Every business says it is the best at what it does. However, most of the time, it’s just a lot of hyperbole. The true judge of who is the best in business is you, the client, the public. You patronize the doctor or the pizzeria that you believe is best. Why wouldn’t you?
So when the Press set out to bring our readers the 2008 Best Of Long Island, there was one simple rule: Let the people decide. Some extraordinary measures were put in place to make sure that happened, too. The first step was establishing a comprehensive nomination process so that any company that does business on LI had an opportunity to be considered. Last year’s winners were also added to the mix. The nominations were honed down to the top finalists in each category before the voting began. The survey was designed by Brainstorm Studios in Melville, utilizing Surveymonkey.com. Tens of thousands of votes were cast for the Best Of honors through our website, www.longislandpress.com. The nomination process began in June and official voting began on Oct. 29.
Once the voting ended on Dec. 22, the results were scrutinized for double voting, since only one vote per category was allowed per IP address. In the end, 120,000 votes were cast.
Now for the winners: In each category there are up to four mentions. The first one represents the winner, followed by three finalists. They are all the Best Of Long Island, chosen by you, the reader.
One more note that needs mentioning is the inclusion of national companies in the 2008 Best Of Long Island. Remember, these companies were nominated by the readers, and in the LI market it is difficult to deny the importance of big-box stores as a place where shoppers spend their money. But the mom ’n’ pop shops that comprise the heart and soul of the LI economy were represented as well. And those independent businesses were prominent among the winners—in fact, several were among the top 10 highest vote getters.
So enjoy the 2008 Best Of Long Island. Keep this guide throughout the year and patronize the winners. You could find your new favorite pediatrician, or the home of your new favorite egg sandwich. But also use it as incentive. Did your dentist or favorite restaurant miss the list? Make sure it doesn’t happen next year. In upcoming issues, look for information about the Best Of Long Island discount card, too. It’s just another way the Press will thank you for your help in deciding the 2008 Best Of Long Island.
The below-listed winners were selected by the readers of the Long Island Press. This is not an endorsement of the listed companies or their products.
BEST OF ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Movie Theater
+ Cinema Arts Centre
423 Park Ave., Huntington. 631-423-7611. www.cinemaartscentre.org
Huntington’s wonderful Cinema Arts Centre calls itself Long Island’s Film Window on the World, and the description is apt: Featuring a breathtaking array of independent and foreign cinema (among many other forms of filmic art), CAC offers an unparalleled experience for LI film buffs. Beyond its great pics, CAC also features the Sky Room and Community Café, not to mention Linda’s Eat and Be Well Organic Vegetarian Kitchen. And, of course, Vic Skolnik’s wonderful pre-show lectures.
• Island 16: Cinema De Lux
185 Morris Ave., Holtsville. 631-758-4300. www.nationalamusements.com
• Farmingdale Multiplex Cinemas
1001 Broad Hollow Rd., Farmingdale. 631-777-8080. www.nationalamusements.com
• UA Westbury Stadium 12
7000 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. 516-333-0055. www.uatc.com
Night Club
+ Crazy Donkey
1058 Rte. 110, Farmingdale. 631-753-1975. www.thecrazydonkey.com
Farmingdale’s Crazy Donkey is so much more than a nightclub that it almost transcends its category: It features a 6,000-square-foot dance floor and 2,000-square-foot deck, a top-flight bar and kitchen, hosts everything from summer barbecues to bachelorette parties, and offers a stage that regularly hosts national bands playing the region. (Upcoming shows include Finch, Cobra Starship, Straylight Run and Explosions in the Sky).
• Mirage
737 Merrick Ave., Westbury. 516-794-8022.
www.mirageli.com
• Foggy Goggle
80 E. Montauk Hwy., Hampton Bays. 631-728-0800
• Pink Elephant
281 County Rd. 39A, Southampton. 631-287-9888
Concert Venue
+ Inter-Media Art Center (IMAC)
370 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-9666. www.imactheater.org
One of the highest scoring winners in all of the categories, the non-profit IMAC is the best concert venue on LI for a couple of big reasons: First, it’s a great concert-going experience, a beautiful venue with a wonderful sound system; second, they bring in a wealth of interesting and top-rate talent. The venue specializes in jazz, blues, folk and world music, and already scheduled for 2008 are such heavyweights as Ani DiFranco, Richard Thompson, Roger McGuinn and Angelique Kidjo, among many others.
• Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
Jones Beach, Wantagh. 516-221-1000. www.livenation.com
• Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
1255 Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale. 516-794-9303. www.nassaucoliseum.com
• North Fork Theatre at Westbury
960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. 516-334-0800. www.livenation.com
Radio Station
+ WFUV
90.7 FM. www.wfuv.org
Not just the best radio station in the region, but among the very finest—and most influential—in the country, Fordham University’s WFUV offers a unique and addictive blend of musical variety, news and cultural programming. They specialize in Americana folk and rock, and they’ve been instrumental in breaking the careers of such artists as Wilco, Ryan Adams, Lucinda Williams, Aimee Mann and countless others.
• WBAB
102.3 FM. www.wbab.com
• WXRK (K-Rock)
92.3 FM. www.923krock.com
• WBLI
106.1 FM. www.wbli.com
Local Live Theater
+ John W Engeman Theater at Northport
250 Main St., Northport. 631-261-2900. www.johnwengemantheater.com
Named after Chief Warrant Officer Four John William Engeman, who was killed in Iraq on May 14, 2006, Northport’s John W Engeman Theater staged its first performance in June, 2007; prior to that, the building was a movie theater that first opened its doors on Northport’s Main Street in 1912. The Theater is a hit; so far this beautiful venue has staged productions of Smokey Joe’s Café, Barefoot in the Park, Jekyll & Hyde and others (its next show is Lend Me a Tenor, which opens Jan. 17). During intermission, there is a special service, wherein cocktail waitresses bring drinks directly to your seat. How cool is that?
• Gateway Playhouse
215. S. Country Rd., Bellport. 631-286-1133. www.gatewayplayhouse.com
• Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts
71 E. Main St., Patchogue.
www.patchoguetheatre.com
• Brookhaven Amphitheater
South Bicycle Path Drive, Farmingville . 631-888-9000. www.brookhavenamphitheater.com
Local Singer
+ Billy Joel
www.billyjoel.com
Surely you’re not surprised? The Piano Man dominated the Best Local Singer category, pulling nearly 90 percent of the total vote. Then again, none of our other nominees are Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees and six-time Grammy winners with worldwide sales in excess of 150 million, top 10 hits in three consecutive decades (the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s), and a string of known-by-heart classics that can spark sing-alongs in any bar in the world.
• Kevin Covais
www.kevcovais.com
• Ryan Star
www.myspace.com/rstar
• Gabrielle Ross
www.gabrielleross.com
Local CD
+ Can I Keep This Pen? by Northern State
www.northernstate.net
Northern State have been critical darlings since their first release, 2002’s Dying in Stereo, but ’07’s Can I Keep This Pen? is surely the female rap trio’s artistic triumph to date. Two of the album’s tracks— “Better Already” and “Iluvitwhenya”—were featured in episodes of Grey’s Anatomy, and its momentum is still only building. Of course, the band swiped their name from the oft-congested parkway so many of us travel on a daily basis, which is only further justification for our pride and love.
• Wanna Dance? by Bandcamp
www.bandcampmusic.com
• Songs From the Eye of an Elephant
by Ryan Star
www.myspace.com/rstar
• After the Room Clears by
Permanent Me
www.myspace.com/permanentme
Art School
+ Art League of Long Island
107 E. Deer Park Rd., Dix Hills. 631-462-5400. www.artleagueli.org
A not-for-profit organization that offers a wide-ranging education on the visual arts in all media, the Art League of Long Island has been in operation since 1955, and currently serves 3,000 students per year—offering 150 classes for emerging artists at every level and age range, from children to seniors.
• Usdan
185 Colonial Springs Rd., Wheatley Heights. 631-643-7900. www.usdan.com
The Huntington School of Fine Arts
2 Melville Rd. North, S. Huntington. 631-351-4060. www.huntfinearts.com
Arts College
+ Five Towns College
305 N. Service Rd., Dix Hills. 631-424-7000. www.ftc.edu
Not just the best arts college on Long Island, but among the best on the East Coast, Five Towns isn’t only a music college—though it offers many music-related classes and degrees—but a school dedicated to all elements of the performing-arts industries, from media to business to teaching and beyond.
• Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus
720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. 516-299-2000. www.liu.edu
• Briarcliffe College
Multiple campuses. Patchogue: 631-654-5300; Bethpage: 516-918-3600; Queens: 888-348-4999. www.bcl.org
Art Gallery
+ Nancy Colleary Art Studio
182 Drexel Ave., Westbury. 516-639-4983. www.nancycolleary.com.
Nancy Colleary has been painting in oils for nearly 30 years and recently, along with three other artists, opened a studio/gallery, which focuses on a variety of still-life subjects—these are wedding dresses, flowers and food you’ll be more than happy to have on your walls.
• Mark Borghi Fine Art
2462 Main St., Bridgehampton. 631-537-7245. www.borghi.org
• Twomey Gallery
Huntington. 631-754-1009. www.twomeygallery.com. [email protected]
• Les Bons Amis
7A The Plaza, Locust Valley. 516-277-1082.
Artist/Painter
+ Arlene McLoughlin
516-541-8782. www.arlenemurals.com.
Known for her custom murals and faux, plaster and gilded finishes, chances are you’ve already seen artist Arlene Mcloughlin’s unique work on the walls of local churches, salons and restaurants.
• Faux Finish Studio
631-277-2209. www.fauxfinishstudio.com
• Red Lion Painting Company
516-322-1331.
www.redlionpainting.com
• Heather Dunn and Company
Bridgehampton, 631-907-2723. www.heatherdunnandco.com
Club DJ
+ Vic Latino
www.viclatino.com
This LI native started on WKTU-NY—his ear for trendy mixes got him a partnership with Tommy Boy Records and a number of remix CDs. Latino has brought down the house for just about every chic Long Island and NYC club and rocks out for the listeners on Party 105 and La Fiesta (both of which are owned by the parent company of the Long Island Press).
