Foodie Vue: Smithtown Bistro

65 East Main Street • Smithtown
631-979-9700
smithtownbistroandpub.com

While dining trends come and go, the neighborhood bistro/pub remains popular. They provide something people increasingly value: a place that feels like their own. It’s where families gather, friends meet after work, couples have a casual dinner, and regulars become part of the fabric of the establishment. It’s a place where the locals can walk in, recognize the bartender, run into friends, have a casual meal, enjoy a drink, and feel comfortable without the formality or expense of a fine-dining restaurant. They offer familiarity, consistency, and a sense of belonging.

Smithtown Bistro and Pub creates the look and feel of what comfortable surroundings are with creative fare that has given The Nyholm family an edge in the ever shifting culinary scene.

Christine and Bob Nyholm, seasoned restaurant operators, run the business with their sons Chris, the chef, and Rob, who commands the bar. It’s always comforting to me when I see the owners walking the room, interacting with their customers. For me, this is an essential part of a restaurants success!

Their menu is extensive; ranging from burgers and wings to pasta, seafood, steak and specialty dishes. There is a special menu for vegan and gluten-free choices, which I found to be refreshing, since my wife is vegetarian.

Ala Mama Eggplant, House Burrata, Shrimp Vodka Parm

I’ve been to Smithtown Bistro and Pub and experienced first hand the well grounded vibe amongst the staff and patrons. Tonight we started with the House Burrata golden brown and crisp eggplant with burrata, pesto drizzle and pine nuts was exceptional. Big enough to share. The Stuffed Mushrooms were more than I expected. Less breadcrumbs with a heavier emphasis on a savory medley of fresh vegetables, herbs, baked until golden and finished with a rich, flavorful brown sauce.

For my main I went all in on a classic I haven’t tried in years. The Shrimp Vodka Parm was insane; crispy breaded shrimp layered with rich vodka sauce and gooey mozzarella, served over a side of pasta. Classic parmigiana gets a deliciously indulgent twist.

My partner had the Ala Mama Eggplant, onions, marinara with mozzarella with your choice of pasta. With my wife being of the vegetarian sort, she opted in for the zoodles (zucchini noodles). A bountiful portion that you just could not get full from. The tangy marinara and sharp freshness of shaved Parmesan over the veggies was amazing.

The Spumoni Truffle Tartufo was as impressive in presentation as it was in flavor. A decadent combination of chocolate, pistachio, and cherry ice cream was encased in a rich dark-chocolate shell. Presented in a clever, deconstructed style, the chocolate shell was dramatically broken into artful pieces. A playful and very creative presentation that made this classic dessert feel completely fresh and unexpected.

Smithtown Bistro is not trying to be an ultra-high-end restaurant. They have created an ambiance to make their clientele feel comfortable and welcome, at a price point that works!