Beneath the street lights, beside the sidewalks, there are hamlets reminiscent of simplicity. Take a quaint Main Street, homey restaurant or compelling charm that extends beyond a photograph. Northport and Sayville are two Long Island towns that happen to have it all.
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Northport
Robke’s Country Inn
image: facebook.com/pg/robkescountryinn
Established in 1961, the longtime neighborhood restaurant treats guests to Italian-style Sunday dinners every night. I’m talking heaping portions, towers of cheese (a fried mozzarella appetizer to be specific) and plenty of sauce. Guests rave about the macaroni and cheese with pan fried chicken cutlets, penne alla vodka with prosciutto and the fresh filet of sole served with spinach. Pro Tips: Cash only, reservations encouraged. Phone: 631-754-9663 | Address: 427 Fort Salonga Rd Click to taste
Bistro 44
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The new-American eatery is charming from the inside out. The space is comfy—think walls and booths made of 1850s woodwork—mixed with a hint of modern chic. There’s a marble bar, spacious booths and private dining area that holds eight. And for those who refuse to accept summer has ended: the heated outdoor patio is perfect for noshing on Thai calamari made with plantains, pineapple and red peppers. Phone: 631-262-9744 | Address: 44 Main St Click to taste
Northport Village Park
The pet-friendly village park overlooks the peaceful Northport Harbor with a waterside path to boot. There is also a charming little gazebo located towards the center of the grounds. Click to visit
The John W. Engeman Theater
The John W. Engeman Theater treats guests to an eclectic mix of programming, casting its actors directly from the Broadway talent pool. The Green Room piano bar and lounge located inside the lobby has craft beers, wines, cocktails, soft drinks and even in-seat beverage service. And for the artisan connoisseurs, there are gourmet cheese and cracker boards. Keep in mind, the bar and lounge is open one hour before the show for ticket holders and after the show to the general public. Phone: 631-261-2900 | Address: 250 Main St Click to visit
Sayville
The Sayville Inn
image: facebook.com/thesayvilleinnandtavern
The historic venue with comfortable seating and nautical vibes is one of the oldest restaurants in town. It started out as a local tavern in 1888, when Teddy Roosevelt used to arrive on horseback. These days it serves up delicious chowders, seafood and steaks. While you’re there try the hot coffee burger with Sayville sauce, mozzarella and jalapeños because you only live once. Phone: 631-319-6774 | Address: 199 Middle Rd Click to taste
Café Joelle
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Run by the same owners as Pasta Pasta in Port Jefferson, the inviting European-style bistro offers a tasty American menu. The dining room is comfortable with framed art prints and a soft glow from glass light fixtures. The menu is just as warm. Favorites include a homemade onion soup topped with mozzarella cheese and a chicken panzanella dish with cutlets that have been breaded and baked and dressed with plum tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil and cheese. Phone: 631-589-4600 | Address: 25 Main St Click to taste
Loughlin Vineyard
image: facebook.com/loughlinvineyard
Situated on the South Shore’s Roosevelt Estate, Loughlin is considered the closest vineyard to Manhattan. It is open year round and is always worth a visit for the complimentary wine tasting, a thing of the past at Twin Fork wineries. It boasts an exquisite collection of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Phone: 631-589-0027 | Address: 253 S Main St Click to visit
Sayville Cinemas
The retro theater, located in the heart of town, features first-run and 3D films played on four screens. It even has the throwback rates to go along with it. Think $5 matinee’s before 6pm. Phone: 631-589-0040 | Address: 103 Railroad Ave Click to visit