Epicurious eats in Merrick, New York
Of course! Here is a detailed feature article crafted for foodies, focusing on the unique dining experiences and must-order dishes at these ten Merrick, New York establishments.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Merrick: From Rustic Italian to Classic New York Delis**
Nestled in the heart of Long Island, Merrick, New York, is more than just a picturesque suburb; it’s a hidden culinary gem waiting to be explored. This is a town where the aroma of simmering tomato sauce mingles with the salty scent of the nearby Atlantic, where the classic New York deli is not just a convenience but an institution, and where a global tour of flavors is just a short stroll down Merrick Avenue. For the discerning foodie, a journey through Merrick’s dining scene is a lesson in passion, tradition, and downright deliciousness.
Join me as we embark on a gastronomic tour of ten standout establishments, uncovering the essential dining experiences and the can’t-miss dishes that define each one.
#### **1. Mio Posto Merrick: An Intimate Italian Escape**
**Location:** 16 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Step through the doors of Mio Posto Merrick and you are immediately transported. The warm, amber-lit room, with its exposed brick and cozy booths, hums with the convivial chatter of a satisfied clientele. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a neighborhood *ristorante* in the truest sense, where the staff remembers your name and the chef’s passion is palpable in every dish. The experience is one of effortless elegance and heartfelt hospitality.
**What to Order: A Symphony of Rustic Flavors**
* **Start With:** The **Burrata**. This isn’t just any burrata. A pristine, creamy ball of fresh mozzarella filled with stracciatella is served at room temperature, allowing its rich, milky flavors to shine. It’s perched atop a vibrant basil pesto and accompanied by sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of aged balsamic glaze. The combination of textures and temperatures—cool, creamy cheese, juicy warm tomatoes, and the sharp-sweet balsamic—is a masterpiece.
* **The Main Event:** While the menu is full of stars, the **Pappardelle alla Bolognese** is a revelation. The wide, silky ribbons of house-made pasta are the perfect vehicle for a slow-simmered, deeply complex meat ragu. This is a Bolognese with soul—a testament to patience, featuring a blend of veal, pork, and beef that has cooked for hours with wine, tomatoes, and a *soffritto* of carrots, celery, and onion. It’s hearty, comforting, and profoundly satisfying.
* **Don’t Skip:** Their wood-fired pizzas are also a major draw. The **Mio Posto Pizza**, with fresh mozzarella, sausage, broccoli rabe, and roasted peppers, offers a perfect balance of savory, bitter, and sweet.
#### **2. Boswells Deli of Merrick: The Cornerstone of Comfort**
**Location:** 1828 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
If walls could talk, Boswells Deli would have a million stories to tell. This is the quintessential New York deli, a bustling, no-frills haven where the coffee is always hot, the bagels are always fresh, and the countermen work with a rhythmic efficiency that borders on art. The experience is fast-paced and authentic—the sound of the slicer, the call of order numbers, the towering displays of prepared foods. It’s a beautiful, delicious chaos.
**What to Order: A Masterclass in Deli Classics**
* **The Sandwich to End All Sandwiches:** You must order the **Hot Pastrami on Rye**. This is the benchmark. The pastrami, hand-carved to order, is a marvel—incredibly tender, perfectly spiced with a black pepper crust, and boasting just the right amount of smoky fat. It’s piled high between two slices of classic seeded rye bread. The only acceptable accompaniments are a smear of spicy brown mustard and a crisp, half-sour pickle. Each bite is a perfect harmony of salt, spice, smoke, and tang.
* **For Breakfast:** The **Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on a Roll** is a local legend. It’s simple, but the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the griddle cook make it transcendent. The bacon is crisp, the eggs are fluffy, and the cheese is perfectly melted, all nestled inside a soft, fresh Kaiser roll.
* **Pro-Tip:** Don’t overlook their extensive salad bar and hot food counter. The potato salad and macaroni salad are classic, creamy, and perfect for a summer picnic.
