SIDE DISH: Guy Reuge's Milestone... Learn At Lunch...

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Chef Guy Reuge plates up a dish in the kitchen at Sandbar on Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor.

Compiled by Connor Beach
cbeach@longislandergroup.com

A Toast to the Chef… Diners at Sandbar (55 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor) can raise a glass and toast Executive Chef Guy Reuge and his 10 years as chef de cuisine at Lessing’s Hospitality Group. Reuge began his cooking career in Orleans, France, and first joined the Lessing’s team in 2009 with the opening of Mirabelle Tavern in Stony Brook. In 2015, Reuge spearheaded the creation and concept of the menu at Sandbar. Reuge’s expertise in the kitchen has been recognized during his time at Lessing’s; he was named a semifinalist for best chef in America by the James Beard Foundation in 2009, 2010, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Reuge was invited last February to cook an exclusive land and sea meal at the James Beard House in New York City. Guests who eat dinner at Sandbar between Jan. 15 and Jan. 31 will be able to toast Chef Guy with a free glass of champagne.

Lunch and Learn… The Huntington Historical Society is offering an opportunity to learn some Long Island history over lunch at Macs Steakhouse (12 Gerard St., Huntington). Speaker Cyril Smith will take attendees back in time to 1917 with the story of Camp Mills in Mineola. Camp Mills was constructed as a military instillation for World War I soldiers, and is the birthplace of the 42nd infantry division of the National Guard. The camp was named after Major General Albert Mills and served as the headquarters of the famed “Rainbow Division.” The event will also feature a three-course lunch prepared in the kitchen at Macs. The lunch runs from noon-2 p.m. on Jan. 24. Tickets are available at Huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Panera Donates to Cancer Society… Panera Bread aided in the fight to cure cancer in November when the company donated a portion of the proceeds for stores across Long Island to fund research for better treatments for those fighting blood cancers. For a week a portion of the money from all delivery and rapid pick-up orders at 30 locations on Long Island, including the East Northport, Huntington Station and Huntington village stores, was donated to the society to benefit those diagnosed with leukemia and lymphoma. Panera, owned by Doherty Enterprises, presented a $5,206.06 check to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The society works to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. The check was presented on Dec. 21 at the Panera Bread in Mineola.

There’s A New Thai In Town

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

Feel transported to Thailand when dining at Ra-Cha Thai Cuisine, an authentic eatery that has mastered the bold flavors of the eastern country.

Ra-Cha comes to Huntington Village with a refreshed taste and spirit, after being taken over by Pattarachai Subworaphon, known as Louis, and his family. Previously opened as Tum Thai Cuisine, the restaurant was passed to Louis from the former owner in December. Louis changed the name to Ra-cha, which means “king” in Thai, because he sees Thai food as “the king of all cuisines.”

“I think Thai food is the best food in the world,” Louis said. “Thai has everything, the texture, the flavor, everything in one dish. We have sweet and spicy, that just has the best smell.”

The restaurant rejuvenation comes with a menu revamp that adds flavorful new dishes to the lineup. Over 15 new plates came from Louis’ aunt and chef, Phannee Prungsak, known as Marki. She learned the recipes and secrets of Thai cooking from her mother and brings more than 20 years of experience cooking across the country.

Mee-Krob ($12) is a tempting appetizer that mixes  shrimp, tofu, crispy shallots, and bean sprouts with crispy rice noodle, topped with a sweet and sour sauce. The crispy noodle gives a perfect crunch while the sauce brings a dynamic flavor.

Many believe Thai food is packed with spiciness but at Ra-Cha it’s all about balancing flavors. Louis hopes that those who experience his culture’s food, will fall in love with it.

“When we bring over plate, I want to make the customer to say, ‘Wow’,” Louis said. “I always say to my chefs, ‘When you make everything, you should think that you are eating it and when you taste it, you want to feel good and happy inside.’”

Thai Iced Tea ($4) and Lychee Juice ($3) are unique and refreshing beverages that will start that happy feeling. The iced tea is creamy and sweet, while the juice captures the light, floral taste of lychee in a bittersweet fashion.

Marki emphasizes an authentic taste of Thailand in her dishes. A plate meant to be shared, Ra-Cha Combo B ($16.95), is an assortment of enough pot stickers, shrimp sa bai thong, chicken wings and chicken satay to give everyone at the table a taste.

Step outside your comfort zone by giving the Tamarind Honey Duck ($24.94) a try. Crispy duck doused in a tamarind honey sauce that makes licking your plate seem sensible is accompanied by crispy noodle and broccoli. Marki incorporates fresh tamarind in her glaze to maximize its tango of sweet and sour.

“I know that when I eat, I want it to be fresh,” Louis said. “Every day I buy ingredients because people come here and want to eat good quality food.”

Fresh fish entrées feature the Chilean Sea Bass ($29) and Salmon with Green Curry ($21). The grilled sea bass mixes sweet, spicy and sour together with bok choy and sweet chili sauce. The curry underneath the salmon is exceptional and rich with the flavors of basil, coconut milk and Marki’s secret ingredient.

With exuberant plates and Ra-Cha’s elegant atmosphere of chandeliers and gold accents, diners can feel royal and relaxed.

“We want everyone to feel like they’re at home and just eating with their family,” Louis said.

Their expansive menu offers numerous dishes to explore, like Pad Thai with Mixed Seafood ($20.95), a stir-fried rice noodles with egg, shrimp, bean sprouts, tofu, peanuts and scallions.

“This is the best of Thailand,” Louis said. “Our people love this and we want our customers to love it as well.”

More Than Sushi At Huntington’s Hikudo

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

It’s all about fresh at Hikudo in Huntington Village, an Asian bistro that incorporates flavors from all over the Far East.

Hikudo has maintained its residency in the village for over 12 years. Owner Lucy Qiao was looking to bring a taste of Asia to Huntington and Hikudo’s expansive menu offers soups, salads, sushi rolls, sashimi, wok dishes, noodles, poke, Japanese teriyaki dishes, Chinese classics, and Asian desserts.

“We were the first Asian restaurant in town, to offer Chinese, Thai food and sushi together,” sushi chef Jason He said. “The original.”

He has over 20 years experience as a sushi chef, previously working at a Japanese restaurant in Oceanside. He has brought this experience to the table, curating plates packed with flavor and crafting sushi sensations. His knowledge of multicultural recipes has helped to develop the menu as a “melting pot” of foods.

“We try to incorporate many cultures’ elements,” waiter Matthew He said. “We have Thai dishes, sushi, Chinese elements, just a variety of everything. I would say we’re almost a fusion of Asian food.”

Walking into Hikudo, you may feel transported to a tranquil place with zen music lightly playing and greenery all around. The atmosphere is a relaxed one.

“We want to create a welcoming and wholesome environment, where people can enjoy their food in peace,” Matthew said. “I think that’s one of the more important elements of people enjoying their food… We want to create a sanctuary.”

For many regulars, Hikudo is an oasis where they can indulge in their favorite dish or sample their extensive menu. A favorite is General Tso’s Chicken ($15.50), deep-fried and doused in a sauce that hints of sweet and spice, it is accompanied by fresh broccoli and white rice. Their dish puts take-out to shame, mastering a glaze that is neither greasy nor gooey, but rich and thick. Try it with the beloved Hot and Sour soup.

If going off the beaten path is your thing, Hikudo can take you there.

“When I go out to eat I know I like to experience a different variety,” Matthew said. “By having this with our food, it gives customers something new that they’ve never experienced before.”

Spicy Bean Red Snapper Fillet ($21) is a Thai dish that brings the flavor of broad bean and spiciness together in harmony. The fish was cooked impeccably — soft on the inside while encased in a crispy shell. It did have a bit of a kick to it, so spice lovers will delight, but it didn’t overpower the meal.

Hikudo works to update their menu with fresh dishes often and offer new specials daily. They recently introduced two new rolls, the Yummy roll and Pink Lady roll.

“Our sushi selection is where we give the most value, we have deals at lunch for any two rolls, it is $9 or three rolls for $13,” Matthew said. “That’s the biggest bang for your buck.”

Hikudo sources their fish from a Japanese wholesale company that they trust to deliver them the freshest fish. If you’re looking for a sampling of their fresh fish, look no further than the Sashimi Regular ($20), a 12 piece assortment of salmon, yellowtail, tuna and white tuna. Each fish had a lush taste with a wonderful silky texture.

A specialty roll bursting with flavor was the Volcano Roll ($12.75) with Hikudo’s original “kudo” — chopped crab, shrimp and fish eggs — topped with fresh salmon and spicy sauce.

