Like its predecessors, Blackstone & Rare 650 Steakhouses, Insignia’s inspired menu features the finest prime dry-aged steaks and freshest sushi and seafood. It includes Mediterranean whole fish, served up in a chic, elegant atmosphere that is also a feast for the eyes. Picture a historic Hamptons mansion with cedar shakes, quarried stone and a beautiful architectural turret combined with the energy and vibe of a trendy Manhattan restaurant. “That’s Insignia, it’s refreshingly unique,” stated Anthony Scotto, proprietor.
According to Mr. Scotto, Insignia’s architectural amenities are many. The restaurant’s main floor has multiple unique dining areas, including special oversized “power booths” for small parties, a plush VIP area for up to ten people and a dynamic sushi bar. The dramatic second level glass wine room can be seen from the first floor and showcases an extensive collection of fine vintages. The east side of the restaurant is a full square granite bar with a shimmering wall of glass behind it. It is the portal to an outdoor dining and lounge area complete with a fire ribbon wall, encased in glass and stone. It is also covered and heated for all-season use.
For special functions and events, Insignia’s private banquet room can comfortably accommodate up to 175 guests. The room features a fireplace, detailed Tré ceiling and dramatic hanging light fixtures. It can also be divided into three smaller rooms for more intimate gatherings. Two of the rooms boast outdoor patios for dining and cocktail hours.
“Our goal was to make Insignia an incredible place to have dinner, host a party or simply meet and greet friends and business associates,” said Mr. Scotto. “I think we’ve succeeded in adding a sparkling new piece to Long Island’s culinary landscape.”
IIf you are reading these words, then you’ve just picked up our second issue of The LIST Magazine, your premier source for the latest must have, must go and must know information for those living along the coastline of the Great South Bay and beyond. We are thrilled with all the wonderful feedback and encouragement we received from our winter edition.
This past season I’ve been busy visiting and seeking out the best retailers, restaurants, tradesman and professionals to bring to you this issue, not only venturing along the south coastline, but across the island as well—for South to meet North—because some things are just worth the short drive. Through my many years as a marketing consultant, I’ve developed an eye for spotting the must knows in the area, and have become known as the “go-to girl” for suggesting great finds. Now, through The LIST Magazine, I’m so pleased to be able to share my passion for show and tell with you.
With spring upon us and summer right around the corner, this issue is all about embracing change, new beginnings and words of encouragement. Throughout these pages, you’ll find threads of this theme interwoven into our articles and ads…including personal stories of change from our talented photographer, Susan Eckert, and about Marilyn Schulman, both of whom are mentors and successful Long Island business entrepreneurs.
I hope you enjoy our uplifting tidbits and straight-to-the point abridged writing style, designed to capture your attention and fulfill your desire for information as a quick read. But mostly, I hope for you to recognize our advertisers and featured businesses for their merits, knowing that they were carefully hand picked for their extraordinary service and offerings. Please let them know that they were recommended by us if you do pay them a visit.
Also, please remember to “like” us on Facebook, because some of our advertisers appear on our “Royal List” with event postings and surprise deals just for our LIST readers. In addition, look for Bubba Buritto’s surf board among the pages for a chance to win a gift certificate to their restaurant!
I encourage you to share your thoughts with me at Joanne@ thelistmagazing.com, including your experiences from the professionals and businesses we recommend, suggestions for great places you’d like to see in future issues, or anything else that’s on your mind. I’d love to hear from you!
I’d also like to extend a special thanks to our readers for welcoming us, and to my children, family and friends who once again were there to help in so many ways, to Kathleen Goldin and her Syosset High School, AP Marketing Class for inviting me to speak, and to my own teenagers’ friends, whose input has been a big part of inspiring me. But to save the very best for last, to my mom and dad, who have always encouraged me to do my best but still who love and accept me for me.
Happy Mother’s Day to my mom and all women.
Until next time,
Joanne Oj
Did U Know?
It is a fact that when tough economic times hit, crimes in even the safest of neighborhoods tend to escalate. Knowing this fact, there are some Security Industry “tips” to keep us all a little safer and more secure in our own environment.
1. Try to have some sort of outside lighting, either motion activated or continuous.
2. Lock all vehicles, and don’t leave any valuables inside such as laptops, cell phones, cameras, tablets, etc.
3. Do not leave pocketbooks, keys, wallets, money, etc. in view from other outdoor windows or doors.
4. Keep all shrubs trimmed away from blocking windows and entry ways.
5. Keep sheds or any type of detached buildings locked, and have some sort of lighting.
6. If you notice any suspicious persons/ vehicles in your neighborhood, notify the police by calling 852-cops for nonemergency issues, and 911 for emergency issues.
