Duck tacos are served at The Arden in Port Jefferson....

Duck tacos are served at The Arden in Port Jefferson. Oct. 2014 Credit: Newsday / Peter M. Gianotti

You probably have attended quieter riots.

The Arden, which specializes in small plates,  "vibe dining," "ultra lounge" activities, and amped-up music, is situated above Starbucks on Main Street in Port Jefferson. If you don't spot it, come the weekend, you'll hear it.

Stylish in a carefully orchestrated way, The Arden has a downtown look, with reclaimed wood, banquettes, TVs tuned to sports, and a very busy bar scene. Order carefully, and you'll eat well, too.

Flatbreads are good choices. Try the savory fig, goat cheese and caramelized onion production, which arrives on a board that approximates a cricket bat. Or sample the duck tacos with Asian slaw. The trio of sliders also is tasty, with a Wagyu beef burger, Buffalo-style chicken, and ham-and-cheese contributions.

The larger plates have less appeal, from the overcooked, thin cut of barbecued swordfish to the chewy char-broiled Tomahawk ribeye.

Besides, they might interrupt the partying.

The Arden, 201 Main St., Port Jefferson; 631-828-1111.

 
SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME