Delectable dining gems hidden in Amityville, New York
Of course! As your local Amityville guide, I'm absolutely thrilled to take you on a culinary tour of our vibrant village. Forget the spooky legends for a moment; the real magic of Amityville happens around the dinner table. From the sizzle of a Greek grill to the comforting steam of a brick-oven pizza, this town is a treasure trove for food lovers. So, loosen your belt a notch and let's explore the very best of what to eat and experience right here.
### **A Taste of the Aegean: Athena Greek Restaurant**
**Location:** 65A Merrick Rd
Stepping into Athena Greek Restaurant is like a warm embrace from a long-lost YiaYia. The air is fragrant with the holy trinity of Greek cuisine: lemon, oregano, and garlic. It’s cozy and familial, with blue-and-white accents that whisper of Santorini, and the friendly, boisterous greetings from the staff make you feel like part of the family from the moment you arrive.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You cannot, and I repeat, *cannot*, start your meal without the **Saganaki**. This isn't just fried cheese; it's a spectacle. They bring out a pan with a slab of Kefalograviera cheese, douse it in brandy, and set it ablaze right at your table with a roaring Opa! The result is a crispy, salty, gloriously gooey masterpiece that you tear into with warm pita bread. It’s pure joy on a plate.
For your main, you face a delightful dilemma. The **Gyro Platter** is a classic for a reason—the meat, a perfect blend of lamb and beef, is shaved off the vertical rotisserie, crispy at the edges and succulent within, served with tzatziki that is cool, creamy, and garlicky. But if you want to taste the soul of the Mediterranean, you must order the **Aegean Seafood Platter**. It’s a breathtaking spread of grilled octopus (tender and smoky), succulent shrimp, and whole bronzini, simply dressed with extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and herbs. The octopus, in particular, is a revelation—charred to perfection without a hint of rubberiness.
Save room for a cup of strong Greek coffee and a slice of **Galaktoboureko**. This semolina custard pie, enveloped in layers of impossibly flaky phyllo and soaked in a citrus-scented syrup, is the perfect sweet ending to a heavenly meal.
---
### **The Heart of the Village: Carney's Irish Pub & Restaurant**
**Location:** 136 Broadway
Carney's is the living, beating heart of Amityville. This is where the community gathers. It’s all dark wood, cozy booths, and the friendly hum of conversation, punctuated by the clinking of pint glasses. Whether you're catching a game on the TV, enjoying live music, or just settling in for a hearty meal, Carney's feels like home.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You’re in an Irish pub, so the first order of business is a perfectly poured **Guinness**. Let it settle, then take that first creamy sip. Now, for the food. Do not miss the **Shepherd's Pie**. This is the gold standard. A deep dish of savory, well-seasoned ground lamb and vegetables, topped with a cloud of fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes that are baked until golden. It’s the definition of comfort food.
If you’re feeling particularly ravenous, the **Carney's Mixed Grill** is a carnivore’s dream. It features a juicy grilled pork chop, a beautifully seasoned Irish sausage (banger), and incredibly tender, slow-cooked ribs, all served with crispy, golden-brown fries. Their **Fish and Chips** is another champion—miles away from generic pub fare. The cod is flaky and moist inside a light, crispy batter that doesn't feel greasy, served with thick-cut chips and mushy peas.
---
### **Classic American Charm: Park Avenue Grill**
**Location:** 178 Park Ave
Park Avenue Grill is your quintessential neighborhood American bistro—polished but not pretentious, with a warm, inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a business lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a reliable, fantastic meal with the family. The service is consistently attentive and the vibe is always upbeat.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Begin with the **Crispy Calamari**. It’s lightly battered, fried to a perfect golden hue, and served with both a zesty marinara and a surprisingly delightful spicy mayo for dipping. For the main event, the **Filet Mignon** is a showstopper. It’s always cooked to your exact specification, supremely tender, and bursting with flavor. It’s served with a classic peppercorn sauce that complements, rather than overpowers, the quality of the meat.
If you're not in a steak mood, their **Grilled Salmon** is a masterpiece. The fillet is always fresh, with a beautiful sear on the outside and a moist, flaky interior, often glazed with a honey-Dijon or teriyaki sauce that provides a lovely sweet-and-savory balance. Pair it with their garlic mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying dish.
