I look forward to Long Island Restaurant Week all year long – and fortunately, it happens twice a year, in the fall and spring. For one week (April 27 – May 4, 2014), participating restaurants offer a three-course menu for $27.95. It is an enticing way for Long Islanders to get out and try new restaurants, and for restaurants to showcase their latest menus.
My love of Restaurant Week actually began when I was in college, where it afforded the opportunity to eat at some of the finest restaurants in D.C. on a college students’ budget. When I returned to Long Island, the event had graduated to somewhat of a bi-annual tradition, and involves anxious anticipation for the dates to be announced and countless hours of scouring over the menus of listed restaurants. Each year I do my best to add some variety to my exclusive “Where to Dine During Restaurant Week” list.
First up on my list of restaurants to try was Ristegios Restaurant Lounge in North Patchogue, NY. Listed online as “new american” cuisine, I liked the menu at this restaurant immediately. The restaurant itself was new and had a relaxed vibe with a nice-sized bar area greeting you upon arrival.
Once seated, I had no need to inspect the prix-fixed menu in person as I had already done so online. For an appetizer, I ordered a Caeser salad and had the lobster Mac and Cheese as my entrée. Both dishes were very good and the portions were quite substantial. By the time dessert arrived, a chocolate mousse cake with berry mousse and garnish, I could hardly muster the enthusiasm it deserved. Overall, I would say this was a pretty satisfying meal.
More to come from Restaurant Week…
You’re making me hungry ….