The Paddock Club

In the heart of the historic center of Watertown lies one of the city's most cozy and prestigious establishments — the Paddock Club. This stylish American restaurant and bar is often simply called a “martini bar” by locals and tourists alike. Its uniqueness lies in its location inside the famous Paddock Arcade — the oldest continuously operating covered shopping mall in the USA.

The venue is renowned for its special atmosphere, where 19th-century historical charm meets modern comfort. Thanks to the arcade's glass roof, the space is flooded with light during the day, while in the evening, the club transforms into an elegant setting with soft lighting, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Owner Robert Dalton infused the club's concept with the experiences of his many travels, creating a place with a refined selection of drinks and high-quality cuisine. The Paddock Club is more than just a spot on the nightlife map; it's a true landmark where you can experience the city's living history in a relaxed setting.

For your convenience, we have gathered the main contact details for the establishment in one table. This will help you quickly find your way and clarify any details before your visit if needed.

The main reason to visit the Paddock Club is, without a doubt, their martini list. Here, you can try both classic versions and unique signature cocktails, with recipes updated for every season and major city event. The menu features hearty American cuisine: guests particularly praise the steaks and seafood, which are often offered at special promotional prices during holidays.

Evenings at the club are often accompanied by live music and performances by local artists, providing a great backdrop for a romantic date or a fun gathering with friends. If you enjoy networking, the venue regularly serves as a hub for "after-work" business mixers, where you can chat with members of the local community in an informal setting.

A visit to the club can easily be combined with a cultural program. Since it's located inside the Paddock Arcade, you have the opportunity to stroll through the arcade itself, checking out authentic tea shops, antique stores, or beauty salons under the same historic glass roof. This turns a simple visit into a full-fledged "old town" adventure.

The Paddock Club is located at 1 Public Square #5, right in the heart of the business and historic city center. Thanks to this location, the venue is easily accessible on foot from most downtown hotels and offices. The famous Paddock Building and Woolworth Building, located in the immediate vicinity, serve as excellent landmarks.

If you are planning a trip from other cities in the state, taking the I-81 highway is most convenient—the drive from New York City, for example, takes about 5 hours. For those arriving from further away, the nearest air hub is Watertown International Airport (ART), which is just a 15-minute taxi ride from the club.

Public transport within the city is not very extensive, so the most comfortable way to get around is by taxi or services like Uber and Lyft. If you arrive in your own car, you can find free parking on Public Square, and there are also paid parking zones available in the city center.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the history of the building itself — the Paddock Arcade. Built in 1850 by local entrepreneur Loveland Paddock and designed by architect Otis Wheelock, the arcade was built in an elegant Gothic style. Notably, it is the second oldest covered shopping mall in the US and the oldest continuously operating one since its opening.

In the 1920s, the arcade's interior underwent changes: a striking steel-framed glass ceiling was installed, which still fills the space with natural light today. Due to its unique architecture and historical significance, the entire building was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

The Paddock Club itself has become an important part of the modern downtown revival. Owner Robert Dalton was inspired by his travels when creating the concept, which is reflected in both the menu and the bar's design. Over the years, the club has become a traditional meeting spot; for example, the regional Chamber of Commerce holds its annual business mixers here.

If you just want to stop by for a signature martini and soak up the atmosphere of the historic arcade, one hour should be plenty. It is a great option for a short break while walking through the city center.

However, if you are planning a full dinner with American cuisine and want to catch a live music performance, you should set aside 2 to 4 hours for your visit. During theme nights or holiday events, guests often stay the whole evening, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and quality service.

The venue is open to guests daily, with a schedule designed for those who appreciate both early evening relaxation and nightlife. On weekdays and Saturdays, the club typically welcomes visitors from 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM, while on Fridays, the doors open a bit earlier at 1:00 PM.

Please note that during special events or private parties, the operating hours may change. We recommend checking for the latest information before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience.

The location in the very heart of the city makes a visit to the club an excellent starting point for further exploration. A stroll through the neighborhood will allow you to soak up the city's historical atmosphere and see architectural landmarks from different eras.

Here is a list of interesting sites located within walking distance of the establishment: