In the restaurant world, time is the ultimate test of quality. While Manhasset boasts many restaurants, few can say they’ve been around to serve generations of diners. But for Villa Milano, La Coquille and Louie’s, it’s a badge of honor they can wear with pride. There’s a reason customers keep coming back; these eateries have perfected not only their fare, but their service, making every guest feel welcome.
Here’s a closer look at the area eateries that have only gotten better with age.
La Coquille
Dating back to 1969, La Coquille has mastered the art of offering something for everyone. The restaurant has done a flawless job of honoring time-honored traditions while also incorporating modern concepts to attract new diners. The elegant and quaint dining room serves up European fare with French inspirations, including duck à l’orange, foie gras and baked escargot.
In Nuvoqi, the upscale bar, diners can enjoy small plates like artisan smoked salmon, Peking duck crisp, French sliders and tiny crab cakes while sipping on delicious cocktails. Attention to detail is paramount, with all food and desserts made onsite daily, ensuring that every course is perfect.
La Coquille is located at 1669 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset; 516-365-8422;
www.lacoquilleny.com
Louie’s
When it comes to diners, Louie’s is one of the best. The classic Greek-American diner has been serving customers from Manhasset and beyond since 1963 in its Plandome Road location. The family-run eatery offers breakfast staples such as omelets, wraps, Belgian waffles, French toast and pancakes, as well as lunch favorites ranging from burgers, gyros and a variety of salads. Chefs get more creative with the dinner menu, which features salmon, crab cakes, roasts and Italian and Greek specialties.
Perfect for brunch with friends, a family dinner or mid-week lunch, Louie’s is a great place to find some of your favorite dishes done right.
Louie’s is located at 339 Plandome Road, Manhasset; 516-627-0022; www.louies
manhassetrestaurant.com.
Villa Milano
Villa Milano has been serving up slices of cheesy goodness for more than 40 years. The handmade pizza stands out for its fresh, flavorful sauce and thin crust, while guests also rave about the Sicilian slices, which feature perfectly baked crispy crusts and fresh cheese. But more than just a pizza joint, Villa Milano has a reputation for serving up high quality, flavorful Italian dishes.
Among guest favorites are penne alla vodka, chicken Parmesan and penne alla milano. In addition to a pizza storefront, a restaurant in the back allows guests to sit back and relax in an old-world Italian setting. Setting the Italian eatery apart from others in the area is the live music on weekends.
Villa Milano is located at 168 Plandome Road, Manhasset; 516-365-3440; www.villamilanomanhasset.com
Read our magazine feature on Café Continental: Aged To Perfection