It has been noted by both sociologists and laypeople alike that humankind’s great affection for sports goes beyond the remarkable spectacle and spirituality of athletic events—the superhuman feats, the visual poetry, the impossible unpredictability. No, while those things fill column inches and highlights reels, what it is we truly love about sports is that they offer us a clear and reliable understanding of rank—their superlatives are not subjective. We know an athlete is the best because the numbers tell us so, and the numbers don’t lie. Without their ability, the athletes would not have the numbers. But without the numbers, they would be nothing.
With their numbers, though, they are irrefutably The Best.
There’s this old truism: The plural of “anecdote” is not “data.” However, when trying to determine superlatives in fields other than sports—fields that offer less relevant, reliable or visible statistics—sometimes there is no way to determine rank other than through a carefully arranged and complete compilation of anecdotes—because while the plural of “anecdote” might not be “data,” it almost surely is “consensus,” is it not?
Indeed, in the real world, for the truest, most decisive determination of who or what is The Best, all of us must be polled, our voices must be heard and our votes counted. In this way, statistics are compiled; in this way, anecdotes become data.
This is how we determine The Best.
In your life, you have no doubt ordered a pizza from more than one location, but how many of those locations have takeout boxes that read, “You’ve tried the rest, now try…us”? “You’ve tried the rest, now try…something else”? “You’ve tried the rest, now try…the worst”?
None of them. Because all of those boxes say this: “You’ve tried the rest, now try the best.”
And once you’ve tried the best you return there. Of course you go to the best pizzeria in the area—why would you knowingly go to a place that, in your opinion, is not the best? Why would you recommend mediocre pizza to your friends and neighbors? You have great taste, so flaunt it, right?
Or maybe you don’t know the best pizza place in town. Maybe you’re out there looking for recommendations. And if that’s the case, well, call us crazy, but aren’t you hoping that you will only be recommended the best pizza, too?
So when we at the Press set out to bring our readers the 2009 Best Of Long Island, there was one inviolable, cardinal, essential rule: Let the people decide. Either you’re looking for the best pizza place on Long Island or you already know the best pizza place on Long Island, but we wanted to find some ground on which the experts and the curious could meet and exchange opinions. So we asked you to voice your opinions; we asked you to vote.
And you did.
Some extraordinary measures were put in place to make sure your favorites were considered, and your votes counted. The first step was establishing a comprehensive nomination process so that any company that does business on LI had an opportunity to be in the running. 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 July of 2008, and official voting began on October 1.
Once the voting ended, on December 15, the results were scrutinized, added up, and double-checked. Then triple-checked. In the end, tens of thousands of votes were cast.
Sounds like a consensus to us.
This is the fourth year of the Long Island Press’ Best Of Long Island poll, and it’s also by far the biggest. We have expanded to more than 175 categories, with first-, second- and third-place awards for each category. We had 92 percent more votes cast this year than we did last year. We have also redefined what it means to be the “Best of Long Island”—putting more emphasis on the “Long Island” end of the equation. This year, we separated local and national winners, by adding an additional winners’ circle for out-of-town businesses: If a national chain was the highest vote-getter in any individual category, that chain was noted on its own, after the first-, second- and third-place local winners.
In this way, we hoped to emphasize local businesses, partly because we—as a locally owned and run newspaper—feel a certain responsibility to support other locally owned and run businesses. As Long Islanders, we choose to Keep It On Long Island (KioLi). This, to us, is crucial to both our identity and our sustainability.
Be aware, too, that what may be The Best to your neighbor may not be The Best to you—which is why we included second- and third-place winners here, too. All these places got waves of support. All have patrons who care about them and continue to give them business. All have found homes and customer bases on Long Island. And all are viable candidates to earn your vote for the Best Of Long Island in next year’s poll, and beyond. We recommend you try all of them, as they all represent the Best Of Long Island.
We also included some of our own choices—our Editor’s Picks, which try and recognize and celebrate not local businesses so much as less-monetized local entities. Best Nude Beach, for instance. Best Shortcut. Best Place to Break Up With Someone. These weren’t open to a vote—they were just us, kicking around some ideas, having some fun.
Just as we hope you will have fun when you read the 2009 Best Of Long Island. We hope you will use this as a guide, something to help you explore and find new favorites of your own. We hope you will keep this issue nearby all year round, return to it, reference it.
Here at the Press, we’d like to give a sincere and well-deserved round of applause to General Manager Felice Cantatore and Marketing Director Harlan Friedman, for the remarkable, above-and-beyond efforts they offer every day in constructing, maintaining and building our Best Of program. We’d also like to tip our caps to the businesses that went out of their way to promote themselves, to lobby their patrons for votes, who went to great lengths to prove to our readership that they are the best. But, most importantly, we have to give a standing ovation to our readers, who voted in such incredible numbers, who made sure their voices were heard.
You’ve tried the rest. But you’ve found the best. And you return to it, week after week, month after month, year after year. You tell your family and friends about it, your neighbors, your co-workers. We want to thank you for telling us about it. You voted. We kept score.
Now the results are in. And here they are.
The Best of Long Island Discount Card
When most people dig into their wallet, they are on their way to spending money. With the Best of L.I. Discount Card, you can actually save money almost every time you open your wallet. The Best of L.I. Discount Card is accepted at more than 200 locations across the Island. In addition to saving money, the Best of L.I. Discount Card is your passport to special contests and prizes, invites to exclusive events and weekly updates on new businesses which are offering money saving discounts. Don’t have a card yet? Here are three ways to get one:
1) Log onto LongIslandPress.com, go to the Best Of Long Island link and then click on the Best of L.I. Discount card and sign up to have a card sent to you in the mail.
2) Send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:
Best of L.I. Discount Card program
c/o L.I.Press
575 Underhill Boulevard
Suite 210
Syosset, NY 11791
3) Look for the Press at any number of community events and ask a staff member for a card.
Where can I save?
When signing up for your card at LongIslandPress.com you can see all the offers available to our cardholders. Here are a few sample offers you can start taking advantage of today:
Bagel Boss – Present your Best Of Long Island card when you buy any salad sandwich and get a 2nd one for 1/2 price. Not to be combined with any other offer.
Ciao Baby – Present your Best Of Long Island card and receive 20% off of your entire check on Monday and Tuesday night. Not to be combined with any other offer.
YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts – $5.00 off the purchase of tickets at YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts. Not to be combined with any other offer or discount.
Peter Pan Diner – Present your Best Of Long Island Card and receive 10% off your bill. Not to be combined with any other offers or Senior Citizen discounts.
Lemon Tree Salons – Receive $1 (one dollar) off any retail product at participating Lemon Tree Salons by presenting your Best of LI card before purchase. Offer can not be combined.
Tilles Center For The Performing Arts – 10% off admission to Tilles Center Presented performances. Mention Best Of Long Island Card discount when ordering by phone; card must be shown when picking up tickets. Offer subject to availability. Not applicable on previously purchased tickets.
For more information regarding the Best of L.I. card contact Harlan Friedman at 516-284-3300 or e-mail him at [email protected]
BEST OF ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Annual Event/Festival
1. The Long Island Fall Festival at Huntington
Heckscher Park, Route 25A, Huntington. Oct. 9 – 12, 2009. www.lifallfestival.com
It’s four days of community and celebration. The Long Island Fall Festival at Huntington attracts tens of thousands of families from all over the tri-state area to the 25 acres of Heckscher Park. Truly a celebration of community spirit, this event offers something for everyone. Attractions include: four stages of entertainment, a world-class carnival, hundreds of arts-and-crafts vendors, international food courts, a beer and wine tent, a farmer’s market, and numerous activities designed especially for young children. Underwritten completely through corporate sponsorships, admission to the public is free.
2. Bethpage Federal Credit Union New York Air Show at Jones Beach
Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh. May 23 & 24, 2009. www.jonesbeachairshow.com
3. Oyster Bay Oyster Festival
E. Main St., Oyster Bay. Oct. 17 &18, 2009. www.theoysterfestival.org
Art Gallery/Museum
1. Nassau County Museum of Art
One Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. 516-484-9337. www.nassaumuseum.com
Set in a historic mansion, the Nassau County Museum of Art provides Long Island with four important exhibitions per year featuring the works of internationally acclaimed artists. Other programming from this three-time Best Of LI winner includes exhibitions of local artists, art education, and cultural activities such as lectures and trips.
2. Les Bon Amis Art Gallery
7A The Plaza, Locust Valley. 516-277-1082. www.lbaartgallery.com
3. The Gallery, Sag Harbor
125 Main St., Sag Harbor. 212-772-3483. www.thegallerysagharbor.com
Arts Schools
1. Five Towns College
305 N. Service Rd., Dix Hills. 631-424-7000. www.ftc.edu
Music, media or the performing arts—if the spotlight is where you’d like to be, then Five Towns College is your springboard. Five Towns offers classes taught by experts and provides hands-on experience. Their reputation is solid and widespread: This is their second year as first-place winner in this Best Of LI category.
2. Art League of Long Island
107 E. Deer Park Rd., Dix Hills. 631-462-5400. www.artleagueli.net
3. Huntington School of Fine Arts
Two Melville Rd. N., South Huntington. 631-351-4060. www.huntfinearts.com
Artist/Painter
1. Arlene McLoughlin
516-541-8782. www.arlenemurals.com
If you’ve walked past a building on Long Island and just had to stop and take a second look at a breathtaking mural on it, chances are you’ve enjoyed McLoughlin’s work. This is McLoughlin’s second year as our first-place winner in the Best Artist/Painter category. For more on this veteran painter visit her blog at arlenesmural.blogspot.com.
2. Sally Barish / Painted Pieces
2 Cooper Ave., Huntington. 631-385-7200. www.paintedpiecesltd.com
3. Jo-Ann Corretti
PO Box 1415, Mattituck. 631-786-3467. www.joanncorretti.com
Concert Venue
1. IMAC Theater
370 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-9666. www.imactheater.org
For the second year running, IMAC takes first place in our Best Concert Venue Category. Not a surprise, really. Located in the heart of our Best Downtown, Huntington, the non-profit IMAC offers a welcoming and warm-sounding intimate room, and they bring in a wealth of exceptional performers. The venue specializes in jazz, blues, folk and world music, and already scheduled for 2009 is an incredible array of all the above (and more), including Maxi Priest, Buckwheat Zydeco, Keiko Matsui and Al DiMeola, among many others.
2. YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts
37 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-1101. www.boultoncenter.org
3. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts at C.W. Post
720 Northern Blvd., Greenvale. 516-299-3100. www.tillescenter.org
National. Nikon at Jones Beach Theater
1000 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh. 516-221-1000.
Cover Band
1. Peat Moss & The Fertilizers
www.peatmoss1.com
In many ways, Long Island is the home of the cover band, so to make it here, you have to be pretty good at what you do. And Peat Moss & The Fertilizers are better than pretty good. Part of the Omnipop roster, Peat and the boys are a well-oiled machine, playing regularly, performing songs from Kanye to Maroon 5.
2. The Touch
www.omnipopbands.com
3. TIE Crush; Tradewinds
www.myspace.com/crushli; www.tradewindstheband.com
Dance School for Adults
1. Rhythm & Soul Dance Studio
16 Wolcott Rd., Levittown. 516-520-2934. www.rhythmandsoul.com
With starter lessons for beginners and more advanced classes for experienced dancers, classes are ongoing for those who want to cut in at any time to learn—often from top dance instructors from Manhattan—how to bust a move.
2. Ballroom of Huntington
586 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-385-7271. www.ballroomofhuntington.com
3. Dancin’ Feet
208 Wall St., Huntington. 631-421-8442. www.dancinfeetstudios.com
National. Arthur Murray
Multiple locations. www.arthurmurray.com
Dating Service
1. Long Island Personals
www.longislandpersonals.com
Aside from the scores of eligible men and women looking for a lover through profiles on this streamlined website, this homegrown dating service also hosts a variety of singles-mingling events for all age groups.
2. Maureen Tara Nelson Private Matchmaking
68 S. Service Rd., Ste. 100. Melville. 631-577-7940. www.mtnmatchmaking.com
3. WeekendDating.com
516-908-9638. www.weekenddating.com
National. Match.com
www.match.com
Local Live Theater
1. John. W. Engeman Theater
250 Main St., Northport. 631-261-2900. www.johnwengemantheater.com
With a cocktail lounge for those who are early, and in-seat service for those who are not, this gorgeous professional theater in the heart of Downtown Northport hosts some of the best live performances in the area—as noted by Press readers, who voted the Engeman Theater the Best Of LI for the second year in a row.
2. YMCA Boulton Center for the Performing Arts
37 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-1101. www.boultoncenter.org
3. Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts
71 E. Main St., Patchogue. 631-207-1313. www.patchoguetheatre.com
Long Island Personality
1. Keith Hart
707 Route 110, Ste. 25, Farmingdale. 631-752-1053. www.hartmodel.com
Since the late ’70s, Keith Hart has been part of the nightclub and entertainment business. As the founder and owner of the Hart Agency, a modeling and promotion company, he is probably one of the Island’s most envied people. For decades, Keith has been the Hugh Hefner of Long Island: always in the middle of a party while constantly surrounding himself with beautiful Hart models. As a promoter, Keith was involved in the famous Studio 54 and, with his many contacts, hired the likes of Eddie Murphy, Howard Stern and Madonna, to name a few. His modeling and promotion agency has since gone tri-state. Keith is also a partner in one of the top Long Island restaurants and is currently working on a new reality TV show.
2. Malibu Sue
WMJC, 234 Airport Plaza, Ste. 5, Farmingdale. 631-955-0943
3. Boomer Esiason
WFAN-AM, 34-12 36th St., Astoria, Queens. www.wfan.com
Movie Theater
1. Cinema Arts Centre
423 Park Ave., Huntington. 631-423-7611. www.cinemaartscentre.org
For the fourth year in a row, voters named Huntington’s Cinema Arts Centre our Best Movie Theater, and the honor is deserved. CAC is simply an unparalleled film-going occasion—this isn’t just a trip to the movies; this is an experience in the art of film, as delivered by people who love and live the form. CAC features a ridiculous wealth of independent and foreign cinema, along with cool oddities and special events.
2. IMAX at Cradle of Aviation Museum
1 Davis Ave., Garden City. 516-572-4012. www.cradleofaviation.org
3. Malverne Cinema 4
350 Hempstead Ave., Malverne. 516-599-6966.
National. Island 16 Holtsville
185 Morris Ave., Holtsville. 631-758-9100.
Nightclub
1. The Crazy Donkey
1058 Route 110, Farmingdale. 631-753-1975. www.thecrazydonkey.com
Featuring a 6,000-square-foot dance floor and 2,000-square-foot deck, a top-flight bar and kitchen, hosting everything from summer barbecues to bachelorette parties, happy hours to dance nights, and concerts from both locals and national touring acts, this loco ass knows how to show LI a good time.
2. Mulcahy’s Pub & Concert Hall
3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. 516-783-7500; 1702 Middle Country Rd., Centereach. 631-696-111; 160 Adams Ave., Hauppauge. 631-952-1111. www.muls.com
3. The Nutty Irishman
60 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-9700; 323 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-293-9700. www.thenuttyirishman.com
Psychic
1. John Edward
www.johnedward.net
It’s tough getting through to America’s most famous TV psychic, even though he’s a Glen Cove native, since his show, John Edward Cross Country, often requires a bit of traveling. But you can still watch him communicate with the dead Saturdays at 10 p.m. on the Women’s Entertainment Network.
2. Karen L. Garvey
373 Nesconsett Hwy., Suite 125, Hauppauge. 866-263-3879. theanswersunlimited.homestead.com
3. Jeffrey Wands
8 Haven Ave., Suite 223, Port Washington. 516-883-5959. www.jeffreywands.com
Radio Station
1. WFUV
90.7 FM. www.wfuv.org
Fordham University’s incomparable WFUV is not just the best radio station in the market, it’s one of the best in the country—and that includes every niche and specialty station on the satellite dial. FUV is a station that breaks artists—ever heard of, say, Lucinda Williams? Ryan Adams? Wilco? Yeah, you can thank FUV. These days, they’ve grown from their Americana base to a more generalized highbrow indie playlist—and the station (a two-time Best Of LI winner) has never sounded better.