7. If you have a security system…please use it.
Frank Maffucci , President
Alltech Security
Please feel free to call us if you have ANY security questions, alarm issues or are in need of a security system for your home or business.
“Celebrate endings - for they precede new beginnings” ~ Jonathan Lockwood Huie
When I was invited to write a piece on the subject of change - the theme of this particular issue of The LIST Magazine - I smiled.
You see, Change and I are old friends. And as with most lasting friendships, we’ve had our fair share of ups and downs. There have been times when Change has arrived like a rude guest-unannounced, uninvited, and unwanted, unraveling plans I’d worked so hard to put in place. But in most cases, I’d later see that she’d also appeared like a guardian angel, bearing gifts and blessings I didn’t even know I needed just when I needed them most.
It was Change I stared down as I made the life-changing decision to leave a spiritcrushing corporate career, and Change I
cursed as I worked hard to acquire the new knowledge and technical skills required to succeed in my new profession as a photographer. But it was also the opportunities she brought into my life that enabled me to grow, that inspired me to continue to forge ahead, and that supported the amazing progress I’ve made over the past five years. Throughout my work, I pay homage to Change. My vision is clear: to illuminate and reveal the unique and radiant beauty in everyday things. Whether I’m capturing the fuzzy soft pink skin of a newly born child, a gourmet dish prepared with care and mastery, a brideto-be’s transition from girlfriend to wife, the unique design of a hand-crafted garment, or a grandmother’s milestone birthday, my purpose is the same. I see the beauty in
everything and my job as a photographer is to share that beauty with others. I’ve since made my peace with Change because I’ve learned that while she can certainly be pushy, insistent, stubborn, and unpredictable, she often turns out to be one of the best friends you never really knew you had. All that’s needed is an attitude of acceptance. Resolve to embrace change and the gifts she brings, and in doing so you’ll achieve clarity -- the ability to see the opportunities she reveals. Sure, the road may be hard to travel. But, have confidence that the result will be worth the struggle and Change will become your ally guiding you to your very best YOU. May springtime hold many new opportunities, blessings and awakenings for you, Susan Eckert
The beauty of everything... life through my eyes.
Neat iPhone Tips and Tricks
There are literally hundreds of features your iPhone is capable of. Below are a few of them that we think may help make your iPhone experience even more amazing than it may already be.
Most of the following suggestions will work with all versions of the iPhone, but be sure to have the latest software installed (iOS 5.1).
Dry out a wet iPhone: You’re not the first one to drop an iPhone in a toilet or sink. If this happens, don’t turn it on as you can damage the smartphone by short-circuiting it. Lightly towel dry the phone. Don’t use a hairdryer on the phone as it can further push moisture into areas that aren’t wet. Submerge the iPhone in a bowl or Ziploc bag of uncooked white rice and leave it overnight. If you have it, try using a desiccant packet you might find with a new pair of shoes or leather purse.
Prolong your battery: Here’s how to squeeze more life out of your iPhone. Turn down the brightness of your screen, turn off wireless radios you don’t use (such as GPS, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) and reduce the number of apps with info you have “pushed” to your phone. Also, make sure you lock it before putting in your pocket, purse or backpack or else it could turn on and drain the battery.
Revive a frozen iPhone: If your smartphone freezes on you and pressing the Sleep/Wake button on top of the device doesn’t do anything, don’t panic. Instead, press and hold the Home button and the Sleep/Wake button at the same time. You’ll be prompted to swipe the “Slide to Power Off” tab. This so-called “hard reset” resuscitates the frozen iPhone. You’ll first need to wait through a full shut down and restart.
Make your own ringtone: Don’t settle with the ringtones provided by Apple and you need not pay your carrier for more of them. As the name suggests, the free Ringtone Maker app lets you take a clip from your favorite songs and make ringtones out of them in seconds.
Find your lost iPhone: As long as you sign up in advance, the free Find My iPhone app will help you locate your device on a map (on your computer or other iOS device). You can display a message or initiate a loud ring (in case it’s under the cushions), or remotely lock or wipe its data.
There's Only One Place to Get Expert Advice About Your Garden ...
