Savory Eats: Cafe Red

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Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, currently working as a writer. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community working as a blogger and musician. She enjoys cooking, traveling, hiking and performing with her dad in their LI-based cover band, Next Generation. Joanna can be reached by e-mail at: joanna.adduci10@gmail.com.
    Located in Kings Park, Cafe Red is one of a select few eateries in the area that offers multiple menus, a charming atmosphere and consistent quality cuisine. Branding themselves as "new American cuisine with Italian flair", their menus combine classic Italian elements with contemporary twists showcased in menu offerings such as mussels in a "savory Thai curry sauce" or short rib in a "cabernet reduction with crispy onions". 
    While there may be modern elements intertwined with classic ingredients, the service and atmosphere are nothing short of "old school". Cafe Red is somewhere you feel at home, regardless of how many times you've visited this humble abode. The owner, managers and staff are gracious, friendly and accommodating. Servers are knowledgeable and always smiling, and this is something that stuck with me during my time at the establishment.
    The atmosphere at Cafe Red is cozy and familiar. Simple and far from ornate, their style is classic – with a heavy focus on warmth and comfortability. Eccentric trinkets and a blackboard menu are unexpected, yet charming additions.
    They have two menus – Lunch & Brunch and Dinner. Lunch & Brunch consists of: Appetizers, Salads, Brunch, Pasta, Fish, Meat & Chicken. Menu highlights include: Fried Calamari, Sea Scallop Salad, Cafe Red Rancheros, Hay & Straw, House Made Gnocci, Capriciossa and French-Style Short Rib. 
    Ingredients are fresh, and each entree I tasted had memorable elements. The fried food is lightly battered and never heavy, while the meat dishes are hearty and flavorful. I was especially fond of the spread that was served with the bread-basket – extremely savory and tasty.
    The "little touches" are the big winners here at Cafe Red, and the dedication to quality ingredients and exceptional service separate them from many establishments I have previously visited. The details are carefully thought through, and it is obvious to customers with each and every order. When you experience a meal at Cafe Red, you're reminded of Sunday dinner with the family, wine flowing, multiple courses – and an unspoken assured comfort that your entree will be just as good as it was last time. I truly believe consistency is one of the most important elements in the industry, and Cafe Red has mastered this without question.
    Whether you're looking for a new neighborhood favorite or brainstorming where to host your next event, I recommend that you visit Cafe Red and experience their cuisine, hospitality and very "red" atmosphere. New customers and existing patrons will certainly enjoy the experience and cuisine, regardless of the menu they choose to peruse. Located on Main Street in Kings Park, open Sunday through Saturday (7 days week), I suggest you drop in for brunch, lunch or dinner and see what it's all about.