#### **3. San Marzano Brick Oven Pizza & Fresh Pasta: A Taste of Naples**
**Location:** 38 S Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
As the name promises, San Marzano is a temple to the holy trinity of Italian cuisine: tomatoes, dough, and cheese. The centerpiece is the magnificent brick oven, its fiery belly imparting a characteristic char and incredible flavor to everything it touches. The atmosphere is modern and lively, perfect for a casual family dinner or a lively date night. The experience is centered on the craft, watching the pizzaiolos stretch dough and slide pies into the flames.
**What to Order: The Art of the Pie**
* **The Pizza Purist's Choice:** The **Margherita D.O.P.** is the ultimate test of a pizzeria’s quality. San Marzano’s version is stunning: a thin, chewy, and blistered crust from the wood fire, topped with bright, tangy San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh fior di latte mozzarella that melts into pools of creamy goodness, and fragrant basil leaves. The simplicity allows the exceptional ingredients to speak for themselves.
* **For Something More:** The **Funghi Pizza**, with a mix of wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and fresh mozzarella, is an earthy, aromatic delight. The truffle oil isn’t overpowering but adds a luxurious depth that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
* **Pasta Lovers:** The **Lobster Ravioli** is a decadent must-try. Plump ravioli pillows are filled with a rich lobster filling and served in a creamy pink vodka sauce that is both tangy and indulgent.
#### **4. Kwik Wok: Speed Meets Authenticity**
**Location:** 1839 Merrick Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
Kwik Wok lives up to its name in the best way possible. This is your go-to for a quick, reliable, and incredibly satisfying Chinese takeout fix. The experience is straightforward: you call, you order, and in a remarkably short time, you have a bag full of steaming, aromatic containers. But don’t mistake quick for compromised. The flavors here are bold, fresh, and consistently excellent.
**What to Order: The Takeout Classics, Perfected**
* **The Crowd-Pleaser:** **General Tso’s Chicken**. This is the benchmark for the American Chinese classic. The chicken is crispy, even after the journey home, and the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy. It’s a glorious, addictive dish that keeps you coming back for more.
* **For a Lighter Option:** The **Shrimp with Lobster Sauce** is a sleeper hit. It’s not what you might expect—there’s no lobster meat—but a savory, umami-rich sauce made from fermented black beans, egg, and pork, enveloping tender shrimp. It’s complex, comforting, and less heavy than fried options.
* **Essential Side:** Their **Pork Fried Dumplings** are a must-start. Pan-fried to a crisp bottom yet steamed to a tender finish on top, they are juicy and flavorful, especially when dipped in a mix of soy sauce and chili oil.
#### **5. Souper Fry: A Global Comfort Food Hub**
**Location:** 1762 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Souper Fry is a delightful paradox. The name suggests simplicity, but the menu is a thrillingly diverse tour of global street food. One minute you’re craving a classic American burger, the next you’re eyeing a plate of Peruvian chicken or a Korean bulgogi hero. The experience is casual and energetic, a place where families, teens, and everyone in between can find something to love.
**What to Order: An International Adventure**
* **The Showstopper:** Without a doubt, the **Bulgogi Hero**. Thinly sliced ribeye steak is marinated in a sweet and savory Korean barbecue sauce, grilled to perfection, and piled high on a hero roll with lettuce, tomato, and a spicy mayo. It’s a fusion masterpiece—the familiar format of a sandwich with explosively delicious Korean flavors.
* **The Comfort Classic:** Their **Cheeseburger** is a serious contender. A juicy, hand-pattied burger cooked to order, topped with melted American cheese on a soft brioche bun—it’s a perfect, no-fuss execution of a classic.
* **Don't Miss:** The Souper part of the name! Their soups, like the creamy New England Clam Chowder, are excellent, especially on a chilly day.