• DJ Razor
www.djrazor.com. [email protected]
• DJ Chris Kenny
www.myspace.com/djchriskenny
• DJ Boneshaker
www.myspace.com/boneshaker06
Local Band
+ Push Play
www.pushplaysite.com, www.myspace.com/pushplayrox
These fresh-faced Long Islanders are everywhere, including the pages of teen mags Popstar!, Twist and
M. Beyond making pop music to die for, they are poppers with a purpose—most of their shows are in some part fund-raisers.
• As Hell Broke Loose
www.myspace.com/ashellbrokeloose
• Paging Grace
www.paginggrace.com
• Blameshift
www.myspace.com/blameshift
Local Comedian
+ Jerry Seinfeld
What’s the deal with Jerry Seinfeld winning the Best Local Comedian category? The truth is, even though Bee Movie wasn’t exactly a smash, he’s still the funniest guy to come off the Island, say our readers.
• Billy Bingo
www.billybingo.net
• Joe DeVito
www.joedevito.com
• Kevin James
www.kevinjames.com
BEST OF COMMERCE
Record Store
+ Best Buy
Multiple locations. www.bestbuy.com
Best Buy may not have the most eclectic selection, but they beat the competition for two solid reasons: location—they have 11 stores on Long Island alone; and price—most of their CDs are priced at $9.99 each, a number lower than the discs’ wholesale cost. Indie retailers may decry the big boxes, but the customers recognize BB’s value and convenience.
• Looney Tunes
31 Brookvale Ave., W. Babylon. 631-587-7722. www.looneytunescds.com
• Mr. Cheapo CD & Record Exchange
Commack: 631-543-8686; Mineola: 516-742-7670.
www.mrcheapocds.com
• F.Y.E.
Multiple locations. www.fye.com
BookStore
+ Barnes & Noble
Multiple locations. www.barnesandnoble.com
With six LI locations, Barnes & Noble do have the deck stacked in their favor here, but they offer so much more than convenience that it’s inaccurate to suggest otherwise: B&N stores are expansive, pretty, well-organized and well-stocked; it helps that they offer CDs, DVDs and stationery (among other non-book-specific products); it also helps that their cafès are so pleasant, and serve such good coffee.
• Borders
Multiple locations. www.bordersstores.com
• Book Revue
313 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-271-1442. www.bookrevue.com
• I AM Books
315 Main Street, Huntington. 631-271-LOVE. www.iambooksonline.com
Camera Store
+ Best Buy
Multiple locations. www.bestbuy.com
Again, just as they proved in the Best Record Store category, Best Buy beat the competition by offering more convenience (11 stores on Long Island alone) and more competitive prices. What’s more, Best Buy serves the entire photographic community: Pros will have little problem locating everything they’re looking for here, but newbies will comfortably find the camera that’s right for them, too.
• Berger Bros. Camera, Video, Digital
Multiple locations. Amityville: 631-264-4160; Syosset: 516-496-1000. www.berger-bros.com
• Cameta Camera
253 Broadway (Rt. 110), Amityville. 631-389-2138. www.cameta.com
• Westbury Cameras & Computers
232A W. Old Country Rd., Hicksville. 516-937-0707. www.westburycameras.com
Thrift Store
+ Salvation Army
Multiple locations. www.salvationarmyusa.org.
Yes, it’s for a good cause, and yes they’re located everywhere, but Salvation Army’s thrift stores are the best on Long Island because they offer the most eclectic, fastest-changing selection, and the lowest prices. There’s simply no other shopping experience like it anywhere else in the world.
• Goodwill Industries
Multiple locations. www.goodwill.org
• Northern Thrift
2035 New York Ave., Huntington Sta. 631-673-4790.
• FabFinds Limited
54 Broadway, Greenlawn. 631-261-0477.
Pet Shop
+ Selmer’s Pet Land
125 E. Jericho Tpke., S. Huntington. 631-423-4677. www.selmerspetland.com
For decades, Selmer’s Pet Land has been attracting customers all around the Island to its South Huntington location for a wide selection of pets from fish to puppies, pet supplies and its knowledgable and friendly staff. A testament to their enormous popularity, the family-owned shop came out ahead of giant nationwide retailers like PETCO.
• PETCO
Multiple locations. www.petco.com
• Pet Supplies “PLUS”
Multiple locations. www.petsuppliesplus.com
• Parrots of the World
316 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre. 516-764-0125. www.parrotsoftheworld.com
Tattoo Shop
+ Tattoo Lou’s
Multiple LI locations. www.tattoolous.com.
Celebrating 50 years in business, Tattoo Lou’s has stood the test of time. One of the only original old-school tattooists left, Lou Rubino Sr., aka Tattoo Lou, along with his son, Lou Jr. and a handful of ink professionals, have tattooed half of Long Island, and look forward to inking up the other half in the next 50 years.
• Cliff’s Tattoo
1446 Middle Country Rd., Centereach. 631-732-1957; 238 E. Main St., Patchogue. 631-447-2253. www.cliffstatttoo.net
• Vintage Ink
406 Larkfield Rd., E. Northport. 631-368-8287. www.myspace.com/vintageink
• Artful Ink
1112 Smithtown Ave., Bohemia. 631-589-7399. www.artfulinktattoo.com
Surf Shop
+ Bunger Surf & Sports
50 E. Main St., Babylon. 631-661-1526; 247A W. Main St., Sayville. 631-244-7070.
www.bungersurf.com
As any seasoned surfer knows, ’tis the season to stock up on gear, since the sales are on at this and most surf shops. But Bunger takes the title of Best for being the type of place that broadcasts live surf conditions—even in January.
• The Board Shop
276 Main St., Huntington. 631-424-7873.
www.boardshop1.com
• Sunrise to Sunset Surf & Sport
36 Hill St., Southampton. 631-283-2929.
• Flying Point Surf and Sport
69 Main St., Southampton. 631-287-0075
Shoe Store
+ DSW
Multiple locations. www.dswshoes.com
It is shoe heaven—seriously, when you walk in, there are designer shoes as far as the eye can see and angels sing. And that’s even before you get to the up-to-80-percent-off discounted shoes. DSW is for the Imelda in all of us.
• Love My Shoes
Multiple locations. www.lovemyshoes.com
• Marty’s Shoes
Multiple locations. www.martyshoes.com
• The Shoe Box
419 South Oyster Bay Rd., Plainview. 516-931-7775. www.shoptheshoebox.com
Barbershop
+ Sal the Barber
72 Merrick Rd., Amityville. 631-264-4247.
After nearly a decade combing and clipping LI’s best haircuts, the buzz is that the recently renovated shop owned by the eponymous Sal the Barber is a cut above the rest.
• Rockabilly Barber
Multiple locations. www.rockabillybarbers.com
• Phil & Joe BarberShop
2741 Jerusalem Ave., Bellmore. 516-826-0850.
• Royal BarberShop
275 Burnside Ave., Lawrence. 516-371-9401.
Day Spa
+ Gurney’s Inn Resort
290 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk. 631-668-2345. www.gurneysinn.com
Only a spectacular ocean view can make a weekend at the spa better, and Gurney’s has it all: indulgent beauty treatments, yoga and cardio workouts, and a king-sized sea water pool to name a few. The best part? You never have to leave the beach.
• Maximus Spa Salon
2075 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-623-4180; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516- 222-8880. www.maximusspasalon.com
• Red Door Spa
Multiple locations. www.reddoorspas.com
• The Spa at East Wind
5720 Rte. 25A, Wading River. 631-846-2339. www.eastwindlongisland.com
Tanning Salon
+ Beach Bum Tanning
Multiple locations. www.beachbumtanning.com
With more than seven levels of tanning, Beach Bum was the No. 1 pick for a streak-free glow. They have special UV-free booths, airbrushing customized to your body type, and they’re open late night so you can tan your bum long after the sun goes down.
• Hollywood Tans
Multiple locations. www.hollywoodtans.com
• Gotti Tans
313 W. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-271-7713.
• Executive Tans
Multiple locations.
www.executivetans.info
Nail Salon
+ Unique Nails
1 Nesconset Hwy., Port Jefferson Station. 631-473-2999
Whether it’s a unique mani/pedi with professional service and creative designs, or a therapeutic chat with the girls over the newest in cutting-edge manicures, this is the place to be.
• Sunny Nails
10 Little Neck Rd., Centerport. 631-261-7869.
• Ava Spa
838 Horseblock Rd., Farmingville. 631-716-0838. [email protected]. www.avanailspa.com
• Fantastic Nail II
379 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516- 623-9800.
Hair Salon
+ Soto Salon
2001 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park. 631-242-5570. www.sotosalon.com
The staff at Soto Salon pride themselves on appearance enhancement whether it’s just a haircut or a day of beauty,—so they won’t try to change you, just make you the best vision of yourself.
• Maximus Spa Salon
2075 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-623-4180; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516- 222-8880. www.maximusspasalon.com
• Lemon Tree
Multiple locations. www.lemontree.com
• ID Salon
25 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Syosset. 516-921-5541.
Liquor Store
+ Bottle Buys
350 Glen Head Rd., Glen Head. 516-676-8400. www.bottlebuys.com
Be it a bottle of bubbly, a liter of liquor or a Methuselah of Merlot, Bottle Buys’ selection is sure to quench the thirst of any wine or spirit connoisseur.
• Port to Port Wines & Spirits
395 Fort Salonga Rd., Northport. 631-754-8282.
• Young’s Fine Wines and Spirits
505 Plandome Rd., Manhasset. 516-627-1234.
• Black Tie Liquors
114 Shore Rd., Port Washington. 516-767-9000.
Beer Distributor
+ Beverage Barn
Multiple locations.
www.beverage-barn.com
The distributor’s nine locations—from East Meadow to Garden City, Bay Shore to Ronkonkoma, just to name a few—are well-known magnets for beer geeks in search of voluminous options.