2. WBAB
102.3 FM. www.wbab.com
3. WBLI
106.1 FM. www.wbli.com
Singles Spot
1. Lily Flanagan’s
345 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-539-0816. www.lilyflanaganspub.com
This quintessential Irish bar’s dance floor is often teeming with beautiful ladies and handsome guys on weekends, putting it at the top of the list of places singles go to meet.
2. Honu Kitchen & Cocktails
363 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-421-6900. www.honukitchen.com
3. Four Food Studio & Cocktail Salon
515 Route 110, Melville. 631-577-4444. www.fourfoodstudio.com
National. 56th Fighter Group
7160 Republic Airport, Route 110, Farmingdale. 631-694-8280. www.56thfgrestaurant.com
Up-and-Coming Band
1. The Rosies
www.myspace.com/therosiesband
Long Island rock has been in a bit of a drought since the end of the emo gold rush, but it seems to be back on the upswing. The Rosies are a female-fronted rock quintet who play soaring, sharp, hook-filled alt rock. (For a reasonable comparison, think The Cranberries—whose “Zombie” is covered by The Rosies on their MySpace page.) The band’s first CD has just been released—in fact, you can attend their CD release party on Jan. 16 at an acoustic all-ages show at Hot Topic in Bay Shore.
2. Paging Grace
www.paginggrace.com
3. Miles to Dayton
www.milestodayton.net
National. Push Play
www.pushplaysite.com
Up-and-Coming Comedian
1. Chris Monty
www.chrismontylive.com
Born and raised on LI, Chris Monty cut his teeth at Governor’s in Levittown in the late ’90s. He later teamed up with fellow comedian Marc Lund—and got his first break. Monty and Lund were asked to open for Gabe Kaplan from Welcome Back Kotter. The rest is history. You can see Monty’s face or hear his voice at just about any NY comedy event—and he shows no signs of slowing down. Remember, when he’s a star of Seinfeldian proportions, that Press readers named him the comedian to watch.
2. Joe Devito
www.myspace.com/joedevito
3. Carie Karavas
www.cariekaravas.com
Up-and-Coming Singer
1. Gina Cutillo
www.ginacutillo.com
A longtime veteran of the LI music scene, Gina Cutillo has run the gamut from songstress fronting the rock band Supergenius to solo siren. Her second album, From Here to Desire, features hard-driving pop-rock and has garnered Gina airplay and national attention.
2. Brett Matthews
www.myspace.com/brettmatthewsmusic
3. Jessica Semins
www.myspace.com/jessicaseminsmusic
BEST OF COMMERCE
Auto Repair
1. 1042 Collision
1042 Fulton St., Farmingdale. 631-249-0926. www.1042collision.com
Our second-place winner in 2008 made the jump to first for ’09. Originally named for the shop’s address, the family owners later realized that a “10-42” is the NYPD’s radio code for a car crash—a sign that this shop was meant to keep doing what it does best: Take the hassle out of fixing cars.
2. J&M Auto Repair
90 Underhill Blvd., Syosset. www.jmautorepair.com. 516-364-9230
3. Elwood Automotive
200 Elwood Rd., East Northport. 631-261-0800. www.villageautocare.com
National. STS Tire & Auto Center
Multiple locations. www.ststire.com
Boat Dealer
1. Mariner’s Cove Marine
9 Canoe Place Rd., Hampton Bays. 866-358-8810; 790 N. Highway, Southampton. 866-354-0603. www.yachtworld.com/marinerscove
If a boat is a hole in the water into which one pours money, it’s best to go where experienced LI mariners go for honest, expert dealings. This is the second year that Mariner’s Cove Marine has won this Best Of LI category.
2. Fred Chall Marine
124 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport. 516-546-8960. www.fredchallmarine.com
3. Surfside 3
846 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. 631-957-5900. www.marinemax.com
Book Store
1. Book Revue
313 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-271-1442. www.bookrevue.com
Not just the best book store on Long Island, but among the best on the East Coast, Huntington’s Book Revue is a four-time Best Of LI winner, offering incredible selection, bright, spacious layout and insanely low prices. Oh yeah, they also have readings every now and then. Some authors who have appeared there in the past include: Yogi Berra, Candace Bushnell, President Bill Clinton, James Patterson, J.K. Rowling, David Sedaris, Jon Stewart, Donald Trump, Joe Torre…
2. Dolphin Book Shop
941 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington. 516-767-2650.
3. Runaway Bay Books
10 Main St., Sayville. 631-589-9212.
National. Barnes & Noble
Multiple Locations. www.barnesandnoble.com
Building Supply
1. Riverhead Building Supply
Multiple locations. www.rbscorp.com
For 60 years, these 10 full-service, family-run locations have been the supplier of choice for quality-conscious builders, contractors, architects and homeowners on Long Island and beyond.
2. Kleet Lumber
777 Park Ave., Huntington. 631-427-7060. www.kleet.com
3. Nassau Suffolk Lumber
Multiple Locations. www.nassausuffolklumber.com
National. Home Depot
www.homedepot.com
Camera Store
1. Berger Bros. Camera, Video, Digital
209 Broadway, Amityville. 631-264-4160; 226 W. Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-882-6216. www.berger-bros.com
Raise your hand if this has happened to you: You enter a store looking to buy one thing and you’re talked into buying 10 other things and not the thing you wanted. Berger Bros. isn’t in the business of upselling their customers from a consumer-grade camera to something used on NBC. Also a Best Of LI 2007 and 2008 winner, their focus is on customer satisfaction and their staff of renowned professional photographers and videographers provide hands-on demos of the merchandise.
2. L&L Camera and Video
267 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-421-5535. www.llcamera.com
3. Cameta Camera
253 Broadway, Amityville. 631-691-1190. www.cameta.com
National. Best Buy
Multiple locations. www.bestbuy.com
Car Wash
1. Syosset Car Wash
251 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-7180.
Car washes are a great fundraiser for high school teams, and it’s just so adorable when your son or daughter washes the family truck for allowance money. But that’s bush league stuff. Real, legitimate car washing only gets done at a handful of places, and leading that pack is the Syosset Car Wash. The cleaning is thorough and a wide range of services are offered, from polishes to wipe-downs to full details.
2. Cottage Car Wash
960 Stewart Ave., Bethpage. 516-942-9274. www.cottagecarwashofbethpage.com
3. Northport Car Wash
402 Fort Salonga Rd., Northport. 631-757-4508.
Chambers of Commerce
1. Huntington Chamber of Commerce
164 Main St., first floor, Huntington. 631-423-6100. www.huntingtonchamber.com
The Huntington Chamber of Commerce is surely deserving of a blue ribbon here. The exceptional Huntington downtown is a direct result of the chamber’s outstanding devotion to its residents and proof that Long Island can keep up with the Joneses (and by Joneses, we mean Manhattan).
2. Massapequa Chamber of Commerce
674 Broadway, Massapequa. 516-541-1443. www.massapequachamber.com
3. Bellmore Chamber of Commerce
406 Bedford Ave., Bellmore. 516-679-1875. www.bellmorechamber.com
Contractors
1. Alure Home Improvements
1999 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-296-7777. www.alure.com
Alure Home Improvements has been building an irrefutable client base for more than 60 years with their unwavering standards of commitment, reliability and customer satisfaction. Plain and simple—Alure knows more about home remodeling than Bob Vila and Home Improvement’s Tim Allen combined. Alure doesn’t remodel just homes, but the very standards of their industry.
2. Jarro Building Industry Corp.
1796 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-794-4030. www.jarro.com
3. Tim White Home Improvement
20 W. Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst. 631-956-7553. www.timwhiteremodeling.com
Day Spa
1. Gurney’s Inn—Resort, Spa & Conference Center
290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk. 631-668-1892. www.gurneysinn.com
There are lots of reasons to make the trip out to Montauk, but Gurney’s Inn is right up there at the top. Three-time winners in this category, their world-class spa has all the luxuries and amenities to indulge your mind and body, and their two restaurants and mouth-watering bakery to indulge your stomach and taste buds. With some designers already previewing their spring and summer lines, there’s already excuses to make the hike out east.
2. Maximus Spa Salon
2075 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-623-4180; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-222-8880. www.maximusspasalon.com
3. Cactus Salon & Day Spa
Multiple Locations. www.cactussalon.com
National. Red Door Spas
1399 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-747-7474; 7917 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-364-6780. www.reddoorspas.com
DJ or Party Company
1. High Voltage Sounds
516-694-7921. www.highvoltagesounds.com
Word on the street is that when Madonna sings “Hey Mr. DJ/put a record on…” in her song “Hey Mr. DJ,” she’s actually talking about High Voltage Sounds, Long Island’s numero uno party and DJ company. High Voltage Sounds is so ahead of the curve, they already have more music from 2009 than we have in our entire collections.
2. Double G Productions
2 Aerial Way, Syosset. 1-800-698-DJMC. www.doubleg.com
3. Good Vibrations/911dj.com
1117 5th Ave., East Northport. 631-754-1032. www.911dj.com
Divorce Lawyer
1. Randi Milgrim/Mejias Milgrim & Alvarado, P.C. Attorneys
1 Dosoris Ln., Glen Cove. 516-333-7777. www.mylongislandlawyers.com
As funny as the movie is, nobody wants a pair of divorce lawyers like Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn in Wedding Crashers. Great at crashing weddings, but mediating divorce talks? Not so much. Fortunately, Randi Milgrim is all business when it comes to reviewing that prenup (thanks, Kanye), and clients should be more than happy with the settlements she’s able to reach. Nobody really looks forward to all the strife that comes with a divorce, but Randi Milgrim does her best to make it manageable.
2. Sunshine & Feinstein
666 Old Country Rd., Garden City. 516-742-6444. www.sunshinefeinstein.com
3. Todd J. Zimmer/Private Lawyer
6080 Jericho Tpke. Ste. 319, Commack. 631-493-0278. www.tzimmerlaw.com
Domestic Auto Dealership
1. Paul Conte Cadillac
169 W. Sunrise Hwy., Freeport. 516-960-5628. www.conteauto.com
Over the past decade or so, Cadillac has become known as a company with some of the best looking and performing vehicles on the road. The team at Paul Conte’s car dealership is one of the finest around. So combining the two is like making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich that you can drive. In a time of employee pricing and cash incentives, Conte is still offering rock bottom prices and the service department to back it up.
2. Syosset Ford
240 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-496-9700. www.syossetford.net
3. Robert Chevrolet
236 South Broadway, Hicksville. 888-619-7642. www.robertchevrolet.com
Downtown
1. Huntington
www.huntingtonchamber.com
There are many wonderful downtowns on Long Island, but none quite have Huntington’s combination of urban chic and country quaint. But most importantly, there are so many things to do in three-time award-winning downtown Huntington—from bars to restaurants to movies to shopping… It’s easy to spend a full Saturday, morning to night, in downtown Huntington, and be pleasantly occupied every minute.
2. Port Jefferson
www.portjeffchamber.com
3. Northport
www.northportny.com
Exterminator
1. Suburban Exterminating
Multiple locations. www.suburbanexterminating.com
Cockroaches, water crickets, relatives from New Jersey—it seems like there are pests on Long Island year-round (zing!). No need to cover the house in mosquito netting though. Call two-time Best Of LI winners Suburban Exterminating and they’ll come packing heat to get rid of any unwelcome guests in your house. Their staff knows insects inside and out and will intelligently handle any bug situation without quarantining half your house off.
2. Arrow Exterminating
289 Broadway, Lynbrook. 877-277-6990. www.arrowexterminating.com
3. Knockout Pest Control
1009 Front St., Uniondale. 877-879-6007.
National. Terminix
Multiple locations. www.terminix.com
Financial Institution
1. Bethpage Federal Credit Union
Multiple Locations. www.bethpagefcu.com
Times are tough. We’re not going to lie. We’ve gone back on the Raman Noodles diet for the first time since college. But the Bethpage Federal Credit Union has got your back (especially if you keep your wallet in your back pocket). The good ol’ BFCU has experts handling every account in their huge safe, and exercise caution and precision when growing your funds.
2. Astoria Federal Savings Bank
Multiple Locations. www.astoriafederal.com
3. Sperry Federal Credit Union
2400 Jericho Tpke., Garden City Park. 521 Conklin St., Farmingdale; 830 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516-873-7171. www.sperryfcu.com
National. TD Bank (formerly Commerce Bank)
Multiple Locations. www.tdbank.com
Foreign Auto Dealership
1. Mercedes Benz of Huntington
1103 E. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 888-879-8049. www.mbhuntington.com
George Clooney drives a Mercedes in Michael Clayton. Meryl Streep is chauffeured in a Mercedes in The Devil Wears Prada. Carrie and her cohorts drove a Mercedes in the Sex and the City movie. Nothing says “I am a movie star” like a Benz, and the staff at Huntington’s Mercedes dealer knows that. The nice folks are more than happy to show you every car on their lot, explain away the advantages of things like remote start, and offer a test drive up and down Jericho Turnpike.
2. Lexus of Massapequa
4950 Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa. 516-797-3600. www.lexusmass.com
3. Competition BMW
599 E. Jericho Tpke., Smithtown. 631-265-2208. www.competitionbmw.com
Gentlemen’s Club
1. The Tender Trap
1850 E. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-493-9510. www.tendertrapny.com
AKA the East Northport Cultural Center, The Tender Trap has also been the best landmark for anyone trying to find the corner of Route 25 and Elwood Road for more than 40 years. The Trap is an old-school escape and experience for the discerning gentleman. Hence the category name, “Gentlemen’s Club.”
2. Gossip Restaurant & Cigar Bar
602 Broadhollow Rd., Melville. 631-752-1222. www.gossipny.com
3. Café Royale
101 Rte. 109, Farmingdale. 631-777-7870. www.cafe-royale.com
Hair Salon
1. Lemon Tree Family Hair Salon
Multiple locations. www.lemontree.com
Boasting 40 locations throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties, LemonTree is one of the Island’s largest locally owned franchise businesses. Lemon Tree is dedicated to quality haircare treatment for the family at affordable prices. This is the third year in a row in which Lemon Tree has taken home Best Of LI honors.
2. Hair Above Salon
1 School St., Ste 104, Glen Cove. 516-671-9093.
3. Maximus Spa Salon
2075 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-623-4180; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-222-8880. www.maximusspasalon.com
Handyman
1. Pete the Handyman
95 Scudder Pl., Northport. 516-351-5470.
They say one of the things that women look for in a man is the ability to fix things: that unmistakable Mr. Fix It trait. If so, Mrs. Pete the Handyman has got to be a lucky gal, because the Northport handyman is known for his reasonable prices and being able to fix literally anything. OK, OK, so maybe not the economic crisis. But almost anything.
2. Jarro Handyman
1796 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-794-4030. www.jarro.com
3. Joe Ripasardi
PO Box 1932, North Massapequa. 516-797-2136.
Hardware Store
1. Trio Hardware
1032C Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-935-8385. www.trio.doitbest.com
Face the facts: You are not even fit to hang a picture in your living room, much less install a new garage door. Well, maybe you are, but we aren’t. Just the same, three-time Best Of LI winner Trio Hardware brings service and convenience into do-it-yourself home improvement. The employees are friendly and helpful and create an atmosphere where you can get whatever you need, fast and easy.
2. County Line Hardware
173 West Hills Rd., Huntington Sta. 631-427-4455.
3. Northport Hardware Company
90 Main St., Northport. 631-261-4449.
National. Ace Hardware
Multiple Locations. www.acehardware.com
Hobby Store
1. Willis Hobbies
300 Willis Ave., Mineola. 516-746-3944. www.willishobbies.com
Have a model train collection that would make Neil Young jealous? Yeah, we doubt it. But if that’s your ambition, or even if you’re just having a little fun, Willis Hobbies is the perfect place to fulfill any hobby needs. Whether your kick is model trains, planes, cars or helicopters, there is a large selection in the seemingly endless aisles.