---
### **A Slice of Heaven: Mike's Pizzeria and Restaurant**
**Location:** 217 Broadway
Mike's is an institution. This is the kind of place that smells like generations of shared meals and celebrations. It’s bustling, no-frills, and utterly authentic. The sound of the pizza cutter sliding through a fresh pie is the soundtrack of happiness here.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You come to Mike's for one thing: the **Grandma's Pie**. This is not your standard round pizza. It’s a square, thin-crust masterpiece baked in a pan. The sauce is bright and tangy, the cheese is beautifully blistered, and it’s finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil. The crust is the star—crispy on the bottom with a slightly chewy, airy texture. It’s sublime.
But don't sleep on their pasta dishes. The **Chicken Parmigiana Hero** is legendary for a reason—a massive, crispy, tender chicken cutlet smothered in melted mozzarella and a robust marinara sauce, all nestled in a fresh, crusty hero roll. It’s messy, glorious, and everything a hero should be.
---
### **Coastal Comfort: BAYVIEW KITCHEN**
**Location:** 393 Bayview Ave
Tucked away near the water, Bayview Kitchen is a charming, sunny spot that feels like a hidden gem. It’s casual, bright, and focuses on high-quality, comforting dishes with a fresh, modern twist. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely brunch or a low-key, satisfying lunch.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Their **Avocado Toast** is a cut above the rest. It’s piled high on thick, artisanal bread, topped with perfectly ripe avocado, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, microgreens, and a perfectly poached egg that creates a luxurious sauce when broken open.
For lunch, the **Crispy Chicken Sandwich** is a must-try. The chicken is impeccably seasoned, with a shatteringly crisp coating and juicy meat, topped with a tangy slaw and a signature sauce, all on a brioche bun. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Their fresh, hand-cut fries are the ideal sidekick.
---
### **The Village's Living Room: Brownstones Coffee Amityville**
**Location:** 55 Merrick Rd
Brownstones is more than a coffee shop; it's Amityville’s communal living room. It’s where artists sketch, students study, friends catch up, and deals are made. The aroma of freshly ground coffee is intoxicating, and the vibe is always creative and welcoming.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
First, the coffee. Their **Latte** is a work of art, expertly steamed and poured. But the real magic is in their seasonal specialties, like a lavender or maple-pecan latte. For sustenance, their **Breakfast Panini** is the ultimate morning fuel. Scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage, all pressed to perfection on ciabatta bread.
You also can't leave without trying one of their decadent, homemade pastries. The **S'mores Bar** is a local obsession—a graham cracker crust, a layer of rich chocolate, and a fluffy, toasted marshmallow top. It’s the perfect companion to your cup of joe.
---
### **An Italian Steakhouse Spectacle: Vittorio's**
**Location:** 184 Broadway
Vittorio's is where you go for a *night out*. It’s upscale and elegant, with white tablecloths, soft lighting, and an air of refined celebration. It masterfully blends the hearty warmth of an Italian trattoria with the sophisticated chops of a classic steakhouse.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Start with the **Burrata**. This isn't just cheese; it's a creamy, dreamy cloud served with ripe heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, and a balsamic glaze that is sweet and tangy. It’s a perfect, light beginning to a rich meal.
For your entrée, the **Veal Chop Valdostana** is an absolute triumph. A massive, bone-in veal chop, pounded thin, stuffed with prosciutto and fontina cheese, then breaded and pan-fried. It’s incredibly tender, rich, and deeply satisfying. If you’re here for the steak house side of things, the **Prime Rib** is slow-roasted, incredibly flavorful, and practically melts in your mouth. Pair any main with a side of their Truffle Fries or Creamed Spinach.
---
### **A Broadway Staple: New China Restaurant**
**Location:** 229 Broadway
A reliable and beloved fixture on Broadway, New China Restaurant has been serving classic Chinese-American favorites for years. It's a cozy, no-fuss spot perfect for a quick takeout or a casual dine-in experience where the food is consistently good and the portions are generous.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You have to order the **Sesame Chicken** here. It’s the benchmark. The chicken is always tender, the batter is light and crispy (not doughy), and the sauce is that perfect balance of sweet and savory with a beautiful glossy finish. It’s what takeout dreams are made of.