When fish is delivered, Jason will conduct an elaborate process to cut and store the fish to ensure maximum freshness.

“It’s hard work to keep it fresh,” Jason said. “But it has to be always fresh.”

Hikudo
329 Main St, Huntington
631-421-4729
hikudo.com

Cuisine: Asian
Atmosphere: Modern and elegant
Prices: Appetizers: $5-$14.50, Entrees: $13-$24, Sushi: $4.50-$16.50
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.; Sunday, 4-10 p.m.

Your Friendly, Neighborhood Hangout

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

A local pub is taking bar food to the next level and wants to be your next hangout spot.

Bar Louie of Commack has earned a reputation as a place to have a casual drink – or a few more – with a sociable staff, a variety of games to play and nightly specials that draw in crowds.

“Nobody wants to go to a bar and be stiff. It should be comforting, welcoming and feel like home,” manager Jesse Eyrich said.

The crew at Bar Louie captures this home-like atmosphere by allowing themselves to be candid and casual with bar-goers. Their goal is for people to have fun and enjoy themselves. The bar recently added dartboards and a pool table to encourage mingling amongst friends and strangers alike.

“Really this is a place we curate for you to be yourself,” Phab, one of the gregarious waiters, said. “We want you to express yourself.”

“Anywhere you go you have some regulars, but I can’t even tell you the last time someone walked in who didn’t know Phab,” Eyrich said.

Weekly specials and happy hours brings in regulars along with new faces who can’t pass up deals like Tuesday’s $5 specialty burgers, Thursday’s wholly crafts, or half-priced apps and flatbreads for happy hour.

But it’s not just the deals that are appealing. Bar Louie has crafted its own twists on pub food that bring comfort to your taste buds while tickling them with unique flavors.

 Appetizers are perfect for sharing with the entire table. Bruschetta pomodoro ($9.49) is served in a huge martini glass with pieces of garlic bread fanned out and ready to be topped with a mix of tomato, basil, garlic, olive oil and red onion, topped with parmesan cheese.

Veggie lovers will be delighted by roasted veggie flatbread ($12.49) covered in fresh spinach and artichoke sauce, tomato, mushroom, balsamic onions, and a mozzarella and provolone cheese blend. It is one of their four delicious flatbreads offered, along with a seasonal option.

“We try to be gastropub-y on the low, since we incorporate a lot of different influences,” Phab said. “If you look at the menu, you’ll see everything from shrimp and chicken lettuce wraps that have an Asian influence to Tuscan-style chicken from Italy to quesadillas and tacos.”

Bar Louie is looking to revamp the menu in the year ahead with brand new dishes that emphasize tasty flavors.

“We want to get something out there that has a different flavor, it can entice your palate but still work in a bar-like atmosphere,” Eyrich said. “It’s easy and quick but you’re gonna get a lot of flavors with it.”

The kitchen has been testing various dishes, like a braised short rib ($21.99). The ultimate comfort food, the beef short rib is so soft, a knife isn’t necessary and it melts in your mouth. Doused in a red wine dijon reduction, the rib, along with roasted carrots, radishes, and potato wedges, come together in harmony.

“You have so much softness, Adam and Eve were made from this type of rib,” Phab joked.

The seared wild salmon ($17.99) will also take your taste buds on a journey. Served atop a spicy cauliflower “couscous,” it is dressed with mint, tomato, red onion, cucumber, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette. These lighter dinner options will allow a person to dance or play a game after munching.

“We haven’t changed our menu in awhile, so we’re gonna do something big, and we want people to be able to tell we changed our menu,” Eyrich said. “Even though the bar food works and it can be something good, we want to give people something they’ll enjoy.”

It’s easy to enjoy their six layers of chocolate on chocolate cake ($9.99), a heavenly confection.

Bar Louie
2115 Jericho Turnpike, Commack
(631) 410-8400
Barlouie.com 

Cuisine: Gastropub
Atmosphere: Modern and hip
Price Range: Appetizers, $8.99-$17.49; Salads, $8.99-$10.99; Plates, $10.99-$21.99.
Hours: Sunday-Saturday, 11a.m. - 2 a.m.

SIDE DISH: Food Fest Fundraiser; Prime Pairings

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Suit up and chow down on a selection of internationally inspired dishes at the upcoming Carltun Food and Wine Festival.

FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL: The Melville-based PinkTie 1000 Foundation is hosting a silent wine auction at the second annual Carltun Food and Wine Festival. The festival will be held at The Carltun in East Meadow, and will feature a selection of over 200 wines paired with international foods, including New York seafood, Asian, French, and Italian inspired cuisine. Executive chef Rodrigo Bernal will prepare the food for the event. All of the proceeds from the PinkTie Foundation’s silent wine auction will benefit the Michael Magro Foundation. The event runs from 6 p.m.-10 p.m., Jan. 18, and tickets can be purchased online at thecarltunfoodandwinefestival.com. Individual tickets for the festival cost $150.

A dozen wineries have contributed wines to the wine cellar at Prime in Huntington for the pairing menu during the restaurant’s two-week anniversary celebration.

ANNIVERSARY SPECIALS: Prime: An American Kitchen And Bar (117 North New York Ave., Huntington) is celebrating 12 years in business with a two-week long dinner special. Customers can choose from a $50 or $65 three-course, price-fixed dinner menu from Jan. 6-20. The $65 menu also includes wine pairing. Appetizer options on the anniversary menu include Celery Root Soup with crispy speck hash and mustard oil, or Gnocchi with parmesan-white truffle sauce. Main course options include Shrimp and Chorizo with apple, pearl onion, brown sugar glaze, siracha buerre blanc and polenta, as well as Salmon with roasted turnips, wild mushroom bake and mushroom mousse. Finish off the meal with dessert options that include Chocolate Fudge Bar with banana, Nutella and praline crunch. A dozen wineries have contributed wines for the pairing menu. For more information on the anniversary menu visit Restaurantprime.com.

 

LAUGH OVER DINNER: Support volunteer firefighters and enjoy a few laughs at the Huntington Fire Department’s second annual Comedy Show on Saturday, Jan. 19. The show is hosted at the Huntington Fire Department on 1 Leverich Place. The $40 ticket includes dinner, drinks and the show. The comedy show is hosted by Robert Cividanes, and the line-up of comedians features Frank Failla, Terry McNeely and Carie Karavas. There will also be a 50/50 raffle up for grabs. Doors open at 7 p.m. for the 8 p.m. show. For more information or to make reservations to the show contact Lt. Chris Amendolare by phone at 516-864-1416 .

– compiled by Connor Beach

A Few Favorite Dishes From 2018

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Salmon served with a heirloom potato and string bean salad with a dill vinaigrette that adds color and flavor to the dish at Jonathan’s Ristorante in Huntington.

By The Foodies
info@longislandergroup.com

The year is almost over, the Foodies are reflecting on ssome fo the best dishes we had the pleasure to taste in dining rooms around the Town of Huntington. It was tough to narrow down our favorites, but here are a baker’s dozen of the most delicious and delectable dishes we ate in 2018.

Healthy can be delicious with the flavorful twists at Bee Organic (24 Wall Street, Huntington), like their Raw Veggie Wrap ($9.95). With carrots, cucumber, avocado, red cabbage and vegan tahini sauce wrapped in collard greens and topped with sprouts, the vegetables were anything but bland after being dressed in the sauce. This a popular raw vegan dish, due to its delightful taste and the fact that it is not cooked, which makes it raw and keeps in more nutrition.

From the brick oven at Bertucci’s (881 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville), the Classic Margherita ($10.99) is a house classic served with fresh mozzarella, house made tomato sauce, Pecorino Romano and fresh basil. The thin crust has just the right crunch and holds a time-tested ratio of sauce to cheese that allows the diner to enjoy all of the traditional flavors of Italy.

The Cajun style dry rub Wings ($8 for six) at Brews Brothers (69 Wall St., Huntington) are seasoned and cooked in the oven at high heat before being fried to order, a process that keeps the wings juicy and moist on the inside while retaining a crispy skin.The Cajun rub infuses into the meat of the wing that adds a depth of flavor to the dish. The wings are plump and have plenty of meat on the bone that provides a good contrast to the skin.

From the breakfast menu at Brownstones (361 Larkfield Rd., East Northport), the French Toast Bites ($9.99) is one of the most popular and playful dishes. The French toast squares are topped with fresh berries, bananas, strawberries and powdered sugar. The bites are cooked to a perfect golden brown, and have a sweetness that pairs well with the fresh fruit. A healthy dose of syrup is the perfect addition to tie this dish together.

