Great news — your account is automatically linked to your mobile number in the new app! Something doesn’t look quite right? Can’t see your points? Don’t panic, just reach out to our team and we will be happy to help get everything sorted.
Thank you for being a part of the DZ family.
DZ Restaurants 2024 Holiday Gift Guide!
This holiday season, make gift-giving unforgettable with DZ Restaurants’ curated selection of experiences and exclusive offers. From Holiday Bonus Cards to interactive culinary events like our Paella Demonstration, Pizza Class, and Chianti Cucina Italiana, there’s something for everyone. All classes, dinners and gift cards will be released on Friday, November 29th, making it the perfect opportunity to kick off your holiday shopping with thoughtful and unique gifts!
1. Holiday Bonus Cards
From Friday, November 29th, through Monday, December 2nd, get more when you give with our Holiday Bonus Cards offer! For every $50 in gift cards purchased, receive TWO $25 Holiday Bonus Cards to be used in January 2025. Gift cards can be purchased online or in-restaurant at any DZ Restaurant location. This exclusive Black Friday through Cyber Monday deal is the perfect way to give the gift of dining at Boca Bistro, Chianti il Ristorante, or Forno Bistro, while treating yourself, too! Some restrictions apply.
2. Paella Demonstration
Join us for an unforgettable experience as we unlock the secrets to crafting authentic Paella. Indulge your senses in an evening of tantalizing flavors and aromas as you watch our Chef demonstrates the techniques needed to prepare Paella de Catalana.
3. Hands-On Pizza Making Class
For the pizza enthusiast in your life, a Pizza Class at Forno Bistro is a must. Participants will learn the secrets of crafting our wood-fired pizzas, from kneading the perfect dough to mastering authentic Tuscan toppings. Whether it’s a family bonding experience or a fun outing with friends, this class is sure to be a hit.
4. Chianti Cucina Italiana
Treat the culinary enthusiast in your life to an exclusive demonstration class at Chianti il Ristorante. Guests will have the opportunity to watch Executive Chef Fabrizio as he expertly prepares authentic Northern Italian dishes, sharing his techniques and culinary insights. This interactive experience combines education and inspiration, offering a front-row seat to the artistry behind Italian cuisine in an intimate and elegant setting.
Wrap Up the Holidays with DZ Restaurants
This season, give gifts that create lasting memories. Whether it’s a dining experience, an interactive class, or a thoughtful gift card, DZ Restaurants offers something unique for everyone.
Happy Holidays from all of us at DZ Restaurants!
Corks & Cuisine 2024: Raising a Glass for a Cause
We’re overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who made Corks & Cuisine 2024 an unforgettable event! Thanks to the incredible support from our guests, vendors, and community, we raised over $12,000 for the Richard Bambara Memorial Fund. This fund directly benefits Uro-Oncology resident education and research at Albany Medical Center, making a significant impact on patient care, medical research, and the overall health and well-being of our community.
A heartfelt thank you to our amazing partners who helped make this event possible!
