Best of Food and Drink: Eat Like Brittany

 Content creator Brittany Rella shares some of her favorite dishes 

As a food content creator, I’ve had the chance to eat all over Long Island – from hidden gems to hyped-up hot spots. Whether I’m filming or just going out to dinner, I love discovering places that are actually worth the hype. Long Island’s food scene is diverse, constantly evolving, and full of surprises. To make it easier to digest, I’ve organized some of my favorites geographically – starting in Nassau and heading east to Suffolk.

 Left: No Good Burger | Right: Kumo Sushi of Plainview

NASSAU COUNTY

Primehouse – Garden City
The ultimate spot for both surf and turf. Whether you’re craving a perfectly cooked porterhouse or high-quality sushi, this place does both – and does them really well. Insider tip: they have a 40-ft. bar that’s perfect for happy hour. Check out their website for specials like Wine Down Wednesdays (50% off select wines) and half-off sushi during happy hour.

No Good Burger Joint – Rockville Centre, Baldwin + Food Trucks in Massapequa and Farmingdale
If you’re craving something indulgent, No Good Burger Joint delivers. From smash burgers with crispy edges to over-the-top creations, everything here feels nostalgic with a modern twist. Keep an eye out for their food trucks too – they bring the same energy (and melty cheese) on wheels. Perfect for parties as well.

Italiano – Bethpage
Italiano went viral for their pasta bread bowls, made fresh to order and served piping hot, filled with rich, flavorful pasta that hits every time. Another menu standout is their troffolini – pasta stuffed with ricotta and pear in a truffle sauce that’s out of this world. This cozy, modern Italian restaurant is perfect for a casual
night out.

Cinnabar – Massapequa
This is not your average all-you-can-eat. I know there’s a stigma around AYCE sushi, but Cinnabar completely shatters it. The quality of their fish is top tier – fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. For $34.99, the deal feels too good to be true. But it’s real – and it’s delicious. Not only can you enjoy endless sushi, but they also offer a seafood boil add-on that takes the experience to the next level. The vibe is chic yet relaxed, making it perfect for date night or a group dinner that won’t break the bank.

Kumo Sushi – Plainview
A longtime local favorite for sushi, this spot was recommended to me by many people – and I’m so glad I went. Kumo delivers insanely fresh sushi, sashimi, and rolls of every kind. Don’t miss the Mizu Toro appetizer – a must-try featuring melt-in-your-mouth fatty tuna that sets the tone for the rest of the meal. It’s a go-to for takeout or a laid-back dinner when you’re craving exceptional sushi without a big fuss.

Left: The Bryant of Huntington | Right: Jackson Hall Bar & Grille of East Islip

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Luca – Stony Brook
Luca brings city-level Italian dining to the heart of Stony Brook. The menu is seasonal and sophisticated, and the interior feels like something out of a design magazine. If you’re into handmade pastas and beautifully crafted entrées, this one’s a must.

The Bryant – Huntington
The Bryant is a total scene. It’s always buzzing, the cocktails are just as curated as the food, and the menu has something for everyone. It’s ideal for group dinners or brunch with friends, and the ambiance alone is worth the visit. My perfect meal here is the porterhouse paired with their lobster truffle mac and cheese. Don’t skip dessert – they have the best fried Oreos and a fantastic warm brownie with vanilla ice cream.

Jackson Hall Bar & Grille – East Islip
A neighborhood staple with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their lobster lineup is truly unmatched anywhere else on the Island. From decadent seafood mac and cheese to eight different lobster rolls, and their lobster bisque served in a fresh bread bowl with a mountain of meat on top – you can’t beat it. Seafood isn’t the only standout; the menu has something for everyone. The ultimate chicken francese is finished with a bold, spicy kick that’s a must-try.

Pecado – Bay Shore
A go-to for elevated Mexican cuisine with major flavor and flair. Everything is delicious – from rich birria tacos and queso fundido to unexpected favorites like their tomahawk steak. Their brunch lineup is next-level, featuring churro waffles, tres leches French toast, and chorizo hash you won’t want to miss. With a live DJ on weekends, it’s perfect for group outings, celebrations, or just a fun
night out.

House of Yoshin – Huntington
House of Yoshin is in a league of its own. At first glance, it’s a stylish cocktail lounge with moody lighting, an expertly crafted drink menu, and exceptional bar bites like you’ve never had before. But behind the bar lies a hidden kaiseki counter offering a seasonal Japanese tasting menu that’s as innovative as it is elegant. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, but once you find it, you’ll keep coming back.

Prime Burger Bar – Commack
This casual American spot offers unparalleled quality when it comes to burgers and comfort food. The menu is full of crave-worthy options, but my personal favorite is the Drunken Goat Burger – 8 oz. of their juicy proprietary blend, herb honey, whipped goat cheese, candied bacon, and cabernet sauce. You can build your own burgers and sandwiches from an impressive lineup of toppings and sauces. With its inviting, laid-back atmosphere, it’s perfect for everything from game day to an easy dinner out.

Chops Steakhouse – Patchogue
Chops brings a refined steakhouse experience with a sultry, upscale vibe – perfect for date night or a special occasion. Their baby lamb chops are tender and packed with flavor, the oysters Rockefeller are arguably the best on Long Island, and they have an excellent selection of prime cut steaks. They offer rotating specials, so check out their website for prix fixe options and happy hours!

FINAL THOUGHTS

There’s no shortage of amazing food on Long Island – and this list just scratches the surface. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy night out or a quick bite that hits the spot, Long Island’s food scene is filled with places worth exploring. I’ll keep eating, filming, and sharing – you can find me on Instagram
@eatlikebrittany and TikTok
@brittany.rella!