What better dish is there to share at an Italian restaurant than pasta, and Eatalia (34 New Street, Huntington) serves up some great tasting options. One of the restaurant’s best sellers is the Papadella Salese ($20/$26) featuring wild mushrooms, prosciutto, sun-dried tomato, peas and truffle cream sauce. The thick pasta is a good choice to capture the creamy sauce that, along with the mushrooms, adds a deep earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the sun-dried tomato. This is a dish that the whole family will want to try.

One of the seasonal entrée specials at Grasso’s (134 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor) was the Pan Seared Halibut ($38 or market value) with porcini mushroom over sautéed spinach, mashed potatoes and a wasabi aioli. The beautiful, flaky, white meat of the Halibut complements the rich mashed potatoes, and the spinach adds an extra level of texture, but the unique wasabi aioli really ties the dish together. The flavor is distinct, but not overpowering and leaves a touch of spice in the back of your throat.

Breakfast traditionalists are sure to enjoy The Classic ($10.75) at Hatch (286 Main St., Huntington), which features three eggs any style flanked by a side of hash browns, choice of sausage, bacon or ham, and toast. Our Foodie tried it with over easy eggs, sausage links and white toast. The fresh eggs were the star of this dish, and the hash browns and sausage provided well-seasoned complements. The beautiful runny egg yolks were great to dip the toast in and tie the dish together.

The Wagyu Meatballs ($12) on the appetizer menu at IMC Restaurant (279 Main St, Huntington). are served with pickled green daikon and spicy mayo, topped off with a coconut and garlic crumble and cilantro. They melt in your mouth and have exquisite flavors that come together in harmony.

Hot from the oven at Joanina (35 Gerard St A, Huntington), the Pizza Bianca con Speck ($15.95) is their famous white pizza and for good reason. Served with smoked prosciutto, mushrooms and white truffle oil drizzle, the pizza is white and lacking in sauce but makes up for it with fresh mozzarella cheese. Sticking to their authentic core, Joanina chose prosciutto because it is a common meat in the North of Italy. But you don’t have to travel to Italy to enjoy this savory combination, just stop in to Joanina to enjoy one straight from the oven.

Anatra alle More ($28) from Jonathan’s Ristorante (15 Wall St., Huntington) features perfectly cooked Long Island duck breast served with farro, Brussels sprouts that are good enough to have their own dish and blackberry sauce. Like every dish on the menu, the duck is meticulously crafted to combine flavors and cooked to perfection. It’s a perfect winter dish on Long Island.

At Oaxaca (385 New York Ave, Huntington) the Mexico City Tacos ($4.25/taco) take their name from the city in Mexico, known for having the best tacos in the country. There are a variety of meat choices, but the skirt steak tacos are highly recommended. They were topped with three different salsas, radishes and cilantro and served on two mini-flour tortillas. From trying them, it was clear why it was a beloved dish at the restaurant.

With an array of appetizers that are perfect for sharing, Parea (360 New York Ave., Huntington) is the perfect place to socialize over a plate of hummus. Their hummus ($8.95) comes from ground chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and tahini served with a side of pita bread. It is the perfect consistency and has a fresh flavor that pairs well with the bread or on meats.

Finally, T.O.A.’s (369 New York Ave., Huntington) Special Poke Bowl ($12.95) features salmon, tuna, shrimp, scallops, seaweed salad, mango, onion crisps, edamame, avocado and sriracha aioli. The dish has a nice amount of spice from the sriracha that is countered well by the fresh, cooling flavors of the seafood, mango and avocado. The fish is fresh and delicately balanced in a bowl that is full different flavors and textures.

Put These Spots On Your Holiday List

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Sauteed Baby Artichokes with basil pesto is just one of the dishes on Jonathan’s holiday menu.

By Connor Beach

cbeach@longislandergroup.com

The holiday season is in full swing. This is an especially exciting time of year for the Foodies because restaurants across the Town of Huntington are offering a variety of holiday specials and party deals. Below are just a few restaurants to visit if you are looking dine out this holiday season.

Jonathan’s Ristorante
15 Wall St., Huntington
631-549-0055
Jonathansristorante.com

Holiday hosts looking to entertain without the hassle of cooking at home can take advantage of the holiday party menu at Jonathan’s Ristorante in Huntington village. For $35 a head, partygoers can choose from a three-course menu featuring appetizers like Sauteed Baby Artichokes with basil pesto, or Baby Arugula and Tomato Salad with shaved parmigiano. The four entrees on the menu include Organic Scottish Salmon with roasted baby root vegetables, baby spinach and a horseradish cream sauce, Rigatoni with homemade Bolognese sauce, Roasted Organic Free Range Chicken with Tuscan herbs, and Shrimp Scampi with haricot vert and jasmine rice. For dessert, save room for homemade Tiramisu or Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta. Hosts can also choose to include the holiday bar package featuring beer and wine for $20 per person. Visit the website or call to plan your holiday party.

At Prime in Halesite, a year-round beautiful view of Huntington Harbor is transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season.

Prime - An American Kitchen & Bar
117 New York Ave., Huntington
631-385-1515
Restaurantprime.com

Spend Christmas Eve on the waterfront at Prime on Huntington Harbor in Halesite. Prime is accepting reservations starting at 4 p.m., and will have the regular menu available in addition to three holiday specials. To start, Chestnut and Celery Root Soup ($15) with whipped crème fraiche is sure to warm you up on even the coldest of days. The Slow Roasted Prime Rib ($58) served with glazed onion and horseradish cream sauce is a holiday classic. Dessert lovers are in for a treat with an individual Yule Log ($14) comprised of espresso chocolate cake, hazelnut cream and dark chocolate ganache with shaved chocolate. Call to reserve a spot for Christmas Eve dinner.

The Refuge in Melville will bring Seafood Paella and other Latin or Italian specialties to your office party this holiday season.

The Refuge
515 Broadhollow Rd., Melville
631-577-4444
Refuge110.com

If you are looking to have a holiday party at your home or office but don’t feel like cooking, The Refuge in Melville can bring the party to you. The Refuge is offering a holiday special of 20 percent off all catering orders of $150 or more throughout the holiday season. The Latin and Italian fusion restaurant offers catering from small takeout orders to full service events. The menu includes Italian specialties like Chicken Francese ($55 for 6-8 people) or Veal Parmigiana ($85 for 6-8 people), as well as Latin dishes like Chicken Fajita ($65 for 6-8 people) or Churrasco Marinated Steak ($70 for 6-8 people). The menu also includes pasta options, like homemade Pappardelle ($50) with tomato basil sauce, or the party-size Focaccia Sandwich ($65) with grilled chicken prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, arugula, roasted cherry tomato and balsamic dressing.

Ruvo
63 Broadway, Greenlawn
631-261-7700
Ruvorestaurant.com

Ruvo in Greenlawn is serving up a special menu for Christmas Eve from 4 p.m.- 9 p.m. The holiday themed menu specials are a tribute to the Italian tradition of the feast of the seven fishes. Appetizers on the menu include Chilled Seafood Salad ($13) with poached shrimp, sea scallops and calamari tossed in a lemon-champagne dressing with cannellini beans, celery and plum tomatoes, and Main Lobster Bisque ($7) finished with cognac. Entrees include Crabmeat Stuffed Flounder ($32) with multigrain rice, broccolini and lobster sauce, and Jumbo Shrimp Scampi ($29) served over spaghetti with slow-roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. For dessert, one of the options keeping with the holiday theme is Red Wine Poached Pear ($7) with vanilla ice cream and candied nuts.

Long Island Duck Duo ($36) served with pearl barley risotto, chorizo, carrots and red wine-port sauce is on the Christmas Eve menu at Sandbar in Cold Spring Harbor.

Sandbar
55 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor
631-498-6188
Lessings.com    

Sandbar in Cold Spring Harbor is also serving up a special menu for Christmas Eve dinner. Appetizers include Tuna Tartare ($16) served with ginger, sesame, avocado and sriracha or, for those with refined palates, Pan Roasted Foie Gras ($30) with potato anna, apple puree and chestnut sauce is also on the menu. Long Island Duck Duo ($36) served with pearl barley risotto, chorizo, carrots and red wine-port sauce, and Potato Gnocchi ($26) with royal trumpet mushrooms, parsley pesto and pine nuts are just two of the entrees available for Christmas Eve dinner. For dessert, Chocolate Lava Cake ($11) with vanilla ice cream and cherry sauce or Ginger Almond Tart ($11) with caramel are just a few of the options to finish off the meal.

