On our way to Riverhead, New York, nestled in the beautiful Long Island, my wife and I made a fun pit stop at my mother-in-law's house. We were dropping off our daughters for a weekend with their grandma, giving us a chance to enjoy some wine and spirit tasting—something we were really looking forward to. This time, instead of planning every detail like we usually do, we decided to just go with the flow and let the weekend be an adventure.
While catching up with my mother-in-law, she asked about our lunch plans in Riverhead. We hadn't thought about it yet, so her question got us thinking. She then excitedly told us about a restaurant she recently discovered called American Beauty in Massapequa Park. She loved it and described it as a cozy spot with amazing food. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and it sparked our interest right away.
In line with our spontaneous vibe for the trip, we decided to take her recommendation and check out American Beauty without doing our usual online research or reading reviews. Normally, we'd be all about checking menus and customer feedback first, but this time we were ready to embrace the unknown. It felt freeing to break away from our usual planning and just dive into a dining experience based on her enthusiastic suggestion. This choice started the weekend in the carefree way that we expected.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
We drove past the front of the restaurant as we searched for street parking, our eyes scanning the bustling curbside for any available spots. The lively atmosphere of the neighborhood was palpable. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, all of the spots were taken, and we reluctantly decided to seek parking in the back lot, hoping for a more fortunate outcome.
Upon parking in the back lot, we were pleasantly surprised to discover a beautiful mural painted next to their rear entrance. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the mural depicted a radiate warmth and joy. It was clear that the artists had poured their hearts into this work, and it added a delightful touch to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. As we stood admiring the mural, we couldn’t help but appreciate how it transformed what could have been a mundane back entrance into a lively and inviting space.
As we approached the entrance, we noticed that American Beauty had a well-thought-out and picturesque design that reflected the care and attention to detail that the owners had invested in their establishment. While other businesses in the area seemed to overlook the importance of their back entrances, often leaving them bare and uninviting, American Beauty had clearly put the same level of thought and effort into their back entrance as they had into the front. The inviting decor created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and intriguing.
We entered the cozy entrance to see the same warm and inviting atmosphere that my mother-in-law had described so fondly. The interior was adorned with soft lighting and comfortable seating that beckoned patrons to relax and enjoy their meals. It was easy to see why my mother-in-law had raved about this place; it felt like a hidden gem, a sanctuary where one could escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and indulge in delightful culinary experiences. Each detail, from the decor to the ambiance, contributed to an overall sense of belonging, making us eager to explore the menu and enjoy the evening ahead.
THE SERVICE
Once we entered the restaurant, we were greeted by the person who would become our server during lunch. She had a radiant smile that instantly made us feel welcome, embodying a warm and inviting demeanor that set the tone for our dining experience. It was clear from the outset that she was genuinely happy to see us, her enthusiasm was evident as she approached our table with an air of friendliness that suggested she took pride in her role.
As she introduced herself, her approach was both professional and personable, striking the perfect balance that made us feel comfortable and valued as guests. She was attentive, always keeping an eye on our needs without being intrusive, and informative as she helped guide us through the menu with a wealth of knowledge about the dishes on offer. I for one was expecting to have lunch and was sort of disappointed that only brunch was available. But once she described some of the offerings to me, I quickly grew excited. Her ability to engage with us while managing her other responsibilities demonstrated her skill and dedication to providing exceptional service, making our visit to the restaurant truly memorable.
THE FOOD
We began our meal with a delightful selection of beverages that set the perfect tone for the culinary experience ahead. My wife decided to indulge in the Bellini, a combination of sparkling champagne with pear puree. The sweetness of the pear was wonderfully balanced by the effervescence of the champagne, making each sip a refreshing escape that was both invigorating and indulgent. As for me, I opted for the Banana Jameson Irish Coffee which I ordered iced. This delightful drink featured house-infused banana Jameson whiskey, which imparted a rich, fruity essence that complemented the robust coffee perfectly. The addition of brown sugar provided a comforting sweetness, while a generous dollop of whipped cream crowned the drink, adding a luxurious texture.
For my main course, I chose the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs, a dish that, intriguingly, was not listed on the menu but was recommended by our attentive server after we engaged in a friendly conversation. The eggs were prepared to perfection, light and fluffy, creating a delightful contrast to the hearty components of the dish. The corned beef was an absolute standout; it was packed with flavor, juicy, and tender. The crispy potatoes, cooked with aromatic peppers and onions, added a wonderful depth of flavor and texture, making each bite a satisfying experience. This was a dish that truly exceeded my expectations and left a lasting impression on my taste buds.
Meanwhile, my wife opted for the Bistro Toast, a beautifully crafted dish that featured slices of sourdough toast as its base. Topped with creamy fresh ricotta, vibrant arugula, zesty lemon, and smashed avocados, it was a colorful and appetizing presentation. The dish was wonderfully seasoned, with the creamy ricotta and creamy avocado melding together beautifully, while the arugula provided a peppery bite that elevated the overall flavor profile. Despite its seemingly light appearance, the dish was quite filling, leading us to make the decision to pack some of it to go. We were excited to surprise my mother-in-law with the leftovers, knowing she would appreciate the delightful flavors we had just enjoyed.
LASTING IMPRESSIONS
American Beauty presents The Restaurant was a delightful surprise that truly set the tone for our weekend, igniting lively discussions about when we would next return for either lunch or dinner. From the very first moments of our visit, we were enveloped in an ambiance that was both welcoming and elegant, creating a perfect backdrop for what turned out to be an unforgettable dining experience. The attentive service we received from our server was exceptional, as she guided us through the menu with enthusiasm and expertise, making us feel valued and well taken care of throughout our meal.
As we savored each dish, the flavors danced on our palates, showcasing a remarkable blend of creativity and culinary skill. The presentation of the food was equally impressive, with each plate artfully arranged to delight the eyes as much as the taste buds. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed, allowing us to engage in meaningful conversation while enjoying the exquisite offerings. By the time we reached the end of our meal, we found ourselves reminiscing about the delightful courses we had enjoyed and eagerly planning our next visit.
I wholeheartedly recommend American Beauty to anyone residing nearby or even to those who happen to be passing through the charming area of Massapequa Park. It is a gem that should not be missed. Furthermore, American Beauty boasts two additional locations: American Beauty presents The Bistro and American Beauty presents The Bar & Grill. Each of these venues has its own distinctive menu selections, providing a variety of dining experiences that cater to different tastes and occasions. Overall, American Beauty is a culinary destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Location:
1026 Park Blvd. Massapequa Pk. NY 11762
516-541-1075
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