2. Trainland
293 Sunrise Hwy., Lynbrook. 516-599-7080. www.trainworld.com
3. Long Island Raceway & Hobby
909 Conklin St., Farmingdale. 631-845-RACE.
Jeans Store
1. Lone Star Jeans
377 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Plainview. 516-942-0457. www.lonestarjeansonline.com
Do you wear jeans with everything? Including tuxedos? And pajamas? Yep, us too. Two-time Best Of LI winner Lonestar Jeans has a large selection of jeans and a surplus of hard-to-find brand names. What’s more, there always seems to be some type of sale to lessen the high price of fashion. The reasonable prices for high-end clothing leave customers with the satisfying feeling of a great deal.
2. Max & Gino’s All American Clothing Co.
Multiple Locations. www.maxandginosclothing.com
3. Bonnie’s Jeans
383 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights. 516-484-0202.
National. Old Navy
Multiple Locations. www.oldnavy.com
Jewelry Store
1. Gennaro Jewelers
410 Bedford Ave., Bellmore. 516-785-0134. www.gennarojewelers.com
OK, so you finally got up the nerve to pop the question. Now you need to buy a ring, don’t you? Or maybe you’re just someone who loves to wear and admire jewelry. Either way, Gennaro Jewelers is your place. Gennaro is a family-run business that creates unique pieces and tries to satisfy each customer’s individual preferences. They are known for their exceptional customer service, and they outshine their competitors with involvement in the community and in charity organizations.
2. Fortunoff the Source
Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-832-9000.
3. Tri-County Flea Market
3041 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-579-4500.
Landscaping
1. Main Street Nursery
475 W. Main St., Huntington. 631-549-4515. www.mainstreetnursery.com
Look, you can’t go around stealing orchids off your neighbor’s lawn. Why? Because it’s illegal! We shouldn’t have to tell you that. Whether you need garden guidance, landscaping design or a beautiful floral arrangement, your needs and expectations can be met at the Main Street Nursery in Huntington. Its existence can be traced back to 150 years ago, and has been a constant source of garden and landscaping quality.
2. Cipriano Nursery & Florist
1660 Front St., East Meadow. 516-542-8400.
www.ciprianonursery.com
3. Ireland-Gannon Associates
6050 Northern Blvd., East Norwich. 516-992-4800. 1115 North Country Road, Stony Brook. 631-689-9725.
Law Firm
1. Nitkewicz & McMahon, LLP
356 Veteran’s Memorial Hwy., Commack. 631-543-7676. www.nmlawllp.com
Both Ed Nitkewicz and Paul McMahon are previous Best of LI winners in the Best Lawyer category, and this is McMahon’s second year in a row as winner. This partnership and their attorneys offer clients quality legal representation with innovative style. They serve a diverse client base with dedication and advice that pertains to their client’s individual needs.
2. Buttafuoco & Associates
144 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury. 1-800-NOW-HURT.
www.1800nowhurt.com
3. Ruskin, Moscou & Faltischek
1425 RexCorp Plaza., East Tower, 15th Fl., Uniondale. 516-663-6600. www.ruskinmoscou.com
Lawyer
1. Daniel P. Buttafuoco
144 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury. 1-800-NOW-HURT. www.1800nowhurt.com
The well-known Buttafuoco and his attorneys represent the “little guy” against powerful and rich corporate interests, especially insurance companies in cases that often are the difference between a life of quality and a life of misery. They also hold the medical profession accountable for their malpractice errors in personal injury cases ranging from animal bites to workers’ compensation. Buttafuoco is now a three-time winner in this category, after taking home Best Of LI honors in ’07 and ’08, too.
2. Edward J. Nitkewicz
356 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Commack. 631-543-7676. www.nmlawllp.com
3. Paul McMahon
356 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Commack. 631-543-7676. www.nmlawllp.com
LI Based Website
1. Newsday.com
235 Pinelawn Rd., Melville. 631-843-2000. www.newsday.com
Even with their shrinking newsroom and new ownership, the Web arm of the local daily took home the gold here. Hey, we read it too. Newsday.com features plenty of intersting writers and some very compelling Web features.
2. News12.com
1 Media Crossways, Woodbury. 516-393-1200. www.news12.com
3. LongIsland.com
www.longisland.com
Liquor Store
1. Bottles and Cases
134 E. Main St., Huntington. 631-423-9463. www.bottlesandcases.com
Need a case of Glenlivet? Well we sure do. Bottles and Cases is a local landmark for those buying booze in bulk—or even just a bottle or two. The store is known Island-wide for its prices, stock and staff, who can just as easily roll out a few cases of Gallo to your car as they can recommend a quality red for that dinner party you’re attending this week.
2. Bottle Buys
350 Glen Head Rd., Glen Head. 516-676-8400. www.bottlebuys.com
3. Post Wines & Spirits
510 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-1820. www.postwines.com
National. Stew Leonard’s Wines
210 Airport Plaza Blvd., Farmingdale. 631-249-3611. www.stewswinesny.com.
Mall
1. Americana Manhasset
2060 Northern Blvd., Manhasset. 516-627-2277. www.americanamanhasset.com
Manhasset’s Americana Mall is affectionately known as “The Miracle Mile,” and for good reason. The mall to end all malls is packed with the most renowned designers from Paris, Milan and the world over, making it the east coast Mecca for anyone who can quote The Devil Wears Prada.
2. Wheatley Plaza
Glen Cove Rd. at Northern Blvd., Greenvale. 800-818-6767. www.wheatleyplaza.com
3. Bellport Outlets
10 Farber Dr., Bellport.
National. Roosevelt Field Mall
630 Old Country Rd., Garden City. 516-742-8000. www.rooseveltfield.com
Massage
1. Above All Massage
177 Conklin St., Farmingdale. 24A Bellemeade Ave., Smithtown. 631-724-7621. www.healingwithmassage.com
Stressed out? Hey, it’s only natural. These are stressful times. You know what you need? A massage! Above All Massage invites Long Islanders to experience one of their therapeutic massages: Swedish, deep tissue, sports, essential oil aromatherapy, hot stone, prenatal massage or reflexology. Above All has two locations or will travel to your home for a completely customized massage.
2. Maximus Spa Salon
2075 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-623-4180; 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-222-8880. www.maximusspasalon.com
3. Massage for Wellness
608 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Hicksville. 516-931-3222. www.massageforwellnesspc.com
Mom & Pop Business
1. Cinema Arts Centre
423 Park Ave., Huntington. 631-423-FILM. www.cinemaartscentre.org
Indeed, Cinema Arts Centre is a true Mom & Pop Business: The place is run by husband-and-wife team Charlotte Sky and Vic Skolnick, along with son Dylan Skolnick. But the family qualities of the place go beyond even that: Few businesses on Long Island foster such a deep sense of belonging and warmth, from their generous membership packages to their unique film offerings to their friendly and charming staff.
2. Wantagh 5&10
1901 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-785-1259.
3. Marvel Dairy Whip
258 Lido Blvd., Lido Beach. 516-889-4232
Mortgage Company
1. Wells Fargo/Alan Kreit
532 Broadhollow Rd., Melville. 631-752-5067.
The usually steady housing market has been a house of cards lately, with foreclosures signs sprouting up faster than tourists to the Hamptons in summer. Fortunately, Alan Kreit is an expert at all things housing, and while the guy doesn’t have a minting factory in his office, he’s very adept at making your money go far.
2. TopDot
2436 Putnam Dr., East Meadow. 1-866-610-8368. www.topdot.com
3. Artisan Mortgage Company
724-726 Main St., Islip. 631-859-9414.
National. HSBC Mortgage
Multiple Locations. www.hsbcmortgageservices.com
Hotel
1. Garden City Hotel
45 Seventh St., Garden City. 516-747-3000. www.gardencityhotel.com
One of the most beautiful and luxurious hotels in the country, the five-star Garden City Hotel is truly deserving of superlative praise. Founded 135 years ago, the hotel boasts gorgeous rooms, space for wedding receptions and business conferences, and several dining rooms.
2. Gurney’s Inn—Resort, Spa & Conference Center
290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk. 631-668-1892. www.gurneysinn.com
3. The Inn at Fox Hollow
7755 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 1-800-291-8090. www.theinnatfoxhollow.com
Musical Instrument Store
1. Sam Ash
269A Walt Whitman Rd., Huntington. 631-421-9333. 385 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-333-8700 www.samash.com
Just walking through the doors instantly morphs adults into curious little kids, and kids into imagination machines. Even if you aren’t a musician, Sam Ash’s user-friendly, hands-on layout makes you wish you were. Everything from drum kits to recording systems can be found, and tried out right in the enormous showroom.
2. Murphy’s Music and Violin Shop
447 Route 110. Melville. 631-549-4510. www.murphysmusicny.com
3. Farmingdale Music Center
135 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-249-0885
National. Guitar Center
Multiple Locations. www.guitarcenter.com
Nail Salon
1. Best Nails
568 Larkfield Rd., #A, East Northport. 631-368-1234
Every woman (and plenty of men) knows that a manicure and pedicure can be as relaxing as a day at the spa, if done by experts. Best Nails in East Northport has the best of all worlds: classy atmosphere and affordable prices coupled with a knowledgeable staff and a variety of services. Voters agree—the salon lives up to its name.
2. Fantastic Nail II
379 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516-623-9800
3. Studio Elle
4865 Merrick Rd., Massapequa Park. 516-799-0009. www.studioellenails.com
National. Red Door Spas 1399 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-747-7474; 7917 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-364-6780. www.reddoorspas.com
Nursery
1. Hicks Nurseries
100 Jericho Tpke., Westbury. 516-334-0066. www.hicksnurseries.com
Hicks Nurseries is 156 years old, so odds are they know what they’re doing when it comes to planning your spring garden. The Nursery has events in spring and summer, led by their annual flower and garden show, and their free Gardener’s Advantage program. There’s even an aquatic center brimming with marine life for kids to enjoy.
2. Martin Viette
6050 Northern Blvd., East Norwich. 516-922-5530. www.martinviette.com
3. Main Street Nursery
475 W. Main St., Huntington. 631-549-4515. www.mainstreetnursery.com
Office Furniture
1. Waldner’s
125 Rte. 110, Farmingdale. 631-844-9300. www.waldners.com
Waldner’s knows that real, productive work can’t be done in an office with folding tables and upside-down plastic drums for chairs. For the past 70 years they’ve been outfitting LI’s businesses with top-notch and elegant seating, tables, storage and workstation setups. If that wasn’t enough, these two-time Best Of LI winners have a strong green initiative to recycle and refurbish old furniture.
2. Huntington Business Products Centre
339 Main St., Huntington. 631-427-5600. www.hbpc.com
3. DeskCo Office Furniture
910 Broadhollow Rd., Farmingdale. 631-753-3601. www.deskco.com
National. IKEA
1100 Broadway Mall, Hicksville. 516-681-4532. www.ikea.com
Pet Groomer
1. Selmer’s Pet Land: Grooming Dept.
125 East Jericho Tpke., South Huntington. 631-423-4677. www.selmerspetland.com
Five-time winner in two different categories, Selmer’s has a full-service grooming station—bring your pooch to have its hair cut, nails clipped, the works—and some voters who use the store say the dogs come out smelling really, REALLY good! Located right next door to Selmer’s Pet Land’s pet store—which also won this year’s Best Pet Store, for the third year in a row.
2. TLC Doggy Day Spa
140 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-470-6092. www.tlcdoggydayspa.com
3. Grooming on Broadway
70 Broadway. Greenlawn. 631-239-5675.
Pet Store
1. Selmer’s Pet Land
125 E Jericho Tpke., Huntington Station. 631-423-4677. www.selmerspetland.com
From pet supplies to veterinarian services to a wide variety of puppies for sale, Selmer’s is a pet lover’s paradise. Cats and dogs, fish and snakes, gerbils and hamsters…if it was on the Ark, then you can probably get it at Selmer’s. Another plus about Selmer’s, besides the wide variety of animals and supplies, is the personable and knowledgeable staff. They love what they do, and they will pass on that enthusiasm for and knowledge of animals to you and your kids. If you’ve got a question, they’ve got the answer. This store is a real family-owned neighborhood favorite.
2. Love My Puppies
745 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-804-5399. www.lovemypuppiesny.com
3. Parrots of the World
316 Sunrise Hwy, #A. Rockville Centre. 516-764-0717. www.parrotsoftheworld.com
National. Petco
Multiple locations. www.petco.com
Pool Store & Supply
1. Island Recreational
Multiple Locations. www.islandrecreational.com
With spring fast approaching, it’s never too soon to start thinking about opening the backyard pool (and if the holiday bonus was good, maybe installing one). LIers have spoken, and the place to go is Island Recreational. The store has plenty of options for pools, from linings to the EZ Drain auto draining winter pool cover, and offers free guides on opening and closing them.
2. Dunrite Pools
3510 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Bohemia. 631-585-1616; 919 W. Jericho Tpke., Smithtown. 631-543-1616. www.dunritepools.com
3. Brothers 3 Pools
4021 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516-735-7435. www.brothers3pools.net
National. Leslie’s Pools
Multiple Locations. www.lesliespool.com
Record Store
1. Whirlin’ Disc Records
230 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-694-1145. www.whirlindisc.com
Think MP3s are the future of music, while records and CDs are just for old folks? Well, Farmingdale’s Whirlin’ Disc Records…agrees? Not exactly. But Whirlin’ Disc does call itself the “Home of the Oldies,” and that boast is reflected in the store’s stock: This month’s featured CDs include The Dave Clark Five’s Greatest Hits, A Capella Street Corner Vocal Groups and The Only Doo-wop Collection You’ll Ever Need.
2. Looney Tunes
31 Brookvale Ave., West Babylon. 631-587-7722. www.ltcds.com
3. Soundtraks
356 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-427-1313.
National. Best Buy
Multiple Locations. www.bestbuy.com
Shoe Store
1. Love My Shoes
Multiple locations. www.lovemyshoes.com
If you love your shoes, or all shoes, then the aptly named superstore is the place to be. The latest boots, heels, flats, mules and sneakers line the aisles. Handbags and accessories on either wall frame the perfect place to lose yourself for a few hours…or days. And if you can’t get away from your desk, the three-time Best Of LI-winning store’s website, www.lovemyshoes.com, is every bit as addictive.
2. The Shoe Box
419 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Plainview. 516-931-7775
3. Incredible Feets
Multiple locations. www.incrediblefeets.com
National: DSW
Multiple locations. www.dsw.com
Sporting Goods
1. Lacrosse Unlimited
Multiple Locations. www.lacrosseunlimited.com
Lacrosse Unlimited has everything associated with the sport. Padding, sticks, cleats, helmets, stick heads, jerseys—Lacrosse Unlimited could probably outfit a small country in gear and still have some of its stock leftover. The two-time Best Of LI-winning store’s Team LU program is ideal for outfitting teams to the nines to do battle on the grass.
2. Amity Harbor Sports
149 Merrick Rd., Amityville. 631-691-7505.
3. Woodbury Sports
7965 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-496-0600. www.woodburysports.com
Supermarket
1. King Kullen
Multiple Locations. www.kingkullen.com
King Kullen offers equally robust smorgasbords of groceries and incentives at their locations across LI. Aside from offering USDA choice meats and Boar’s Head products, they are firm opponents of forcing shoppers to use a bonus card to get discounts. Instead, each and every person is given the same reduced prices. Add in double manufacturer coupons up to and including $1 and the business King Kullen gives to local farmers, and it’s easy to see why so many LIers do their shopping here.
2. Uncle Giuseppe’s
95 Rte. 111, Smithtown. 631-863-0900; 364 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington. 516-883-0699; 2330 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-579-1955. www.uncleg.com
3. Wild By Nature Market
Multiple Locations. www.wildnature.com
National. Stop & Shop
Multiple Locations. www.stopandshop.com
Tanning Salon
1. Gotti Tans
367 W. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-425-5112
Tanning beds are supposed to be hot—but Gotti Tan’s is sizzling, and not in a burnt skin kind of way. Now three-time Best Of LI winners in this category, Gotti Tans also offers a variety of upscale beds as well as its own signature bronzing lotion.