Now Open for the 2012 Season of Brightwaters VILLAGE GARDENS
Mothers Day, May 13th
All New Garden Decor, Statuary, Angels, Fairies and Gifts for that Special Someone in Your Life
Join Us for Our 5th Annual Complementary BBQ
Saturday May 5th, 12pm-3pm
Bulk Items Available for FREE Local Delivery for Assorted Mulch, Sweet Peet, Top Soil, Etc. (3 Yd. minimum)
Custom Potting Services
We Offer in-Store and In-Home Potting Services
FREE Delivery to Fire Island Ferries with a Minimum Order of $100.00 Exp. 6/15/12
Mention This Ad and Receive 10% Off (some exclusions apply)
You can expect knowledge, experience & artistry from all of Privée's professionals.
FABULOUS LASHES CAN BE YOURS OF THE YEAR LASH Privée
STYLE COLOR TEXTURE SERVICE MAKEUP LASH BOUTIQUE NAILS WAX RE TAIL
Inspiration is inside of us all. Whether your look is timeless or trendy our goal is to make you the expert with what we have to offer. We believe in “heralding a return to authentic beauty” and “introducing ground-breaking lines and services.” Our clients are the beautiful people who inspire us to create. It’s all about feeling beautiful inside and out.
- With love, Jessie & Linda xoxo
Air
With Privée’s Newest Obsessions
it’s about skin looking Amazing… and we’re obsessed with finding the best cosmetic product lines.
WE LOVE
ELLIS FAAS Cosmetics
Introducing this award-winning brand of make-up products by Ellis Faas, known as the guru to make up artists all over the world. Her revolutionary colour concept, no matter what complexion, age or style, customizes the right look for you.
The ELLIS FAAS portable makeup holder fits ELLIS FAAS make-up products into this streamlined, lightweight, customized kit filled with your choice of shades and products.
…The exclusive lash Lifter Eyelash Treatment known as the Dolly Perm lifts your lashes from the base of the lid up and out giving them a wonderful curl and lasts up to 3 months. Tinting the lash enhances the color and the active ingredients containing collagen and cysteine proves to nourish the eyelash…must have for the naturalist.
Permanent Makeup
WAKE UP WITH MAKEUP
“The cosmetic enhancing buzz has been catching on all over the globe” It’s revolutionizing the world of cosmetics - Look effortlessly natural all the time.
BECCA Cosmetics
Becca Cosmetics gives a natural yet flawless appearance.
All products that we choose are made with the highest quality ingredients, which incorporates moisturizing ingredients that nourish the skin as well as up SPF 15 PA+++ for ultimate protection.
- NEW - Tape In Hair Extensions Quick, cost efficient and safe for the hair.
BARONI Jewelry
Baroni Jewelry is classically simple and inspirational. Made from the finest natural materials.
Enter to win a complimentary makeover at Privée. Visit the LIST magazine LI on facebook to enter.
We pay lots of attention to all the details at Paces Steak House.
The Pace family has shared celebrations with their guests for three generations at their renowned steakhouses in Hauppauge and Port Jefferson. Our signature steaks are a cut above in every way and you will taste why from the very first bite. Our wine list is a carefully crafted tribute to the vintner’s art with selections from the finest vineyards in the world. Personal attention is given in our upbeat restaurants where you will have a fine dining experience in a casual setting.
Our bars are a welcoming and friendly place, providing big city sophistication in a relaxed suburban setting that caters to a truly eclectic crowd.
New for 2012 OUR HAPPY HOUR 4-6 menu featuring...six dollar appetizers and six dollar drinks
For a more intimate gathering we have the perfect setting for you to host your private party or corporate event.
MUST GO
Imagine a mouth-watering, sizzling steak cooked to absolute perfection...so juicy, hot and tender it practically melts in your mouth. This is a Pace’s steak. They take great care to ensure you’re served only the tastiest and best steaks, and even go as far as aging their steaks onsite for a meal you’ll be sure to remember. You will also find fresh seafood of the highest quality prepared by their award winning chefs.
Just a short drive from the Sagtikos Parkway, this is a “Must Go” for a wonderful experience.
SUPER GREEN DRINK for your well-being
Are you keeping it green? Not only for the planet, but also for your own wellness, too. Most Americans know that including fresh produce in their diet is important, but fall short consuming these empowering nutrients. So, if you don’t eat your greens, maybe you can drink them...