For something a bit more adventurous, their **Shrimp with Lobster Sauce** is a comforting, savory delight. The sauce is not made from lobster, but is a flavorful, egg-thickened garlic and black bean sauce that cradles plump, juicy shrimp. It’s a classic done right.
---
### **Soul-Satisfying Fare: Brooklyn Fish - Chicken & Soul Food**
**Location:** 524 Broadway
This place is a flavor powerhouse. No frills, just incredibly well-executed, soul-warming food. The moment you walk in, the aromas of frying fish and savory spices tell you you're in for a treat. The energy is fast-paced and friendly.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
The name says it all. You must get the **Fried Whiting**. The fish is fresh, the cornmeal coating is perfectly seasoned and shatteringly crisp, and the fish inside is steaming hot and flaky. Get it with a side of **Macaroni and Cheese** that is the epitome of soul food—creamy, cheesy, and baked with a deliciously golden top.
And don't you dare skip the **Candied Yams**. They are sweet, buttery, and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg—a side dish that easily becomes the star of the show. This is a meal that feeds not just your stomach, but your soul.
---
### **The Art of the Pie: Raimo's Brick Oven Pizzeria & Trattoria of Amityville**
**Location:** 45 Merrick Rd
Raimo's brings a taste of Naples to Merrick Road. The centerpiece is the beautiful, fiery brick oven that produces pizzas with a character all their own. The atmosphere is bustling and authentically Italian, filled with the sounds of happy families and the sight of pizzas being expertly slid into the inferno.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You are here for the **Margherita Pizza** from the brick oven. This is a test of a pizzeria's skill, and Raimo's passes with flying colors. The San Marzano tomato sauce is bright and fresh, the mozzarella di bufala is creamy, and the fresh basil adds a fragrant punch. But the real star is the crust—leopard-spotted with char from the intense heat, with a chewy, airy cornicione and a slightly soft, flavorful center. It’s pizza perfection.
Beyond pizza, their **Eggplant Rollatini** is phenomenal—thinly sliced eggplant rolled around a rich ricotta filling, baked in marinara sauce until bubbly. It’s a vegetarian dish that will make any carnivore swoon.
***
So there you have it, friends—a culinary map to the heart and soul of Amityville. This village may be small, but its appetite is vast and its flavors are world-class. From the fiery Opa! at Athena to the last, perfect crumb of a Brownstones s'mores bar, every bite tells a story. Come hungry, and leave happy. You know where to find me
### **A Taste of the Aegean: Athena Greek Restaurant**
**Location:** 65A Merrick Rd
Stepping into Athena Greek Restaurant is like a warm embrace from a long-lost YiaYia. The air is fragrant with the holy trinity of Greek cuisine: lemon, oregano, and garlic. It’s cozy and familial, with blue-and-white accents that whisper of Santorini, and the friendly, boisterous greetings from the staff make you feel like part of the family from the moment you arrive.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You cannot, and I repeat, *cannot*, start your meal without the **Saganaki**. This isn't just fried cheese; it's a spectacle. They bring out a pan with a slab of Kefalograviera cheese, douse it in brandy, and set it ablaze right at your table with a roaring Opa! The result is a crispy, salty, gloriously gooey masterpiece that you tear into with warm pita bread. It’s pure joy on a plate.
For your main, you face a delightful dilemma. The **Gyro Platter** is a classic for a reason—the meat, a perfect blend of lamb and beef, is shaved off the vertical rotisserie, crispy at the edges and succulent within, served with tzatziki that is cool, creamy, and garlicky. But if you want to taste the soul of the Mediterranean, you must order the **Aegean Seafood Platter**. It’s a breathtaking spread of grilled octopus (tender and smoky), succulent shrimp, and whole bronzini, simply dressed with extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and herbs. The octopus, in particular, is a revelation—charred to perfection without a hint of rubberiness.
Save room for a cup of strong Greek coffee and a slice of **Galaktoboureko**. This semolina custard pie, enveloped in layers of impossibly flaky phyllo and soaked in a citrus-scented syrup, is the perfect sweet ending to a heavenly meal.