SIDE DISH: Hush Closes, Hostessing Tips

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Paper in the windows of Hush Bistro on Gerard Street in Huntington village signaled the restaurant is closed.

Silence Falls On Hush… Hush Bistro on Gerard Street in Huntington village closed its doors earlier this week and will not reopen. Opened by Chef Marc Anthony Bynum in summer 2017 in partnership with Reststar Group, Hush had success serving up elevated southern comfort food. Bynum, who also opened MB Ramen on New York Avenue in Huntington with Reststar earlier this year, said he left Hush seven months ago because the partnership had “soured.” “I like to have complete autonomy with creativity when it comes to the menu, bar, atmosphere and service and they did not allow me to have this,” Bynum said. He opened Fatwood Southern Kitchen in Bay Shore in June. Back at the old place, a sign in the window at Hush thanked customers for their support, and said any Hush Bistro gift card would be honored at MB Ramen, Bistro Cassis or Café Buenos Aires.

 

Hosting The Holidays… Lucky To Live Here Realty (129 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor) is holding a workshop for those holiday hosts who are feeling a little stressed. The Hosting the Holidays workshop runs from 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., Dec 15 and features tips from Cold Spring Harbor-based Noli Interior Design. The professionals from Noli will be letting the event attendees in on some of the tips and tricks to get a home ready to host a holiday get together. Mimosas and brunch bites will be served at the event, which is scheduled to take place just before the Cold Spring Harbor village shop-a-thon. The event is free to attend, but there is limited availability. For information or to attend the event email Noli Interior Design at nolidesign@aol.com.

Shop For A Cause… Shop for a cause next week during the Fabulous Holiday Boutique from 6-9 p.m., Dec. 17 at Mac’s Steakhouse (12 Gerard St. Huntington). The event, organized by Susan L. Miller Art Associates, will feature a selection of fine Indian handicrafts, scarves, jewelry and wristlets for shoppers to peruse while they enjoy appetizers from Mac’s. In addition to the restaurant’s passed appetizers, the event will also feature music by Joe Latini. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Cocoon, Inc. The non-profit provides moral and financial support, education, information and nourishment to women and children from impoverished and marginalized communities. A $10 donation at the door gets you into the restaurant for the festivities.

Santa and the staff at Tutto Pazzo in Halesite are gearing up for the holiday season with the return of their annual snow discounts.

Pray For Snow… Don’t let the winter weather stop you from having a good meal this holiday season. Tutto Pazzo Restaurant (84 New York Ave., Huntington) is once again offering its annual snow discounts, and if it snows, it’s worth braving the weather for these deals. When it snows more than five inches diners get 25 percent off food items on the menu. If the snow total exceeds 10 inches, the discount increases to 50 percent. If a blizzard dumps more than 15 inches of snow in Huntington this winter, Tutto Pazzo will offer customers 50 percent off food prices and a free buffet. You just might find yourself praying for snow. Find more information, or view the menu – including Tutto Pazzo’s $39.95/per person holiday party packages – at Tuttopazzo.com.

Gourmet Meets Casual In Cold Spring Harbor

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

Take a stroll down Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor and find every detail has been crafted to perfection at The Gourmet Whaler.

The beloved restaurant has gained a name for itself over the years with its award-winning tacos and scrumptious homemade desserts. Owned by Dennis Chin, a native of Old Bethpage who lives in Huntington Station, and her husband, the restaurant is a product of her passion for cooking and eating well.

Chin learned to cook from her mother and grandmother at a young age, becoming a baker and chocolatier before turning to personal training. When training clients, she would try to feed them her desserts to no avail.

“The whole time I was training, the reason I did was because I love food so much and I love to eat,” Chin said.

Chin’s love of food led her to rent a counter from the previous owner of The Gourmet Whaler, until he closed. That’s when Chin took a leap and bought the shop four years ago.

To develop the menu, Chin and her chef collaborated on recipes to curate flavorful dishes and utilized Chin’s cherished dessert recipes. Chin ensures fresh, high quality ingredients go into the restaurant’s food, as they “strive for the best”.

“We’ve really tried to find out what people want,” Chin said. “Everybody that comes in, we talk to them and kind of evolve from that.”

We were served The Gourmet Whaler’s most loved meals for breakfast and lunch, each packed with interesting flavors. The quinoa bowl with grilled shrimp ($18.95) was an enticing take on the healthy dish that dressed up the quinoa with avocado, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumber, and chipotle mayo on the side.

The crab cake ($15.95) is highly recommend, served with avocado, pico de gallo, arugula, corn, and chipotle mayo. The crab was phenomenal and demonstrated why buying top quality makes the difference.

Start your day with one of the many tempting tastes on The Gourmet Whaler’s breakfast menu. Nothing beats the homemade pancake batter from Chin’s mother’s recipe. Two fluffy jumbo pancakes ($9.75) with syrup and butter are sure to satisfy anyone’s appetite.

The steak omelet ($15.95) that is filled with peppers, onions, tomatoes and cheddar, topped with pico de gallo and served with homefries. All of the flavors of the omelet work together in harmony for a savory bite.

“I love good food, every detail of this place is very important to me, from the pancakes to the potatoes,” Chin said. “Everything you eat, at least to me, you have to love it.”

It’s clear that people do love their food, after The Gourmet Whaler won “Best Taco in Long Island” this year. If you’re a fish fan, you must try their fish tacos ($13.95), overflowing with fried flounder and their signature slaw, served with chipotle mayo and peach mango salsa.

“The tacos get people in the door and to notice us, then they get to see all the other things we are doing,” Chin said. “They brought us notoriety.”

But no trip to The Gourmet Whaler is completed without trying one of Chin’s deserts, like the Tin Roof Sundae ($9.99). This yummy concoction consists of vanilla ice cream, brownies, melted peanut butter and chocolate, and peanuts. It satisfies sweet tooths in its ooey-gooey hodgepodge.

“I want everything you put in your mouth here to be a, ‘Wow!’ I work very hard to make that happen,” Chin said. “I’m looking for that wow factor on every single level.”

SIDE DISH: Pretzels And Beer

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The giant hot pretzel with cheese dip is on the late night menu at Finley’s of Green Street.

Late Night Menu: Because man does not live by beer alone, Finley’s of Green Street (43 Green Street, Huntington. 631-351-3440) is firing up the grill late night Fridays and Saturdays. From 11 p.m. to 2 a.m., everything on the late-night menu is priced at five or ten bucks. A five-spot will get you: personal pizza; cheese quesadilla; cheese fries or truffle fries; twin hot dogs; or mozzarella sticks. For big spenders who fork over a ten spot, the choices are: bacon cheeseburger sliders, bacon, egg and cheese sandwich; chicken fingers; loaded potato skins; egg or tuna salad sandwich; Texas toast grilled cheese; onion rings; or the crowd-pleasing giant pretzel with cheese dip. Fridays and Saturdays are always hopping at Finley’s of Green Street with live music kicking off the evening and DJ Charizma wrapping it up. Gnarly Karma plays Friday, Nov. 30 from 8-9 p.m.; on Saturday catch The Little Plains Band, 8:30-9:30 p.m.

 

Beer Pairing: Burgerology (308 Main Street, Huntington) is teaming up with Bay Shore-based Great South Bay Brewery to create a mouth watering, five-course beer pairing dinner. The menu features five Burgerology dishes paired with complementary brews from Great South Bay to create flavor harmony. The first course features Fried Cheese Curds paired with Muscat Love Belgian Tripel. Course two lets diners munch on a Bavarian Pretzel while enjoying Jetty Cream Ale. The Chipotle Chicken Sandwich Sliders from Burgerology are paired with the Field 5 Golden IPA in course three. For the fourth course, Burgerology’s Classic Burger Sliders are matched with Great South Bay’s well-known Blood Orange Pale Ale. Finish off the meal with a Beer Float – that’s beer topped with ice cream – featuring the Blonde Ambition Blonde Ale. The combination of pub food and local brews is sure to prove a delicious combination. The beer pairing dinner is set for 7 p.m., Dec. 11.

Foodies Find That Sweet Spot

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Owner, Peter Panarites gets his love for chocolate making from his father who used this bunny mold to make his famous Easter chocolate. Peter won Confectioner of the Year in 1988. Long Islander News photos/Sophia Ricco

By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

It’s easy to feel like a kid in a candy store as you feast your eyes on the displays of sweets at Northport Sweet Shop, but you can find much more than candy at this local eatery.

