The “New” Slick’s Tavern

By Sylvie Briber

For a birthday lunch, neighbor Keith and I went to the newly reopened Slick’s on the corner of Liberty and South Ferry Streets to see what was new.

Maureen Ottati warmly greeted us and sat down to chat. Maureen and husband, Andrew, have been freshening it up after long time owners, Barbara and Mike Naumoff, retired from an over 40 year run. Barbara and Mike bought the building in the 1970’s from their good friends, Alice and Doug Slick, hence the name!

Slick’s has been here a long time! Peeking through old Stockade Spys, I found an article that neighbor Diane Buckley wrote in January of 2002. She reports that
Mike believes there had been a tavern on this spot for more than 200 years. Here’s a
photo from the late 1880’s, courtesy of the Historical Society, showing a Bass Ale sign in the window.

In their renovations, the couple uncovered the old beams on the ceiling and turned one into two shelves gracing the back wall. Too much work to restore, they put up a fresh ceiling along with new flooring. Glass-covered table tops showcase Schenectady
postcards beneath.

And historic photos of old Schenectady still line the walls including a hand drawn map of Schenectady in 1875.

What caught my eye was behind the bar – a large mirror with its beautifully carved frame! It has been there forever – from an old tavern – but now newly polished to show off its beauty! And Slick’s coasters have been made by Andrew’s shop students!

Maureen and Andrew have continued the tradition of Slick’s signature sandwich plate: a “mile high” delicious sandwich accompanied by yummy potato salad, chips and a pickle. A doggie bag is a necessity! Our pastrami with Swiss cheese, lettuce, pickles and spicy brown mustard, called a V.M.O, is in memory of their son his favorite. Other sandwiches include ham, turkey, corned beef and roast beef with choices of breads, cheeses and pickles along with a tuna salad. We thank Maureen and Andrew for their ad in our Stockade Spy. See their new phone number and hours of operation in the ad at the top of this page.

Maybe see you at Slick’s soon!!!!