• Thrifty Beverage
Multiple locations. www.thriftybeverage.com
• Big Z Beverage
1675 E. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-499-3479.
• Frank’s Beer & Soda
59 Cedar Swamp Rd., Glen Cove. 516-676-4126.
Exterminator
+ Arrow exterminating
Multiple locations. www.arrowexterminating.com
Nobody wants unwanted pests in their home, and the only thing worse is when the job isn’t done right the first time. These are the people LI trusts for the most effective exterminating.
• Suburban Exterminating
Multiple locations. www.suburbanexterminating.com
• Top Gun
Multiple locations. 516-292-5122.
• Knockout Pest Control
Multiple locations. www.knockoutpest.com
Hardware Store
+ Ace Hardware
Multiple locations. www.acehardware.com
You don’t have to take John Madden’s word for it: Ace is the Place, so they say, where you won’t wind up lost in a cavernous warehouse when all you’re trying to find is a new drill bit.
• Northport Hardware Company
90 Main St., Northport. 631-261-4449
• Trio Hardware
1032 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-935-8385.
• Jamesport Hardware
1403 Main Rd., Jamesport. 631-722-4414.
Auto-Repair Shop
+ STS Tire & Auto Centers
Multiple locations. www.ststire.com
“It’s a trust thing” is their motto because, well, everyone knows that’s the most important trait car owners look for when shopping around for a suitable auto technician.
• 1042 Collision
1042 Fulton St.-Rte. 109, Farmingdale. 631-249-0926.
• The Body Shop at Sears
195 N. Broadway, Hicksville. 516-933-7327.
• Conlon Automotive
1150 N. Broadway, Massapequa. 516-293-0654.
Jewelry Store
+ Fortunoff
The Mall at the Source, 1300 Old Country Rd., Westbury, 516-832-9000. www.fortunoff.com
Charm bracelets, engagement rings, baby and estate jewelry…even watches and earrings, Fortunoff’s has something for everyone, no matter your taste, age or budget.
• Roomors
255 Deer Park Ave., Ste. 2. Babylon. 631-669-5196.
• The Karat Shop
102 West Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-271-5151. www.karatshop.com
• Elsa Showroom
2263 Rte. 110, Farmingdale. 631-293-4500. www.elsarings.com
Jeans Store
+ Ann Taylor Loft
Multiple locations
www.anntaylorloft.com
There is nothing better than a pair of jeans that fit perfectly, and that’s what you’ll find at Ann Taylor Loft. No matter what size, style,color or fit you are looking for, you will be pleased.
• Max & Gino’s Clothing Company
7911 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-364-1700.
• Lone Star Jeans
377 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Plainview. 516-942-0457. www.lonestarjeansonline.com
• Bonnie’s Jeans
383 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights. 516-484-0202.
Home-Office Furniture
+ Staples
Multiple locations, www.staples.com
That was easy; Staples got almost half of the total votes. Now that Staples is selling Dell computers in their stores as well as online, it looks like plenty of customers will be pressing the “easy button” for years to come.
• OfficeMax
Multiple locations. www.officemax.com
• Waldner’s Office Furniture
125 Rte. 110, Farmingdale. 631-844-9300. www.waldners.com
• Bina Office Furniture & Computer Furniture
254 E. Jericho Tpke., Mineola-Garden City. 516-248-5858. www.binaofficefurniture.com
Vitamin Store
+ The Vitamin Shoppe
Multiple locations. www.vitaminshoppe.com
The Vitamin Shoppe had more muscle than the competition. Thirty years after the first store was opened in New York City, they are still in great shape.
• GNC
Multiple locations. www.gnc.com
• Vitamin World
Multiple locations. www.vitaminworld.com
• Phil’s Vitamin Center
319 Broadway, Huntington Station. 631-271-2911. www.philsvitamincenter.com
Mom & Pop Store
+ Wantagh 5 & 10 Emporium
901 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-785-1259. www.wantagh5and10.com.
For the second year in a row, this Wantagh mainstay won in this category. Their selection of greeting cards, household wares and gift items have kept customers coming back for more than 50 years.
• Mr. Bill’s Cheesecakes
773 N. Welwood Ave., Lindenhurst. 631-957-8737. www.mrbillscheesecakes.com.
• Einstein’s Attic
155 Main St., Northport Village. 631-261-7564. www.einsteinsattictoys.com.
• Tea and Teaques
408 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-421-8327.
Video Arcade
+ Dave & Buster’s
Multiple locations. www.daveandbusters.com
At the top of the high-score list for this category is Dave & Buster’s. The standard for double dates and children’s birthday parties Island-wide, Dave & Busters has redeemed plenty of tickets for Long Islanders this year.
• Adventureland
2245 Rte. 110, Farmingdale. 631-694-6868. www.adventureland.us
• Chuck E. Cheese
Multiple locations. www.chuckecheese.com
• Nathan’s Famous
Multiple locations. www.nathansfamous.com
Place To Get Married
+ Oheka Castle
135 West Gate Dr., Cold Spring Harbor. 631-659-1400. www.oheka.com
This picturesque locale in Cold Spring Harbor has enthralled couples for generations. Royalty, politicians and celebs have all been enchanted by what was once the second-largest private residence in American history.
• Montauk
www.montauk-online.com
• The Inn At Fox Hollow
7725 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516- 921-1415. www.scottobrothers.com
• Crest Hollow Country Club
8325 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-692-8000. www.cresthollow.com
Lawyer
+ Daniel Buttafuoco
144 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury. 516- 746-8100. www.1800nowhurt.com
Buttafuoco and his attorneys take on insurance companies and hold the medical profession accountable for their malpractice errors in personal injury cases ranging from animal bites, to medical malpractice, to workers’ compensation.
• Joseph Dell of Dell & Little
350 Old Country Rd., Garden City. 516-294-5814.
• Paul McMahon
356 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Commack. 631-543-7676. www.nmlawllp.com
• Kushnick & Associates
445 Broad Hollow Rd., Ste.124, Melville. 631-752-7100. www.nyconstructionlaw.com
Divorce Lawyer
+ Nancy Peters
1500 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. 516-621-1517. www.lidivorceteam.com
Nancy Peters’ practice has been devoted exclusively to matrimonial and divorce law for more than 30 years. Peters works alongside her husband, Gary D. Peters, in their Roslyn office.
• Anthony Capetola
2 Hillside Ave., Building C, Williston Park. 516-746-2300. www.capetolalaw.com
• Dominick Barbara
1100 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516- 222-2333.
• Vincent Grande III
248 W. Montauk Hwy., Lindenhurst. 631-225-0744. www.vincentgrande.com
Dating Service
+ Match.com
www.match.com
There are hundreds of online dating services available, but none compares to Match.com: Since its 1995 launch, the site has brought together an estimated hundreds of thousands of relationships (they claim that approximately 200,000 members per year report having found the relationship they were looking for on the site). Currently, there are millions of profiles on Match.com, which means countless possibilities for anyone looking for that special someone.
• Great Date Now
Multiple locations. 516-673-0777; 631-474-4536. www.greatdatenow.com
• Chemistry.com
www.chemistry.com
• American High Society Dating
631-274-5526. www.americanhighsociety.com
Handyman
+ Mr. Handyman of the
gold coast
1 Fairchild Ct., Suite 360. Plainview. 516-349-7500. www.mrhandyman.com
With locations all over the United States Mr. Handyman is the answer for the technically impaired—there’s no need to make multiple calls and set up different appointments for your home maintenance and repair projects. Mr. Handyman takes care of everything on your To-Do list.
• Joe Ripasardi
Contact information unavailable at presstime.
• Jarro handyman services
1796 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-794-4030. www.jarro.com
• Case Handyman
1507 Lincoln Ave., Holbrook. 631-686-5471. www.longisland.caseremodeling.com
Pet Groomer
+ Cookie
Contact information unavailable at presstime.
• Cozy Pet
765-4 Deer Park Ave., N. Babylon. 631-669-2099; 761B Veronica Ln., N. Babylon. 631-669-2899. www.cozypettlc.com
• Grooming on Broadway
70 Broadway., Greenlawn. 631-239-5675
• Mid-Island Mobile Pet Grooming
99 Pond Dr., Middle Island. 631-924-9100
BEST OF FAMILY
Nursery School
+ Greentrees Country Day School
247 Jackson Ave., Syosset. 516-921-4949. www.greentreesschoolandcamp.com
Founded by Marilyn and Murray Hauer, Greentrees Country Day School and Camp is celebrating its 20th year; in 1989, their daughter Linda Hauer joined Greentrees as Administrative Director. The NY-Approved High/Scope Pre-School approach forms the basis at Greentrees’ child-centered learning program for toddler to first grade. Their unique camp program encourages children to splash, run, play and create during stimulating and enriching activities.
• Rainbow Chimes Child Care Center
320 Broadway-Greenlawn Rd., Huntington. 631-427-6300. www.rainbowchimes.org
• South Shore Country Day School and Camp
1149 Newbridge Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-785-3311. www.southshoredaycamp.com
• United Methodist Nursery School
792 Hawkins Ave. Lake Grove. 631-467-9601.
Place For A Kid’s Party
+ Adventureland
2245 Rte. 110., Farmingdale. 631-694-6868. www.adventureland.us/themepark
Whoever said there are no cool amusement parks on LI has never been to Adventureland. The park has grown into a real destination—from its Bavarian Village to its famous rides, it is tough to find a better place for a kid to party on LI.
• Pump It Up Party
135 Dupont St., Plainview. 516-575-2300. www.pumpitupparty.com
• White Post Farms
250 Old Country Rd., Melville. 631-351-9373. www.whitepostfarms.com
• LilChefs.com Special Events
516-338-0552. www.lilchefs.com
Camp
+ Crestwood Country Day School
313 Round Swamp Rd., Melville. 631-692-6361. www.crestwoodcountryday.com
When you visit the Crestwood website, a counter lets you know how many days are left until the camp is open once again. This institution has been providing memories to LI’s youth since 1956. That’s a lot of summers—and something worth counting down for.
• Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts
185 Colonial Springs Rd., Wheatley Heights.
212-772-6060 or 631-643-7900. www.usdan.com
• West Hills Day Camp
21 Sweet Hollow Rd., Huntington. 631-427-6700. www.westhillscamp.com
• Friends Academy
270 Duck Pond Rd., Locust Valley. 516-676-0393. www.fa.org
Mommy & Me Program
+ The Original Mommy N Me
Contact information unavailable at presstime.
• Great South Bay YMCA
200 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-665-4255. www.ymcali.org/great_sb
• Debbie’s Gym
5014 Veteran’s Memorial Hwy., Holbrook. 631-567-6522. www.debbiesgym.com
• South Shore Country Day School and Camp
1149 Newbridge Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-785-3311. www.southshoredaycamp.com
Day Care Center
+ Tutor Time Child Care/Learning Centers
Multiple locations. 1-TUTOR-TIME-1.
www.tutortime.com
Tutor Time has been caring for your kids since 1988, all over the world, operating in several communities here on LI. Tutor Time is a leader in early-childhood education, and it is an award-winning organization.
• Kiddie Academy
Multiple LI locations. www.kiddieacademy.com
• North Shore Day Camp
85 North Shore Rd., Glen Cove. 516-676-0904. www.northshoredaycamp.com
• Great South Bay YMCA
200 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-665-4255. www.ymcali.org/great_sb
BEST OF FOOD & RESTAURANTS
Restaurant
+ Ciao Baby
246 Voice Rd., Carle Place. 516-248-7600; 50-74 Sunrise Hwy.,Massapequa Park. 516-799-5200; 204 Jericho Tpke., Commack. 631-543-1400. www.ciaobabyrestaurant.com
It’s hard to believe they don’t consider themselves “family-style” at these slick garlic emporiums, because enormous “fuhgeddaboutit” portions of red-sauce Italian, outer-borough cool and Rat Pack-themed music and color make it strictly a family affair.
• Mim’s
33 Berry Hill Rd., Syosset. 516-364-2144; 235 Roslyn Rd., Roslyn Hts. 516-625-7305.
www.mimsny.com
• Argyle Grille & Tavern
90 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-321-4900. www.argylegrill.com
• Piccolo
215 Wall St., Huntington. 631-424-5592. www.piccolorestaurant.net
Vegetarian Restaurant
+ Tiger Lily Café
156 E. Main St., Pt. Jefferson. 631-476-7080. www.tigerlilycafe.com
A perfect little replication of what every laid-back juice/wrap bar and vegetarian-leaning hang should be. At once both West Coast and West Village, TLC tempts with creatively cooked tempeh, tofu, fresh bakery sweets and some chicken and rich cups of java for the rest of you.
• Green Melody
519 N. Broadway., Jericho. 516-681-5715.
• Tula Kitchen
41 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-539-7183.
www.tulakitchen.com
• Harvest On Fort Pond
11 S. Emery St., Montauk. 631-668-5574.
Health Food Market
+ Trader Joe’s
Multiple locations. www.traderjoes.com
The thing about this great specialty grocer, for which health food is just one of their lines, is that whatever you purchase, whether its ethnic, gourmet or health-minded, you’re assured that the ingredients are well chosen, with an eye toward the organic, with fair prices and weights, as opposed to your everyday supermarket or warehouse club.
• Whole Foods
Multiple locations. www.wholefoods.com
• Fairway
50 Manetto Hill Rd., Plainview. 516-937-5402. www.fairwaymarket.com
• Wild By Nature
Multiple locations. www.wildbynature.com
Restaurant With A
Water View
+ Mill Pond House
437 E. Main St., Centerport. 631-261-7663. www.millpondrestaurant.com
Our island is huge enough for us to roam around all day and never glimpse a body of water. Here, not on the ocean or sound, but on a picturesque pond, is a destination that belies the “great view/bad food” theory. A creative menu with crowd-pleasing options and that sublime vista, all year round.
• Snapper Inn
500 Shore Dr., Oakdale. 631-589-0248.
www.thesnapperinn.com
• Lombardi’s On the Sound
Pt. Jefferson Country Club, 44 Fairway Dr., Pt. Jefferson. 631-473-1440.
www.lombardisonthesound.com
• Louis XVI
600 S. Ocean Ave., Patchogue. 631-654-8970. www.louisxvi.org
Farm Stand
+ Briermere Farms
4414 Sound Ave., Riverhead. 631-722-3931. www.briermere.com
Extended pilgrimages to the end of the expressway aren’t undertaken for mere vegetables and fruits, unless they’re baked into a thick crust. Welcome to Long Island’s pie farm. Enormous tins filled with fresh fruit, cream pies, meringues and anything with local peaches at summer’s end make this East End landmark the best.
• White Post Farms of Melville
250 Old Country Rd., Melville. 631-351-9373. www.whitepostfarms.com
• Young’s Farm
Hegeman’s Lane, Old Brookville. 516-626-3955
• Wickham’s Fruit Farm
Main Road, Cutchogue. 631-734-6441.
www.wickhamsfruitfarm.com
Chinese Takeout
+ Hunan Dynasty
2993 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-731-0300.
They line up at this popular LI Chinese restaurant for their classic Cantonese dishes including the meatiest spare ribs around and superb sesame chicken plus regional specialties like jumbo Hunan shrimp in spicy brown sauce. And they have sushi to go.
• Empire Szechuan Gourmet
Multiple locations. www.empiretogo.com
• Wah Wah Kitchen
55 Montauk Hwy., Amityville. 631-691-1240.
• Uncle Dai’s
26 School St., Glen Cove. 516-671-1144.
Ethnic Restaurant
+ Wild Fig Mediterranean Grill
829 Franklin St., Garden City. 516-739-1002; 167 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516- 656-5645.
www.wildfigonline.com
Along with the usual large healthy platters of kebabs, exotic salads and fresh feta-stuffed fish, there’s the irresistible Mezze menu, with tantalizing delights like excellent Tarama spread, cracked wheat salad, perfect partners for the warm flat bread. And don’t forget a Pide.
• Bella Napoli
968 Fulton St., Farmingdale. 516-752-0445
• Thai Green Leaf
27 Carmans Rd., Massapequa. 516-799-8666; 1969 Jericho Tpke., E.Northport. 631-462-8666. www.thaigreenleaf.com
• House of India
256 Main St., Huntington. 631-271-0059; 2811 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove. 631-580-1777
Dessert Place
+ Cheescake Factory
The Source Mall, 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury 516-222-5500; Walt Whitman Mall, 160 Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington. 631-271-8200. www.cheesecakefactory.com
One couldn’t be blamed for forgetting this popular chain’s raison d’etre (while waiting for your pager to vibrate) with its voluminous menu listing soup to nuts. But those wonderful cakes beckon from the counter, and the light-as-a-feather namesake varieties damn our waistlines but sate our sugar fix.
• Milk and Sugar Café
49 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-3655
• A Taste of Home
2016 N. Jerusalem Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
• Cardinali Bakery
14 Cold Spring Rd, Syosset. 516-496-2489.
Breakfast
+ Maureen’s Kitchen
108 Terry Rd., Smithtown. 631-360-9227.
Cows decorate everything you look at, but you’ll feel like a pig and leave with a great big doggy bag after working through stuffed French toast with warmed syrup, mountains of pancakes crowned with fresh fruit, immense omelets and their famous baked oatmeal.
• IHOP
Multiple locations. www.ihop.com
• Thomas’s Ham and Eggery Diner
325 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-333-3060.
• Glen’s Dinette
23 E. Main St., Babylon. 631-669-4700.
Luncheonette
+ Munday’s
259 Main St., Huntington. 631-421-3553. www.mundays.kpsearch.com
You get a side of nostalgia with everything you order at this popular classic soda fountain, complete with thick malts, Black & White sodas and homemade pies; also, daily comfort-food blue-plate specials like pot roast and meat loaf plus Belgian waffles and giant omelets for breakfast.
• Krisch’s Confectionary
11 Central Ave., Massapequa. 516-797-3149.
• Glen’s Dinette
23 E. Main St., Babylon. 631-669-4700.
• A Taste of Home
2016 N Jerusalem Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
Italian Restaurant
+ Vincent’s Clam Bar
179 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-742-4577. www.vincentsclambar.com
Their “World Famous” sauce brings the hungry hordes to the only LI outpost of the 100-year-old Little Italy original, and that sauce is good on all the parmigianas as well as fried calamari and scungilli. Don’t want red? Go for the equally good linguine with white clam sauce.
• Mama Lombardi’s
400 Furrows Rd., Holbrook. 631-737-0774.
• La Parma
Multiple Locations. www.laparma.com
• Buteras
Multiple Locations. www.buteras.com
Sushi
+ Kotobuki
86 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-321-8387; 377 Rt. 111, Hauppauge. 631-360-3969; 1530 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. 516-621-5315.
Raw fish know-it-alls love these perennially top-rated Japanese destinations, where, like mad sushi scientists, they slice and dice the freshest cuts into melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and innovatively designed rolls. Worth the long waits for the sushi side of the menu.
• Tai Show
Multiple Locations.
• Sakura Japanese Restaurant
369 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516-771-7316.
111 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-893-1811.
• Mitsui
1 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-630-9890.
Thai Restaurant
+ Lemonleaf Grill
227 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-739-3666.
536 S. Broadway, Hicksville. 516-939-2288.
These “Thai-style” spots churn out accessible presentations of traditional dishes rarely found elsewhere on the Island, such as sweet Pad See Yu broad noodles and Pineapple Coconut Fried Rice, making them perfect for newcomers and Thai-food veterans alike.