Green drinks have become very popular with people of all ages. What a clever, efficient way to get the benefits of numerous veggies in a snap. A good green drink will supply a range of powerful antioxidants, such as green tea extract, spirulina, wheat grass powder, barley grass powder, and spinach and broccoli powder, to name a few. Antioxidants are true health heroes as they neutralize the dangerous free radicals that attack your cells on a daily basis. Without sufficient antioxidant protection, we’re far more vulnerable to cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, premature aging, and more. And when you add some green powder to a protein shake, you can start the day with a nutritious breakfast. More reason to drink greens? They provide your body with essential vitamins and nutrients it may be craving, and contain antiinflammatory foods that can help reduce your risk for disease, eliminate symptoms of disease you may already be experiencing, assist in weight loss and boost your immune system. They also help to detoxify and purify your body, help combat cancer by increasing your natural killer (NK) cell activity, act as a blood sugar stabilizers, provide intestinal nourishment, decrease PMS, improve sleep and help nails to grow stronger and faster. And best of all, drinking greens provides MORE ENERGY.
Colleen Simon, Health Hutt, Inc., Centereach
e-mail for questions healthhuttinc@gmail.com
= WELCOMING, FRIENDLY CLUB ATMOSPHERE = = ROOM-TO-BREATHE WORKOUT AREAS = = INVIGORATIONG GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES = = CHALLENGING RACQUETBALL FOR ALL LEVELS = = RELAXING POOL/SPA AMENITIES =
A List to Live By For a Healthier Life
Collagen Red Light Therapy
www.worldgymbayshore.com 225 Howells Road - Bay Shore - NY 631 968-8668
LI World Gym Affiliates: Wantagh, Coram, Setauket A franchise of World Gym International. Independently owned and operated.
Why do you love your gym?
It’s my second home. You can get out of it whatever you are looking for. There are all ages and levels of fitness here. I started coming here in the 90’s with my kids in strollers and felt comfortable and welcomed. I was inspired by the atmosphere and people to make it a way of life. Now my kids are older and I am training for marathons.“ - Christin Hartman, Islip
“It’s personal for your individual goals and yet family friendly. I never fear dropping off my young teenage daughter if she wants to work out or take a class. There’s a high caliber of people who come here. The staff really cares. There’s a high comfort level and it has everything you could possibly want here.” - Dianne Parrett, West Islip
“I like to play racquetball here. There’s a certain camaraderie you get from playing with these members. The racquetball ladder is a great way to integrate into the club setting. I like that they have club tournaments... the level of play and access to tournaments is a big plus.” - Member, 10 Years
Drink plenty of pure water. Limit your carbohydrate intake. Consume good sources of natural fats. Eat protein at every meal. Eat a natural diet. Eliminate artificial sweeteners. Get enough rest.
Expose your skin to sunlight. Take sensible supplements.
• Naturally promotes collagen production
• Smooths and reduces wrinkles and fine lines using a UV-free lighting technology
• Firms aged and tired skin
• Keeps skin renewed and fresh
• Beneficial anti-inflammatory properties of red light enhances the wound repair process
• Increases oxygenation and restoration by promoting the skin’s natural cellular activity
• Helps clear acne
Red Light therapy penetrates deep into the dermis layer of the skin, stimulating cell receptors to grow 150-200% faster, causing them to produce collagen. Collagen is the essential protein used to repair and replace damaged tissue.
Remarkable results and hundreds of testimonials from our clients when a protocol therapy was followed.
-James Ferarro
This spring/summer 2012—gentlemen, welcome the return of the pleat pant. This season’s relaxed tailoring features loose fitting suit trousers through
the thighs and crotch, as well as loose fitting jackets with seamless or dropped shoulders. Shirts in green, mustard, navy will compliment any outfit. For those more daring, look edgy in a loud or geometric print shirt with minimal trousers. Or, take functional wear one step further with side panel strap suitcases, canvas shoulder bags and rolled up trousers—you’ll be clean, comfy and stylish.
NOW TRENDING
YMUST HAVES FOR HER
ou are in luck ladies; this season’s styles offer limitless possibilities to customize current trends to express your personality. Taking cues from the past, diversity
rules the day with the “what’s hot” spectrum running from the 1950s tailored glamour of high waisted flare pants, skirts and tailored shorts, to the 70s and 80s revisit to bold, blocky brights (including neon), art deco inspired geometric patterns and ever present animal prints. Everyday can be an adventure with hem lines plunging from mini to maxi and the popular high/low trend capturing everything in between. Whatever your age or wherever the event, make it your own!