With almost 90 years in business on the Main Street, the restaurant is a staple of the community. Opened in 1929 by George Panarites with his uncle and cousin, the shop lives on through his son, Peter Panarites. He recalls working in the shop since he was a child with his father, helping him to mix chocolate, flip burgers and churn out ice cream.

He is not the only one with fond memories, many residents have been going to the Northport Sweet Shop for years to satisfy their sweet tooth or grab a quick bite to eat.

“I’ve seen a lot of kids come in the 1940s-50s,” Panarites said. “And then they get married, have their kids and get old then their grandchildren are bringing them in.”

Those who frequented the Northport Sweet Shop many years ago will be delighted to find the atmosphere has remained the same. Panarites has maintained the vintage look by keeping the original tile floors, baby blue booths and classic overhead lights. The biggest remodel he’s ever done was in the kitchen, which he expanded and updated with all new, top of the line equipment.

The shop offers a wide selection of candies and chocolates.

 “In 1985 I did a complete overhaul,” Panarites said. “I kept the basic stuff but what I wanted to do was to bring it back to where it was.”

The Northport Sweet Shop serves casual, fast food style dishes that make for a perfect brisk bite while in the village. During the warmer months, you can find many kids running in to get chicken fingers and leaving with a smile.

The plates come out promptly and though simple, are full of flavor. Panarites has considered adding more complex dishes to the menu, but ultimately decided it was best to stick with what Northport Sweet Shop does best. The restaurant is famous for their burger bar and sandwiches, particularly the BLT and tuna salad. The tuna fish salad sandwich ($13) is proof simplicity can be fruitful. The flavors feel like comfort in your mouth.

It’s likewise evident why the BLT sandwich ($7.75) is so popular with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes and leafy lettuce contained in toasted layers. We recommend ordering this during the summertime, when Panarites uses fresh tomatoes that he grows in his backyard.

“When you pick them right, they’re nice and juicy and that makes the sandwich,” Panarites said. “You can’t beat fresh stuff when you pick it right from the vine.”

The cheeseburger with fries is among many classics enjoyed by generations at this retro eatery.

A burger is a great choice in any season with fresh meat sourced locally.

“I get it from a local butcher and I’d rather run short then buy a lot and freeze it. You lose the texture, when you freeze meat,” Panarites said.

The cheeseburger with fries ($7.50) is classic.

No trip to the Northport Sweet Shop is complete without a taste of their homemade ice cream and candy. George Panarites was known for his love of chocolate making, particularly the decorated hollowed eggs he would make for Easter. For Christmas, the shop will make chocolate Santas.

“When people make chocolate, there’s a lot of different ways to do it… We always keep the quality. My father always said, quality trumps everything, you don’t compromise quality,” Panarites said.

Peanut butter sundaes are sweet treat to top off a meal at Northport Sweet Shop.

The peanut butter sundae ($7.75) has two scoops of ice cream topped with peanut butter, Reese’s pieces and whipped cream. Absolutely scrumptious. It is clear why the Northport Sweet Shop is a happening place to grab a cone.

“One thing I can say in all my years of business, I have the best customers in the world,” Panarites said. “The kids in this town are tops.”

Side Dish: Bryant To Open Steakhouse

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The Bryant is set to open early next month at the site of the former TGI Friday’s on Walt Whitman Road in Huntington Station. Photo by Connor Beach

New Restaurant To Open… A Long Island restaurant group is set to open its newest eatery at the site of the former TGI Friday’s in Huntington Station. The Bryant (100 Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington Station) is set to open in early December and is owned by Roslyn-based Poll Restaurants. The restaurant group was founded by brothers George and Gillis Poll and currently operates six other restaurants in Nassau. The Bryant is a tip of the cap to the Poll’s flagship steakhouse Bryant & Cooper in Roslyn. The restaurant is set to feature an American bistro style menu and will offer lunch, dinner and brunch options. In addition to the large indoor dining area, The Bryant will also have space for outdoor dining. Stay tuned for our Foodies’ take on the food and décor once The Bryant opens next month.

Connecticut-based Harbor Harvest is planning to open its second retail location at the edge of Huntington Harbor of 135 New York Avenue in Halesite.

A Fresh Harvest On The Harbor… The shores of Huntington Harbor in Halesite could soon be the newest place to buy locally sourced food. Harbor Harvest plans to open its second retail location at 135 New York Avenue in Halesite. Harbor Harvest’s mission is “to provide convenient access to healthy, nutritious food sourced from local and regional farms and artisans at a price that supports the local community,” according to the company website. The company currently operates a store in Norwalk, Connecticut and is looking to expand into the Halesite location by spring or summer of 2019. The store in Norwalk includes a café, bakery, butcher, deli and products from local vendors, and the company plans to model the new location in the same way. Harbor Harvest owner Robert Kunkel, of Norwalk, travels to farms on Long Island and Connecticut to find local produce and meats. Harbor Harvest features a menu of sandwiches and daily specials, as well as a unique brand of coffee called Harbor Joe. For more information on Harbor Harvest visit Harborharvest.com.

Winter Farmer’s Market… Those fresh produce lovers who are sad to see the end of the farmer’s market in Huntington village have a new market to look forward to. The Huntington Winter Farmer’s Market is set to kick off on Sunday, Dec. 9 with a new location at Jefferson Primary School at 253 Oakwood Road in Huntington. The market is indoors so weather won’t stop vendors from showing off their local, fresh creations of cheese, bread, pickles and more. The market is scheduled to take place every Sunday from Dec. 9 until March 31 from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Taste The Flavors of Mexico At Oaxaca

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

Feel transported to Mexico, as Spanish ballads play and the smell of meat, beans and rice wafts in the air of Oaxaca.

When owner, Alejandro Gonzalez, came to East Northport over 24 years ago he never expected to stay more than a year, but he fell in love with Long Island. He knew something was missing, an authentic Mexican restaurant with flavors like the ones he grew up with. Gonzalez took it upon himself to bring these flavors to the Island, opening Oaxaca in Huntington Village 23 years ago and later Quetzalcoatl.

Working as the restaurant’s chef for 17 years, Gonzalez brought recipes from his travels around Mexico as child to his menu.

“I am standing on the shoulders of woman,” Gonzalez said. “The recipes in Mexico were designed by women, the best dishes in the world could not compare to chile nogada that was created by nuns… Most of my recipes are from Mexico, so I did not invent them but I respect and try to do the best I can to match the love they put into their cooking.”

Oaxaca offers daily specials on top of their flavorful menu. One of their specials is the previously mentioned, chile nogada that is famous for being served to the fighters who won Mexico’s independence by nuns when the army passed through Puebla. The exquisite delicacy masters the flavors of savory and sweet, as shredded pork and beef are covered by a poblano pepper, pecans, pomegranates and the signature white sauce, made of grandeur liquor, fruits, cream, and almonds.

The sauce is the centerpiece of chicken covered in mole sauce ($18.95). The sauce gives the meat a rich flavor unlike any other. The dark, velvety sauce has 32 ingredients, with seven dried peppers as the base complemented by cocoa, raisins and plantain.

Nothing compares in popularity to their Mexico City tacos ($4.25/taco). The dish takes it name from the Mexican capital known for having the best tacos in the country. There are a variety of meat choices and we enjoyed the skirt steak tacos topped with three different salsas, radishes and cilantro and served on two mini-flour tortillas. It was clear why it was a beloved dish at the restaurant.

“Here at Oaxaca, every day is taco tuesday,” Gonzalez said. “The people who come know we have the best tacos, so we don’t assign a day for that.”

If you’re looking for a fun twist on tacos, consider trying their tostadas ($8.95). Tostadas give a tasty crunch with crispy corn tortillas as opposed to the soft flour tortillas. They’re topped with shredded flank steak, refried beans, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, pico de gallo and cotija cheese.

Gonzalez remembers his mother making tostadas for him as a child and hopes to do her proud.

“I want people feel at home and relaxed here,” Gonzalez said. “Like I said, I’m close to the women in Mexico and they are happy when they see their kids and husband eating good. Me too, when I see the people eating are happy, then I am very happy.”

Two more plates that make you feel like you’re eating at your abuelitas are pork tamales ($12.95) and the chimichanga ($13.95). The tamales come wrapped in a corn husk that makes the pork tender while giving it a unique flavor. Chimichangas are a Mexican-American dish with fried chicken and cheese in a tortilla like a burrito.

“When people ask me the principles of Mexican food. I say, the first rule of Mexican food is there are no rules,” Gonzalez said.

