PUBLICANS
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Publicans is back, with new ownership.
Have a drink at the bar, or sit at a table and enjoy a menu featuring organic and locally sourced food that contains no added hormones or antibiotics. Guests can indulge themselves with a selection of tacos ($15-$19), salads ($11-$15), handcrafted pastas ($15-$19), burgers served with freshly cut fries ($14-19), or a dozen chicken wings ($16).
Remember sharing is caring when sharing a delectable Mediterrianean plate consisting of grilled pita, crudité, olives, and house-made hummus ($16). For those feeling extra hungry, Publicans even offers its own set of entrees, such as the vegan curry ($21) or New York ($32).
550 Plandome Dr., Manhasset, 516-627-7722, nda.solutions/publicans
FUKU ASIAN CUISINE
As the old saying goes, don’t judge a book by its cover. This is especially true for this restaurant named Fuku, which chef and owner Eric Zheng says means “wealthy” in Japanese.
Zheng makes sure to live up to this name by providing dishes that are fortunate in both taste and appearance. Bento boxes, lo mein, and sushi are some of the fixtures found on the menu alongside Fuku’s hibachi grill stations where guests can be treated to meals of chicken ($18.95), shrimp, salmon, scallop, steak (each $20.95), filet mignon ($23.95), or lobster ($29.95).
Make sure to leave room for dessert as offerings of mochi ice cream ($3.95) and tempura oreo ($5.95) will surely hit the spot after a delectable meal.
440 N. Wantagh Avenue Bethpage 516-933-7225, fukuasiancuisineny.com
IL PICCOLO VILLAGGIO RISTORANTE
Il Piccolo Villaggio, which is Italian for “The Small Village,” is big on taste.
This cozy restaurant allows guests to relax with wine paired with authentic Italian dishes. Begin the meal by choosing any choice of antipasti such as the vongole oreganata, an appetizer of baked clams coated in breadcrumbs with white wine and lemon butter ($12). Then choose an entree from any of their offerings of pasta, fish, poultry, and meat, like the scalloping di vitello al Marsala, which is veal topped with mushrooms and Marsala sauce served with roasted potatoes and vegetables.
At this small village, guests should expect to bring a big appetite.
260 Islip Ave., Islip. 631-650-0620.