BON APPETIT WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
Epicureans rejoice! The experts at Bon Appetit magazine are assembling culinary stars and wine experts or editors for a palate-pleasing voyage.
ENCHANTED GRANDEUR
ATHENS TO ROME / OCTOBER 14, 2012
RIVIERA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
TEMPLES & PALACES
ATHENS TO ISTANBUL / OCTOBER 22, 2012
MARINA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
VITALITY & WELLNESS CRUISE
Oceana Cruises focuses healthy eating and fitness as you cruise the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. Experts will share insights on increasing your vitality to live life to the fullest.
PEALS OF THE AEGEAN
VENICE TO ATHENS / AUGUST 8, 2012
REGATTA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
ACCENT ON ITALY
ROME TO VENICE / OCTOBER 24, 2012
RIVIERA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
OCEANA CLUB REUNION CRUISE
On these extraordinary voyages our valued past guests will have opportunities to be invited to exclusive cocktail parties, members-only dinners and private shore excursions, plus many more surprises.
IBERIAN ODYSSEY
LIBSON TO ROME / JUNE 17, 2012
RIVIERA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
RADIANT RHYTHMS
BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO
MARCH 6, 2013
REGATTA / 12-DAY VOYAGE
JACQUES PEPIN CRUISE
Master Chef Jacques Pepin has served as Oceania Cruises’ executive culinary director for eight years. On this sailing he’ll be sure to hold court in Jacques - his first namesake restaurant - as well as in the Bon Appetit Culinary Center leading Q&A sessions, cooking demonstrations and signing books.
TUSCAN ARTISTRY
BARCELONA TO ROME / MAY 12, 2012
MARINA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
SPRING MUSIC FEST
Shakespeare said, “If music must be the food of love, play on.” Six guest Jazz musicians, including four headlines, will perform individual main stage shows in addition to jam sessions. There will also be special dance sets and dance instructors as we cruise the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas.
MEDITERRANEAN TAPESTRY
ATHENS TO BARCELONA / MAY 14, 2012
NAUTICA / 10-DAY VOYAGE
ITALIAN WINE IMMERSION CRUISE
Highlights include special “Wine Bars”we will schedule tastings in Martinis or Horizons, there will be guest experts and special musical performers.
–R ejuvenate ...making women ageless can be attainable
FEATURED IN
Talking Back
By our Long Island Teens
It seems to be so many of your parents and your friends’ parents are getting divorced. Has that made you indecisive about getting married and is there anything you would like to say?
“By me seeing my parents fight throughout the years, it hasn’t made me afraid of marriage, but I think I will be more cautious and not rush into it.”
- Long Island Teen, Anonymous
“Parents try to hide the fact that they are growing apart, if the break up is getting serious you can start easing us into it if age is appropriate, so it’s not as much of a shock when it actually happens.”
- Long Island Teen, Anonymous
“We don’t want to hear you talk bad about the other and hear about it all the time. After all, you both are our parents and we love you both.”
- Long Island Teen, Anonymous
Thoughts on college?
“I really like for our parents to be involved and actually care about what I am doing, even though I may not show it.”
- Long Island Teen, Anonymous
Is there anything you would like parents to know?
“I don’t feel loved because my parents don’t converse with me as a person. My parents separated once and my mom was easy going and was interested in me, but once they got back together I felt alienated.”
“I realize that parents may be preoccupied with their relationships whether it’s your biological parents or their new relationship but it hurts when you feel as if you are tossed aside.”
- Long Island Teen, Anonymous
This column is intended for our Long Island teens to talk back and we do feel it is important to hear what you have to say. We welcome our Long Island teens to talk back by sending your input to me at joanne@thelistmagazine.com. All comments are kept confidential and if printed will be anonymous.
-Ben Sweetland
A New Door Opens Marilyn Schulman’s Story on Embracing Change
Ideas come and go, new trends arrive and fade and technology advancements push us to heights we never imagined. We all have the ability to welcome the different chapters of our lives, to adapt to change, to build upon it and create new dreams as we go. Nobody knows this better than Marilyn Schulman, business entrepreneur, community advocate, and owner of both Willy Nilly Trading and Bay Shore Lighting, the latter of which has closed its doors after 67 years and will soon be reopening as Willy Nilly at Home. And while residents of Bay Shore and surrounding towns have expressed their sorrow in saying goodbye to the legendary lighting storefront, Marilyn says, “it’s just a prelude to better things to come.”