2. Miami Tans
339 Jackson Ave., Syosset. 516-496-0009. www.miamitansny.com
3. Beach House Tanning
46 Gerard St., Huntington. 631-470-7551
National: Beach Bum
Multiple locations. www.beachbumtanning.com
Tattoo Parlor
1. Tattoo Lou’s
Multiple locations. www.tattoolous.com
Celebrating 50-plus years in business, three-time Best Of LI winner 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 over the next 50 years.
2. Lark Tattoo
1610 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-794-5844. www.larktattoo.com
3. DaVinci Tattoo
3251 Sunrise Hwy., Wantagh. 516-781-5030. www.davincitattoo.com
Thrift Store
1. 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, fast-changing selection, and the lowest prices. Two-time Best Of LI winners, there’s simply no other shopping experience like it anywhere else in the world.
2. Northern Thrift
2035 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-673-4790
3. Community Thrift Shop
274 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-271-4883
Used Auto Dealership
1. Autoworld
2520 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 1-888-484-8071. www.kiagiant.com
They say the worst investment you can make is buying a brand new car, between the depreciation the second you drive it off the lot and new models every single year. Autoworld Kia in East Meadow wisened up to this a long time ago, and their massive stock of used cars reflects that. On top of the low prices, Autoworld offers guaranteed credit approval and plenty of financing options.
2. Alpine Motors Wantagh
3564 Sunrise Hwy., Wantagh. 516-785-0369. www.usedautosny.com
3. Cars Unlimited
2096 Rte. 112, Medford. 631-758-2200.
Vitamin Store
1. Phil’s Vitamin Center
319 Broadway, Huntington Station. 631-271-2911; 520 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-5150. www.philsvitamincenter.com
Two-time Best Of LI winner, Phil’s Vitamin Center has a huge stock of seemingly every vitamin in the world, and they sell them with huge discounts attached. If that’s not enough, their intelligent staff is able to assist you with anything, and Phil’s website offers tons of information to help the decision process.
2. Sherry’s Healthy Gourmet
89 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-661-5552. www.sherryshealth.com
3. Dr. B Well Naturally
8 Washington Ave., Plainview. 516-932-9355.
National. The Vitamin Shoppe
Multiple Locations. www.vitaminshoppe.com
BEST OF FAMILY
Bowling Alley
1. Syosset Lanes
111 Eileen Way, Syosset. 516-921-7575. www.amf.com
If you never thought the words “wild,” “cool” and “extreme” would fit naturally alongside the word “bowling” in a sentence, you’ve never been to Syosset Lanes. Once the folks at the Press readers’ Best Bowling Alley turn down the lights and crank up the music you’ll forget all about that last gutter ball.
2. Massapequa Bowl & Lounge
4235 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-541-8000. www.massapequabowl.com
3. Garden City Bowl
987 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516-222-0808. www.amf.com
National. Dave and Busters
Multiple Locations. www.daveandbusters.com
Camp
1. USDAN Center for Creative and Performing Arts
185 Colonial Springs Rd., Wheatley Heights. 631-643-7900. www.usdan.com
This summer school for the arts is home to 1,700 young musicians, dancers, artists, writers, actors and even chess players. Whether performing or meeting celebrity special guests, kids of all ages can explore self-expression, and have a ton of fun besides.
2. Crestwood Country Day School
313 Round Swamp Rd., Melville. 631-692-6361.
3. West Hills Day Camp
21 Sweet Hollow Rd., Huntington. 631-427-6700. www.westhillscamp.com
Children’s Dance School
1. Techniques Dance Studio Ltd.
1190 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-679-0056. www.techniquesdancestudio.com/
With more than 50 years dance experience between them and 35 years teaching experience behind them, Michele Francke and Maria Genovese-Francke have dedicated themselves to making dance a fulfilling and fun experience for your little stars.
2. Ella Marie’s School of Dance
25 Herzog Pl., Hicksville, 516-681-1484.
3. Inspirations Dance Academy
25 Gibbs Rd., Coram 631-474-5321. www.inspirationsdanceacademy.com
Children’s Party Place
1. White Post Farms
250 Old Country Rd., Melville. 631-351-9373. www.whitepostfarms.com
What makes White Post Farms such a great place for a party is that the planning is all done for you. From pony rides to indoor and outdoor animal farms, kids get to interact with their furry and feathered friends right up close, while you’re free to sit back and enjoy the smiles.
2. Adventureland
2245 Rte 110, Farmingdale. 631-694-6868. www.adventureland.us
3. LilChefs.com Special Events
516-338-0552. www.lilchefs.com
Serving Long Island, NYC, Westchester and beyond.
National. Pump It Up Party
135 Dupont St., Plainview. 516-575-2300. www.pumpitupparty.com
Day Care Center
1. Oyster Babies
15 Shore Ave, Oyster Bay. 516-922-1049. www.oysterbabies.com
Offering a wide range of full- and part-time programs for children six weeks to five years old, Oyster Babies takes pride in keeping a creative and spontaneous atmosphere in every class so kids not only learn, but have fun too.
2. Bay Shore YMCA
200 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-665-4255. www.ymcali.org
3. Little People’s Childcare Center
208 Jamaica Ave, Medford. 631-289-7493.
Family Amusement Place
1. Adventureland
2245 Rte 110, Farmingdale. 631-694-6868. www.adventureland.us
From sky-high rides and bumper cars to arcade games and home-made fudge in the Bavarian Village, this place has entertained generations of kids. And with new additions each year, it keeps getting better.
2. Bayville Adventure Park
8 Bayville Ave., Bayville. 516-624-RIDE. www.bayvilleadventurepark.com
3. Long Island Game Farm
Chapman Blvd., Manorville. 631-878-6670. www.longislandgamefarm.com
National. Splish Splash
2549 Splish Splash Dr., Calverton. 631-727-3600. www.splishsplashlongisland.com
High School Spirit
1. Commack High School
1 Scholar Ln., Commack. 631-912-2100. www.commack.k12.ny.us
Gimme a “C!” Gimme an “O!” Gimme an “M!” OK, we’re out of energy already, but Commack High School sure isn’t. We thought the days of school spirit might have gone out with Saved by the Bell, but CHS proved us wrong and stayed true to their school in overwhelming numbers.
2. Glen Cove High School
150 Dosoris Ln., Glen Cove. 516-759-7261. www.glencove.k12.ny.us
3. Bay Shore High School
155 Third Ave., Bay Shore. 631-968-1160. www.bayshore.k12.ny.us
LI College/University
1. Hofstra University
1000 Fulton Ave., Hempstead. 516-463-6600. www.hofstra.edu
Long Island’s largest private college hosted the final presidential debate in 2008 and is partnering up with the North Shore-LIJ Health System (another favorite among Islanders) to add a medical school to its ranks by 2011, the first in Nassau County in 35 years.
2. Farmingdale State College
2350 Broadhollow Rd., Farmingdale. 631-420-2000. www.farmingdale.edu
3. Long Island University/C.W. Post Campus
720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. 516-299-2000. www.liu.edu/cwis/cwp
Mini Golf
1. Bayville Adventure Park
8 Bayville Ave., Bayville. 516-624-7433. www.bayvilleadventurepark.com
The legend of hidden fortune has attracted fierce bands of rival pirates and golfers (and ex-Wall Street execs) from all over the Island. Based on the real-life adventures of Captain Bartholomew Bay, this isn’t just golf, its adventure golf.
2. Heartland Golf Park
1200 Long Island Ave., Edgewood. 631-667-7400.
3. Farmingdale Golf Center
1024 Broadhollow Rd., Farmingdale. 631-694-4666.
Nursery School
1. Temple Sinai Nursery School
425 Roslyn Rd., Roslyn Heights. 516-621-8708. www.templesinairoslyn.com
Two-time Best Of LI winner Temple Sinai’s philosophy is “play is children’s work,” which is a motto we try to institute here at the Press as often as possible (unfortunately our staff is full of adults). To implement this idea, the school provides a relaxed atmosphere and a fun environment which allows kids to work individually and in small groups, providing them with an early boost of self-esteem.
2. Rainbow Chimes
320 Broadway/Greenlawn Rd., Huntington. 631-427-6300. www.rainbowchimes.org
3. Temple Emanuel of East Meadow
123 Merrick Ave., East Meadow. 516-794-8417. www.templeemanueleastmeadow.com
Park
1. Eisenhower Park
Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-572-0348.
Eisenhower Park had some stiff competition, between the beautiful southern shore at Jones Beach State Park and the gorgeous green meadows of Bethpage State Park. But Eisenhower takes the best parts of both runner ups—the various fields at Jones Beach and the golf course at Bethpage—and combines them, then adds lush greeneries to complete the scene.
2. Jones Beach State Park
1 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh. 516-785-1600.
3. Bethpage State Park
99 Quaker Meeting House Rd., Farmingdale. 516-249-0701.
Public Garden
1. Old Westbury Gardens
71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. 516-333-0048. www.oldwestburygardens.org
Westbury Gardens turns a half-century old this year and, if we’re being honest here, it’s never looked better. In fact, the Gardens are so nice that they’re listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds are in fantastic shape, and you can see for yourself on one of the many tours offered there.
2. Planting Fields Arboretum
1395 Planting Fields Rd., Oyster Bay. 516-922-9200. www.plantingfields.org
3. Bayard Cutting Arboretum
PO Box 466, Oakdale. 631-581-1002. www.bayardcuttingarboretum.com
Teacher
1. Sandi Vanderpool
100 Washington Ave., Plainview. 516-937-6393.
LI has quite a few schools, and therefore quite a few teachers. So to win the Best Of award for being the best teacher, you know Sandi Vanderpool is no slouch. The Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School teacher is known for working closely with her students and advises them outside of the classroom as well.
2. Christina Semple
3. Amy Gallo
Video Arcade
1. Bayville Adventure Park
8 Bayville Ave., Bayville. 516-624-7433.
www.bayvilleamusementpark.com
Whether you’re 8 in actual age or maturity, Bayville Adventure Park has something for everyone to enjoy. The park features an 18-hole mini golf course, bumper boats, rock climbing, a funhouse, slides, an adventure maze and more. There is food and beverage available and kids are welcome to get the birthday party on too.
2. Adventureland
2245 Rte. 110., Farmingdale. 631-694-6868. www.adventureland.us
3. Nathan’s Famous Restaurant
1400 Old Country Rd., Westbury.
National. Dave & Buster’s
261 Airport Plaza Blvd., Farmingdale. 631-249-0708. www.daveandbusters.com
BEST OF FOOD AND RESTAURANTS
All-You-Can Eat
1. DJ’s International Buffet
1100 Stewart Ave., Garden City. 516-227-2472.
This Asian all-you-can-eat, a two-time Best Of LI winner, has added sushi and a variety of Chinese-style soups, and there’s sliced Peking duck, large crab, and on weekends, lobster in ginger sauce. As if there wasn’t enough before.
2. Minado
219 Glen Cove Rd., Carle Place. 516-294-9541. www.minado.com
3. New Grand Buffet
1704 Veterans Hwy., Islandia. 631-582-3888
National. Old Country Buffet
3023 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516- 731-4533
1701 Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore. 631-969-3943. www.buffet.com
Bagels
1. Bagel Boss
Multiple Locations
With more locations than there are varieties of bagels, this home-baked chain still has lines out the door with good reason. The bagels are consistently crispy on the outside and chewy-soft inside and the appetizing counters turn their assortment over quickly due to the sheer volume of business, making for fresher lox and other smoked fish. In 2008, Bagel Boss was a Best of the Best winner (a top-10 vote-getter overall) and they dominated this category yet again.
2. A & S Bagels
761 Hempstead Tpke., Franklin Square 516-326-9288
3. Bagel Chalet
36 Vets Hwy., Commack. 631-499 9820
National. Strathmore Bagels
Multiple Locations
Bakery
1. Dortoni Bakery
3264 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-796-3033. www.dortonibakery.com
There’s good reason that many of LI’s top caterers turn to three-time Best Of LI winners Dortoni for their cakes and pastries. They boast artfully designed baked goods, including a wide assortment of European style tortes and famous Barbie cakes for children’s parties, plus everyday pleasures like giant chocolate chip cookies, carrot cake and red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese icing and soft crusty rolls and breads.
2. Cardinali
461 Westbury Ave., Carle Place. 516-496-2489
3. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
Barbecue
1. Smokin’ Al’s Famous BBQ Joint
19 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-206-3000.
4847 Merrick Rd., Massapequa Park. 516-799-4900. www.smokinals.com
Smokin’ Al Horowitz is one of the pioneers of the LI BBQ scene and his two smokin’ joints show why. Six-time winner in two different Best Of LI categories, his giant meaty St. Louis ribs are superb, crispy Burnt Ends ARE sinful, and even shrimp get a fine smoky treatment, all in funky, jazzed-up rooms perfect for rolling up your sleeves and chowing down.
2. Zorn’s
4321 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516-731-5500. 1939 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-357-7300.
3. Adam’s Rib
753 W. Montauk Hwy., West Babylon. 631-587-4623.
National. Famous Dave’s
1060 Corporate Dr., Westbury. 516-832-7300; 716 Smithtown Bypass, Smithtown. 631-360-6490. www.famousdaves.com
Beer Selection
1. Croxley Ales
7 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre. 516-764-0470; 190 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-293-7700; 129 New Hyde Park Rd., Franklin Square. 516-326-9542. www.croxley.com
So proud are these four-time Best Of LI winners of the enormous variety of beers at this trio of British-flavored sports bars that they make it a point to inform newcomers of the lack of Bud or Miller right on the sacred beer menu. That’s right, a beer menu of more than 60 ales, lagers, pilsners and stouts, plus a collection of beautiful working taps on display and connected to a massive system creating beer heaven for hops heads.
2. RC Dugans
2314 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-520-0325. www.rcdugans.com
3. Canterbury Ales Oyster Bar & Grille
46 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. 516-922-3614. www.canterburyalesrestaurant.com
National. Miller’s Ale House
3046 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-520-7000. www.millersalehouse.com
Breakfast
1. Maureen & Daughters Kitchen
108 Terry Rd., Smithtown. 631-360-9227.
Cow décor may be everywhere you look, but breakfast as an art form is the reason this place exists. Omelets, pancakes, stuffed French toast with warmed syrup and famous baked oatmeal are perfect for your palate. This is the fourth year in a row in which Maureen & Daughters took home the gold in this competetive category.
2. Thomas’s Ham & Eggery Diner
325 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-333-3060
3. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
National. International House of Pancakes
Multiple Locations. www.ihop.com
Brunch
1. Milk and Sugar Café
49 W Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-4430. www.milkandsugarcafe.com
You might not guess it to look at this cozy parlor of a shop, but for just $15.95 on Sundays, you can consume all you care to from an impressive roster of delicious freshly made waffles, pancakes, pastries, grilled sausages and rashers of bacon, in addition to omelet and carving stations normally found at big hotel brunches. Furthermore, they are five-time winners in three different Best Of LI categories.
2. Three Village Inn
150 Main St., Stony Brook. 631- 751-0555. www.threevillageinn.com
3. Hemingway’s
1885 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516- 781-2700. www.hemingwaysgrill.com
Burger
1. All-American Burger
4286 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-798-9574
A perennial favorite of old and young alike, they’ve been slinging burgers here since the Kennedy administration, and after 45 years and countless burger clowns and kings, little has changed, thank goodness. This is their fourth (yes, fourth) year atop our Best Burger category (they also took home the prize in Fries). Their beef is still fresh ground, patties pounded daily and prices remain low. The “double-double” two-patty cheeseburger may well be enshrined in Long Island’s DNA.
