The Long Island dining landscape has experienced exciting growth here are a few we highlighted, with several new establishments opening their doors and many more planned for the coming months. From innovative fusion concepts to beloved chain expansions, local residents have more dining options than ever before. This guide highlights the newest additions to our local food scene and what’s coming next.

Recently Opened in Mt. Sinai Area

Heritage Restaurant Diner – Enhanced Experience

While not entirely new, Heritage Restaurant Diner in Mt. Sinai has undergone significant renovations and menu expansions in 2024. Local residents have praised their expanded nine-page menu featuring everything from traditional diner fare to burritos and international options (Facebook Community Reviews, 2024).

“Quick service, good food, but I was amazed at their menu, 9 double sided pages. Along with regular Diner food they offer Burritos, several types of grilled options” – Local resident review

Midori Sushi & Steakhouse – Continued Excellence

This established favorite continues to draw crowds with its hibachi and sushi offerings, maintaining its reputation as one of the area’s premier Japanese dining destinations (Midori Japanese, 2024).

New Openings Across Suffolk County

Bull Smith’s Tavern – Smithtown

One of the most talked-about openings of 2024, Bull Smith’s Tavern brings a unique two-story concept to Smithtown. Named after the legend of Richard Smith, the restaurant features:

First Floor: Nashville-inspired community tavern atmosphere
Second Floor: 1920s speakeasy-style dining
Menu Highlights: Traditional tavern fare, pizza, tacos, and pasta
Special Features: Sunday brunch, live music, and DJ entertainment

Location: 155 W. Main St., Smithtown

Nola Kitchen and Cocktails – Seaford

This fusion concept combines sushi, American classics, and Italian favorites in the heart of Seaford:

Unique Offerings: Oysters alla Nola, sausage and broccoli rabe egg rolls
Signature Dishes: Veal chop Napoli, shrimp parmigiana
Atmosphere: Great ambiance with convenient location

Location: 3943 Merrick Rd., Seaford

Arthur & Sons – Bridgehampton

From Michelin-star chef Joe Isidori, this Italian-American restaurant transports diners back to 1990s NYC:

Concept: Old-school New York Italian American scene
Menu: Spicy rigatoni alla vodka, chicken parmigiana, veal Marsala
Design: Rustic tones with Hamptons vibe

Location: 203 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Tpke., Bridgehampton

Coming Soon to the North Shore

The Pour Authority – Farmingdale

Long Island’s first self-pour beer garden is set to revolutionize the local drinking scene:

Concept: 40 beers on tap, mostly from local breweries like Great South Bay
Food Focus: Vegetarian and vegan menu options
Space: 3,600 square feet at 303 Main St.
Expected Opening: Late 2024

Harleys American Grille – Huntington

After seven years in Farmingdale, Harleys is expanding north:

Features: Year-round outdoor area, completely renovated interior
History: Taking over a space that was a comedy club 50 years ago
Location: Jericho Turnpike, Huntington

Meli Estiatorio – Garden City

Greek dining comes to Garden City in the former Gross Jewelers building:

Background: From the successful Forest Hills, Queens location
Cuisine: Authentic Greek fare
Location: Corner of Franklin and Stewart avenues

What Makes These Restaurants Special

Fusion Innovation

Many 2024 openings embrace fusion concepts, blending traditional cuisines with modern twists. Nola Kitchen’s combination of sushi, Italian, and American fare exemplifies this trend.

Local Brewery Partnerships

The Pour Authority’s focus on local breweries like Great South Bay Brewery reflects the growing farm-to-table and local sourcing movement on Long Island.

Experiential Dining

Bull Smith’s Tavern’s two-story concept with different themes on each floor represents the trend toward experiential dining that goes beyond just food.

Celebrity Chef Influence

Arthur & Sons brings Michelin-star expertise to Long Island, raising the bar for fine dining in the area.

Local Dining Trends for 2024

Self-Service Innovation

The Pour Authority’s self-pour beer concept represents a growing trend toward interactive dining experiences that give customers more control over their experience.

Multi-Concept Spaces

Restaurants are increasingly offering diverse experiences within single locations, like Bull Smith’s Tavern’s tavern-to-speakeasy transformation between floors.

Health-Conscious Options

New establishments are prioritizing vegetarian, vegan, and health-conscious menu items to meet changing dietary preferences.

Community Integration

Many new restaurants emphasize their connection to local history and community, like Bull Smith’s Tavern’s namesake local legend.

Planning Your Dining Adventures

💡 Pro Tips for Local Residents

Make Reservations: New restaurants often experience high demand in their first months
Follow Social Media: Many establishments announce specials and events through Instagram and Facebook
Try Happy Hours: Several new spots offer extensive happy hour menus and drink specials
Support Local: Many new restaurants prioritize local sourcing and partnerships

🔍 What to Watch For

Keep an eye on these upcoming developments:

Additional locations from successful local chains
More fusion concepts combining unexpected cuisines
Increased focus on outdoor dining spaces
Technology integration in ordering and service

Conclusion

Mt. Sinai and the surrounding Suffolk County area are experiencing a dining renaissance in 2024. From innovative fusion concepts to beloved comfort food with modern twists, local residents have unprecedented variety in their dining options. Whether you’re craving authentic Greek cuisine at the upcoming Meli Estiatorio, looking for a unique self-pour beer experience at The Pour Authority, or wanting to experience Michelin-star quality at Arthur & Sons, the local dining scene offers something for every palate and occasion.

The emphasis on local partnerships, innovative concepts, and community connection suggests that 2024’s restaurant openings will have lasting impact on Long Island’s culinary landscape. As these establishments settle into their communities, they’re likely to become the neighborhood favorites that define our local dining culture for years to come.

Long Island Dining Scene