No Mexican feast is complete without a sweet treat, our Foodies highly recommend the churros ($4.75), a  sugar covered pastry oozing with yummy filling, and flan ($4.25), a scrumptious cake with the perfect consistency.

Oaxaca
385 New York Ave.
Huntington Village
631-547-1232
Cuisine: Mexican
Atmosphere: Colorful and cultural

Let Someone Else Cook For Thanksgiving

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Sandbar’s Berkshire Pork Chop with roasted potato with apples, baby spinach, and apple cider jus is one of the options for diners looking to eat out on Thanksgiving.

By Connor Beach
cbeach@longislandergroup.com

Halloween has come and gone, and it’s time to start thinking about plans for Thanksgiving dinner. This is an especially exciting time of year for the Foodies because we love to eat. Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be a stressful experience for even the most seasoned home cooks. Why not leave the cooking up to the professionals, and simply enjoy the holiday together with family and friends? Restaurants across the Town of Huntington will be open on Thanksgiving Day. They will be setting up, cooking and cleaning up delicious meals that are sure to leave you and your loved ones satisfied.

Bonwit Inn
1 Vanderbilt Pkwy., Commack
631-499-2068
Bonwitinn.com

The Bonwit Inn in Commack is offering a special menu on Thanksgiving. The menu features a Roast Turkey entrée ($27) with sausage stuffing, pan gravy, cranberry sauce and candied sweet potatoes for those looking to have a traditional meal. The menu also features plenty of other choices. Appetizer choices include New England Clam Chowder ($8), Baked Clams ($10) and Fried Calamari ($13). Beef Short Ribs ($28) with mashed potatoes, crispy onions and a Chianti wine reduction, and Filet Mignon ($36), cooked to order with roasted cipollini and compound cabernet herb butter, will satisfy the meat eaters in any party. Roasted Cauliflower Pasta ($22) featuring cavatappi spiral pasta over a braised leek puree provides a nice diversity in the menu. For dessert, Rice Pudding ($8) with whipped cream, cinnamon and berries is worth leaving room for.

Del Frisco’s Grille
160 Walt Whitman Rd.
Huntington Station
631-296-1821
delfriscosgrille.com

The Thanksgiving menu at Del Frisco’s features two holiday entrees and a selection of traditional sides that will have you feeling like you’re at home for the holidays. Herb and Citrus Butter Roasted Turkey ($27) and Honey Dijon Pork Tenderloin ($31) are both served with mashed potatoes, brown gravy and cranberry sauce, and can be paired with Sweet Potato casserole ($9.50), Apple-sage Sausage Stuffing ($9.50) or Buttered Green Beans ($8) for a true Thanksgiving feast. Dishes from the regular Del Frisco’s menu like Cheesesteak Eggrolls ($13.50) and the 16-ounce Prime Ribeye will also be available.

Harbor Mist
105 Harbor Rd., Cold Spring Harbor
631-659-3888
Harbormistrestaurant.com

Diners can enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with a stunning view of Cold Spring Harbor at Harbor Mist. The restaurant is offering a prix fixe menu on Thanksgiving that includes three courses for $49 per person. The six appetizer options include Roasted Indian Corn and Pumpkin Soup with marshmallows and Eggplant Rollatini with spinach and ricotta cheese. The entrees feature Baked Stuffed Flounder Fillet served with crab meat, shrimp, scallops and lobster coral sauce and Roasted Pork Ossobuco with braised red cabbage, cardamom sweet potato puree and Vermont maple glaze. There is also a “Pilgrims Diner” on the menu. It includes slow roasted New Hampshire free range turkey with turkey sausages and local apple stuffing, candied sweet potatoes, country whipped potatoes, string beans, home made cranberry sauce and giblet pan gravy.

Jonathan’s Ristorante
15 Wall St., Huntington
631-549-0055
Jonathansristorante.com

Jonathan’s is serving their Thanksgiving specials from 2 p.m.- 8 p.m. The holiday themed dishes include Butternut Squash Soup ($10), Wild Mushroom Ravioli ($26) with black truffle butter, morel mushrooms and asparagus or Risotto del Giorno ($32) venison sausage, cranberries, chestnuts and sweet peas. The Thanksgiving option is Roasted Turkey ($33) with sausage and mushroom stuffing, French string beans, regular and sweet potato purée, root vegetables and cranberry sauce. In addition to the Thanksgiving specials, Jonathan’s full dinner menu will also be available, and the restaurant will also offer 20 percent off all bottles of wine priced $60 or more.

Mill Pond House
437 E. Main St., Centerport
631-261-7663
Millpondrestaurant.com

The Mill Pond House in Centerport will once again be open for Thanksgiving, serving up a menu that includes holiday specials. The restaurant is also offering Thanksgiving To-Go for those who want to host a Thanksgiving party in their own homes without the hassle of cooking for a crowd. The deal serves between eight and 10 people for $375, and includes a 15-pound turkey, mushroom stuffing, mashed Yukon and sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts with bacon, sautéed green beans, gravy, cranberry sauce and a choice of pumpkin or pecan pie. Orders for the to-go deal must be placed before Nov. 19.

 

Sandbar
55 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor
631-498-6188
Lessings.com

The Thanksgiving menu at Sandbar combines both traditional holiday, dishes and some of the restaurants regular favorites. To start, Shaved Brussels Sprouts ($12) served with red onions, apple, Parmesan, lemon and walnuts is on the menu just under Duck Tacos ($16) with daikon, jalapeño and hoisin sauce. Entrees include Roasted Turkey ($30) served with stuffing, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cornbread and gravy and Berkshire Pork Chops ($32) served with apples, baby spinach, and apple cider jus. A slice of Classic Pumpkin Pie ($12) with whipped cream sounds like a good way to end the meal.

SIDE DISH: Taste NY; LI Restaurant Week; Retro Pricing

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Long Island Welcome Center hosts a Taste NY networking event with Suffolk Alliance of Chambers of Commerce, Nov. 14, 4-8 p.m.

Local Food and Local Connections…
The Suffolk County Alliance of Chambers is slated to host a Taste NY event at the Long Island Welcome Center at 5100 Long Island Expressway between exits 51-52 eastbound. The event is not only a chance to sample great food, but also serves as a casual networking opportunity with members of local chambers of commerce from around Suffolk County. The Welcome Center is part of the state’s Taste NY campaign and features a Taste NY Market and a farmers’ market. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy complementary food and drinks from local companies that produce products on Long Island and around New York State, while meeting new people and making lasting business connections. The event is free to attend on Nov. 14, 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Email suffolkchambers@gmail.com for more information or visit events.constantcontact.com to register for the event.

Piccola Bussola Ristorante is celebrating its 25th anniversary with family style menu options at rollback prices every Tuesday in November.

Party like it’s 1993… Piccola Bussola Ristorante (970 West Jericho Tpk., Huntington Station) is celebrating 25 years in business this month. The restaurant is offering rollback menu prices every Tuesday in November to celebrate the occasion, which means there are still three more opportunities to take advantage of the ’90s prices. The restaurant’s menu will feature family style plates at rollback prices. The family style dishes are portioned so two people can share the meal. Thriving for a quarter century in the restaurant business is never easy, especially in a competitive market like Huntington. Celebrate the success of a local restaurant with some great deals. To make a reservation at Piccola Bussola, call 631-692-6300.

 

Long Island Restaurant Week… There are still a few more days to enjoy a night out during Long Island Restaurant Week. The event, which is presented by Long Island Restaurant and Hospitality Group, includes a three-course prix fixe menu for just $29.95 that lasts until Sunday, Nov. 11. There are over 150 participating restaurants across Nassau and Suffolk County are taking part and 20 from the Town of Huntington. The prix fixe menus are available every night the restaurants are open except Saturday when it may only be offered until 7 p.m. Participating restaurants have the opportunity to offer items on the prix-fixe menu with an additional charge, but there must be at least three choices on the menu for each course that satisfy the $29.95 price range. Beverages and gratuity are not included in the deal. From Huntington village and Huntington Station to Commack and Melville, take this opportunity to experience what the town’s vibrant dining scene has to offer. The participating restaurants can get pretty busy during this week, so make sure to call ahead and make a reservation. Visit longislandrestaurantweek.com for more information and to find the list of restaurants taking part in the deal.

Joanina Stays Authentic For 19 Years

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

Over 19 years, Joanina has established itself as an authentic Italian experience that can make you feel you’ve been transported to Tuscany.