2. Cheeburger Cheeburger
12 Manetto Hill Rd., Plainview. 516-939-2237 www.cheeburger.com
3. Five Guys Burger and Fries
Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516- 796-1237
2-4 W. Park Ave., Long Beach. 516- 431-1999. www.fiveguys.com
Catering Hall
1. Fox Hollow
7725 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-912-1415. www.thefoxhollow.com
This English-styled country estate, adorned with eclectic gardens, streams and waterfalls is “A World Apart” in their pursuit of exclusivity for every banquet they host.
2. Oheka Castle
135 W. Gate Dr., Huntington. 631-692-2707. www.oheka.com
3. Villa Lombardi’s
877 Main St., Holbrook. 631-471-6609. www.villalombardis.com
Chinese
1. Kwong Ming
3342 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh. 516-221-0480.
Since 1962, this old-school mainstay has provided solid Cantonese cuisine to generations of South Shore families who appreciate the time-warped nostalgic trip back to an era before suburban menus included regional Hunan, Shanghai and Hong Kong dishes, not to mention sushi bars.
2. The Orient
623 Hicksville Rd., Bethpage. 516-822-1010.
3. Fortune Wheel
3601 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516- 579-4700.
National. P.F. Chang’s China Bistro
The Mall At The Source, 1504 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-222-9200. www.pfchangs.com
Chinese Take Out
1. Hunan Dynasty
2993 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-731-0300.
Take-out or dine-in at this clean, sleek strip mall Chinese restaurant from a long list of Cantonese and Hunan favorites and an equally impressive Japanese menu of special rolls and low-priced sushi. Lunch specials are available until 4 p.m. This is the second gold medal in a row for this Best Of LI winner.
2. Foo Luck
122 Commack Rd., Commack. 631-499 1512. wwwfooluck.com
3. Empire Szechuan
6600 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-931-3663
Coffee House
1. Milk and Sugar Café
49 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-4430. www.milkandsugarcafe.com
With a comfortable ambiance that emulates your mother’s living room, this ever-popular coffeehouse is less for the art crowd and is more reminiscent of the quintessential tea rooms of yesteryear.
2. Witches Brew
311 Hempstead Tpke., West Hempstead. 516-489-9482.
3. Classy Coffee
20 Clinton Ave., Huntington. 631-421-5745. www.classycoffee.com
Cup of Coffee
1. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
We Long Islanders are serious about our cawfee. Witness the seemingly epidemic growth of Dunkin’ Donuts everywhere you look, even in gas stations, giving new meaning to a fill-up. No one seems to like the strong, bitter Starbucks brews, but they’re ubiquitous as well. At this friendly neighborhood bakery/luncheonette, where a world of sweets and sandwiches eclipses the deep-fried dough of DDs, the rich taste of their gourmet house blend falls nicely between the two national chains’ brews. Roasted by importer Bean & Brew, in a warehouse in Hicksville, dozens of flavors are available in bags, or they may turn up as daily offerings such as Vanilla Marshmallow or Nutty Irishman.
2. Classy Coffee
20 Clinton Ave., Huntington. 631-421-5745
3. Cool Beanz
556 N. Country Rd, St. James. 631-862-4111.
National. Dunkin’ Donuts
Multiple Locations. www.dunkindonuts.com
Delicatessen
1. Iavarone Brothers
1538 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park. 516-488-5600; 729 W. Jericho Tpke, Huntington. 631-367-4600; 1166 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-781-6400. www.ibfoods.com
Top quality meats, from steaks to prosciutto, have made these Italian delis perennially popular—in fact, this is their fourth year in a row winning the top prize in this category—and worth the drive from anywhere. Fresh baked bread, freshly made cheese, sausages and just-off-the-boat seafood have made these salumerias an LI institution.
2. Gemelli’s
115 E. Main St., Babylon. 631-321-4515. wwwgemellis.com
3. Kitchen Kabaret
409 Glen Cove Rd., Roslyn Heights. 516-484-3320. 87 Saxon Ave., Bay Shore. 631-328-1440. www.kitchenkabareteast.com
Dessert Place
1. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
Where better for dessert than an immense bakery with a café inside? This friendly, neighborhood gathering place has quickly become an institution through the loving presence of sisters Rose Fuger and Monica Tarantino, along with mother Nancy, who offer all things sweet and comforting. Everywhere you look, glass cases hold fresh baked jelly doughnuts, chocolate soufflé cake, whipped cream and pineapple-stuffed pecan rings, lemon drops, awesome cheese Danish and the nostalgic Charlotte Russe. They even have dozens of varieties of creamy gelato, homemade nonpareils and other chocolates and large mounds of chocolate-drizzled popcorn
2. Milk and Sugar Café
49 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-3655. www.milkandsugarcafe.com
3. Krisch’s Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlour
11 Central Ave., Massapequa. 516-797-3149. www.krischs.com
National. Cheesecake Factory
1504 Old Country Rd., Mall at the Source, Westbury. 516-222-5500; 160 Walt Whitman Rd., Walt Whitman Mall, Huntington. 631-271-8200; 610 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove. 631-361-6600. www.thecheesecakefactory.com
Diner
1. Peter Pan Diner
Sunrise Hwy & Bay Shore Rd., Bay Shore. 631-665-1788. www.peterpandiner.org
For more than 40 years, owners Gus, Peter and Nick have made this popular spot a part of the community by serving the traditional diner fare that Long Islanders expect while changing with the times. In addition to the typical offerings, these four-time Best Of LI winners have expanded the menu to include, panini, quesadillas, low-carb options and wraps like the Gobble Gobble with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy.
2. Massapequa Diner
4420 Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa. 516- 799-5234.
3. Plainview Diner
1094 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-822-0766. www.plainviewdiner.com
Dinner Deal
1. Villa Napoli
82 W. Main St., Smithtown. 631-724-8787.
Generous bowls of pasta and platters of chicken in every form, all around the $12 mark, and everything’s homemade, even the salad dressings. No wonder the general public fills this place all week, but especially on Monday and Tuesday nights, when the pasta special includes garlic bread, salad, coffee and dessert.
2. East Bay Diner
2405 Merrick Rd., Bellmore. 516-781-5000. 3360 Merrick Rd., Seaford. 516-781-5300. www.eastbayny.com
3. Vittorio’s Restaurant & Wine Bar
184 Bdwy., Amityville. 631-264-3333. www.vittorios.com
National. Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse
Multiple Locations. www.charliebrowns.com
Egg Sandwich
1. Bagel Boss
Multiple Locations www.bagelboss.com
With a baker’s dozen of locations, our home-baked bagel boys bring new dimensions to our regional breakfast staple. Offering scores of hot-from-the-oven bagels, bialys and even flagels to surround your scrambled or fried eggs, eggs-actly the way you want it.
2. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
3. Figarelly’s Deli
593 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow. 516-542-9839.
Farm Stand
1. Briermere Farms
4414 Sound Ave., Riverhead. 631-722-3931. www.briermere.com
Driving out to this farm stand to stock up on their famously delicious pies is an LI holiday season tradition. And the jams, jellies and fresh produce offered by these four-time Best Of LI winners are just an added bonus.
2. White Post Farms of Melville
250 Old Country Rd., Melville. 631-351-9373. www.whitepostfarms.com
3. Wickham’s Fruit Farm
28700 Route 25, Cutchogue. 631-734-6441. www.wickhamsfruitfarm.com
French Fries
1. All-American Burger
4286 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-798-9574. allamericanhamburgers.us
They’ve been setting themselves apart from the big chains for years by relying on the basics—simply peeling, slicing and frying quality potatoes into crispy, crunchy mouthfuls best enjoyed in, on or around your car like its 1959 all over again. This is the amazing fourth year in a row for them atop our Best Fries category…and it is well deserved.
2. Nathan’s Famous
Multiple Locations. www.nathansfamous.com
3.Waterzooi
850 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-877-2177. www.waterzooi.com
National. Checker’s
Multiple Locations. www.checkers.com
Greek Restaurant
1. Mediterranean Snack Bar
360 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-423-8982. www.medsnackbar.com
To the unsuspecting diner, this easy-as-can-be Huntington Village landmark looks like just another gyro-slicing joint. But this four-time Best Of LI winner has been impressing the stomachs of townies and locavores alike with simply grilled fresh fish from the owner’s boat and vegetables from his garden, plus reasonable prices making it well worth the wait for a table.
2. Ayhan’s Shish Kebab
Multiple Locations. www.ayhans.com
3. The Greek Grill of Huntington
1151 E. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631- 421-3031
Happy Hour
1. The Nutty Irishman
60 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-969-9700; 323 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-293-9700. www.thenuttyirishman.com
With Friday Happy Hour specials that run all night, three-for-one Miller Lites during Monday Wing Night, Mexican specials on Tuesdays, and two-fers on all drinks on Thursdays, it’s not hard to see why these five-time winners (in four different categories) pack ’em in.
2. Mulcahy’s Pub & Concert Hall
3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. 516-783-7500; 1702 Middle Country Rd., Centereach. 631-696-1111; 160 Adams Ave., Hauppauge. 631-952 -1111. www.muls.com
3. Honu Kitchen & Cocktails
363 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-421-6900. www.honukitchen.com
Healthy Eatery
1. The Healthy Eatery Café & Caterers
356 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-496-3344. 1163 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-783-5300. www.thehealthyeatery.com
“Put down that burger,” they exclaim here, where healthy is not radically vegan, but instead as casual and accessible as the fro-yo shop it started out as. With a daily roster of soups, large salads, wraps, subs and panini, this counter is a busy alternative to all the ubiquitous delis and fast food joints.
2. Tiger Lily Café
156 E. Main St., Port Jefferson. 631-476-7080. www.tigerlilycafe.com
3. Tula Kitchen
41 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-539-7183. www.tulakitchen.com
National. Panera Bread
Multiple Locations. www.panerabread.com
Health Food
1. Wild By Nature
Multiple locations. www.wildnature.com
This local chain, seven-time Best Of LI winners in three different categories, believes food should support life, promote well-being and protect the world’s natural resources. So they offer only the freshest, most delicious, wholesome foods and highest-quality natural healthcare products available.
2. Sherry’s The Healthy Gourmet
89 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-661-5552. www.sherryshealth.com
(Tie) 3. Dr. B Well Naturally
8 Washington Ave., Plainview. 516-932-9355.
(Tie) 3. Rising Tide Natural Market
42 Forest Ave., Glen Cove. 516-676-7895. www.risingtidemarket.com
National. Trader Joe’s
Multiple locations. www.traderjoes.com
Ice Cream
1. Krisch’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlour
11 Central Ave., Massapequa. 516-797-3149. www.krischs.com
For over 50 years at this location—and starting in 1925 in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn at the original—Krisch’s has been the quintessential neighborhood ice cream parlor and old-fashioned soda fountain with a long menu of homemade ice cream, including new flavors like Peppermint Bark and Egg Nog (they’ve been Best Of LI winners in this category three times). Sure, you can get a cone to go, but why would you not want to savor the whole experience tucked into a big booth?
2. Northport Sweet Shop
55 Main St., Northport. 631-261-3748
3. Coyle’s Homemade Ice Cream
75 Howells Rd., Bay Shore. 631- 666-2229; 509 Main Street, Islip, NY – 631- 617-5014. www.coylesislip.com. www.bayshorecoyles.com
National. Coldstone Creamery
Multiple Locations www.coldstonecreamery.com
Indian Restaurant
1. Curry Club
10 Woods Corner Rd., East Setauket. 631-751-4845; 2811 Middle Country Rd., Lake Grove. 631-580-1777. www.curryclubli.com
The popular East Setauket original, now joined by its new Lake Grove spin-off, offers quality Indian fare—Northern, Western and Southern—including Dosas, with many vegetarian options, in an upscale atmosphere. Three-time Best Of LI winners, the Velvet Lounge at their flagship location has a lively bar scene and the lunch buffet is hard to beat.
2. House of India
256B Main St., Huntington. 631-271-0059. www.houseofindiarestaurant.com
3. Akbar
2 South St., Garden City. 516-357-8300. www.theakbar.com
Italian Restaurant
1. Vincent’s Clam Bar
179 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-742-4577. www.vincentsclambar.com
Ever since they opened this branch of the 100-year-old Little Italy original, across from Roosevelt Field, it has been a destination for cravers of their “World Famous” sauce. Equally known far and wide for their fried calamari doused with the sauce in various degrees of spiciness, they make a fine veal or chicken parmigiana and other Italian comfort foods.
2. Ciao Baby
246 Voice Rd., Carle Place. 516-248-7600; 50-74 Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa. 516-799-5200; 204 Jericho Typke., Commack. 631-543-1400. www.ciaobabyrestaurant.com
3. Mamma Lombardi’s
400 Furrows Rd., Holbrook. 631-737-0774.
Jarred Pasta Sauce
1. Vincent’s Clam Bar
179 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-742-4577. www.vincentsclambar.com
This secret Old World recipe has remained the same since it was first created more than 100 years ago. From mild to hot, with marinara, vodka, Fra Diavlo and kid’s sauces to choose from, it brings the taste of Little Italy home.
2. Iavarone Bros.
1538 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park. 516-488-5600; 1166 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-781-6400; 729 W. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-367-4600. www.ibfoods.com
3. Lombardi’s Market
105 S. Main St., Holbrook. 631-737-8470. www.lombardismarket.com
Local Winery
1. Pindar Vineyards Winery & Pavilion
39935 Route 25, Peconic. 631-734-6200. www.pindar.net
Pindar have taken home Best Of LI honors four times. And with good reason. At 550 acres, with 16 different vinifera varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and lesser known varieties such as Viognier and Syrah and producing more than 60,000 cases of fine varietal wines, this is Long Island’s largest vineyard.
2. Martha Clara Vineyard
6025 Sound Ave., Riverhead. 631-298-0075. www.marthaclaravineyards.com
3. Duckwalk Vineyeards
231 Montauk Hwy., Water Mill. 631-726-7555. www.duckwalk.com
Lunch Deal
1. Ciao Baby
246 Voice Rd., Carle Place. 516-248-7600; 50-74 Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa. 516-799-5200; 204 Jericho Tpke., Commack. 631-543-1400. www.ciaobabyrestaurant.com
Known for their enormous portions, they do a brisk lunch biz at all three of these Rat Pack-y rooms full of pretend wise guys and small fries gobbling up satisfying bowls of pasta and wraps huge enough for two and the doggie bag. They’ve scored well in Best Of LI competitions in years past, and placed in three categories this year.
2. Zorn’s Chicken
4321 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516-731-5500; 1939 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow, 516-357-7300; 2495 Merrick Rd., Bellmore. 516- 826-8000. www.zornschicken.com
3. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
National. Panera Bread
Multiple Locations. www.panerabread.com
Luncheonette
1. 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, daily comfort-food Blue Plate specials like pot roast and meat loaf, plus Belgian waffles and giant omelets for breakfast. This is Munday’s third time being voted Best Of LI.
2. Krisch’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlour
11 Central Ave., Massapequa. 516-797-3149. www.krischs.com
3.A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
National. Panera Bread
Multiple Locations. www.panerabread.com
Mediterranean
1. Mediterranean Snack Bar
360 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-423-8982. www.medsnackbar.com
Guiltless feasting on simply grilled fish, large salads, spinach pie and stuffed grape leaves is the timeless beauty of the Med-style diet. For others, lamb, veal souvlaki and sausages fill the bill at this casual Huntington institution.
2. Wild Fig
829 Franklin St.,Garden City. 516-739-1002;
167 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516- 656-5645. www.wildfigonline.com
3. Santorini
133 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516-867-5175
Mexican
1. Besito
402 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-549-0100; 1516 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. 516-484-3001 www.besitomex.com
Thank God for this duo of modern Mexican places, which also won Best Of LI honors in ’08, that helped drag Long Island out of the taco/burrito/nacho doldrums. With high-end tequilas helping to fill the lively bars, and tableside-made guacamole, as well as creatively prepared entrees that move past the drowned-in-cheese and refried-bean preparations that the ’rita and fajita joints call “food,” we can at last have what the western half of the country has been enjoying for decades.