• Thai Green Leaf
27 Carmans Rd., Massapequa. 516-799-8666.
1969 Jericho Tpke, E.Northport. 631-462-8666. www.thaigreenleaf.com
• Thai House
53 Main St., Smithown. 631-979-5242.
• Pad Thai
915 Montauk Hwy., Oakdale. 631-218-0688.
Indian Restaurant
+ House of India
256 Main St., Huntington. 631-271-0059; 2811 Middle Country Rd., Lake Grove. 631-580-1777.
Upscale atmosphere with down-to-earth prices make these serene spots nirvana for Indian food fans. They offer tangy chutneys, clay oven-cooked kebabs and excellent chicken tandoori, plus more chicken, lamb and vegetarian specialties, crisp samosas and a long list of exotic breads.
• Curry Club
10 Woods Corner Road, E. Setauket. 631-751-4845. www.curryclubli.com
• Akbar
2 South St., Garden City. 516-357-8300.
• Jewel of India
347 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-677-9898.
Mexican Restaurant
+ Don Juan’s
535 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-333-1020; 4899 Merrick Rd., Massapequa Park. 516-798-1172.
The fiesta atmosphere—with floor shows and shot girls—may bring in the crowds, but traditional and creative Mexican specialties set these festive spots apart from the usual ’rita and fajita joints.
• Don Ricardo’s
94 E. Main St., Babylon. 631-587-0122.
• Green Cactus Grill
Multiple Locations. www.greencactusgrill.com
• Besito
402 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-0100; 1516 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. 516-484-3001. www.besitomex.com
Place For A Romantic Dinner
+ The Gatsby
712 Main St., Islip. 631-581-1900. www.thegatsby.com
This sprawling 130-year-old mansion gives those seeking a side of intimacy with their New American cuisine their own space, featuring elegant rooms, ornately decorated and quietly lit. And buddies on a budget will fall in love with their prix fixe.
• Palm Court at the Carltun
Eisenhower Park, E. Meadow. 516-542-0700. www.thecarltun.com
• The Lake House
240 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-666-0995.
• Mirabelle
404 N. Country Rd., St. James. 631-584-5999. www.restaurantmirabelle.com
Bakery
+ Cardinali
14 Cold Spring Rd., Syosset. 516-496-2489.
Everything that a local bakery should be: located in the middle of town, but worth a side trip, with tantalizing baked goods, a small cafe area and those fruit ices in lemon and orange halves.
• A Taste of Home
2016 N. Jerusalem Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
• Black Forest
155 N. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. 631-226-0257.
• Dortoni Cream Puff Bakery
3264 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-796-3033.
Deli
+ Iavarone Bros.
1538 Union Tpke., Lake Success Center, New Hyde Park. 516-488-5600; 1166 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-781-6400; 729 W. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-367-4600. www.ibfoods.com
Not just another Italian delicatessen, this local chain of specialty markets purveys prime meats for the grill, homemade sausage, freshly made pasta, imported cheese, baked goods and tons of gourmet products, or just the best sandwich in town.
• Kitchen Kabaret
409 Glen Cove Rd., Roslyn Hts. 516-484-3320. www.kitchenkabaret.com
• Seven Brothers Deli
1958 Jericho Tpke., E. Northport. 631-858-1700.
• Northport Village Gourmet Deli
40 Main St., Northport. 631-261-6662.
Bagels
+ Bagel Boss
Multiple locations. www.bagelboss.com
Stands to reason that the busiest bagel stores will have the freshest bagels, and the many stores in this Island-wide chain turn them over hourly, with an endless variety of top-notch appetizing selections with which to crown your schmear of cream cheese.
• A & S Bagels
761 Hempstead Tpke., Franklin Sq. 516-326-9288. www.aandsbagels.com
• Bagelicious
Multiple locations. 516-794-0552.
www.bagelicious.com
• Town Bagel shop
1133 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-931-7698
Ribs
+ Smokin’ Al’s
19 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-206-3000. www.smokinals.com
This smokin’ joint ignited LI’s BBQ boom with its crowd-pleasing fall-from-the-bone Baby Backs, St. Louie Grand Backs and Monster Beef Bones, all slow smoked and sporting Al’s Famous Rub and liberally doused with his equally famous sauce.
• Famous Dave’s Legendary Pit
Bar-Be-Cue
1060 Corporate Dr., Westbury. 516-832-7300; 716 Smithtown Bypass, Smithtown. 631-360-6490. www.famousdaves.com
• The Spare Rib
2098 Jericho Tpke., Commack. 631-543-5050. www.spareribonline.com
• Adam’s Rib
753 W. Montauk Hwy., W. Babylon. 631-587-4623.
Wings
+ Hooters
1740 Hempstead Tpke., E. Meadow. 516-357-9545; 3701 Expressway Dr. N., Islandia. 631-582-2599. www.hooters.com
Unlikely as it may be, the second-favorite body part at this loveable national chain belongs to a bird. The “World Famous Wings,” rated beyond spicy as “Three Mile Island,” “911,” “Cajun” and “Samurai,” are perfect sustenance for the bar crowd and other fans here for the chicks.
• Croxley Ales
129 New Hyde Park Rd., Franklin Sq. 516-326-9542; 7-9 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre. 516-764-0470. www.croxley.com
• Outback Steakhouse
Multiple Locations. www.outback.com
• Mustang Sally’s
263 Higbie Ln., W. Islip. 631-661-7286.
Pizza
+ Umberto’s
Multiple locations.
www.originalumbertos.com
Before grandma slices and other varieties became ubiquitous, Umberto’s Sicilian slice had them four deep at the counter at their original location in New Hyde Park, and it’s still worthy of a detour to partake of this crispy crusted square masterpiece of superior cheese and tomatoes.
• Little Vincent’s Pizza
329 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-423-9620; 324 Smithtown Blvd., Lake Ronkonkoma. 631-981-9631.
• Gino’s Pizza
5159 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-798-0003.
• La Piazza
1137 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-938-0800; 2191 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-546-2500.
Microbrewery
+ Blue Point Brewing Company
161 River Ave., Patchogue. 631-475-6944.
www.bluepointbrewing.com
This ain’t no bar but a true brewery, LI’s only one, with a tasting room, like the wineries out east. Their deep amber Toasted Lager, the lighter but full-flavored Pale Ale and seasonal brews are on tap and in bottles, throughout the region, putting them and LI on the beer map.
• Brick House Brewery & Restaurant
67 W. Main St., Patchogue. 631-447-2337.
• John Harvard’s
2093 Smith Haven Plaza, Lake Grove. 631-979-2739.
• Black Forest Brew Haus
2015 New Hwy., Farmingdale. 631-845-4715.
Wine Bar
+ Vittorio’s
184 Broadway., Amityville. 631-264-3333.
www.vittorios.biz
A recipient of the 2007 Wine Spectator Award, this comfortable restaurant in an 1880s-era building anchors Amityville’s revival with an impressive list of international and California wines, both bottles and extensively by the glass.
• Palm Court at the Carltun/The Wine Gallery
Eisenhower Park, E. Meadow. 516-542-0700. www.thecarltun.com
• Novita Wine Bar and Trattoria
860 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-739-7660. www.novita-ny.com
• Hudson’s Mill
5599 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-799-5394.
Local Winery
+ Pindar Vineyards Winery & Pavillion
37645 Main Rd., Peconic. 631-734-6200.
www.pindar.net
LI’s largest vineyard has led the way for almost 30 years on the East End and continues its award-winning ways with the nationally recognized 2005 Johannesburg Riesling Ice Wine, their full list of chardonnays and much more.
• Martha Clara Vineyards
6025 Sound Ave., Riverhead. 631-298-0075. www.marthaclaravineyards.com
• Duckwalk Vineyards
231 Montauk Hwy., Water Mill. 631-726-7555. www.duckwalk.com
• Osprey’s Dominion Vineyards
44075 Rte. 25, Peconic. 631-765-6188. www.ospreysdominion.com
Burger
+ All American Hamburger Drive-in
4286 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-798-9574. www.allamericanhamburger.us
Bite into a Double Double, with cheese or without, and taste what fast-food burgers were about before the big boys took over. No overly processed meats here and no mayonnaise either—just plenty of juicy good flavor.
• Cheeburger Cheeburger
18 Soundview Marketplace, Pt. Washington. 767-1144; 12 Manetto Hill Rd., Plainview. 516-939-2237. www.cheeburger.com
• Johnny Rockets
Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City. 516-746-8781; Broadway Mall, Hicksville. 516-433-8260.
www.johnnyrockets.com
• American Burger Company
290 W. Old Country Rd., Hicksville. 516-939-2200; 377 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-935-0300. www.americanburgercompany.com
French Fries
+ All American Hamburger Drive-in
4286 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-798-9574. www.allamericanhamburger.us
Freshly peeled, cut and fried to crispy, these potatoes stand apart from the big boys. Somehow, just getting them at this LI landmark seems to make them taste better.
• Nathan’s Famous
Multiple Locations. www.nathansfamous.com
• Checkers
Multiple Locations. www.checkers.com
• Waterzooi Belgium Bistro
850 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-877-2177. www.waterzooi.com
Lunch Deal
+ Panera Bread
Multiple Locations. www.panera.com
Great sandwiches on freshly baked breads, paired with interesting salads and soups in a welcoming environment with free wi-fi, make this fast-casual concept hard to outdo. The aroma of warm, irresistible loaves will have you instantly back on carbs.
• Greek Garden
6 Grove Pl., Babylon. 631-422-4722.
• Peter Pan Diner
Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore. 631-665-1788.
• My Hero
25 Sills Rd. E., Patchogue. 631-289-4376.
Dinner Deal
+ Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse
2349 Jericho Tpke., Garden City Park. 516-294-7320; 45 Middle Ave., Holtsville. 631-289-3354
88 Vets Hwy., Commack. 631-462-4206.
www.charliebrowns.com
When a Jackson buys you a big juicy steak, and nine bucks grants you access to the unlimited salad bar, how can you beat that? Maybe the half-pound burger and salad bar for 11 bucks.
• Panera Bread
Multiple locations. www.panera.com
• East Bay Diner
2405 Merrick Rd., Bellmore. 516-781-5000; 3496 Long Beach Rd., Oceanside. 516-766-2891.
• Lucy’s Café & Bistro
135 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-669-1640.
