Foodie Vue: Cara Cara of East Northport

564-566 Larkfield Rd., East Northport
631-888-3993 | caracaramex.com

Tucked away in an unpretentious neighborhood is a hidden gem that projects a cool, hip and modern vibe. Caracara in East Northport is a Mexican restaurant and tequila bar known for blending traditional Mexican flavors with a slightly upscale, contemporary dining experience. It is a lively, full-service restaurant offering authentic and modern Mexican dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, along with an extensive selection of tequila, margaritas, and craft cocktails. The space is designed to be comfortable and stylish, perfect for casual dinners, drinks with friends, or small celebrations.

The term cara a cara in Spanish means “face-to-face.” For the owners, Tony Kathreptis, John Rabie, and Peter Rousakis, it represents something far deeper than just a translation. It reflects the philosophy that inspired them to build a place where people truly connect. As Tony explains, “Our vision was simple: create a warm, welcoming space where guests and owners meet face-to-face, share stories, laugh together, and feel like part of one big family.” Tony, John, and Peter make it a point to mingle with customers, greet them personally, and ensure everyone feels right at home.

For the eats, we began with the Botanas Combination Plate;
The Nachos de la Casa is an artfully presented trio of nachos with crisp corn tortillas, pico de gallo, jalapeños, melted chihuahua cheese, black beans, guacamole, and sour cream. Also included are Cheese Quesadillas and Rollitos de Pollo, a chicken wrapped in crispy fried flutes and served with crema, salsa, and cheese. This app is more than enough to share.

For the mains, my partner ordered the Iron Skillet Vegetable Fajitas, loaded with peppers, onions, and mushrooms, all resting on a bed of molten lava cheese. The dish is served with warm tortillas, rice, and black beans. If you want to take it next level, ask for sides of sour cream, pico de gallo, and guacamole. Trust me on that one.

At the owner’s recommendation, I chose the Alambre Asado; tender, juicy cuts of sliced steak and chorizo paired with grilled peppers and onions that add both sweetness and depth. The dish is accompanied by jalapeños and served over Mexican rice with cascabel chili salsa and chimichurri. In all my years of dining out, I’ve rarely encountered a dish this memorable, both in flavor and presentation.

Caracara’s story began more than 15 years ago on Main Street in Farmingdale, where the original restaurant first opened its doors. Building on that success, the owners brought their vision to East Northport in 2024. When people walk through the door, they don’t just feel like customers, they feel like family. Since opening, Caracara has quickly made its mark, establishing itself as one of the most recognizable and beloved Mexican-style restaurants in the area.