Joanina began as a gourmet deli, and progressed into a cozy restaurant known for simple but delicious pasta dishes. As word got out and demand increased, owner Bobby Oliva expanded the dining room and opened the Wine Shop next door in 2009.

“We didn’t just start like a restaurant and open our doors,” Oliva said. “We kinda melded into it, I would say. We had the deli business and we just slowly did the restaurant, saying let’s see what happens.”

The restaurant has been a family affair. Oliva’s late father crafted wooden tables and many of the dishes come from family recipes.

“We’re very family-oriented. I’m always here on the floor. We’ve had the same staff we’ve had for years,” Oliva said. “One of the best compliments I hear is when people come here and leave they say, ‘There was just something about being in here that felt like home.’”

It’s easy to feel you are in someone’s villa. The restaurant creates a romantic atmosphere for couples, but can also be a place for families to share time together over classic plates.

To start, the Carciofi alla Griglia ($12) is  light artichoke salad packed with flavor. The  pan seared long stem artichokes atop a bed of spinach are dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette and shaved parmigiano. Keeping things light, the Melanzane al Pomodoro e Basilico ($10.95), is a wonderful starter for any eggplant lover. The thinly sliced eggplant is cooked in the restaurant’s wood oven and covered in fresh tomato basil sauce, with shaved ricotta salata.

The oven has been in the establishment for 25 years and has become a focal point of the cuisine.

“We do a lot of cooking in the wood oven, we make the fish, lamb, and chicken in the wood oven,” Oliva said.

Hot from that oven, Joanina’s Pizza Bianca con Speck ($15.95) is a white pizza with smoked prosciutto, mushrooms and white truffle oil drizzleand fresh mozzarella.

“Some people just come in for a salad, a piece of pizza and a glass of wine,” Oliva said.

But if you want something more filling, you can’t go wrong with the Pollo Scarpariello ($23), the restaurant’s most popular dish. The wood oven roasted chicken, homemade sausage and potatoes with garlic, lemon and rosemary, and spicy cherry peppers give it a kick that brings the dish together without overwhelming it.

“It’s nothing too nouveau or fancy, it’s simple and fresh ingredients,” Oliva said.

Anatra Arrosto ($25) is roast Long Island duck breast with caramelized onions and sauteed spinach with a balsamic reduction drizzle.

Another mouth-waterishing entree is Sogliola Francaise ($23.95), filet of sole covered in breadcrumbs, oregano and fresh herbs, with a lemon wine sauce and tomatoes with fresh basil on top.

To finish it all, the tiramisu that was made that day was light and creamy, with blueberries and whipped cream on the side to add to its beautiful presentation. Much of the produce served comes from farms out East, making it as fresh as possible. Along with that, many of the pastas and sausage are made fresh daily.

“We like to do everything in house, so its homemade and fresh,” Oliva said. “When you need it, it’s there.”

Restaurant Joanina
35 Gerard Street
HuntingtonVillage
631-549-2727
restaurantjoanina.com

Cuisine: Italian
Atmosphere: Rustic and cozy
Appetizers: $6-$18.95
Salads: $7-$22
Entrees: $9-$29.95
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, noon - 10 p.m.; Friday, noon - 11 p.m.; Saturday, 5-11 p.m., Sunday, 5-9:30 p.m.

SIDE DISH: Finley's At 25... Meet The Spaghetti-visor

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Finley’s of Green Street is celebrating 25 years in Huntington village.

Finley’s Celebrates 25 Years: A long standing Huntington village restaurant will on Friday night kick off a year of celebration to mark 25 years in business. Finley’s of Greene Street (43 Green Street, Huntington) has become an institution since Dr. John Finley and his wife Sandy Finley purchased the bar, which was then called Garvin’s, in 1993. “People were calling it Finley’s before we even opened, while we were struggling for a new name, so we went with the flow and named it Finley’s,” Sandy Finley said. “My husband was a practicing dentist at the time, and I was a social worker, but we soon had to devote all our time to Finley’s.” John Finley passed away in November 2010, but his wife has continued running the bar and restaurant with her son Shannon. The Huntington Chamber of Commerce is set to hold a ribbon cutting at 6 p.m., Friday at the restaurant to commemorate the anniversary. Finley’s will have a party to commemorate the occasion. Willie Steel, the first musician to perform at Finley’s 25 years ago, will provide the musical backdrop for the party, while complimentary hors d’oeuvres, fun food and half-priced drinks will be served from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. The party will continue when Steel and his original band, Steel Poney, perform starting at 8:30 p.m. Make your way to Finley’s on Friday evening to reminisce about the good times and make some new ones.

 

Huntington Spaghetti-visor Chad Lupinacci donned an apron and chef’s toque to dish out the food to seniors at Huntington Senior Center’s Italian Festival.

MEET ThE Spaghetti-visor: Huntington Supervisor Chad Lupinacci put his Italian heritage to good use earlier this month when he served up classic Italian fare at the Town of Huntington Senior Center’s Italian Festival. Lupinacci joined seniors from around the Town of Huntington for an Italian fest of spaghetti and meatballs, followed by a cake adorned with an Italian flag made of icing provided by King Kullen. The event took place at 423 Park Avenue in Hutngington. Lupinacci donned an apron and chef’s toque, and took up a spot behind the line dishing out the food to seniors. “Celebrating Italian Heritage Month is always fun because of all the great Italian foods we can enjoy,” Lupinacci said. The Town of Huntington Senior Center first opened its doors on March 18, 1974 with the goal of providing a nutritious meal to all Town of Huntington residents over the age of sixty. The center now two locations, nine clubs, and over 2,500 members who participate in the lunch program, activities and educational programs.

PSEG’s Paul De Benedetto of East Northport helped sort and pack apples for delivery to food pantries across Long Island.

Picking A Good Cause: A group of PSEG employees volunteered their time at the Island Harvest Food Bank in Hauppauge earlier this month to help send a classic fall food to people in need. Paul De Benedetto, of East Northport, was among the employees who helped sort and pack 9,386 pounds of apples for delivery to food pantries, soup kitchens and churches across Long Island. “With only a couple of weekends left in the apple picking season, having so many PSEG Long Island volunteers to help sort and pack helped fill a critical need,” Island Harvest Food Bank’s president and CEO Randi Shubin Dresner said. Employess from PESG Long Island routinely volunteer their time at Island Harvest to support events such as the annual turkey drive, working the Giving Garden and packing apples. “Our employees are always ready to step up and volunteer for worthwhile causes serving our communities,” PSEG Long Island manager of community outreach, George Coburn said. “This particular event combined a day of camaraderie and community service that was really enjoyable for our participating employees.”

It All Comes Together At Parea

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com


Get a taste of nostalgia and delicious Greek food at Parea, the recently opened successor to the beloved Mediterranean Snack Bar on New York Avenue in Huntington.

Many who loved Mediterranean Snack Bar during its 43 years in business were sad to see it closed by owner, Steve Soulellis over 10 months ago. But when Soulellis was approached by family friend, Niko Papavasilopoulous, about buying the restaurant from him, Soulellis knew he could trust him to carry on the recipes.

Papavasilopoulous has stayed true to his word of keeping the recipes the same. The only changes: he spruced up the dining rooms.

“It’s a little brighter, we painted the walls and changed a few colors around, but it still gives that nostalgia to people,” Papavasilopoulous said. “I knew we needed that in the beginning”

Papavasilopoulous’ is 100-percent Greek, and grew up working in his parent’s diner, Plainview Diner.

“I was trying to be not like the diner,” Papavasilopoulous said. “I want people to sit, eat and relax, because at the diner everyone wants to eat and leave.”

It is easy to get wrapped up in the rustic atmosphere and want to chat and dine all night. With an array of appetizers that are perfect for sharing, Parea is a great place to socialize. The hummus ($8.95) is made from ground chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and tahini served with a side of pita bread. The fresh flavor pairs well with bread or on meats.

Or get the traditional horiatiki salad ($17) that brings the flavors of tomato, feta and cucumber in harmony. Keeping with Soulellis’ tradition, the restaurant buys tomatoes from farms on the east end of Long Island.

“Fresh Long Island tomatoes, what’s better than that? It’s basically farm to table,” Papavasilopoulous said.

The restaurant had a soft opening and as word has gotten out and they have grown increasingly busy.

“I wanted to ease into it… Just learning the system here is different than most restaurants because we have the snack bar side and the kitchen side and we have to time it up,” Papavasilopoulous said.