Greek Food
+ Athena Country Greek Cuisine
65a Merrick Rd., Amityville. 631-691-4607.
Hidden in a corner of a shopping center, this charming Greek gem outclasses the competition with white table cloths and thoughtful presentations of popular mainstays like creamy Spanakopita, moussaka and more unusual offerings like Eggplant Greco in a pita. Other ambitious entrees include tender braised Chicken Diane, slow-baked lamb shank and spinach-stuffed Flounder Filet Athena.
• Ayhan’s Shish Kebab
Multiple locations. www.ayhansmarketplace.com
• Mediterranean Snack Bar
360 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-423-8982. www.medsnackbar.com
• Greek Garden
6 Grove Pl., Babylon. 631-422-4722.
Steakhouse
+ Peter Luger
255 Northern Blvd., Great Neck. 516-487-8800. www.peterluger.com
Often imitated, never duplicated. As hard as they try, with their aged porterhouses, competitors can’t seem to capture the secret of the perfectly cooked steaks at this Luger’s location, an offshoot of its legendary Brooklyn forebear.
• Teller’s American Chophouse
605 Main St., Islip. 631-277-7070.
www.tellerschophouse.com
• Bryant & Cooper
2 Middle Neck Rd, Roslyn. 516-627-7270.
www.bryantandcooper.com
• Pace’s Steakhouse
325 Nesconset Hwy., Hauppauge. 631-979-7676; 318 Wynn Lane, Pt. Jefferson. 631-331-9200. www.pacessteakhouse.com
Egg Sandwich
+ A Taste of Home
2016 N. Jerusalem Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-486-1670.
It’s not just the eggs, but the just-baked, cloud-like Kaiser or onion rolls as well that make this LI breakfast staple worth driving out of your way to this great, big bakery/cafe (which now has homemade ice cream and chocolate) for. Try this king of all egg sandwiches once and it’ll ruin you for all others. This place is best-of in so many categories, it’s not even funny.
• Figarelly’s Deli
593 Newbridge Ave., E. Meadow. 516-542-9839.
• Glen Cove Bagel Café
89 Forest Ave., Glen Cove. 516-671-3354. www.longislandbagelcafe.com/glencove
• Village Hero
80 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-2522.
All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
+ East Buffet
179 Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington. 631-385-0800. www.eastbuffet.com
If you’re shopping, let’s say, at the mall across the street, and suddenly realize there’s no food court with someone pushing teriyaki chicken at you, make your way over for Chinese, Japanese hibachi and sushi plus prime rib and maybe some cheesecake just to further harass the waistline.
• Old Country Buffet
3023 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516- 731-4533; 1701 Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore. 631-969-3943. www.buffet.com
• China Buffet Restaurant
394 Merrick Ave., East Meadow. 516-489-2525.
• International Buffet
1100 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 227-2472.
www.international-buffet.com
Diner
+ Star Diner
495 Old Country Rd., Hicksville. 516-933-3777.
Slide into a booth or grab a stool at the counter for eggs over-easy and a cup of Joe or a burger, fries and a coke, or dig into one of their many dinner specials for more than the typical Long Island diner experience.
• Massapequa Diner
4420 Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa. 516-799-5234.
• Plainview Diner
1894 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-822-0766.
• Peter Pan Diner
Bay Shore Rd. & Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore. 631-665-1788. www.peterpandiner.org
Ice Cream
+ Cold Stone Creamery
Multiple locations. www.coldstonecreamery.com
Unique flavor combinations and mixed-in cookies and candies may not be an original idea, but preparing them on frozen granite slabs, making it widely available and causing their employees to cry out in song now and then makes Cold Stone the ice-cream man/woman of the moment.
• Ben & Jerry’s
Multiple locations. www.benjerry.com
• Carvel
Multiple locations. www.carvel.com
• Krisch’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlour
11 Central Ave., Massapequa. 516-797-3149.
Coffee
+ Dunkin’ Donuts
Multiple Locations. www.dunkindonuts.com
It’s not about the doughnuts. “Better, not bitter” should be their rallying cry, challenging the green behemoth with their nuanced, deeply flavored brew, and new locations are seemingly opening in every gas station and vacant roadside spot. It’s hard beating the smell inside a DD.
• Starbucks
Multiple locations. www.starbucks.com
• Cool Beanz
556 N. Country Rd., St. James. 631-862-4111. www.stjamescoolbeanz.com
• A Taste of Home
2016 N. Jerusalem Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
Caterer
+ Bagel Boss
Multiple locations. www.bagelboss.com
Bagels are not just for breakfast, and no matter which meal you need catered, Bagel Boss has an option for you: breakfast, lunch, even dinner and dessert. In business for more than 50 years, Bagel Boss can bring you a Sunday morning brunch or cater an elegant affair or anything in between.
• Iavarone Bros.
1538 Union Tpke., Lake Success Center, New Hyde Park. 516-488-5600; 1166 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-781-6400; 729 W. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-367-4600. www.ibfoods.com
• Villa Lombardi’s
877 Main St., Holbrook. 631-471-6609. www.villalombardis.com
• Elegant Affairs Catering & Event Design
110 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove. 516-676-8500. www.elegantaffairscaterers.com
Singles Spot
+ 56th Fighter Group
7180 Republic Airport, E. Farmingdale. 631-694-6011. www.56thfgrestaurant.com
Maybe it’s the history, the seven fireplaces, or the romantic view of the runway at Republic Airport that make this place a hot spot for singles. Or maybe it’s the Big Band-era atmosphere and the salsa and merengue dancing at Club 56. You decide.
• Mirage Nightclub
737 Merrick Ave., Westbury. 516-794-8022. www.mirageli.com
• Waterzooi Belgian Bistro
850 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-877-2177. www.waterzooi.com
• Four Food Studio and Cocktail Salon
515 Broad Hollow Rd., Melville. 631-577-4444. www.fourfoodstudio.com
Happy Hour
+ The Nutty Irishman
60 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-9700; 323 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-293-9700. www.thenuttyirishman.com
Stop by the Nutty and you’ll find all the makings of a happenin’ Happy Hour—live music, pub grub and great drink specials at a place that always has St. Patrick’s Day counted down to the second.
• Mulcahy’s
Multiple locations. www.muls.com
• Waterzooi Belgian Bistro
850 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-877-2177. www.waterzooi.com
• Crazy Donkey Bar and Grill
1058 Route 110, Farmingdale. 631-753-1975. www.thecrazydonkey.com
Sports Bar
+ Mulcahy’s
3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. 516-826-6857; 1702 Middle Country Rd., Centereach. 631-696-1111. www.muls.com
Beer, wings and screaming fans. Every Sunday and Monday, Muls has all the things you’d find at a tailgate party, plus more than 20 screens showing every game in high definition, half-priced drinks and a train station 50 feet away to carry you home when it’s all over.
• Dave & Buster’s
261 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale. 631-249-0708; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-542-8501. www.daveandbusters.com
• Napper Tandy’s Irish Pub
229 Laurel Ave., Northport. 631-757-4141; 275 Rte. 25A, Miller Place. 631-331-5454; 15 E. Main St., Smithtown. 631-360-0606.
www.nappertandysirishpub.com
• The Main Event
799 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-935-5120.
Beer Selection
+ Croxley Ale House
129 New Hyde Park Rd., Franklin Square. 516-326-9542; 7-9 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre. 516-764-0470. www.croxley.com
You won’t find any Bud, Miller or Coors here, but for more than 15 years Croxley has offered the largest and most diverse selection of craft beer, with dozens of fresh ales, lagers, seasonal brews and beer cocktails to keep your glass full.
• Canterbury Ales
314 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-4404. www.canterburyales.com
• Brick House Brewery and Restaurant
67 W. Main St., Patchogue. 631-447-BEER.
www.brickhousebrewery.com
• T.J. Finley’s
42 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-647-4856.
www.tjfinleys.com
BEST OF HEALTH & WELLNESS
Masseuse
+ Blue Feather Therapies for Positive Living
Smithtown. 516-987-9002. www.bluefeathertherapies.com
Owner and head therapist at Blue Feather, Elena Jacinto was nominated in 2005 and 2006’s Long Island Press Best Of… for Best Masseuse. Jacinto brings her 20 years of massage-therapist experience to her new and budding business.
• Gerard Muro at Mid Island Y Jewish Community Center
45 Manetto Hill Rd., Plainview. 516-822-3535. www.midycc.org
• Jessica Calabrese at RJ West
28 Gerard St., Huntington Village. 631-271-2108. www.rjwestny.com
• Kathleen Mulcahy
Contact information unavailable at presstime.
Assisted Living Home
+ Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
68 Hauppauge Rd., Commack. 631-715-2000. www.gurwin.org
How can you go wrong with a home that has a mission of “caring for those who cared for us”? For 15 years, Gurwin has been a leader in the senior-care field of LI. Gurwin also boasts more than 40 clinical affiliations with colleges, universities, medical schools and physician residency programs.
• The Bristal Assisted Living
Multiple locations. www.thebristal.com
• Atria Senior Living
Multiple locations. www.atriaseniorliving.com
• Sunrise Senior Living of Glen Cove
39 Forest Ave., Glen Cove. 516-656-0575. www.sunriseseniorliving.com
Dentist
+ Mike Abramowitz, DDS
98 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Syosset. 516-496-2111.
Known as a friendly and accommodating dentist, Dr. Abramowitz was the top vote-getter by far in the category, and among the top vote-getters in all the health categories. Such a turnout (how many people would take the time to vote for someone who drives a drill into their teeth?) says a lot for the loyalty and respect Abramowitz’s patients have for him.
• Connie Collura, DDS
4216 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516-735-3232.
• Mitchell Forman, DDS
499 Pulaski Rd., Greenlawn. 631-261-8755.
• Emily Halpern, DDS, Oral Surgeon
70 Glen Cove Rd., Roslyn Heights. 516-621-2323.
Cosmetic Surgeon
+ Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, PC
Multiple locations. www.lipsg.com
In its 60th year of business, Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, PC (LIPSG) was established in Garden City and is the largest and longest continuously running practice of its kind in North America. Thousands have had their lives changed by the professionals at LIPSG.