#### **6. Meadowbrook Deli: A Neighborhood Institution**
**Location:** 1550 Meadowbrook Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
Another pillar of the Merrick deli scene, Meadowbrook Deli has its own distinct character. It’s a bit roomier, a community hub where you’re as likely to see little leaguers grabbing a post-game hero as you are families picking up a full Thanksgiving spread. The experience is warm, familiar, and deeply rooted in the community.
**What to Order: Hearty and Homemade**
* **The Signature Sandwich:** The **Turkey Club** is legendary. They pile on mounds of freshly carved, moist turkey breast, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on your choice of bread (toasted white or whole wheat is classic). It’s a towering, messy, and utterly satisfying creation.
* **Breakfast All Day:** Their **Egg Sandwich on a Bagel** is a morning ritual for many. The bagels are sourced from a top-tier local bakery—chewy, dense, and fresh—making all the difference.
* ** prepared Foods:** Their rotisserie chickens are juicy and flavorful, and their prepared sides, like the roasted vegetables or stuffed peppers, are perfect for an easy, high-quality dinner at home.
#### **7. SALT: Waterfront Dining Refined**
**Location:** 3100 Whaleneck Dr, Merrick, NY 11566
SALT offers an experience unlike any other in Merrick: sophisticated waterfront dining. Located right on the water at the Merrick Road Park Marina, the views are breathtaking, especially at sunset. The atmosphere is upscale and modern, with a vibrant bar scene and elegant dining room. This is the place for celebrations, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself.
**What to Order: Coastal Elegance**
* **Start With:** The **Tuna Tartare**. A beautifully presented dish of pristine, diced yellowfin tuna mixed with avocado, mango, and a ginger-soy dressing, served with crispy wonton chips. It’s light, bright, and the perfect way to begin a meal by the water.
* **The Main Attraction:** The **Pan-Seared Branzino** is a signature for a reason. The skin is crisped to perfection, while the flesh remains flaky and moist. It’s often served simply with a lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables, allowing the quality of the fish to take center stage.
* **For the Carnivore:** The **Dry-Aged Ribeye** is a spectacular choice, cooked perfectly and full of deep, beefy flavor.
#### **8. Street to Table: Gourmet Global Eats**
**Location:** 2205 Merrick Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
Street to Table is a foodie’s playground. The concept is brilliant: elevating street food from around the world to a gourmet level in a cool, fast-casual setting. The experience is fun and interactive, with an open kitchen and a menu that encourages sharing and trying new things. It’s vibrant, youthful, and bursting with flavor.
**What to Order: A World Tour on a Plate**
* **The Must-Have:** The **Short Rib Grilled Cheese**. This is not your childhood grilled cheese. Slices of crusty artisan bread are filled with decadent braised short rib, caramelized onions, and a blend of gooey cheeses, then pressed until golden brown. It’s rich, messy, and unforgettable.
* **A Taste of Mexico:** The **Baja Fish Tacos** are a close second. Beer-battered cod is fried until light and crisp, then tucked into soft corn tortillas with crunchy cabbage slaw and a creamy chipotle lime sauce. They are fresh, zesty, and perfectly executed.
* **For the Table:** The **Truffle Parmesan Fries** are an essential side—shoestring fries tossed in truffle oil and grated Parmesan, served with a garlic aioli for dipping.
#### **9. Sopranos Deli & Bagel: The Breakfast Champion**
**Location:** 700 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Sopranos is a beacon for bagel lovers. The line often stretches out the door on weekend mornings, and for good reason. The atmosphere is pure New York deli energy, focused on one thing: crafting the perfect bagel and sandwich. The smell of freshly baked bagels is intoxicating, and the pace is brisk but friendly.
**What to Order: The Ultimate Bagel Experience**
* **The Breakfast Bagel:** A **Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on an Everything Bagel** is the gold standard here. The key is the bagel itself—dense, chewy, freshly baked, and coated in a generous layer of garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt. The warm, savory fillings melt into the nooks and crannies, creating a perfect bite.