2. Don Juan
535 Old Country Rd., Westbury. 516-333-1020; 4899 Merrick Rd., Massapequa Park. 516-798-1172. www.donjuanny.com
3. Don Ricardo’s
94 E. Main St., Babylon. 631-587-0122
www.donricardos.com
Off-Site Catering
1. Iavarone Bros.
1538 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park. 516-488-5600; 1166 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-781-6400; 729 W. Jericho Tpke., Huntington. 631-367-4600. www.ibfoods.com
From prime meats, freshly caught seafood, abundant fresh produce and imported delicacies from around the world, for 80 years this Old World-style salciceria has provided hundreds of gourmet offerings, specializing in Italian fare, with some of the freshest, finest and hardest to find ingredients.
2. Vincent’s Clam Bar
179 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-742-4577. www.vincentsclambar.com
3. Zorn’s
4321 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516-731-5500; 1939 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-357-7300; 2495 Merrick Rd., Bellmore. 516-826-8000. www.zornschicken.com
Pizza
1. The Original Umberto’s of New Hyde Park
633 Jericho Tpke., New Hyde Park. 516-437-7698; 1180 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-221-5696. www.originalumbertos.com
This is the fourth year that Umberto’s has taken home Best Of LI honors. Pizza fanatics around the country recognize the original Umberto’s in New Hyde Park as the birthplace of the Grandma slice, but the Sicilian continues to blow away the competition with its crispy crust and perfect ratio of tomatoes and quality mozzarella.
2. Little Vincent’s Pizza
329 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-423-9620; 324 Smithtown Blvd., Lake Ronkonkoma. 631-981-9631.
3. La Piazza
1137 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-938-0800; 2191 Merrick Rd., Merrick. 516-546-2500. www.lapiazzaonline.com
Restaurant
1. Vincent’s Clam Bar
179 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-742-4577. www.vincentsclambar.com
Italian food is so prevalent on Long Island that to many, “Let’s go eat” means one thing: pizza-pasta-parm. Vincent’s offers all of the above plus a range of new and old dishes in a convivial atmosphere evoking the old days in Little Italy, steps from the busiest intersection in both counties, making this a popular choice: They have won five Best Of LI awards, in four different categories.
2. Ciao Baby
246 Voice Rd., Carle Place. 516-248-7600; 50-74 Sunrise Hwy., Massapequa. 516-799-5200; 204 Jericho Typke., Commack. 631-543-1400. www.ciaobabyrestaurant.com
3. Teller’s American Chophouse
605 Main St., Islip. 631-277-7070. www.tellerschophouse.com
Restaurant With A Water View
1. Mill Pond House
437 E. Main St., Centerport. 631-261-7663. www.millpondrestaurant.com
Overlooking an oil painting-like view of beautiful Mill Pond, this upscale roadhouse discredits the widely held axiom that a great view equals mediocre food. The expertly grilled steaks and creatively prepared fresh seafood served in handsome rooms with a view and an expansive deck and Tiki bar for summer evenings make it a welcome success. Press readers know it, too: This is the second year in a row that Mill Pond walks away with top honors in this category.
2. Lombardi’s On the Sound
Port. Jefferson Country Club, 44 Fairway Dr., Port. Jefferson. 631-473-1440. www.lombardisonthesound.com
3. Louie’s Oyster Bar & Grill
395 Main St., Port. Washington. 516-883-4242. www.louiesoysterbarandgrille.com
Ribs
1. Smokin’ Al’s Famous BBQ Joint
19 W. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-206-3000; 4847 Merrick Rd., Massapequa Park. 516-799-4900. www.smokinals.com
Al’s Specialty Baby Backs are rubbed and sauced until off-the-bone tender and not overly wet. This is his fourth time bringing home the Best Of LI gold in this category. His St. Louie Grand Backs are larger and smoked for half a day to the same tenderness, and his Flintstonian Monster Beef Bones are hefty specimen perfect for the carnivore within.
2. The Spare Rib
2098 Jericho Tpke., Commack. 631-543-5050; 600 W. Old Country Rd., Hicksville. 516-433-5252. www.spareribonline.com
3. Zorn’s Chicken
4321 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516- 731-5500; 1939 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-357-7300; 2495 Merrick Rd., Bellmore. 516- 826-8000. www.zornschicken.com
National. Famous Dave’s
1060 Corporate Dr., Westbury. 516-832-7300; 716 Smithtown Bypass, Smithtown. 631-360-6490. www.famousdaves.com
Romantic
1. Three Village Inn
150 Main St., Stony Brook. 631-751-0555. www.threevillageinn.com
Two-time winners, soon to undergo a major upgrade as Mirabelle restaurant (another Best Of LI winner), bring their top-rated French cuisine and well-known name to these quarters. No doubt the lovely environs will maintain the warmth that has made this country inn a destination for couples yearning for a quiet candlelit meal.
2. Palm Court at the Carltun
Eisenhower Park, E. Meadow. 516-542-0700. www.thecarltun.com
3. Mirabelle
404 N. Country Rd., St. James. 631-584-5999. www.restaurantmirabelle.com
Seafood
1. Riverbay Seafood Bar & Grill
700 Willis Ave., Williston Park. 516-742-9191 www.riverbayrestaurant.com
For 20 years this has been the place for exceptional seafood on LI despite its considerable distance from either shore. With a recent redo, the old-time image remains, now updated to include the requisite sushi bar to go with the crowd-pleasing menu of fresh, creatively presented seafood, making this the favorite it is: a three-time Best Of LI winner.
2. H20 Seafood Grill
215 W. Main St., Smithtown. 631-361-6464. www.h2oseafoodgrill.com
3. Coolfish
6800 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-3250.
National. Legal Seafood
630 Old Country Rd., Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City. 516-248-4600; 160 Walt Whitman Rd., Walt Whitman Mall, Huntington Station. 631-271-9777. www.legalseafoods.com
Soup
1. The Kozy Kettle
366 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-547-5388. www.kozykettle.com
A leader in the soup revolution that has made this category necessary, Kozy Kettle continues to purvey a daily roster of sustaining soups, chowders and bisques, along with their trademark free popovers to a town full of loyal patrons. Grilled Chicken and Corn Chowder is the perfect light meal.
2. A Taste of Home
1992 N. Jerusalem Rd., North Bellmore. 516-.486-1670. www.atasteofhomebakery.com
3. NY Soup Exchange
945 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-742-7687
National. Panera Bread
Mulitple Locations www.panerabread.com
Specialty Slice
1. Mamma Lombardi’s (Brooklyn Slice)
400 Furrows Rd., Holbrook. 631-737-0774. www.mamalombardis.com
The Brooklyn slice at this insanely popular spot is a hefty triangle, almost as thick as a Sicilian, but with a nicely browned crust redolent of olive oil. Crushed plum tomatoes and shredded mozzarella are mingled with liberal doses of parmesan and garlic and finished with fresh basil leaves making for a one-slice meal for only three bucks.
2. Portofino Ristorante (Lasagna Slice)
3355 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown. 516-579-3400
3. Branchinelli’s (Special Slice)
555 Route 111, Hauppauge. 631-724-6663. www.battlecats.org/branchinellis
Sports Bar
1. RC Dugans
2314 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-520-0325. www.rcdugans.com
RC Dugan’s is entering its 12th year on LI as one of the best sports bar we have to offer, and for the 2009 Best Ofs, Islanders couldn’t agree more: Dugans took home three Best Of LI awards this year, in three different categories. They’ve got more TVs than a P.C. Richard and a kitchen open later than most diners (which, according to Press readers, churns out LI’s best wings). They also offer specials during not just NFL games, but also Islanders games (they are just down the block from Nassau Coliseum). Factor in pool tables, dart boards and speed dating, and you’ve probably already stopped reading and are on your way there.
2. Mulcahy’s Pub & Concert Hall
3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh. 516-783-7500; 1702 Middle Country Rd., Centereach. 631-696-1111; 160 Adams Ave., Hauppauge. 631-952 -1111. www.muls.com
3. The Main Event
799 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-935-5120. www.themaineventny.com
National.Dave & Buster’s
Multiple Locations. www.daveandbusters.com
Sushi
1. Kotobuki
86 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-321-8387; 377 Rt. 111, Hauppauge. 631-360-3969.
1530 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. 516-621-5315
www.kotobukinewyork.com
Perennially top-rated Japanese (this is their fourth year at the top of the Best Of LI), where melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and sushi is sliced and diced and awesome, constructed rolls make long waits part of the experience.
2. Tai Show
Multiple Locations. www.taishow.com
3. Nisen/ Nisen Sushi
5032 Jericho Tpke., Commack. 631-462-1000; 7967 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-496-7000. www.nisensushi.com
Thai
1. Lemonleaf Grill
536 S. Bdwy., Hicksville. 516-939-2288; 227 Old Country Rd., Carle Place. 516-739-3666; 208 Rt. 112, Port. Jefferson Station. 631-928-8880. www.lemonleafgrill.com
For the third year in a row Lemonleaf Grill wins faves and raves for its accessible Thai food engineered for American palates that can be kicked up the hot scale on request.
2. Thai Green Leaf
27 Carmans Rd., Massapequa. 516-799-8666. 1969 Jericho Tpke., East Northport. 631-462-8666. ThaiM988.com
3. Siam Lotus Thai
1664 Union Blvd., Bay Shore. 631-968-8196. www.siamlotus.info
Vegetarian
1. Tiger Lily Café
156 E. Main St., Port. Jefferson. 631-476-7080. www.tigerlilycafe.com
Four-time Best Of LI winners, and vegetarian yes, if you don’t count the chicken and ham populating some of the wraps, but this funky, neighborhood hang, where strong coffee brews, smoothies and wheatgrass shots are downed along with a tasty menu of music and art, has a surfeit of tofu and sprouts to tempt the neediest veggie cravings.
2. Harvest On Fort Pond
11 S Emery St., Montauk. 631-668-5574. www.harvest2000.com
3. Tula Kitchen
41 E. Main St., Bay Shore. 631-539-7183. www.tulakitchen.com
Wine Bar or Cellar
1. Hudson’s Mill
5599 Merrick Rd Massapequa. 516-799-5394. www.hudsonsmill.com
With its chic style and neighborhood charm, two-time Best Of LI winner Hudson’s fashionable, friendly atmosphere buzzes, just steps from the Great South Bay. Despite the high-end feel, bottles start at $20 and there is nothing over $70.
2. Northport Tasting Room and Wine Cellar
70 Main St., Northport. 631-261-0642. www.northportwines.com
3. The Carltun Wine Cellar
Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. 516-542-0700. www.thecarltun.com
National. City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill
1080 Corporate Dr., Westbury. 516-693-5400. www.bigtimerestaurants.com
Wings
1. RC Dugans
2314 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-520-0325. www.rcdugans.com
The deep-fried wings at this spacious sports bar and lounge go for only two bits on Football Sundays and on Islander game days, and they’re large, meaty specimens whether doused in traditional hot sauce or honey and teriyaki.
2. Croxley Ales
129 New Hyde Park Rd., Franklin Square. 516-326-9542; 7-9 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre. 516-764-0470; 190 Main St., Farmingdale. 516-293-7700. www.croxley.com
3.Wings Over Farmingdale
221 Main St., Farmingdale. 516- 756-9464.
National. Hooter’s
1740 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-357-9545; 3701 Expressway Dr. N., Islandia. 631-582-2599. www.hooters.com
BEST OF GREEN
Alternative Doctor
1. Dr. James Prego
560 Main St., Suite 4, Islip. 631-650-0268. www.doctorprego.com
This naturopathic doctor offers a more holistic, personalized treatment. He is fully trained in alternative healing arts and modern medical science to provide a full range of healing through a system for improved health that avoids drugs and surgery. The emphasis is on the use of natural agents such as air, water and sunshine, as well as physical means, including manipulation and electrical stimulation.
2. Dr. Jeanne D. Brant
37 Timberpoint Dr., Northport. 631-594-1387. www.drjeanne.org
3. Dr. Sherr & Palevsky/Northport Wellness
220 Route 25A, Northport. 631-262-8505. www.northportwellnesscenter.com
Environmental Organization
1. Nature Conservancy
142 Sag Harbor Tpke., East Hampton. 631-329-7689. www.nature.org
From the Central Pine Barrens to the waters of the Great South Bay, this organization has fought to preserve more than 100,000 acres of land and water on Long Island since the 1950s. Among their chief initiatives are monitoring the wetlands for rising seawaters and helping to restore local shellfish populations.
2. Friends of the Bay
111 South St,, Suite 2, Townsend Square, Oyster Bay. 516-922-6666. friendsofthebay.org
3. Sierra Club
www.sierraclub.org/ny
Green Business
1. Gershow Recycling
Multiple locations. www.gershowrecycling.com
As one of Long Island’s oldest and most successful environmental companies, Gershow Recycling’s mission is: “Conserving the Future by Recycling the Past.” Employing more than 750 Long Islanders at six locations, each year they recycle enough cars to fill all eight lanes of the Long Island Expressway, from the Midtown Tunnel to Riverhead, in addition to the recycling of virtually every other type of waste product.
2. Earth Vital
490 Wheeler Rd., Suite 108, Hauppauge. 631-951-0222. www.captreepuretech.com
3. Shred It
206 Newtown Rd., Plainview. 631-270-1420. www.shredit.com
Organic Business
1. FeelGoods Café
412 North Country Rd., Saint James. 631-390-8545. www.feelgoodsforlife.com
Using organic and all-natural ingredients free from additives and preservatives along with meats free from antibiotics and hormones, this top-notch café aims to energize body and mind with their nutritional lunch and dinner meals available for takeout, eat-in or delivery.
2. Wild By Nature
Multiple Locations. www.wildnature.com
3. Sherry’s Healthy Gourmet
89 Deer Park Ave., Babylon. 631-661-5552. www.sherryshealth.com
National. Whole Foods Market
429 North Broadway, Jericho. 516-932-1733; 2101 Northern Blvd., Manhasset. 516-869-8900. www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Solar Business
1. Built Well Solar Corp.
3280 Sunrise Hwy., Wantagh. 516-695-1000. www.builtwellsolar.com
Built Well Solar Corp. knows that the future is green, and has the means to get LIers up to speed with the latest in solar energy equipment. The company knows the ins and outs of solar panels, and their customer service and attention to detail are unmatched. And when it comes time to reap the other benefits of solar panels (rebates from LIPA), Built Well is able to help file for the reimbursements.
2. Sunshine Solar Technologies
471 N. Broadway, Ste. 287, Jericho. 631-615-4440. www.sunshinesolartech.com
3. K-Star Solar
www.kstarsolar.com
BEST OF HEALTH & WELLNESS
Acupuncturist
1. Xiu (Sue) Juan Yang
335 Key Pl., Jericho. 516-749-2065. www.dr-yang-acupuncture.com
Myth—getting acupuncture makes you look like the Hellraiser. Fact—acupuncture is more relaxing than a water bed. Trained at the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Beijing, two-time Best Of LI winner Dr. Yang treats everything from pain management and allergies to fertility and eating disorders. She is also an acupuncture professor Mercy College and Touro College.
2. New York College of Health Professionals
6801 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 1-800-922-7337. www.nycollege.edu
3. Antoinette Ludden, AP; CA
212 South Street, Oyster Bay. 516-922-8222.
Allergist
1. Mid Island Allergy Group, P.C.
1171 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-938-7676; 500 W. Main St., Babylon. 631-669-6350. www.midislandallergy.com
Specializing in adult and pediatric allergy, asthma and immunology, Dr. Eugene Gerardi founded the Mid Island Allergy Group in 1982, and later teamed up with Dr. Myron Zitt and Dr. Greg Puglisi. Serving Long Island for more than 25 years, the team treats a laundry list of things like asthma, rhinitis, sinus disorders, food allergies, eczema, hives, and everything else that makes you uncomfortable and itchy.
2. Strauss Allergy & Asthma Therapy
1600 Stewart Ave., Ste. 310, Westbury. 516-224-4271; 283 Commack Rd., Ste. 300, Commack. 631-462-2980. www.straussallergyasthma.com
3. Paul Lang, M.D.
1 Hollow Ln., Ste. 110, New Hyde Park. 516-365-6666. www.nsalleryasthma.com
Assisted Living
1. Gurwin Jewish Geriatric Center
68 Hauppauge Rd., Commack. 631-715-2000. www.gurwin.org
The Gurwin Jewish Geriatric Center’s mission doesn’t pull any punches: Care for those who cared for us. Short and to the point. The pursuit of this mission has gained Gurwin a national reputation and recognition throughout the industry for more than a decade. It has also nabbed them top honors in this category for three years in a row.
2. The Bristal Assisted Living
99 South Service Rd., North Hills. 516-869-1300. www.thebristal.com
3. Sunrise Senior Living of Glen Cove
39 Forest Ave., Glen Cove. 516-656-0575.
Audiologist
1. Melanie Herzfeld, Au.D.
173 Froehlich Farm Blvd., Woodbury. 516-682-8288, 516-364-0011. www.earminder.com.
Two steps to better hearing: 1. Turn down the iPod (not everybody around you wants to listen to Nickelback). 2. Visit Melanie Herzfeld. Dr. Herzfeld, who could not be more affable, provides a comprehensive array of services related to prevention, evaluation, and rehabilitation of hearing impairment, and offers special services for kids and seniors, and all in between. Patients are offered a wide selection of aids, which utilize the latest and most sophisticated digital solutions.
2. H.E.A.R.S. Audiology
732 Smithtown Bypass, Ste. 301, Smithtown. 631-360-4327. www.hearsny.com
3. Long Island Audiology
1000 Northern Blvd., Great Neck. 516-482-0660. www.longislandaudiology.com
Chiropractor
1. Walter Priestley, M.D.
81 Conklin St., Farmingdale. 516-752-1007
It’s no secret all the snow shoveling so far this season puts a strain on the back. Walter Priestley’s chiropractic treatment focuses on manual therapies like spinal and soft tissue manipulation to keep the body functioning smoothly. Whiplash, lower back pain, headaches and tension are no match for this doc.
2. Janine D. Kelly, M.D.
2470 N. Jerusalem Ave., North Bellmore. 516-409-0044.
3. Joanna Fasulo, M.D.
680 Medford Ave., Patchogue. 631-289-3939.
Dentist
1. Michael Abramowitz, D.M.D.
98 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Syosset. 516-496-2111.
Most of us don’t like going to the dentist. So, when a dentist gets this many votes, it’s a pretty big deal. For the second year in a row, Dr. Mike and his incredibly helpful and friendly staff were the No. 1 pick on Long Island. By a wide, wide margin.
2. Long Island Dental Group
29 Northern Blvd., Greenvale. 516-625-2929. www.lidentalgroup.com
3. Connie C. Collura, D.M.D.
4216 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage. 516-735-3232.
Dermatologist
1. Rachel Kushner, M.D.
320 Franklin Ave., Franklin Square. 516-328-6252, 516-328-6254. www.kushnerdermatology.com.
A board-certified, specially-trained dermatologist, Dr. Kushner can fix everything from acne to wrinkles and offers skin cancer treatment, psoriasis therapy, as well as non-invasive cosmetic procedures.
2. Craig Kornreich, M.D., F.A.A.D.
2900 Hempstead Tpke., Ste. 104, Levittown. 516-520-5280; 258 Merrick Road, Oceanside, 516-766-0345; 303 E. Park Ave., Ste. E, Long Beach, 516-432-7124. www.snderm.com
3. Cameron Rokhsar, M.D., F.A.A.D., F.A.A.C.S.
901 Stewart Ave., Ste. 240, Garden City. 516-512-7616. www.cosmeticlaserskinsurgery.com
Eye Care
1. Optic Masters
8025 Jericho Tpke., Woodbury. 516-364-7474. www.opticmasters.com
Owner and licensed optician Arthur Singer and Dr. Deborah Rose provide comprehensive eye care and specialize in the latest lens technology and custom-designed eyewear, so no one will ever try to call you “four eyes” again. They also get bonus points for convenient evening, weekend and walk-in hours.
2. Stahl Eye
450 Endo Blvd., Garden City. 516-832-8000; 200 Motor Parkway, Ste D-25, Hauppauge. 631-952-8000. www.stahleyecenter.com
3. Damon Pettinelli, M.D.
865 Merrick Ave., Ste. 180N, Westbury. 516-227-3100.
Hospital
1. North Shore-LIJ Health System
Multiple locations. 516-562-0100. www.nslij.com
Forget Grey’s Anatomy, forget ER and please, everybody, forget General Hospital. The North Shore-LIJ Health System is a real hospital–it remains the largest employer on the Island, with 15 hospitals, four long-term-care facilities, four home care agencies, a hospice care network, and dozens of outreach and medical centers. LIJ docs delivered J. Lo’s twins and the first Long Island baby of 2009.
2. Winthrop University Hospital
259 First St., Mineola. 516-663-0333. www.winthrop.org
3. St. Francis Hospital
100 Port Washington Blvd., Roslyn. 516-562-6000. www.stfrancisheartcenter.com
Hypnotherapist
1. Striker Corbin Hypnosis
373 Nesconset Hwy., Hauppauge. 866-263-3879. www.strikercorbin.com
As a motivational speaker, certified hypnotist, and success coach, Striker Corbin stimulates self-improvements through humor, presentations, life coaching, and hypnosis (a pretty powerful combo if you ask us). As a former President of the NYC National Speakers Association, Corbin speaks to organizations about employee motivation, productivity, sales, and morale.
2. Judith Rose, RN, LCSW, CHT, Hypnotherapist
429 Montauk Hwy., East Quogue. 631-653-8664. www.hypnosisbyjrose.com
3. Advanced Hypnotherapy
1000 Main St., Ste. D, Port Jefferson. 631-473-0405. www.clinicalhypnotism.com
Laser Treatment Center
1. Skin Deep
999 Walt Whitman Rd., 3rd Fl., Ste. 303, Melville. 631-470-9565. www.skindeepcce.com
We’re not saying it would be cool to be Benjamin Button (being wrinkly as a kid wouldn’t make you many friends on the playground), but imagine looking 20 at 70 Get as close to that as possible at Skin Deep. This beautiful medical spa offers state-of-the-art equipment, non-surgical anti-aging and skin rejuvenating laser treatments, and body contouring procedures to help you feel better about the way you look and slow the hands of time.
2. New York Cosmetic, Skin and Laser Surgery Center
901 Stewart Ave., Ste. 240, Garden City. 516-512-7616. www.cosmeticlaserskinsurgery.com
3. South Nassau Dermatology–Cosmetic Surgery
2900 Hempstead Tpke., Ste. 104, Levittown. 516-520-5280; 258 Merrick Rd., Oceanside. 516-766-0345; 303 E Park Ave., Ste. E, Long Beach, 516-432-7124. www.snderm.com
Neurologist
1. Itzhak C. Haimovic, M.D.
170 Great Neck Rd., Great Neck. 516-487-4740.
There are things that don’t require brain surgery (using a turn signal when changing lanes), and some things that do (brain surgery). Because of the latter, it’s important to have a good doctor in case you need to figure out what’s going on in that noggin. With more than 30 years of experience, and two years of taking home Best Of LI honors, Dr. Haimovic is your first pick for the second year in a row.
2. Winthrop Pediatric Neurology
120 Mineola Blvd., Mineola. 516-663-9494; 516-663-4600. www.winthrop.org
3. Neurological Surgery, P.C.
600 Northern Blvd., Ste. 118, Great Neck. 516-478-0008. www.neurosurgeryli.com
Nutritionist/Dietician
1. Peter Marchetti, M.D., Complementary Medicine Consultants
99 Jericho Tpke., Jericho. 516-695-4722. www.complementarymedicineconsultants.medem.com
Fad diets come out about as often as Amy Winehouse does something illegal, and in both cases, the end result isn’t pretty (seriously, she weight ten pounds and is missing like four teeth). With new fad diets coming and going, it’s important to have someone figure out what’s best for you. This year The Complementary Medicine Consultants made their Best of Long Island debut at the top spot.
2. Total Wellness Incorporated
160 Howells Rd., Ste. 6, Bay Shore. 631-666-4297; 580 Sunrise Hwy., West Babylon. 631-422-6876. www.twellness.net
3. Fredric J. Vagnini, M.D.
1600 Stewart Ave., Ste. 105, Westbury. 516-222-2288. www.vagnini.com
OB-GYN/Infertility
1. Jeffrey Braverman, MD FACOG, Medical Director, Sher Institute of Reproductive Medicine
800 Woodbury Rd., Ste. G, Woodbury. 516 -584-8710. www.haveababy.com
Dr. Braverman has delivered more than 6,000 babies. That’s more people than the average viewership of a Knicks game. He also specializes in patients with recurring pregnancy loss. Dr. Braverman has practiced for more than 17 years as an obstetrician/gynecologist before joining Sher Institute as Medical Director, is on staff at Winthrop University Hospital and performs ongoing infertility research.
2. Jeffrey Miller, M.D.
877 Stewart Ave., #7, Garden City. 516-794-9173.
3. Mark Pillitteri, D.O.
2017 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park. 631-242-7444.
Orthopedist
1. Richard Obedian, M.D, F.A.A.O.S.
81 N. Broadway., Hicksville. 516-933-4350. www.drobedian.com
There are two potential reasons your spine is curved—because it’s supposed to be (normal curve) or because you haven’t been to Richard Obedian’s office lately (Quasimodo curve). Three-time Best Of LI winner Dr. Obedian is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in surgery of the spine. A national speaker on a variety of orthopedic problems including back pain, kyphoplasty and osteoarthritis, he is also a published author in national medical journals.
2. David Weissberg, M.D.
175 E. Main St., Huntington. 631-351-0295.
3. Jeffrey Meyer, M.D.
30 Merrick Ave., East Meadow. 516-794-7010. www.islandsportsmedicine.com
Pediatrician
1. Kidfixers
50 Underhill Blvd., Syosset. 516-921-2122. www.kidfixer.com
Finding Nemo. Cars. The Little Mermaid. Yes, these are all animated movies, but they’re also just a small sampling of the characters painted onto the doctors coats at Kidfixers. Taking the number one spot once again, Drs. Bill Mesibov, Stuart Altman, Linda Jacobs and Marcia Rubinos—known as “the fab four”— make going to the doctor a good time, props and all. Parents come from all over Long Island to bring their kids, and when those kids go off to college, they even come back to visit. Hey, Press readers love ’em too: This is the sexcond year in a row for Kidfixers at the top of this category.
2. Elizabeth Issa Basch, M.D.
530 Old Country Rd., Ste. 1B, Westbury. 516-333-7272.
3. Lawrence B. Palevsky M.D., F.A.A.P. Northport Wellness
220 Fort Salonga Rd., Ste. 101, Northport. 631-262-8505. www.holisticchildhealth.com
Physical Therapist
1. Allied Medical & Rehabilitation, P.C.
2154 Newbridge Rd., Bellmore. 516-221-0225; 1350 Hicksville Rd., Massapequa, 516-798-2345. www.alliedmedical.org
Joints! What are they good for? Absolutely…everything actually. And if anything goes wrong with one (God knows we’ve got enough), Allied Medical & Rehabilitation is there to fix it. AM&R is a state-of-the-art multi-disciplinary practice specializing in the diagnosis and conservative management of musculoskeletal injuries. They treat conditions of the neck, back, shoulders, hands and wrists as well as the hip, knee, foot and ankle.
2. Reddy-Care Physical Therapy
475 Northern Blvd., Ste. 11, Great Neck. 516-829-0030, 516-466-7720. www.reddycare.net
3. NY Physical Therapy and Wellness
Multiple locations. www.nyphysicaltherapy.net
PLASTIC SURGERY GROUP
1. Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, PC
999 Franklin Ave., Garden City. 516-742-3404. 474 Montauk Hwy., West Islip. 631-376-0656. 960-A Park Ave., New York City. 212-879-2506. www.lipsg.com
The doctors of LIPSG have more than 200 years of combined experience in treating patients. They’ve treated more than half a million from across the country, which is about the population of Wyoming, and have trained more than 100 surgeons. Using the latest technology, these three-time Best Of LI winners have made state-of-the-art advancements in laser procedures and minimally invasive procedures.
2. New York Center for Facial Plastic & Laser Surgery
440 Northern Blvd., Great Neck. 516-773-4646. www.newyorkfacialplasticsurgery.com
3. Plastic Surgery Center of Long Island
100 E. Main St., Huntington. 631-424-4004. www.kisnerplasticsurgery.com
Psychotherapist
1. Brett Goldberg, Psy.D
230 Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck. 516-466-6440.
Dr. Goldberg is a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of anxiety and phobias, and with the economy the way it is, business must be booming (hey, someone’s got to be doing well). His accessibility to patients and positive attitude have secured him the title of Long Island’s Best Therapist two years in a row.
2. Rosof Flo Counseling
53 Jackson Ave., Huntington. 631-271-2220.
3. Dr. Loraine Alderman
302 Willis Ave., Mineola. 516-651-2003.
BEST OF NOT-FOR-PROFIT
Animal Shelter/Rescue
1. North Shore Animal League
25 Davis Ave., Port Washington. 516-883-7575. www.nsalamerica.org
This is the largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization in the world, saving the lives of close to one million puppies, kittens, cats and dogs, from Long Island and nationwide, since 1944 through adoption, rescue, spay/neuter and advocacy initiatives. North Shore Animal League’s reputation is known across the Island: This is the third year in a row for NSAL at the top of this category.
2. Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center
33 Warner Rd., Huntington. 631-368-8770. www.littleshelter.com
3. Bide-A-Wee
3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh. 516-785-4199. www.bideawee.org
Firehouse
1. East Meadow Fire Department
197 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow. 516-542-0578. www.eastmeadowfd.com
For the past 78 years these more than 240 men and woman have unselfishly served their neighbors, responding to nearly 1,500 calls in the surrounding 7.5 square miles of East Meadow, parts of Levittown and parts of Westbury, from the department’s five fire stations. This is the second year in a row for the East Meadow Fire Department at the top of this Best Of LI category.
2. Huntington Fire Department
1 Leverich Pl., Huntington. 631-423-3030.
3. Glen Cove Fire Department
10 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove. 516-676-0366. www.gcvfd.com
Local Charity
1. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island
70 Acorn Ave., Levittown. 516-731-7880. www.bbbsli.org
The work being done at Big Brothers Big Sisters of LI is some of the most profound and life-changing stuff there is. For more than 30 years, their various programs have been pairing up kids and adults, and delivering new and memorable experiences for both parties. BBBSLI’s website proudly displays statistics that show children who regularly spend time with their “big” are far less likely to veer off the path with things like drugs and alcohol. As for the “bigs” themselves, they get the satisfaction that of knowing that few things can really compare to helping a child go on to do great things. Also a Best Of LI winner in 2006 and 2007, the organization’s volunteer mentors claim to get back much more than they give.
2. LI Cares/The Harry Chapin Foodbank
10 Davids Dr., Hauppauge. 631-582-3663. www.licares.org
3. Island Harvest
199 Second St., Mineola. 516-294-8528. www.islandharvest.org
BEST OF SPORTS
All-Time Islander
1. Bob Nystrom
1535 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-501-6700. www.islanders.nhl.com
Bob Nystrom wins the award for All-Time Islander not only for his 14 seasons as a New York Islander but also for his complete emersion in his team’s hometown. Nystrom is known for his numerous donations to LI charities and endorsement of local business. The Islanders even named an award after the right-winger, The Bob Nystrom Award, to the player who “best exemplifies leadership, hustle and dedication.”