• Dr. Stephen Greenberg
195 Froehlich Farm Blvd., Woodbury. 516-364-4200. www.greenbergcosmeticsurgery.com
• Dr. Andrew Jacono
900 Northern Blvd. Great Neck. 516-773-4646. www.newyorkfacialplasticsurgery.com
• Dr. Kevin Tehrani
Aristocrat Plastic Surgery, 560 Northern Blvd., Ste. 109, Great Neck. 516-498-9790.
www.aristocratps.com
Chiropractor
+ JoAnna Fasulo, D.C.
Fasulo Chiropractic, 680 Medford (Rte. 112), Ste. C, Patchogue. 631-289-3939.
Fasulo has spent 18 years making her practice a holistic health center that reflects her love of natural, drug-free healthcare. As a certified applied kinesiologist, she uses muscle testing to treat migraines, skeletal problems and similar conditions.
• Janine D. Kelly, D.C.
Kelly Family Chiropractic, 595 Merrick Ave., East Meadow. 516-409-0044.
• Alan Sherr, D.C.
Northport Wellness Center, 220 Fort Salonga Rd., Northport. 631-262-8505.
• Charles Aronica, D.C.
Aronica Chiropractic, 1983 Front St., East Meadow. 516-794-3980.
Allergist
+ Dr. Paul Lang
North Shore Allergy & Asthma Institute, multiple locations. 516-365-6666. www.nsallergyasthma.com
This Cornell University School of Medicine-educated allergist who specializes in adult and pediatric allergy and immunology knows well about bad air: He did his internship and residency in Smog City, at the University of Southern California.
• Dr. Louis Guida Jr.
Bay Shore Allergy & Asthma Specialty Practice, 649 Montauk Hwy., Bay Shore. 631-665-2700. www.bayshoreallergygroup.com
• Asthma and Allergy Care of L.I.
283 Commack Rd., Commack. 631-462-2980.
• Dr. Joseph Reiss
1492 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-221-6565.
Optometrist/Eye Care
+ Dr. John Passarelli
Long Island Eye Surgical Care, P.C., multiple locations. 888-75-LASIK. www.li-lasik.com
An ophthalmologist for more than 20 years, this physician has performed refractive and LASIK surgeries since these procedures’ early days, and has invented microsurgical instruments. He has also received numerous teaching awards and philanthropic honors.
• Dr. Damon Pettinelli
LasikPlus Vision Center, 965 Merrick Ave., Ste. 180 North, Westbury. 800-550-3045.
www.lasikplus.com
• Lindenhurst Eye Physicians & Surgeons, P.C.
Multiple locations. 888-713-EYES (3937). www.livisioncorrection.com
• Stony Brook Vision World
219A Nesconset Hwy. Stony Brook. 631-246-5468. www.stonybrookvisionworld.com
Alternative Doctor
+ Integrative Healthcare Solutions
70 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-676-0200. www.integrativehealthcaresolutions.org
Going beyond vital signs, this center employs an osteopath physician, acupuncturist, massage therapist, physician assistants, nutritionists, registered nurses, wellness coaches and more, and offers classes such as Laugh Yoga, Lifestyle Change and The Relationship Journey.
• Dr. Christy Russell-Shae
Simply Vibrant, 585 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516-203-7442. www.simplyvibrant.com
• Dr. Richard Linchitz
Linchitz Medical Wellness PLLC, 70 Glen St., Ste. 240, Glen Cove. 516-759-4200.
www.linchitzwellness.com
• Dr. Sofia Rubbani
Glow MediSpa, 1 Expressway Plaza, Ste. 115, Roslyn Heights. 516-801-1416.
www.glowmedispa.com
Orthopedist
+ Dr. David Weissberg
175 E. Main St., Huntington. 631-351-0295.
Dr. Weissberg graduated 28 years ago, completing medical school at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, residency at SUNY Stony Brook, and internship at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn. He holds board certification in orthopedics and orthopedic surgery and speaks Spanish.
• Dr. Jeffrey Meyer
Island Sports Medicine, 30 Merrick Ave., East Meadow. 516-794-7010. www.islandsports.medicine.com
• Dr. Frank DiMaio
Winthrop Orthopedic Associates, multiple locations. 516-847-8900.
www.wintrhoporthopaedics.com
• Dr. Richard Obedian
Island Spine and Sports, 81 N. Broadway, Hicksville. 516-933-4350.
www.drobedian.com
Hospital
+ North Shore-LIJ Health System
Multiple locations. 516-465-2550. www.northshore-lij.com
In 2006 alone, 23,000 babies were delivered here. Staffing 15 hospitals with 8,000 physicians, NS-LIJ operates hospice, home care and other facilities of every size, from Suffolk to Staten Island, serving 5.2 million people. It is the largest employer on LI.
• Winthrop-University Hospital
259 First St., Mineola. 516-663-0333. www.winthrop.org
• Stony Brook University Medical Center
Nicolls Road @ Health Sciences Drive, Stony Brook. 631-444-4000. www.stonybrookmedicalcenter.org
• Schneider Children’s Hospital
(Part of NS-LIJ), 269-01 76th Ave., New Hyde Park. (718 or 516)-470-3000.
www.northshorelij.com
Neurologist
+ Neurological Surgery, P.C.
Multiple locations. Great Neck office: 516-478-0008. www.neurosurgeryli.com
These physicians use minimally invasive procedures on spine and brain disorders, employing technology including the CyberKnife’s cruise missile guidance system to target tumors and lesions. Patients also attend support groups for such conditions as face pain and trigeminal neuralgia.
• Dr. Itzhak Halmovic
170 Great Neck Rd., Great Neck. 516-487-4740.
Physical Therapist
+ Jeffrey Corben, P.T.
Central Physical Therapy, 1103 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516-745-1177. www.centralphysicaltherapy.com
This state-of-the-art facility won first place in the Press’ Best Of Long Island last year as well. Treatment teams—physical therapist, athletic trainer and physician—attend to everything from pre-surgical to cardiac rehab to nutrition services.
NY Physical therapy & wellness
Multiple locations. Franklin Square office: 516-358-8911. www.nyphysicaltherapy.net
• Sherrie Glasser, P.T.
Metropolitan Physical Therapy
Multiple locations. 516-745-8050. www.metropt.com
• Bright Bay Physical Therapy
160 Orinoco Dr., Brightwaters. 631-665-9056.
Acupuncturist
+ Integrative Healthcare Solutions
70 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-676-0200. www.integrativehealthcaresolutions.org
Acupuncturists believe that inserting a fine needle at key points on the body’s surface can restore well-being, and, especially, manage chronic pain. This physician-run center also placed first in this year’s “Best Alternative Doctor” category.
• Yang, Xiu Juan (Sue)
New York Ph.D.’s Acupuncture & Herbal Clinics/LI office, 335 Key Pl., Jericho. 516-749-2065.
www.dr-yang-acupuncture.com
• Dr. Martin Lipschutz
230 Hilton Ave., No. 8, Hempstead. 516-486-5505.
• Mark Mandel, D.C.
66 Marie Crescent, Commack. 631-543-4242.
Pediatrician
+ Kidfixers
50 Underhill Blvd., Syosset. 516-921-2122.
Kidfixers’ patients come here from all over LI, and when those rugrats get to college, they still return to “Dr. Bill” Mesibov and his caring and competent partners Drs. Stuart Altman, Linda Jacobs and Marcia Rubinos. Even when you return from Yale, wacky
Dr. Bill will pull a plastic frog from your ear just like when you were a kid.
• Dr. Sarrano
Contact information unavailable at presstime.
• Dr. Elizabeth Issa-Basch, Mid-Nassau Pediatrics, P.C.
530 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-333-7272.
• Dr. Adam Yaker
2245 Jackson Ave., Seaford. 516-826-5900.
Audiologist
+ H.E.A.R.S. Audiology, P.C.
732 Smithtown Bypass (Rte. 347), Ste. 301, Smithtown. 631-460-4327. www.hearsny.com
H.E.A.R.S. is a full-service audiology practice for adults and children that provides everything from state-of-the-art hearing aids to auditory processing disorder testing to audiological evaluations for early intervention and special education. Two minutes with audiologist Kathy Page and you’ll know how much she really cares about your or your child’s wellbeing.
• Melanie Herzfeld, Au.D.
173 Froehlich Farm Blvd., Woodbury. 516-682-8288. www.earminder.com
• Long Island Audiology
1000 Northern Blvd., Great Neck. 516-482-0660. www.longislandaudiology.com
• Island Better Hearing & Optical Services
205 E. Main St., Huntington. 631-271-1018; 1-03 Schwab Rd., Melville.
www.islandbetterhearing.com
Therapist
+ Brett Goldberg
Contact information unavailable at presstime.
• Loraine Alderman, Psy.D.
Therapy & Wellness, 150 Gardiners Ave.,
Levittown. 516-651-2003.
• Susan Rosener, C.A.C.
[email protected]. 631-665-0097.
• Dr. Karyl Cole
32 Planting Field Rd., East Hills. 516-484-0594.
Nutritionist/Dietitian
+ Integrative Healthcare Solutions
70 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-676-0200. www.integrativehealthcaresolutions.org
Integrative Healthcare’s physician-supervised healthy weight program includes body composition measurement, an exercise prescription, emotional assessment and support. The center also offers services by certified colon hydrotherapists.
• Robyn Cotler
161 Froehlich Farm Blvd., Woodbury. 516-496-9496.
• Total Wellness
160 Howells Rd., Ste. 6, Bay Shore. 631-666-4297; 580 Sunrise Hwy., West Babylon. 631-422-6876. www.twellness.net
• Chris Calapai
C.C. Medical Services, 1900 Hempstead Tpke., Ste. 503, East Meadow. 516-794-0404.
www.drcalapai.net
Hypnotherapist
+ Roch D. Preite
264 Haypath Rd., Ste. 102, Old Bethpage. 631-766-2999. www.pendulumhypnosis.com.
Preite is a board-certified consulting hypnotist, NLP practitioner and Reiki master; since 2005, he has helped his clients gain control of their lives and remove unwanted habits through hypnosis and the subconscious mind.
