Estelle's in Farmingdale: On hiatus?
Baby back ribs are cooked low and slow in 100 percent hickory smoke, and served with mac and cheese, mashed sweet potatoes, and corn bread at Estelle�s Contemporary Smokehouse and Bar in Farmingdale. (May 28, 2011) Credit: Heather Walsh
While working on a story about Long Island's best ribs, I attempted to reach Estelle’s Contemporary Smokehouse & Bar in Farmingdale. It seems the place is taking a break — at least that’s the impression given by both the sign out front (which reads: "Grand Reopening Coming Soon”) and the message that greets telephone callers.
According to the female voice on the recording, the place is under renovation and chef co-owner Evan Randell is expected to reopen with a new winter menu.
The restaurant, which specialized in slow-smoked barbecue and more, received a two-and-a-half star rating for Randell's ambitious cooking: deeply smoky ribs — beef as well as pork — as well as super sides (hand-cut fries and white beans with pancetta and fresh herbs) and fine house-made desserts.
Keeping an eye on the place.
Estelle's Contemporary Smokehouse & Bar is at 169 Main St., Farmingdale, 516-586-8700.