---
### **The Heart of the Village: Carney's Irish Pub & Restaurant**
**Location:** 136 Broadway
Carney's is the living, beating heart of Amityville. This is where the community gathers. It’s all dark wood, cozy booths, and the friendly hum of conversation, punctuated by the clinking of pint glasses. Whether you're catching a game on the TV, enjoying live music, or just settling in for a hearty meal, Carney's feels like home.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You’re in an Irish pub, so the first order of business is a perfectly poured **Guinness**. Let it settle, then take that first creamy sip. Now, for the food. Do not miss the **Shepherd's Pie**. This is the gold standard. A deep dish of savory, well-seasoned ground lamb and vegetables, topped with a cloud of fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes that are baked until golden. It’s the definition of comfort food.
If you’re feeling particularly ravenous, the **Carney's Mixed Grill** is a carnivore’s dream. It features a juicy grilled pork chop, a beautifully seasoned Irish sausage (banger), and incredibly tender, slow-cooked ribs, all served with crispy, golden-brown fries. Their **Fish and Chips** is another champion—miles away from generic pub fare. The cod is flaky and moist inside a light, crispy batter that doesn't feel greasy, served with thick-cut chips and mushy peas.
---
### **Classic American Charm: Park Avenue Grill**
**Location:** 178 Park Ave
Park Avenue Grill is your quintessential neighborhood American bistro—polished but not pretentious, with a warm, inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a business lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a reliable, fantastic meal with the family. The service is consistently attentive and the vibe is always upbeat.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Begin with the **Crispy Calamari**. It’s lightly battered, fried to a perfect golden hue, and served with both a zesty marinara and a surprisingly delightful spicy mayo for dipping. For the main event, the **Filet Mignon** is a showstopper. It’s always cooked to your exact specification, supremely tender, and bursting with flavor. It’s served with a classic peppercorn sauce that complements, rather than overpowers, the quality of the meat.
If you're not in a steak mood, their **Grilled Salmon** is a masterpiece. The fillet is always fresh, with a beautiful sear on the outside and a moist, flaky interior, often glazed with a honey-Dijon or teriyaki sauce that provides a lovely sweet-and-savory balance. Pair it with their garlic mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying dish.
---
### **A Slice of Heaven: Mike's Pizzeria and Restaurant**
**Location:** 217 Broadway
Mike's is an institution. This is the kind of place that smells like generations of shared meals and celebrations. It’s bustling, no-frills, and utterly authentic. The sound of the pizza cutter sliding through a fresh pie is the soundtrack of happiness here.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You come to Mike's for one thing: the **Grandma's Pie**. This is not your standard round pizza. It’s a square, thin-crust masterpiece baked in a pan. The sauce is bright and tangy, the cheese is beautifully blistered, and it’s finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil. The crust is the star—crispy on the bottom with a slightly chewy, airy texture. It’s sublime.
But don't sleep on their pasta dishes. The **Chicken Parmigiana Hero** is legendary for a reason—a massive, crispy, tender chicken cutlet smothered in melted mozzarella and a robust marinara sauce, all nestled in a fresh, crusty hero roll. It’s messy, glorious, and everything a hero should be.
---
### **Coastal Comfort: BAYVIEW KITCHEN**
**Location:** 393 Bayview Ave
Tucked away near the water, Bayview Kitchen is a charming, sunny spot that feels like a hidden gem. It’s casual, bright, and focuses on high-quality, comforting dishes with a fresh, modern twist. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely brunch or a low-key, satisfying lunch.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Their **Avocado Toast** is a cut above the rest. It’s piled high on thick, artisanal bread, topped with perfectly ripe avocado, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, microgreens, and a perfectly poached egg that creates a luxurious sauce when broken open.
For lunch, the **Crispy Chicken Sandwich** is a must-try. The chicken is impeccably seasoned, with a shatteringly crisp coating and juicy meat, topped with a tangy slaw and a signature sauce, all on a brioche bun. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Their fresh, hand-cut fries are the ideal sidekick.
---
### **The Village's Living Room: Brownstones Coffee Amityville**
**Location:** 55 Merrick Rd
Brownstones is more than a coffee shop; it's Amityville’s communal living room. It’s where artists sketch, students study, friends catch up, and deals are made. The aroma of freshly ground coffee is intoxicating, and the vibe is always creative and welcoming.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
First, the coffee. Their **Latte** is a work of art, expertly steamed and poured. But the real magic is in their seasonal specialties, like a lavender or maple-pecan latte. For sustenance, their **Breakfast Panini** is the ultimate morning fuel. Scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage, all pressed to perfection on ciabatta bread.