2. Mike Bossy
1535 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-501-6700. www.islanders.nhl.com
3. Bryan Trottier
1535 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-501-6700. www.islanders.nhl.com
Batting Cage
1. Baseball Plus
400 Duffy Ave., Hicksville. 516-827-5009. 123 Henry St., Freeport. 516-378-6570. www.baseballplusny.com
There’s baseball, and then there’s Baseball Plus. The sports venue is known for its range of batting cages, which include standard cages, small and large tunnels and even pitching cages with radar guns. Baseball Plus also offers camps and clinics year-round for specialized training, and boasts a roster of top-tier coaches from around the Island.
2. SportsPlex
1329 Newbridge Rd., N. Bellmore. 516-785-8855. www.sportsplexonline.com
3. Baseball Heaven
350 County Rd. 101, Yaphank. 631-205-5109. www.baseballheavenli.com
LI Duck
1. Bud Harrelson
3 Courthouse Dr., Central Islip. 631-940-DUCK. www.liducks.com
In an extremely tight race (because every LI Duck is quacktastic), Ducks first base coach, co-owner and Senior Vice President of Baseball Operations Bud Harrelson was voted as 2009’s Best LI Duck. Before the Ducks, Harrelson played shortstop for the Mets for 12 seasons, going on to manage the team for just shy of two seasons from 1990 to 1991 and was inducted into the Mets Hall of Fame in 1982.
2. Edgardo Alfonzo
3 Courthouse Dr., Central Islip. 631-940-DUCK. www.liducks.com
3. Carl Everett
3 Courthouse Dr., Central Islip. 631-940-DUCK. www.liducks.com
NY Islander
1. Rick DiPietro
1535 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-501-6700. www.islanders.nhl.com
Hopefully LIers like him after that 15-year contract he signed. Islanders goalie holds two records with the team—most saves in a game (56 against the Rangers) and most points by a goalie (14). Hopefully his string of knee injuries is over, because he was drafted number one in the 2000 NHL draft and started on the 2006 Olympic team for a reason—this guy can play hockey.
2. Bill Guerin
1535 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-501-6700. www.islanders.nhl.com
3. TIE. Chris Campoli; Mike Comrie
1535 Old Country Rd., Plainview. 516-501-6700. www.islanders.nhl.com
Bike Shop
1. Brands Cycle & Fitness
1966 Wantagh Ave., Wantagh. 1-800-649-3739. www.brandscycle.com
The folks at Brands Cycle & Fitness have been keeping LI bike riders and their modes of transportation in tip-top shape since 1954. That’s 17 years before Lance Armstrong was even born. They are also three-time winners in our Best Of LI voting. In addition to their enormous selection of bikes and gear, they offer a service shop staffed by people who know bikes like we know newspapers, and give free estimates on any repair work.
2. Bicycle Planet
540 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-364-4434. www.thebicycleplanet.com
3. Adams Cyclery
270 Larkfield Rd., E. Northport. 631-261-2881. www.adamscyclery.com
Driving Range
1. Farmingdale Golf Center SkyDrive
1024 Broadhollow Rd., Farmingdale. 631-694-4666.
SkyDrive in Farmingdale is right next to The Crazy Donkey on Route 110, but on a weekend night it wouldn’t be surprising to see equally large crowds at both places. The SkyDrive boasts a 72-stall, double-decker driving range, where the breeze can cool you in the summer and the heated stalls can keep you warm in winter. The range also has a pro shop, mini golf course and snack bar.
2. Eisenhower Park Golf Course
Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-572-0327.
3. Heartland Golf Park
1200 Long Island Ave., Edgewood. 631-667-7400. www.heartlandgolfpark.com
Fishing Supply
1. Captree Bait & Tackle
1 Captree Island, Babylon. 631-321-1716.
We are living in a booming time for pirates. And while Captree Bait & Tackle can’t turn you into the next Jack Sparrow, the shop does have everything you need to become the captain of the sea, including plenty of supplies, fishing equipment, and some of the most knowledgeable fishermen this side of Blackbeard’s Cave.
2. Sea Isle Custom Rods
495 Guy Lombardo Ave., Freeport. 516-868-8855. www.seaisletackle.com
3. Combs Bait & Tackle
74 Merrick Rd., Amityville. 631-264-3525.
National. Dick’s Sporting Goods
Multiple Locations. www.dickssportinggoods.com
Gym
1. Prana Pilates & Yoga
412 North Country Rd., St. James. 631-686-5252. www.pranapilatesandyoga.com
It seems like every gym on LI is the same—tanktop-wearing juice heads, fresh out of the tanning machine, throwing dumbbells around the place. Prana Pilates & Yoga offers classes for all ages and has a healthy schedule every day to accommodate anyone. They also have pre- and postnatal classes and massage therapy.
2. Fitness Incentive
157 Deer Park Ave., Babylon Village. 631-587-5766. www.fitnessincentive.com
3. World Gym
3728 Park Ave., Wantagh. 516-826-5555. www.worldgym.com/wantagh
National. New York Sports Club.
Multiple Locations. www.mysportsclubs.com
Marina
1. Danford’s Marina
25 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson. 631-928-5200. www.danfords.com
Danford’s Marina not only has an exceptional hotel to put yourself up for a few nights, but they have a gorgeous marina to show your boat some love. And with gas and diesel refueling, water, electricity, cable TV and internet access, why not throw a boat party too?
2. West Shore Marina
100 West Shore Rd., Huntington. 631-427-3444.
3. Amity Harbor Marina
30 Merrick Rd., Amityville. 631-842-1280. www.amityharbormarine.com
Martial Arts
1. East Coast Black Belt
161 Middle Country Rd., Middle Island. 631-924-2900. www.ecblackbelt.com
East Coast Black Belt has been training LI’s karate kids since 1989. The dojo has programs for all ages, and offers instruction in several different styles of martial arts. Their newly-added kickboxing classes add a kick to their already robust offerings, and they’ve even been featured in The New York Times.
2. Dynasty Martial Arts & Fitness
3099 N. Jerusalem Rd., Levittown. 516-579-1858.
3. Jeff Lovering’s Goshinkan Dojo
1754 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516-223-7233. www.2be-safe.com
National. Tiger Schulman’s Karate
Multiple Locations. www.tsk.com
Public Golf Course
1. Bethpage State Park
Powell Ave., Farmingdale. 516-249-0700. nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/info.asp?parkID=67
Bethpage State Park hosted the U.S. Open Championship in 2002 and is hosting again in 2009 for a reason—its golf course is a work of art. (It also happened to take first place in our Best Public Golf Course category in 2008, and repeated this year.) Five courses of prime fairways, bunkers and greens, and you could play them all and pay less than some other private clubs charge for one round of 18 holes.
2. Eisenhower Park
Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow. 516-572-0327.
3. Crab Meadow Golf Course
220 Waterside Rd., Northport. 631-757-8800. www.crabmeadow.com
Editor’s Picks
Best LIRR Station: Hicksville Newbridge Road. (Rte. 106) and W. Barclay St., Hicksville. 516-822-LIRR.
There are more than 100 LIRR stations in total, so what would it take to be the best? Make a mental list of the things that matter most at a railroad station, and the Hicksville branch of the LIRR meets all of them. Proximity—the station is almost equidistant from the northern and southern ends of the Island, and less than two miles south of the LIE and Northern State Parkway. Train frequency—the Ronkonkoma, Port Jefferson and Montauk lines run through Hicksville, meaning trains to Penn Station run through every half hour, and getting a train back at ungodly hours on the weekend isn’t an issue. Food—besides the little newsstand near the automatic ticket machines, there is a Dunkin’ Donuts right next to the station. Travel time—a local train to Penn Station takes about 45 minutes, and the express train can do the trip in 35. Parking—for a place like Hicksville, a bona fide LIRR hub, there really should be more parking than there is, but like clockwork, after five minutes of snaking through the main lot’s three lanes, a spot always appears. If only it wasn’t so windy standing on the platform.
Best Nude Beach: Lighthouse Beach Bay Shore
For an island with more than 100 miles of beaches, Long Island does not have many nude beaches…well, official ones, that is. It’s not unusual, however, to find a playful beachgoer letting it all hang out—and while there isn’t an excessive amount of keep-your-clothes-on enforcement, you’d be hard pressed not to find a mother’s watchful eye ready to ream anyone acting inappropriately around her children. That being said there are a few “clothing optional” beaches on LI, including much of Fire Island’s Kismet and Cherry Grove and the very laid-back Jacob Riis Park in Rockaway. But for the nudist novice, Lighthouse Beach is the place to be. Also known as Robert Moses far-out Field Five, Lighthouse Beach is about a mile walk from either Kismet or Robert Moses—just west of the lighthouse. Because it is out of the way and not necessarily easy to get to, sunbathers can enjoy some privacy without too many gawkers. Beware though, there’s always that one person who walked a little far from their towel and gets an eyeful she had not expected.
Favorite Long Island Radio DJ: Malibu Sue 94.3 WMJC
Back in the ’80s, WLIR and its successor WDRE were world-famous radio stations. They were credited with introducing and supporting the new wave movement that brought us acts like U2, the Police, The Cure, and the Smiths. This connection made Long Island the leading locale in the music world. And right in the middle of it was the talented and amiable DJ, Malibu Sue. Sue McCann McCaskie has been an iconic voice on LI for years, and remains LI’s most popular radio personality today, on 94.3 WMJC. It’s nice to have a solid, hip LI pedigree with Malibu Sue.
Best Running Spot: Bethpage State Park 99 Quaker Meeting House Rd., Farmingdale.
In theory, there is no best running spot on LI, because you can run anywhere and our Island is gorgeous. That’s true, but Bethpage State Park is on another level that plain streets and tracks can only hope to achieve. An 800-meter run from exit 8 on the Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway is the main parking lot, where even on a cold Saturday morning in winter, the lot will be crowded. The path that starts there and heads south is a 7.5 mile run along the famous Bethpage golf course and the expressway, with long wooded sections throughout. There’s a wide assortment of walkers, runners and bicyclists, but regardless of how fast they’re moving or how deep a conversation they’re in, everyone gives a polite nod to everyone else. The paved path has quarter-mile markers spray painted onto it, and there are crosswalks and stop signs at intersections with major roads. None of these things are spectacular, but that’s the beauty of running at Bethpage State Park—you’ll start moving, get into a good groove and wind up further than you expected, feeling like you ran a fraction of the distance actually covered. The Bethpage path has some sort of ambient aura surrounding it, like the island on Lost. It’s worth it to drive there just to run.
Best shortcut: Ocean Parkway
There are contingencies here of course—if you’re on the LIE, looking for a way to avoid the Midtown Tunnel, well, the Ocean Parkway is going to be of little use to you (for that, try the Van Dam Street exit, and then hop on the 59th Street Bridge which is free, for the time being, and there you are). But if you’re looking to sidestep LI’s major parkways between Western Suffolk County and the Meadowbrook, the Ocean Parkway is like a lifeline sent from some benevolent divine being. You’ll do an uninterrupted 80 mph through some of the Island’s most visually striking scenery, with barely a single car anywhere in sight. Just sit back, turn up the volume, and fly.
Best Place to Sing Drunk Karaoke: Paddy Power
70 Merrick Ave., Merrick. 516-223-3900. paddypowerpub.com
Let’s be honest: Nobody wants to hear you sing. Even if you’re a good singer, most people would rather spend their night at the bar drinking, not enduring your bad taste in music. That’s why when you get the karaoke crave, it’s best to do it in a town where nobody knows you—that way, the ensuing walk of shame after your poor Sinatra rendition won’t hurt as bad. For the majority of Long Island, that town is Merrick, where at 10 p.m. on Thursdays the drunks at this real-deal Irish pub (note the futbol on TV and the bartenders’ accents) lubricate their vocal chords with a few pints of Guinness before stepping up to the mic. Unlike most karaoke nights, everyone who sings is automatically entered into a raffle for some free bar memorabilia—a nice added bonus for making a fool of oneself.
Best Public Pool: Wantagh Park Pool
1 King Rd., Wantagh. 516-571 – 7460
Continuing its reign from 2006, the Wantagh Park pool is once again being named Long Island Press’ “Best Public Pool.” From late June through Labor Day, this county-run pool invites swimmers of all ages, with facilities including an Olympics-sized pool, diving and training areas, and kiddie pool, complete with the best feature of all: two 30-foot water slides overlooking the bay. Open to both residents and non-residents, the pool is the perfect way to beat the summer heat.
The Best Place to Ride a Horse: Deep Hollow Ranch 120 E Lake Dr., Montauk. 631-668-2744. www.deephollowranch.com
There are certain parts of LI that are unequivocally horse country. From the riding stables at Hempstead Lake State Park to the rolling pastures and paddocks of East Hampton, the equestrian world is alive and remarkable. But there is one place like no other, and it has earned its reputation over the many years it has existed—Montauk’s Deep Hollow Ranch. First of all, it is the oldest ranch in the country and run by a fifth-generation rancher. It is also just about the only place you can legally ride a horse along the shore. Deep Hollow Ranch’s beautiful jaunt along the beaches of Block Island Sound will provide unforgettable vistas and give you a unique, beautiful Long Island experience that is unequaled. From the moment you arrive at Deep Hollow Ranch, you will be transported to another time in our history. The problem is, you may not want to come back.
Best Spot For Shutterbugs: Jones Beach State Park Wantagh
For both amateurs and pros, LI is a candy land of photographic opportunities. A walk through the streets of Huntington Village, a day spent out in the Hamptons, even a half hour on the ferry over to Fire Island guarantees amazing photos—but by far the best place to take pictures on LI is Jones Beach. Rich in history, color and detail, Jones Beach State Park is a photog’s dream. Even if you’re a terrible picture-taker you can’t go wrong. If you’re a people watcher or a fan of wildlife, there’s a fantastic photo waiting to happen at any time of the day and any time of the year at Jones Beach State Park.
Best Place To Break Up With Someone: Long Beach Boardwalk
It is commonly believed that if you’re going to break up with someone, you should do so in public, so that your soon-to-be-ex will be surrounded by strangers and less likely to melt down and/or kill you. And this is sound logic. But restaurants are uncomfortable and present unnecessary issues—if it’s quiet, everyone will be listening to you; you’re going to order food you’ll be too distracted to eat…and then you get to pay for it. Bars, too, are a problem: You might get the break up over with successfully, but after a few drinks…you might get back together again. No, you need a failsafe, something out in the open, but with a little anonymity: You need to take him or her to the Long Beach Boardwalk and get this damn thing over with already. You’ll be outdoors, among joggers and strollers, so it’s that much less likely you’ll be stabbed to death with his or her car key. But the waves and wind carry sound far enough so that your lame explanations—“It’s not you, it’s me and my new career path/religious beliefs/gender orientation/heroin addiction/position on monogamy/etc.”—can’t be heard by passersby. Also, once you’ve got it over and done with, you and he or she can go your separate ways—he or she to the West End, to drown his or her sorrows in the myriad bars; you to the East End, where your car is parked for a clean getaway.
The Best Place To Catch A Striped Bass: Montauk Point
The bays and ocean shores have long been a fruitful place for anglers to pursue quarry of the brine. When the earliest settlers arrived on Long Island, they were amazed at the bounty at their feet. Flounder, fluke, bluefish, weakfish, crabs—the list is long. In the end, though, it is the striped bass that is the undisputed champion of LI’s game fish. There are so many places on LI that one could catch a striped bass. Fishing from shore or boat can be effective. So, while there is never a guarantee you’ll get one—it’s called fishing, not catching—there is one place in particular to cast your line for a trophy bass. Thousands call it Mecca. We call it Montauk Point. Although not a rookie’s game, the rocks and pounding surf under the Montauk Lighthouse are the most famous striper fishing location in the country. If you can’t handle the rocks, there are plenty of open sand beaches to fish. Back-bay locations are a great bet, too. If you want to head off shore a little to try your hand, there are dozens of party boats or private charter boats to take advantage of. These guys know the waters well and will put you on fish more often than not, provided the fish are there to be found. Striper fishing takes place from the spring until late fall—April 15 to Dec. 15. Montauk Point itself is something to behold. Reeling in a fighting striper in the shadow of the lighthouse is even more magic. And purely Long Island.
Best of Long Island Results – Part 2
Best of Long Island Winners, Part 2
