Festive dining on Long Island: 4 local spots
Fig-and-goat cheese flatbread with caramelized onion is a standout at The Arden in Port Jefferson. Credit: Daniel Brennan
As you prepare for the eggnog and the bubbly, you also may want a helping of festivities from some of Long Island's splashier venues. Here are four.
The buoyant restaurant has a friendly, brasserie style and is good for groups. Top dishes include pork osso buco with grits and cherry agrodolce, Chatham cod with cauliflower and apple chutney, sliders, flatbreads, and a selection of cheeses and charcuterie. $$-$$$
1080 Corporate Dr., Westbury, 516-693-5400, citycellarny.com
Small plates reign at Swallow, where the crowd and staff both appear to be in very good moods. Notable choices include grilled octopus, deviled eggs, roasted cauliflower, grilled skirt steak, braised short ribs, and the shrimp po'boy. $$-$$$
366 New York Ave., Huntington, 631-547-5388, swallowrestaurant.com
It may not be full hipster, but Tullulah's does have a Williamsburg look. The food is very good, too. Try macaroni and cheese, made with smoked Gouda; pan-seared scallops with roasted pumpkin puree; chorizo with brown sugar-glazed apples; jerk-seasoned oxtail; and the cheese board. $$-$$$
10 Fourth Ave., Bay Shore, 631-969-9800, tullulahs.com
Situated above a Starbucks in the town of Port Jefferson, The Arden's bar acts as focal point and room divider, and tables line the rim of what will morph into a dance floor. The Arden's kitchen specializes in entertainment as well, plus fare that's complemented by a drink or five, from small plates to large. $$$
201 Main St., Port Jefferson, 631-828-1111, theardenportjeff.com