• Long Island Hypnotherapy
358 Maple Ave., East Meadow. 516-205-2350. www.long-island-hypnotherapy.com
• New York Institute of Hypnosis, Inc.
95A East Main St., Huntington; 535 Broad Hollow Rd., Ste. A10, Melville. 631-501-1406.
www.nyih.org
• Richard Blumenthal, M.S.
www.self-hypnosis.org, www.hypnosoft.com
Dermatologist
+ Dr. Craig Kornreich
South Nassau Dermatology, multiple locations. Oceanside office: 516-766-0345. www.snderm.com
This Harvard University grad earned his M.D. at Columbia University and in 1999, joined this multi-office practice, which offers treatment by YAG laser, a Medi-Spa, tattoo removal and hair restoration.
• Dr. Theodore (“Ted”) Daly
877 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516-227-3376.
• Dr. Cameron Rocksar
New York Cosmetic, Skin & Laser Surgery Center, 901 Stewart Ave., Ste. 220, Garden City. www.cosmeticlaserskinsurgery.com
• Dr. Lawrence Pacernick
700 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-922-9730.
BEST OF
NOT-FOR-PROFIT
Volunteer Fire Department
+ East Meadow Fire Department
197 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow. 516-542-0578. www.eastmeadowfd.com
At all hours of the day or night, trained firefighters and medical technicians from seven companies in five stations force doors, rescue trapped residents, attack fires, respond to auto accidents, treat victims, and transport the injured to hospitals.
• Massapequa Fire Department
1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. 516-798-9849. www.massapequafd.com
• Levittown Fire Department
120 Gardiners Ave., Levittown. 516-731-4110.
• Syosset Fire Department
50 Cold Spring Rd., Syosset. 516-921-0728.
Local Charity
+ Island Harvest
199 Second St., Mineola. 516-294-8528.
www.islandharvest.org
In one of the country’s wealthiest areas, 260,000 people—including 93,000 children—go hungry every day. Island Harvest rescues good surplus food from 600 wholesalers and retailers, delivers it to 440 LI organizations, and sponsors hunger awareness programs.
• Long Island Cares, Inc./The Harry Chapin Food Bank
10 Davids Dr., Hauppauge. 631-582-FOOD. www.licares.org
• Habitat for Humanity (HfH)
HfH of Suffolk, 643 Middle Country Rd., Middle Island. 631-924-4966. www.habitatsuffolk.org; HfH in Nassau County, 1421 Northern Blvd., Manhasset. 516-627-6047. www.hfhnc.org
• Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program
Adelphi University School of Social Work, 1 South Ave., P.O. Box 701, Garden City. 800-877-8077. www.adelphi.edu/nysbreastcancer
Environmental Organization
+ Long Island Pine Barrens Society
547 E. Main St., Riverhead. 631-369-3300. www.pinebarrens.org
This educational and advocacy group seeks to preserve the Pine Barrens’ 100,000 acres, which contain the state’s greatest diversity of plant and animal species—including scarlet oak, pitch pine, deer, huckleberries, and carnivorous plants—and LI’s largest forested watershed.
• World Wildlife Fund U.S.
1250 24th St., N.W., P.O. Box 97180,
Washington, D.C. 202-293-4800.
www.worldlife.org
• Citizens Campaign for the Environment LI Chapter
225A Main St., Farmingdale. 516-390-7150. www.citizenscampaign.org
• Friends of the Bay
123 South St., Ste. 209, Oyster Bay. 516-922-6666. www.friendsofthebay.org
Animal Shelter/Rescue Organization
+ North Shore Animal League America (NSAL)
25 Davis Ave., Port Washington. 516-883-7575.
The world’s largest no-kill pet rescue and adoption organization houses a veterinary medical center that spays or neuters all animals adopted. NSAL offers a mobile adoption program, counseling, training, grooming, and foster care for pets with special needs.
• Angel’s Gate Hospice for Animals
18 Josephine Ln., Fort Salonga. 631-269-7641.
• Little Shelter Animal Rescue & Adoption Center
33 Warner Rd., Huntington. 631-368-8770.
www.littleshelter.com
• The Animal Lovers League
40 Shore Rd., Glen Cove. 516-676-5913.
www.animalloversleague.us
BEST OF SPORTS AND RECREATION
Gym/Exercise
+ New York Sports Clubs
Multiple locations. www.nysportsclubs.com
It’s all about location, location, location. With 11 on LI and another half-dozen in Manhattan, there’s just no excuse to miss a workout. Wherever you are you can just as easily kill time in a Pilates class as opposed to window shopping.
• Curves for Women
Multiple locations. www.curves.com
• Fitness Incentive
157 Deer Park Ave., Babylon Village. 631-587-5766. www.fitnessincentive.com
• Synergy Fitness Clubs
Multiple locations. www.synergyfitclubs.com
Sporting Goods Store
+ Dick’s Sporting Goods
Multiple locations. www.dickssportinggoods.com
You can go buy a new sweatshirt just about anywhere. But how many people can then put said sweatshirt on and scale a mountain-climbing wall to test its comfort, which is just par for the course at Roosevelt Field.
• Modell’s Sporting Goods
Multiple locations. www.modells.com
• Amity Harbor Sports
149 Merrick Rd., Amityville. 631-691-7505.
• Plaza Surf & Sports
Multiple locations. www.plazasurfnsports.com
Public Golf Course
+ Bethpage State Park
99 Quaker Meeting House Rd., Farmingdale. 516-249-0701.
The U.S. Open will be back in 2009, which is all you need to say about the ferocity of the Black Course. It’s still the most cost-efficient golf challenge in the world.
• Eisenhower Park
Merrick and Stewart avenues, East Meadow. 516-572-0348.
• Montauk Downs
50 South Fairview Ave., Montauk. 631-668-1100.
• Crab Meadow Golf Course
220 Waterside Rd., Northport. 631-757-8800. www.crabmeadowgolf.com
Mini Golf
+ Heartland Golf Park
1200 Long Island Ave., Edgewood. 631-667-7400. www.heartlandgolfpark.com
The Golf Mountain is perfect for the little ones, and with a driving range and a 9-hole, par-3 course that is fully lit for night play, there’s something for big kids, too.
• Bayville Adventure Park
8 Bayville Ave., Bayville. 516-624-RIDE.
www.bayvilleadventurepark.com
• Castle Golf Amusements
1878 Middle Country Rd., Centereach. 631-471-1267.
• Village Green Miniature Golf
974 Portion Rd., Ronkonkoma. 631-732-8681.
Bike Shop
+ Brands Cycle & Fitness
1966 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-781-6100. www.brandcycle.com
This place is for more than your average 10-speeds. Need a stationary bike, or even a unicycle? They can make it happen.
• Babylon Bike Shop
218 E. Main St., Babylon Village. 631-587-6709.
• The Bicycle Planet
540 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-364-4434. www.thebicycleplanet.com
• Frenchie’s Cycle World
165 Rt. 110, Huntington Station. 631-673-6002. www.frenchiescycle.com
Amusement Park
+ Splish Splash
2549 Splish Splash Dr., Riverhead. 631-727-3600. www.splishsplashlongisland.com.
With rides as thrilling as Alien Invasion and as cathartic as the Lazy River (along with everything in between), it’s hard to go wrong.
• Adventureland
2245 Rt. 110, Farmingdale. 631-694-6868. www.adventureland.us
• Bayville Adventure Park
8 Bayville Ave., Bayville. 516-624-RIDE. www.bayvilleadventurepark.com
• Boomers
655 Long Island Ave., Medford. 631-475-1771. www.boomersparks.com
Local Team
+ New York Mets
www.newyorkmets.com
They may have finished second in the NL East, but they’re still first in our book.
• Long Island Ducks
www.liducks.com
• New York Islanders
www.newyorkislanders.com
• Hofstra Pride
www.hofstra.edu/athletics
Bowling Alley
+ 300 Long Island
895 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville. 631-271-1180. www.3hundred.com
It features 52 lanes and a food/drink menu that’s a world removed from standard alley microwave fare. Have a 100-percent Angus burger with a big bowl margarita and you won’t care how many gutter balls you throw.
• Dave & Buster’s
261 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale. 631-249-0708; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-542-8501. www.daveandbusters.com
• Massapequa Bowl
4235 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-541-8000. www.massapequabowl.com
• Strike Long Island
1350 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park. 516-354-1222. www.strikelongisland.com
Martial Arts/Dojo
+ Tiger Schulmann’s Mixed Martial Arts
Multiple locations. www.tsk.com
It just keeps growing. There’s a new location in Smithtown, and the one coming soon in Farmingdale makes an even dozen on LI. That usually means people are doing something right.
• Family Self-Defense Center/Goshinkan Dojo
1754 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516-223-7233. ww.2be-safe.com
• Academy Of Martial Arts
Locations in Lindenhurst and Oceanside.
www.martialartny.com
• Panza Mixed Martial Arts
1 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-656-5775.
www.panzamma.com
Personal Trainer
+ Raquel “Rocky” Feder
Multiple locations. www.speedballfitness.com
Feder helped introduce Speedball, a cardiovascular and muscular endurance program utilizing a medicine ball for resistance, to LI. But she also has developed signature classes of her own, including Dance Revolution, making use of her background in ballet, jazz and modern dance.
• Sky Athletic Club
310 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre. 516-678-9400. www.skyathletic.com
• Derek Panza at Panza Mixed Martial Arts
1 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-656-5775.
www.panzamma.com
• Loni Markman at Integrative Healthcare Solutions
70 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-676-0200. www.integrativehealthcaresolutions.org
Best of Long Island Results – Part 2
Best of Long Island Winners, Part 2
