Savory Eats: Main Street Cafe

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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.
    If you ask any of my friends or family members, they’ll tell you I dine out too often. I can’t help it, it’s my job. (One of them, that is.) When it’s my turn to pick the spot, which is usually the way it goes, I unsurprisingly choose Main Street Café, located in Northport Harbor, 99% of the time. I can’t help it – I’m a creature of habit. I value atmosphere, and quality ingredients – an enjoyable, short walk from my apartment. 
    I’ve been hesitant to share my love of Main Street Café, because I fear that once word gets out, I won’t be able to enjoy it like I currently do. Quaint, cozy, consistent – it’s everything I hope for in a restaurant/bar. I have their menu memorized, although most of the time I’ll order the special. I know the bartenders, the waitresses, the staff – each one routinely greeting me with a smile. First timers will receive the same hospitality, and immediately feel the genuine friendliness upon arrival. 
    Their menu is understated, and although many visitors opt for the sandwiches or salads, the magic is in the entrees. (And the burgers!) Their burgers are otherworldly. Seriously, they’re phenomenal. I usually get mine with avocado and goat cheese, although the California is a go-to. They offer $10 lunch specials, and a daily bar special as well. The great thing about this place is that there is truly something for everyone – vegetarians, pescatarians, carnivores, carb loaders – they’ve got it all. Their pasta with seafood is unrivaled, house salads (order the tomato dressing), steak, fish, chicken – it’s all good. My favorite entrée is their pot roast. Melt in your mouth, served with red cabbage and potato latkes, it’s one of my favorite entrees in the state. (Look for it on their specials!) Their salmon is also extremely memorable, as well as the steak.
    Recently I visited Ireland, and when I returned, Main Street Café was the only place that seemed to understand the experience I was so eager to share.  Locals sharing stories over after-work cocktails, good food and familiar bar staff – it made me nostalgic. I’ll often go here to share meals with my dad, brother and sister – most of the time ordering a burger or pot roast… with a Guinness. The ambiance reminds you of Sunday dinner with the family and fulfills the desire to relive the “good ol’ days”. 
    This café (although I consider it a beloved pub in my mind) is a consistent, trusted community treasure where you’re guaranteed to share a memorable meal in a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere, on the harbor. Whether you order a burger, an entrée or the daily special – you’re in for a treat. Pro tip: Leave room for dessert and order one of the local beers on tap.