Imperial Meat Company: A new nightlife spot glows in Huntington

Of all the many nightlife options to be found in Huntington Village, none make standing over glowing wine bottles as easy an accomplishment to achieve as does the Imperial Meat Company.

Actually, there aren’t many spots in Huntington — or anywhere else on Long Island — that feature floor windows offering a direct view of various floodlit vinos, but Imperial Meat Company (IMC) has quite a few; it’s all part of a trendy sort of decor style that creates a party-friendly yet upscale and relaxed scene.

The venue, which quietly opened Oct. 9 in the space that formerly held Buoy One, is a restaurant first (as are most similar types of hip local hangouts). But a conversation with management confirms that IMC’s plans also include becoming known as a chic late-night hotspot.

IMC's soft, mostly unadvertised arrival was fully intended, said general manager Joseph Carbone, who hopes people will discover and sample the spot on their own, then approach the staff with their opinions in order to help point out any tweaks that may be warranted. The cheerful IMC employees (Carbone included) engage guests frequently — seeming very approachable indeed.

As for the late-night clientele, expect a well-dressed group of people ages 25 to 55. The mood is laid back, enhanced by dim lighting and a soundtrack of deep, sexy mixed beats — but there isn’t a DJ or dedicated dance space — so don’t go looking for any wild, sweaty club nights here. Instead, the personality is more along the lines of classy drinks and conversation — and IMC has both a specialty cocktail selection and a wine menu.

Of course, the wines are on display below the floorboards — which are illuminated by hot pink-purple lighting, creating an all-over fuchsia-like glow also generated by lighting in the bar’s back shelves and ceiling. It comes together to create a festive feel that, while cutting a rug isn’t currently in the cards, there is to be true nightlife afoot. Further proof of that intention can also be found by way of a painting hanging near the back corner, reading “Rock ‘n roll all night ... and party ... every day!”

Imperial Meat Company: 279 Main St., Huntington, 631-824-6222.