34 New Street

As we approached 34 New Street we didn't quite know what to expect. We entered what appeared to be a typical pizzeria - pies behind glass, pizza ovens, etc. With that, we expected what has become a Long Island staple - the casual Italian restaurant. However, 34 New Street not only breaks the mold, but does so in a refreshing fashion. The concept of 34 New Street is a cool, relaxed eatery which offers something for everyone from personal pizzas to pistachio-crusted seared tuna with many surprises in between.

There is a friendly vibe to 34 New Street. Husband and wife team Steve Camas and Siobhan Mulroy started the business with no prior restaurant experience, learning as they went along, listening to their customers and encouraging feedback from their staff. Their plan seems to have paid off - we watched as a couple who said they had been regulars since the restaurant opened some seven years ago gave menu tips to a group at the the next table. Our server Nicole knew the menu inside and out and had ready answers to all our questions. The bus staff - the unsung heros of the dining room floor - paid close attention to our table. Even Steve's brother gets into the act, stopping by to help out on the floor and behind the bar.

Our meal began with the Sweet Brie with Almonds appetizer. Brown sugar, sliced almonds, and sliced brie are melted on a crisp grilled flatbread. This heavenly little dish is so popular it's on the menu as both an appetizer and a dessert. Fried calamari breaks ranks from the norm as it is drizzled with a spicy sesame glaze and served alongside an orange-ginger dipping sauce (it is available plain with marinara sauce for traditionalists). Other noteworthy appetizers include shrimp and crab cakes served with a cajun remoulade and grilled portobello with herbed goat cheese.

In 2003, Zagat rated 34 New Street one of the "Top Bangs for Your Buck." This still holds true and couldn't be more evident than in their personal pizzas. These mini pies range from $8 to $14. The selection is quite broad including eggplant florentine, honey dijon chicken and potato au gratin. We sampled the grilled vegetable pizza- an abundance of squash, peppers, zucchini and tomatoes with mozzarella atop a perfect homemade whole wheat crust sprinkled with sesame seeds. Quite delicious and a steal at only $11.

The menu's entrees are innovative and diverse. Executive Chef Richard Niznik turns out a somewhat eclectic selection of dishes using a palette that is both global and local and that will bring you back to 34 New Street time and time again. We had one of the evening's specials: cornmeal and mustard encrusted catfish, served with creole potatoes, maroon carrots and brussel sprouts. It was a standout dish, one that we would return for. The crisp crust broke to reveal moist, flaky white fish. The potatoes had authentic creole spices along with strips of tasso ham. We also sampled the Korean marinated Bistro Filet. This unusual cut of fork-tender beef was accompanied by an Asian-style cabbage and baby shrimp pancake and then drizzled with a fiery chili-garlic aioli. For the traditionalist, there's Penne a la Vodka, juicy Angus burgers and Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon. For the adventurist, you'll find such fare as Kentucky Hills Duck or Spicy Shrimp Creole with Dirty Rice. On Fridays and Saturdays there is a popular Prime Rib special.

Deserts come from a variety of sources including the owner's Mother. She is responsible for the must try Revani, a moist Greek lemon cake that gets a nice lift from a little Grand Marnier. The kitchen also turns out a made to order Apple Pie Pizza. They feature custom roasted coffee by Berceto Coffee a small, family run Huntington area business. The hand roasted artisan blend is served drip or french-press and will delight even the most critical coffee connoisseur.

The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Dinner reservations are accepted every night and you are encouraged to call ahead particularly on weekends or for larger parties of five or more guests. There is an inviting full bar with a menu of tempting "Shaker" drinks if you are looking for a cocktail before the movies or a show. 34 New Street does offer on-site catering and if you are planning a bridal shower, birthday party or other event, you would do well to consider them. With 2 dining rooms, they can accommodate private parties for up to 60 guests, and you'll receive the attention and service only a family operated restaurant can offer.

With it's diverse dining room menu, satisfying pizzas and friendly staff, 34 New Street is a standout destination among Huntington's crowded restaurant scene.

34 New Street
Huntington, NY
(631) 427-3434