The Oak Room By: American Oak Distillery — Restaurant in Town of Bolton

Below are the Valid forms of ID that are acceptable when purchasing alcohol in New York State:

Valid New York State driver’s license or a valid driver’s license from any other state or Canada; Valid identification issued by the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (non-driver ID card); Valid United States military identification; and Valid passport or visa from the United State government or any other country.

Nothing in these requirements specifically states that alcohol cannot be sold to someone with a vertical ID.

I went here to buy 3 bottles of wine, two as gifts and one for my family. When I presented ID they refused to serve me because my ID was still vertical and stated "Under 21 until xx-xx-2023" I explained that my ID explicitly provides the date at which I was over 21 (which was 2023 - we are in 2024) and it is still valid. It was not expired. The woman told me, "Unfortunately we cannot serve anyone who still has the red line on their ID in New York." I explained that I was there 2 nights prior and I was served, and yes they checked my ID then. She told me it was the owners policy. I believe she only said this to save her statement, because that is most definitely not the law.

Let me be very clear, I met the owner 2 nights prior when I drank there and he is incredibly kind. He introduced himself to me. I shook his hand and told him my name, and I hope he remembers it when reading this review.

I have gone to the Oak Room about 4 times since turning 21 with this ID and never had any issues.

I left incredibly upset. When it comes to purchasing alcohol, there is nothing more upsetting than being a woman in her 20s, OVER 21 and being refused. I felt disrespected. If she did not want to serve me, she could have given a valid reason instead of telling me a "law" that is NOT a law in NY state.

It's times like these when I get mad at myself for not carrying my passport card as secondary ID.

If you want to improve your business, invest in a ID scanner so loyal and happy customers, of quite some time, do not become incredibly upset with your service. This was my last day there this summer and I was making this purchase to pick up a bottle of wine as a gift for my fiance's family and I was unable to do that.

If you are a young woman in your 20s I recommend bringing secondary ID, especially if your ID is out of state. Although, I should not have to recommend this if the business could do their jobs properly... 🤷‍♀️

On another note, their drinks are incredible and their food is as well. Although the options are limited, it is worth it. I recommend the fried pickles. I also enjoyed the specialty Pickle Martini they had...

I stay in Bolton Landing with my family regularly and was so thrilled to first try this place over the summer. We’ve been back several times since. As anyone who visits the area regularly knows, there is not a big selection of dining and drinking establishments. This place is a real standout.

The staff is very friendly and attentive. The owner, Dave, is often there and gives great advice on choices for wine, whiskey, beer, etc. The decor is simple and refreshing, light-colored wood everywhere.

I’m not a huge drinker, so when the food menu expanded, I was thrilled, particularly because the apps and small plates are pretty good. The Bavarian Pretzel is delicious (my favorite), accompanied by a super tasty whiskey cheese. Last summer, I really liked the Buffalo Chicken wrap. When I had it last month, it wasn’t so good. I think the problem was with the greens they used. It was also a bit smaller than last year.

This is the perfect place to go when you just want a drink and a comfortable vibe, but it’s also the perfect place when you want a drink and a bit of food without going all in...

Best kept secret! This experience is unlike any other. Walking in I was immediately enamored by the beautiful handmade local craftsmanship of real oak - feels like I’m right at the heart of the Adirondacks. The Oak Room has a delicious variety of eats, and plenty of local & craft wines/spirits. The whiskey is amazing and so smooth. This is a must-see stop before or after a nearby reservation or ANY trip of Bolton Landing. Got to enjoy their patio in the back with some custom cigars (that tastes like their whiskey). Try to get there early and snag seats at the front deck, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of Lake George. Friendly knowledgeable staff,...