It was important for Papavasilopoulous to keep the snack bar that had made Soulellis’ business a success in his restaurant. Here people can order a gyro and have it in under a minute. The gyro ($9) of ground lamb and beef, is topped with tomatoes and onions served with yogurt and onion sauce.

“As far as the food, I thought I may have to change a few things, but these guys are so on point. They cook it the same way my mom and grandma did,” Papavasilopoulous said.

One traditional dish that Parea features is moussaka ($20.95) with layers of eggplant, ground beef, and potatoes, topped with bechamel.

We were treated to a freshly caught whole broiled bronzini ($28.95) that was being offered as a special that day, with spinach casserole. The fish was juicy and even better with fresh squeezed lemon drizzled on top. Soulellis used to fish for his restaurant and Parea hopes to continue this tradition of freshness.

Although, this is Papavasilopoulous’ first time working in a Greek restaurant, he is thrilled to be honoring his culture by serving its cuisine. The name Parea comes from Greek and means “a group of people who derive great pleasure by simply being together.” He and his family hope they can bring this enjoyment to those who dine at Parea.

“Opening this makes me feel more at home,” Papavasilopoulous said. “I want everybody to be able to come in here and enjoy it.”

Steak Deal, Bar Crawl, Dia de los Muertos

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Porterhouse Night at IMC in Huntington features a $50 porterhouse steak and 50 percent off any bottle of wine over $99

Jumbo Sized Steak Deal… Meat lovers rejoice. IMC Restaurant & Bar (279 Main St., Huntington) is continuing their bi-weekly Porterhouse Night. Every Wednesday and Thursday hungry couples can try IMC’s 42-ounce Porterhouse steak for $50. The steak feeds two people, and- like all the steaks at IMC- is extremely tender and well-cooked. The Porterhouse is paired with bundles of rosemary and thyme to dip into a side of au jus sauce made from the beef’s own juices. In addition to the steak special, diners can also enjoy a glass of wine with dinner. The deal features 50 percent off all bottles of wine over $99. A full-bodied red pairs perfectly with the flavorful meat. Call IMC at 631-824-6222 to make a reservation for one of the best deals in town.

Brunch and Blooms… Come for the flowers, but stay for the brunch at Babalu (286 New York Ave., Huntington) on Saturday, Oct. 27 when Alice’s Table presents Brunch & Blooms. Attendees can learn the art of flower arranging while enjoying the delicious Cuban-themed brunch menu that Babalu has to offer. The event runs from 1 p.m.-4 p.m., and the flower arranging can take a couple of hours to complete. While learning how to create beautiful flower arrangements, there will be homemade spiced sangria available that will set the mood to create a festive fall centerpiece. At the end of the brunch, each attendee will bring home a handcrafted pumpkin centerpiece for their own autumn get together. Tickets for the event coast $65 and are available at Alicestable.com.

Dia de los Muertos… Besito Mexican (402 New York Avenue, Huntington village, 631-549-0100) comes alive for “Dia de los Muertos,” otherwise known as the Day of the Dead. In this post-Halloween, south-of-the-border tradition celebrants wear wild makeup, dance and parade, and build altars to honor the souls of relatives who have departed this earth. Or you could just head to Besito on Nov. 1 and 2 to enjoy traditional Mexican dishes designed specifically for the holiday. Staff will have their faces painted in the traditional Sugar Skull or Calaca style, traditional “ofrendas” will be displayed, and guests will be surprised with sweet comforts and warm tequilas. Tequila tastings both days, 4-6 p.m., feature Partida tequila on Nov. 1; and Patron tequila Nov. 2.

Spooky Suds… Huntington village will once again play host to the annual Halloween Bar Crawl hosted by Long Island Social Events. Participants are encouraged to dress up and follow the crawl as it stops in some of the hottest spots in Huntington’s active bar scene. The crawl kicks off at 2 p.m. at Repeal XVIII (30 New Street, Huntington), formerly P’s and Q’s, and also features stops at Christopher’s, Nags Head, Huntington Village Tavern and McKeown’s Pub - previously Mary Carroll’s. The crawl stops at each bar for an hour, and once inside participants can enjoy $2 Coors and Millers, $3 well drinks and $4 shots. The event wraps up at 8 p.m., but the night doesn’t have to end there. There are plenty of restaurants in Huntington to explore if you get hungry after a long day on the crawl. You must be 21 to participate. Tickets for the event cost $25 and can be purchased in advance online at Longislandsocialevents.com.

IMC Debuts New Brunch Menu

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By Sophia Ricco
sricco@longislandergroup.com

Since opening its doors four years ago, Imperial Meat Company has earned a place as one of Huntington’s most chic hangouts with a menu that will amaze.

Through thoughtful crafting the chef at IMC has developed a brunch menu that takes many of the foods they offer and breakfast-fyed them, while introducing some innovative twists on classic breakfast items. After seeing the rise of ‘brunching’ in town, IMC threw its hat into the ring.

“Brunch and breakfast Sundays are popular around town,” Cesar Hernandez, general manager of IMC, said. “That’s why we want to give people the choice with our menu.”

Nowadays, going out to brunch with your friends or family is a social event that allows people to catch up over some delicious food. The fun can last all morning with bottomless mimosas, bloody marys, and red or white sangria offered for only $20.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is sure to satisfy brunchers, who can dine under gorgeous chandeliers with an upbeat jazz soundtrack playing in the background. You can’t miss the interesting floor design that features illuminated bottles.

“We have a little bit of everything,” Hernandez said. “We get people for brunch who are walking around and see this and they decide to try it. But we also have our people who come in three or four times a week for dinner who now know we serve a brunch menu.”

The restaurant is owned by Imperial Meat Company, a Brooklyn-based distributor of meats to restaurants for 22 years. This gives IMC Restaurant an edge in all things meat.

“We are the one restaurant in Long Island using the single bred Wagyu beef, so that gives us the chance to serve in Long Island this type of exclusive product,” Hernandez said.

Wagyu is the restaurant’s signature meat. The cows’ restrictive diet and daily massages increase circulation, giving the meat its prized flavor.

All of the appetizers that are typically served during lunch and dinner can still be enjoyed during brunch, to satisfy any person’s lunch appetite. Wagyu meatballs ($12) served with pickled green daikon and spicy mayo, topped off with a coconut and garlic crumble and cilantro absolutely melt in your mouth and have exquisite flavors that come together in harmony.

Not a meat eater? Do not fear. The restaurant still satisfies with seafood and vegetarian options. I absolutely loved the littleneck baked clams ($14) breaded with a mixture of heavy cream, spinach, and lemon sauce and served with oregano, garlic and lemon. Sweet chili shrimp ($16) has a delicious breading of crispy aioli, toasted coconut and garlic, served with fried shallots and spicy aioli mayo sauce.
An option that works as both a dinner and lunch dish but can still be just as delicious for brunch is their burrata ($17) with heirloom tomatoes, tomato vinaigrette, pesto and filone toast. This creamy mozzarella resembles a poached egg and has a similar result when cut with a knife to allow the gooey center to come out. While we dined, the experience was notably friendly and courteous.

“We are the meat company and put our own brands in our restaurant,” Hernandez said. “But our hospitality side is number one, the biggest specialty is that everyone is passionate about what they do. It makes us a little bit different, you get a warm welcome right when you walk in, from the front desk to the servers to the bartenders and even the culinary side in the kitchen.”

Still, the wagyu is not to be missed during brunch with two slabs of maple glazed bacon with barrel aged maple syrup ($12). The double smoked flavor makes the meat stand out as well as the pickled red onions on the side.

“We have different types of products we offer, so we have particular items no one has, like our meats. It’s exclusive to us,” Hernandez said.

If you’re looking for a larger portion of steak, try the 16 oz. Wagyu skirt steak ($39) that can be covered in veal and 40 year old port wine demi glace with the rosemary and thyme. Slow cooked for 36 hours, the steak is delightfully tender. The classic breakfast meal steak n’ eggs ($19), features a 12 oz. prime NY strip steak, two eggs any style, and hash brown potatoes.

“No one can serve wagyu steak and eggs like us,” Hernandez said.

The new brunch menu was debuted this past Sunday and can be enjoyed Sundays from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

“I would say there is something here for everybody,” Hernandez said. “From the menu to the atmosphere and music to the type of service and the drinks.”

IMC Restaurant

279 Main Street, Huntington Village
631- 824 - 6222
Cuisine: International Steakhouse
Atmosphere: Elegant and modern
Prices: Appetizers: $10-$21, Brunch Classics: $9-$24, Lunch/Dinner: $19-$85.
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 4-11 p.m.; Sunday, noon – 9 p.m.