You also can't leave without trying one of their decadent, homemade pastries. The **S'mores Bar** is a local obsession—a graham cracker crust, a layer of rich chocolate, and a fluffy, toasted marshmallow top. It’s the perfect companion to your cup of joe.
---
### **An Italian Steakhouse Spectacle: Vittorio's**
**Location:** 184 Broadway
Vittorio's is where you go for a *night out*. It’s upscale and elegant, with white tablecloths, soft lighting, and an air of refined celebration. It masterfully blends the hearty warmth of an Italian trattoria with the sophisticated chops of a classic steakhouse.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
Start with the **Burrata**. This isn't just cheese; it's a creamy, dreamy cloud served with ripe heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, and a balsamic glaze that is sweet and tangy. It’s a perfect, light beginning to a rich meal.
For your entrée, the **Veal Chop Valdostana** is an absolute triumph. A massive, bone-in veal chop, pounded thin, stuffed with prosciutto and fontina cheese, then breaded and pan-fried. It’s incredibly tender, rich, and deeply satisfying. If you’re here for the steak house side of things, the **Prime Rib** is slow-roasted, incredibly flavorful, and practically melts in your mouth. Pair any main with a side of their Truffle Fries or Creamed Spinach.
---
### **A Broadway Staple: New China Restaurant**
**Location:** 229 Broadway
A reliable and beloved fixture on Broadway, New China Restaurant has been serving classic Chinese-American favorites for years. It's a cozy, no-fuss spot perfect for a quick takeout or a casual dine-in experience where the food is consistently good and the portions are generous.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You have to order the **Sesame Chicken** here. It’s the benchmark. The chicken is always tender, the batter is light and crispy (not doughy), and the sauce is that perfect balance of sweet and savory with a beautiful glossy finish. It’s what takeout dreams are made of.
For something a bit more adventurous, their **Shrimp with Lobster Sauce** is a comforting, savory delight. The sauce is not made from lobster, but is a flavorful, egg-thickened garlic and black bean sauce that cradles plump, juicy shrimp. It’s a classic done right.
---
### **Soul-Satisfying Fare: Brooklyn Fish - Chicken & Soul Food**
**Location:** 524 Broadway
This place is a flavor powerhouse. No frills, just incredibly well-executed, soul-warming food. The moment you walk in, the aromas of frying fish and savory spices tell you you're in for a treat. The energy is fast-paced and friendly.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
The name says it all. You must get the **Fried Whiting**. The fish is fresh, the cornmeal coating is perfectly seasoned and shatteringly crisp, and the fish inside is steaming hot and flaky. Get it with a side of **Macaroni and Cheese** that is the epitome of soul food—creamy, cheesy, and baked with a deliciously golden top.
And don't you dare skip the **Candied Yams**. They are sweet, buttery, and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg—a side dish that easily becomes the star of the show. This is a meal that feeds not just your stomach, but your soul.
---
### **The Art of the Pie: Raimo's Brick Oven Pizzeria & Trattoria of Amityville**
**Location:** 45 Merrick Rd
Raimo's brings a taste of Naples to Merrick Road. The centerpiece is the beautiful, fiery brick oven that produces pizzas with a character all their own. The atmosphere is bustling and authentically Italian, filled with the sounds of happy families and the sight of pizzas being expertly slid into the inferno.
**The Must-Order Experience:**
You are here for the **Margherita Pizza** from the brick oven. This is a test of a pizzeria's skill, and Raimo's passes with flying colors. The San Marzano tomato sauce is bright and fresh, the mozzarella di bufala is creamy, and the fresh basil adds a fragrant punch. But the real star is the crust—leopard-spotted with char from the intense heat, with a chewy, airy cornicione and a slightly soft, flavorful center. It’s pizza perfection.
Beyond pizza, their **Eggplant Rollatini** is phenomenal—thinly sliced eggplant rolled around a rich ricotta filling, baked in marinara sauce until bubbly. It’s a vegetarian dish that will make any carnivore swoon.
***
So there you have it, friends—a culinary map to the heart and soul of Amityville. This village may be small, but its appetite is vast and its flavors are world-class. From the fiery Opa! at Athena to the last, perfect crumb of a Brownstones s'mores bar, every bite tells a story. Come hungry, and leave happy. You know where to find me
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