We here at northforker look forward to Long Island Restaurant Week with the anticipation of a kid counting down until Christmas.
That’s because it’s a chance to support local businesses, save some money and experience something great.
The $27.95 prix fixe deals run from Sunday, Nov. 2 to Sunday, Nov. 9, except Saturday when some restaurants will offer the deal only until 7 p.m.
Visit LongIslandRestaurantWeek.com for a complete list of participating restaurants across the East End, Suffolk and Nassau counties.
Here are our five picks for a night out.
Many menus have not been released yet, so we base our decisions on restaurant weeks of years past.
56125 Main Road, Southold (631) 765-4383
We haven’t tried this new authentic Italian restaurant, but are looking forward to sampling the cuisine of chef Marco Pellegrini, a native of Umbria, in central Italy.
“I dined there before the restaurant was a week old, and chef Pellegrini’s food richly deserved the spotlight,” said Newsday food writer Erica Marcus.
But don’t expect run-of-the-mill chicken Parmesan.
“This is real Italian food with a touch of modern,” chef Pellegrini told us adding that he refuses to cook popular Italian-American dinners. “But we respect the original recipe.”
104 3rd. St. Greenport (631) 477-6888
The Asian-inspired menu at this Greenport restaurant is superb. If you haven’t tried this waterfront spot since it was the Chowder Pot Pub, now is your chance.
ALure Chowderhouse and Oysteria
62300 Main Road, Southold (631) 876-5300
A prix fixe at this Tom Schaudel-owned eatery has never failed us. Located in Port of Egypt Marina, seafood is a must at this waterfront dining spot.
We recommend the coconut Thai mussels and the macadamia-coconut crusted flounder, should those items be included on the menu.
258 E. Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays (631) 594-3868
We visited Cowfish for Hamptons Restaurant Week in 2013 and still talk about the NOLA shrimp. Also, try the yummy cocktails like their signature rum punch.
2218 Sound Ave., Calverton (631) 727-8994
Cooperage Inn is the type of place locals love to have in their backyard. The cozy decor and hearty food make it a great spot for fall.