* **Lunchtime Favorite:** The **Turkey and Avocado** on a Sundried Tomato Bagel is a fantastic healthier option. Freshly sliced turkey, creamy avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a light touch of mayo on a uniquely flavorful bagel.
* **Bagels by the Dozen:** You can’t leave without taking a dozen bagels home. They freeze beautifully, ensuring a taste of Merrick all week long.
#### **10. Santorini: A Greek Isle in Merrick**
**Location:** 133 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Santorini offers a warm, family-friendly escape to the Mediterranean. The dining room is bright and airy, often filled with the sound of laughter and clinking glasses. The service is exceptionally welcoming, making you feel like an honored guest. The experience is one of relaxed, joyful dining, perfect for sharing a meal with loved ones.
**What to Order: A Feast of the Aegean**
* **The Perfect Start:** The **Saganaki** is a must for both its taste and its drama. A slab of kefalograviera cheese is flambéed tableside with a shout of Opa! resulting in a salty, crispy, gooey delight that you scoop up with warm pita bread.
* **The Main Event:** The **Award-Winning Gyro Platter**. Whether you choose pork or chicken, the meat is seasoned and roasted on a vertical spit, then shaved off in thin, crispy-edged slices. Served with rice, a classic Greek salad, tzatziki, and pita, it’s a complete and utterly satisfying meal.
* **For the Table:** The **Meze Platter** is perfect for groups, offering a delicious sampling of hummus, taramosalata, tzatziki, dolmades, and more.
### **The Flavor of Merrick Awaits**
From the white-tablecloth elegance of SALT to the no-frills perfection of a Boswells pastrami sandwich, Merrick’s culinary landscape is rich, diverse, and deeply authentic. It’s a town that takes its food seriously, whether it’s a centuries-old Italian recipe or the perfect cup of diner coffee. So, come hungry, explore with an open mind, and let the flavors of Merrick tell you their story. Your next favorite meal is waiting just around the corner.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Merrick: From Rustic Italian to Classic New York Delis**
Nestled in the heart of Long Island, Merrick, New York, is more than just a picturesque suburb; it’s a hidden culinary gem waiting to be explored. This is a town where the aroma of simmering tomato sauce mingles with the salty scent of the nearby Atlantic, where the classic New York deli is not just a convenience but an institution, and where a global tour of flavors is just a short stroll down Merrick Avenue. For the discerning foodie, a journey through Merrick’s dining scene is a lesson in passion, tradition, and downright deliciousness.
Join me as we embark on a gastronomic tour of ten standout establishments, uncovering the essential dining experiences and the can’t-miss dishes that define each one.
#### **1. Mio Posto Merrick: An Intimate Italian Escape**
**Location:** 16 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Step through the doors of Mio Posto Merrick and you are immediately transported. The warm, amber-lit room, with its exposed brick and cozy booths, hums with the convivial chatter of a satisfied clientele. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a neighborhood *ristorante* in the truest sense, where the staff remembers your name and the chef’s passion is palpable in every dish. The experience is one of effortless elegance and heartfelt hospitality.
**What to Order: A Symphony of Rustic Flavors**
* **Start With:** The **Burrata**. This isn’t just any burrata. A pristine, creamy ball of fresh mozzarella filled with stracciatella is served at room temperature, allowing its rich, milky flavors to shine. It’s perched atop a vibrant basil pesto and accompanied by sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of aged balsamic glaze. The combination of textures and temperatures—cool, creamy cheese, juicy warm tomatoes, and the sharp-sweet balsamic—is a masterpiece.
* **The Main Event:** While the menu is full of stars, the **Pappardelle alla Bolognese** is a revelation. The wide, silky ribbons of house-made pasta are the perfect vehicle for a slow-simmered, deeply complex meat ragu. This is a Bolognese with soul—a testament to patience, featuring a blend of veal, pork, and beef that has cooked for hours with wine, tomatoes, and a *soffritto* of carrots, celery, and onion. It’s hearty, comforting, and profoundly satisfying.