You see, this dynamic and forward thinking lady has proved herself a natural at shifting with trends to continue her family business (Bay Shore Lighting) for three decades, fostering loyal relationships with both clients and the community while staying ahead of change. Even during periods of recession and economic downturn in Bay Shore, Marilyn found a way to keep the business strong, and in fact, she even opened a new specialty gift shop, Willy Nilly Trading, in 2000 to cater to the tastes of her long-time customers. Her idea was to adapt to changing times by introducing fresh concepts, and despite the odds, to make it work. In doing so, she laid the foundation for others to follow suit in what would become a community effort to revitalize and bring life back to the beautiful town of Bay Shore.
Not surprisingly, Willy Nilly Trading quickly evolved into a local shopping favorite, known for Marilyn’s ever-changing selections of unique personal and home accessories, creative displays and soothing atmosphere. A little bit preppy, a little bit artsy, it simply projects an irresistible aura that draws shoppers inside. When asked the secret behind its success, Marilyn says she just wants customers to feel comfortable and enjoy their visit. In her words, “I make sure my staff is warm and friendly without hovering over a customer, just a friendly hello to make them feel welcomed is perfect.”
And while many wonder why, with two successful businesses, Marilyn chose to recently close Bay Shore Lighting, she says the answer is simple: “I just wasn’t having fun anymore. I wanted to do something different. Lighting is a very serious business and one I enjoyed for a long time, but I felt it was time for a change.”
And that change is certainly on the horizon. Scheduled for its grand opening soon, the new Willy Nilly at Home will be an exciting and welcome addition to Bay Shore’s Main Street, featuring a large assortment of home décor items, ranging from the traditional to the atypical to the extraordinary.
What we can all learn from Marilyn is simple— not only is change okay, but it’s what allows us to learn, to succeed and to be a role model for others. Here at The LIST, we know that Marilyn’s newest creation is going to be both eclectic and exciting… and we look forward to seeing you there!
Exceptional success is frequently preceded by failure. Whether it’s a business leader who finally finds her groove after filing bankruptcy or the musician who has paid his dues playing dimly lit dives for tips, success requires a commitment to working with the end in mind.
“Extraordinary leaders believe the most regrettable failure in life is failing to fail,” says Gary Burnison, author of No Fear of Failure and CEO of Korn/Ferry International. In interviews with leaders including New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi, Mexican telecom tycoon Carlos Slim, Former Xerox Chairman and CEO Ann Mulcahy and others, Burnison learned that strong leaders share a few common traits. “Although failure might be inevitable at times, these leaders do not view it as an absolute endpoint. They maintain perspective in the journey, immediately shifting from setback to lesson learned.”
Want to become a top-notch leader? Burnison offers a few tips:
•Humbly savor success
•View failure as temporary
• Stay focused on what matters most
•Remain true to your core values
Mastering the skill of dealing with problems without making them your primary focus will empower you to move past failure and into your own version of extraordinary success. Says Burnison, “Leaders possess an inner serenity that keeps them centered in who they are and what matters most, which enables them to guide and motivate others even in the worst of times.”
Constant effort and frequent mistakes are the stepping stones of genius. ‘‘ ‘‘
-Elbert Hubbard
Great things come in small packages. Great things come in small packages. While there are a few other eateries in this tiny location, the newest place—Café Taka—is not only a winner, but certainly a diamond in the rough. It’s no wonder why The New York Times and Newsday have already been in with rave reviews...The List loves it too. Sometimes, all you’re after when you eat out is exceptionally good food, and just on the edge of downtown Bay Shore you’ll find just that place. Here mostly everything is made from scratch, prepared by the owner. He and his wife/partner are both friendly and accommodating, and even though they serve wine and beer, they welcome guests who bring their own wine. The owner enjoys what he does and wants to encourage people to go out to eat more, so his menu is moderately priced (and he doesn’t charge a corking fee). Things we love from Café Taka…grilled lamb chops, red lentil soup, kebabs, spinach pie, zucchini pancakes and cold dipping spreads. To sum it up, this place is simply a must go.Open Tuesday through Friday.
