By Lee Morgan
Jones
beach State Park is located on a barrier island connected to Long Island,
New York, on the south. The area is known for its concerts and recreational amenities as well as several restaurants and hotels for those enjoying time away from New York's urban scene. Finding a place to eat while traveling around the Jones is not difficult, and there are some nice options for people who don't want the typical chain restaurant or fast-food experience.
Lombardi's
Lombardi's is an Italian restaurant near Route 25 on Middle Island. The relaxing atmosphere at Lombardi's offers a way for couples and families to unwind after a busy day on the island. The soft lighting, soothing music and tables set with nice china will seem miles away from the crowded beach.
Lombardi's Neapolitan menu features lots of fresh seafood--five fresh catches every day--as well as pasta and desserts made from scratch. Lombardi's menu is one of the most extensive in the area with more than 120 options for you to choose from.
Lombardi's
185 Middle Country Rd.
Middle Island, NY 11953
(631) 345-3973
lombardismiddleisland.com
Borelli's
Located just east of the Nassau Coliseum, Borelli's Italian Restaurant has been doing its thing since 1955. This restaurant is about a 10-minute drive inland from Jones Beach State Park to East Meadow, which is a lot quicker than you could pull off a clambake on your own. Borelli's specialty is its baked clams among other dishes. The fried calamari, shrimp pizza, manicotti and cheesecake made from scratch keep customers returning again and again.
The restaurant is open until midnight five days a week and until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. There's not a better place for a late-night snack in the area. If you choose to eat late, remember it can get a bit busy following the Islander's games down the street.
Borelli's
1580 Hempstead Turnpike
East Meadow, NY 11554
(516) 794-0190
borellisrestaurant.com
Paddy McGees
Just six miles west of Jones Beach State Park in Island Park, Paddy McGees Fish House and Bar is among the great options for fresh seafood in the Long Island area. This restaurant on the water specializes in fresh lobster as well as oysters and clams caught from certified waters. Higher-quality seafood will be hard to come by in this area. If seafood is not what you are craving, however, the kitchen turns out barbecue ribs, steaks, pasta and several sandwich options with equal ability.
During warm weather the outdoor Parrot Bar will often be packed with people having a good time. This area is newly renovated and features half-price specials on drinks during its 4 to 8 p.m. Friday happy hour when there is also a free buffet.
Paddy McGee's
6 Waterview Rd.
Island Park, NY 11558
(516) 431-8700
paddymcgeesfishhouse.com
About the Author:
Lee Morgan is a fiction writer and journalist. His writing has appeared for more than 15 years in many news publications including the "Tennesseean," the "Tampa Tribune," "West Hawaii Today," the "Honolulu Star Bulletin" and the "Dickson Herald," where he was sports editor. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mass communications from Middle Tennessee State University.