* **Don’t Skip:** Their wood-fired pizzas are also a major draw. The **Mio Posto Pizza**, with fresh mozzarella, sausage, broccoli rabe, and roasted peppers, offers a perfect balance of savory, bitter, and sweet.
#### **2. Boswells Deli of Merrick: The Cornerstone of Comfort**
**Location:** 1828 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
If walls could talk, Boswells Deli would have a million stories to tell. This is the quintessential New York deli, a bustling, no-frills haven where the coffee is always hot, the bagels are always fresh, and the countermen work with a rhythmic efficiency that borders on art. The experience is fast-paced and authentic—the sound of the slicer, the call of order numbers, the towering displays of prepared foods. It’s a beautiful, delicious chaos.
**What to Order: A Masterclass in Deli Classics**
* **The Sandwich to End All Sandwiches:** You must order the **Hot Pastrami on Rye**. This is the benchmark. The pastrami, hand-carved to order, is a marvel—incredibly tender, perfectly spiced with a black pepper crust, and boasting just the right amount of smoky fat. It’s piled high between two slices of classic seeded rye bread. The only acceptable accompaniments are a smear of spicy brown mustard and a crisp, half-sour pickle. Each bite is a perfect harmony of salt, spice, smoke, and tang.
* **For Breakfast:** The **Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on a Roll** is a local legend. It’s simple, but the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the griddle cook make it transcendent. The bacon is crisp, the eggs are fluffy, and the cheese is perfectly melted, all nestled inside a soft, fresh Kaiser roll.
* **Pro-Tip:** Don’t overlook their extensive salad bar and hot food counter. The potato salad and macaroni salad are classic, creamy, and perfect for a summer picnic.
#### **3. San Marzano Brick Oven Pizza & Fresh Pasta: A Taste of Naples**
**Location:** 38 S Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
As the name promises, San Marzano is a temple to the holy trinity of Italian cuisine: tomatoes, dough, and cheese. The centerpiece is the magnificent brick oven, its fiery belly imparting a characteristic char and incredible flavor to everything it touches. The atmosphere is modern and lively, perfect for a casual family dinner or a lively date night. The experience is centered on the craft, watching the pizzaiolos stretch dough and slide pies into the flames.
**What to Order: The Art of the Pie**
* **The Pizza Purist's Choice:** The **Margherita D.O.P.** is the ultimate test of a pizzeria’s quality. San Marzano’s version is stunning: a thin, chewy, and blistered crust from the wood fire, topped with bright, tangy San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh fior di latte mozzarella that melts into pools of creamy goodness, and fragrant basil leaves. The simplicity allows the exceptional ingredients to speak for themselves.
* **For Something More:** The **Funghi Pizza**, with a mix of wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and fresh mozzarella, is an earthy, aromatic delight. The truffle oil isn’t overpowering but adds a luxurious depth that complements the mushrooms perfectly.
* **Pasta Lovers:** The **Lobster Ravioli** is a decadent must-try. Plump ravioli pillows are filled with a rich lobster filling and served in a creamy pink vodka sauce that is both tangy and indulgent.
#### **4. Kwik Wok: Speed Meets Authenticity**
**Location:** 1839 Merrick Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
Kwik Wok lives up to its name in the best way possible. This is your go-to for a quick, reliable, and incredibly satisfying Chinese takeout fix. The experience is straightforward: you call, you order, and in a remarkably short time, you have a bag full of steaming, aromatic containers. But don’t mistake quick for compromised. The flavors here are bold, fresh, and consistently excellent.
**What to Order: The Takeout Classics, Perfected**
* **The Crowd-Pleaser:** **General Tso’s Chicken**. This is the benchmark for the American Chinese classic. The chicken is crispy, even after the journey home, and the sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy. It’s a glorious, addictive dish that keeps you coming back for more.