Seafood and Kebabs Specialist
MEDITERRANEAN FOOD
S & S Interiors was established by Chris Saverino in 1989. Continued success as Suffolk County’s leading Hunter Douglas Dealer brought them to the ultimate top rank as a “Gallery Dealer.” This enables them to offer consumers access to the complete Hunter Douglas line and first exposure to the latest and newest products. They offer their customers something called “right choice promise.” This gives the customer the right to live with the product for up to 21 days and if for any reason the selection is not up to their expectations they will replace it. Their customers have the security knowing they can never make the wrong choice. Chris does all his own measuring and installation to doubly insure perfection.
When more than just a window covering is needed, the expertise of their Interior Decorator Ellen Zerah is available to customize the perfect look for your home. Ellen designs window treatments, composes color schemes and coordinates paint color and accessorizes to enhance your home’s decor. She can even do a computerized rendering of what her designs will actually look like on your own window. Their showroom has a very comfortable and friendly atmosphere and their staff always makes you very welcome there.
Decorating Services by Ellen
Zerah
• CUSTOM WINDOW
• TREATMENTS
• CUSTOM BEDDING
• NEW FURNITURE
• REUPHOLSTERY AND CUSTOM SLIP COVERS
• CUSTOM RUGS
• CARPETING
• WOOD FLOORING
• ACCESSORIZING
• PAINT COLOR
• COORDINATION
• AND MUCH MORE...
Interior
For the kitchen you have always dreamed of, turn to Cottone Kitchens Inc. We design, distribute and install kitchen and bath cabinetry as well as other furniture-quality cabinetry for entertainment and storage units.
We are dedicated to providing 100% customer satisfaction on every job and are proud of the fact that most of our business comes from word-of-mouth referrals. One reason our customers are so happy with us is that we never tack on any hidden or un-agreed upon charges, so you can rest assured that your initial quote will be the all-inclusive price.
- Frank Cottone
From our Wine List
How Much Better is That Expensive Bottle of Wine?
Social acceptance, peer agreement and key influencers can have a role in our perception of what is good. Part of the pleasure in buying a designer label, or an expensive bottle of wine, is that it’s wrapped up with prestige and the ‘knowledge’ that it’s special, exclusive, well-made and expensive. How much someone is willing to pay for something is the determining factor of the value you place on it. And each person’s opinion varies.
Some of these notable rare vintage bottles of wine may have been saved from a shipwreck or even once belonged to Thomas Jefferson. To some, that a bottle of wine is more than what it seems -- it is actually a work of art.
Petrus Pomerol 1998: Approx. $1,459. This Merlot was one of the favorite wines at the White House during the Kennedy years. A truly exquisite vintage, it should reach maturity after the year 2012.
1945 Chateau Mouton-Rothschild: $47,000. Belonging to the owner of Chateau MoutonRothschild’s personal cellar, this six-liter bottle was sold by Sotheby’s New York for $310,700. That equals about $47,000 for each 750 ml.
Royal DeMaria: $30,000. Ice wine is a dessert wine that is made from grapes frozen on the vine before the fermentation process begins. It is more expensive than other kinds of wine.
1865 Chateau Lafite: $27,000. This 150-yearold bottle that belonged to a Florida-based business man was purchased by a European private collector over the telephone.
1775 Massandra: $43,500. A sherry from this Russian vineyard sold at Sotheby’s for $43,500 in 2001 (about $52,000 today). It is the oldest known bottle from Massandra to date.
Experienced tasters apply different criteria to judging a good bottle of wine than novices, based on expectations as to what state that wine should be in at that particular time. While novices judge a wine based on how it tastes at that moment, experts consider factors such as aging potential and whether the wine accurately reflects its growing region and grape variety.
Expensive wines that last many years are rare and cool to own, but when it comes to actual taste, you may do just as well with a less expensive wine.
OUR GREAT FINDS FOR UNDER $20 SUGGESTIONS by Massimiliano Gargioulo, owner of Solo Vino in Babylon
Chianti Classico I Massi (black roaster)
Nettare D’Abramo Ciro’ Red
Penny Wise Petit Syrah Montecucco Spinachristi Supertuscan
Maurel Vedeau Pinot Noir
Cycle Gladiator Cabernet Sauvignon
Borgo Dei Vassalli Pinot Grigio
Sorrentino Lacryma Christi Red
Lease Fitch Cabernet Sauvignon Provenza Lugana White
Village Bridal & Boutique
“There is nothing better than watching the face of someone’s delight in eating what you prepared; it is the greatest compliment and motivation to want to be the best of what you love to do.”
You can actually see owner and chef Sal Saverio’s whole face light up, as he delights in telling his stories about his favorite subject: good food. This well-loved chef extends his recipes from having the traditional Italian dishes to putting an eclectic twist on his own specialty dishes. Although he went to culinary schools and cooked in some of the best Manhattan restaurants, most of his recipes and cooking styles were learned from growing up in his uncle’s restaurant in Italy, where food and family were always one. And traditional Italian food in Italy is different from the Italian food we know here. People in Italy often eat cleaner and lighter—vegetables, for example, can take center stage. This man prides himself that he can take a simple food like eggplant, peppers, and even fennel and perhaps chicken, which can be boring and prepare it in a way to make it love at first bite.
Saverio
“We have a passion for creating a great dining experience, whether it is for a simple lunch, private dinner or a special occassion”.
- Virginia Woolf
2012 Shore Thing Summer
English translation: THE MARKET
Offering the finest selection of imported italian goods, specialty meats, domestic grocery essentials as well as mouthwatering desserts, gelato and entrees.
An addition to Frank and Marias Pork Store 10 WEST MAIN STREET BAY SHORE 631.665.0047
Bubbas Burrito Bar
West Coast Style Mexican Cuisine
Bubba’s Burrito Bar is the place to go for awesome burritos, tacos, quesadillas and signature items that are incredibly tasty, with great portions at a superb price with a friendly staff. They are not a fast food restaurant, but rather serve fresh food fast. Meals are prepped daily and cooked to order. This great California-style burrito bar is truly the best Mexican food in the area. The LIST’s personal favorite is the Land & Sea Burrito (the steak and shrimp combo is to die for), and the fish tacos on Friday are a real treat. The interior is an Island-style motif, accented by visuals from the extreme sport worlds of surf, skate and snow. Check out the art work on the walls that are for sale from local artists. Bubba’s additionally has a huge variety of beer including a $2.50 local micro-brewed beer and homemade Sangria. There’s a good amount of seating, and they deliver to Bay Shore, Islip and East Islip with a minimum order of $15.
Why do I travel for my hair dresser?
“ I received so many compliments. Everyone still asks me where I get my hair done. I repeatedly have had the same great experience, loving my hair and my color. It’s just three or four songs North from the South Shore.”
- Marina Peredo
“Really good hair is worth driving for.”
- Lisa, Massapequa
The Battle of the Guacamole Dips!
The first recipe comes from world famous Rosa Mexicano restaurant in NYC. Our fashion editor swears everyone was going gaga over this Guacamole dip so she brought it home. When it was forwarded to our art director to put in our magazine, Colleen insists she has the best recipe for Guacamole dip. It is from a restaurant we highly recommend, Besito in Huntington. She said everyone tries to cleverly get tips from the waiters to find out what’s in it. But she soon learned that all she had to do was come right out and ask for it and they gave it to her. So here are both. Try them both and let us know what you think.
Laura’s Colleen’s
Ingredients: Yields 4 servings
What makes this guacamole so special is its unique chile paste.
STEP ONE:
Mix chile paste. Grind ingredients together until very finely ground.
Chile Paste Ingredients
1 T finely chopped white onion
1 firmly packed
T chopped fresh cilantro
2 teaspoons finely chopped jalapeño, or more to taste
1 teaspoon salt
STEP TWO:
Cut each avocado in half and remove pit. Scoop the diced avocado flesh into the molcajete.
3 medium ripe but firm Hass avocados
3 T diced tomato
2 T chopped fresh cilantro
1 T finely chopped white onion
Salt to taste
STEP THREE:
Gently toss in cubed avocado so that every piece is coated evenly. Serve up with tortilla chips and enjoy.
The Molcajete is a traditional lava stone bowl used for grinding and mixing. You can also use a mortar and pestle for similar results. Otherwise, use what you have available.
Ingredients: Yields 4 servings
2 Hass avocado
4 T chopped cilantro
2 tsp chopped jalapeño chiles
4 tsp chopped onions
4 T chopped tomato (discard juice and seeds)
1 tsp salt
STEP ONE:
In a bowl or molcajete, mash the following ingredients into a juicy paste (using salt as a grinder):
2 T chopped cilantro
2 tsp chopped onions
1 tsp chopped jalapeño chiles
1 tsp salt
STEP TWO:
Split the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the seed. Scoop the avocado out of the skin with a spoon into bowl.
STEP THREE:
Add the avocado to the paste and thoroughly mix together, then add the rest of the ingredients and fold. Add jalapeño chiles and salt to taste.