* **For a Lighter Option:** The **Shrimp with Lobster Sauce** is a sleeper hit. It’s not what you might expect—there’s no lobster meat—but a savory, umami-rich sauce made from fermented black beans, egg, and pork, enveloping tender shrimp. It’s complex, comforting, and less heavy than fried options.
* **Essential Side:** Their **Pork Fried Dumplings** are a must-start. Pan-fried to a crisp bottom yet steamed to a tender finish on top, they are juicy and flavorful, especially when dipped in a mix of soy sauce and chili oil.
#### **5. Souper Fry: A Global Comfort Food Hub**
**Location:** 1762 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Souper Fry is a delightful paradox. The name suggests simplicity, but the menu is a thrillingly diverse tour of global street food. One minute you’re craving a classic American burger, the next you’re eyeing a plate of Peruvian chicken or a Korean bulgogi hero. The experience is casual and energetic, a place where families, teens, and everyone in between can find something to love.
**What to Order: An International Adventure**
* **The Showstopper:** Without a doubt, the **Bulgogi Hero**. Thinly sliced ribeye steak is marinated in a sweet and savory Korean barbecue sauce, grilled to perfection, and piled high on a hero roll with lettuce, tomato, and a spicy mayo. It’s a fusion masterpiece—the familiar format of a sandwich with explosively delicious Korean flavors.
* **The Comfort Classic:** Their **Cheeseburger** is a serious contender. A juicy, hand-pattied burger cooked to order, topped with melted American cheese on a soft brioche bun—it’s a perfect, no-fuss execution of a classic.
* **Don't Miss:** The Souper part of the name! Their soups, like the creamy New England Clam Chowder, are excellent, especially on a chilly day.
#### **6. Meadowbrook Deli: A Neighborhood Institution**
**Location:** 1550 Meadowbrook Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
Another pillar of the Merrick deli scene, Meadowbrook Deli has its own distinct character. It’s a bit roomier, a community hub where you’re as likely to see little leaguers grabbing a post-game hero as you are families picking up a full Thanksgiving spread. The experience is warm, familiar, and deeply rooted in the community.
**What to Order: Hearty and Homemade**
* **The Signature Sandwich:** The **Turkey Club** is legendary. They pile on mounds of freshly carved, moist turkey breast, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on your choice of bread (toasted white or whole wheat is classic). It’s a towering, messy, and utterly satisfying creation.
* **Breakfast All Day:** Their **Egg Sandwich on a Bagel** is a morning ritual for many. The bagels are sourced from a top-tier local bakery—chewy, dense, and fresh—making all the difference.
* ** prepared Foods:** Their rotisserie chickens are juicy and flavorful, and their prepared sides, like the roasted vegetables or stuffed peppers, are perfect for an easy, high-quality dinner at home.
#### **7. SALT: Waterfront Dining Refined**
**Location:** 3100 Whaleneck Dr, Merrick, NY 11566
SALT offers an experience unlike any other in Merrick: sophisticated waterfront dining. Located right on the water at the Merrick Road Park Marina, the views are breathtaking, especially at sunset. The atmosphere is upscale and modern, with a vibrant bar scene and elegant dining room. This is the place for celebrations, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself.
**What to Order: Coastal Elegance**
* **Start With:** The **Tuna Tartare**. A beautifully presented dish of pristine, diced yellowfin tuna mixed with avocado, mango, and a ginger-soy dressing, served with crispy wonton chips. It’s light, bright, and the perfect way to begin a meal by the water.
* **The Main Attraction:** The **Pan-Seared Branzino** is a signature for a reason. The skin is crisped to perfection, while the flesh remains flaky and moist. It’s often served simply with a lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables, allowing the quality of the fish to take center stage.
* **For the Carnivore:** The **Dry-Aged Ribeye** is a spectacular choice, cooked perfectly and full of deep, beefy flavor.
#### **8. Street to Table: Gourmet Global Eats**
**Location:** 2205 Merrick Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
Street to Table is a foodie’s playground. The concept is brilliant: elevating street food from around the world to a gourmet level in a cool, fast-casual setting. The experience is fun and interactive, with an open kitchen and a menu that encourages sharing and trying new things. It’s vibrant, youthful, and bursting with flavor.
**What to Order: A World Tour on a Plate**
* **The Must-Have:** The **Short Rib Grilled Cheese**. This is not your childhood grilled cheese. Slices of crusty artisan bread are filled with decadent braised short rib, caramelized onions, and a blend of gooey cheeses, then pressed until golden brown. It’s rich, messy, and unforgettable.
* **A Taste of Mexico:** The **Baja Fish Tacos** are a close second. Beer-battered cod is fried until light and crisp, then tucked into soft corn tortillas with crunchy cabbage slaw and a creamy chipotle lime sauce. They are fresh, zesty, and perfectly executed.
* **For the Table:** The **Truffle Parmesan Fries** are an essential side—shoestring fries tossed in truffle oil and grated Parmesan, served with a garlic aioli for dipping.
#### **9. Sopranos Deli & Bagel: The Breakfast Champion**
**Location:** 700 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Sopranos is a beacon for bagel lovers. The line often stretches out the door on weekend mornings, and for good reason. The atmosphere is pure New York deli energy, focused on one thing: crafting the perfect bagel and sandwich. The smell of freshly baked bagels is intoxicating, and the pace is brisk but friendly.
**What to Order: The Ultimate Bagel Experience**
* **The Breakfast Bagel:** A **Bacon, Egg, and Cheese on an Everything Bagel** is the gold standard here. The key is the bagel itself—dense, chewy, freshly baked, and coated in a generous layer of garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt. The warm, savory fillings melt into the nooks and crannies, creating a perfect bite.
* **Lunchtime Favorite:** The **Turkey and Avocado** on a Sundried Tomato Bagel is a fantastic healthier option. Freshly sliced turkey, creamy avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a light touch of mayo on a uniquely flavorful bagel.
* **Bagels by the Dozen:** You can’t leave without taking a dozen bagels home. They freeze beautifully, ensuring a taste of Merrick all week long.
#### **10. Santorini: A Greek Isle in Merrick**
**Location:** 133 Merrick Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
Santorini offers a warm, family-friendly escape to the Mediterranean. The dining room is bright and airy, often filled with the sound of laughter and clinking glasses. The service is exceptionally welcoming, making you feel like an honored guest. The experience is one of relaxed, joyful dining, perfect for sharing a meal with loved ones.
**What to Order: A Feast of the Aegean**
* **The Perfect Start:** The **Saganaki** is a must for both its taste and its drama. A slab of kefalograviera cheese is flambéed tableside with a shout of Opa! resulting in a salty, crispy, gooey delight that you scoop up with warm pita bread.
* **The Main Event:** The **Award-Winning Gyro Platter**. Whether you choose pork or chicken, the meat is seasoned and roasted on a vertical spit, then shaved off in thin, crispy-edged slices. Served with rice, a classic Greek salad, tzatziki, and pita, it’s a complete and utterly satisfying meal.
* **For the Table:** The **Meze Platter** is perfect for groups, offering a delicious sampling of hummus, taramosalata, tzatziki, dolmades, and more.
### **The Flavor of Merrick Awaits**
From the white-tablecloth elegance of SALT to the no-frills perfection of a Boswells pastrami sandwich, Merrick’s culinary landscape is rich, diverse, and deeply authentic. It’s a town that takes its food seriously, whether it’s a centuries-old Italian recipe or the perfect cup of diner coffee. So, come hungry, explore with an open mind, and let the flavors of Merrick tell you their story. Your next favorite meal is waiting just around the corner.
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