Mary Carroll's OF BABYLON VILLAGE
THE NEWEST GASTROPUB ON LONG ISLAND IS A MUST GO.
By Rachel Margaritis
Long Island’s restaurant scene has evolved over the last decade in the shadow of progression in Manhattan’s hospitality industry. From loud, booming dining clubs and cuisine with hefty price tags, the industry has turned casual with smaller, intimate and welcoming gastropubs becoming the norm. Menus are more concise and change frequently, and include cuisine-like takes on traditional pub fare with carefully curated beer and wine selections in a comfortable, laid-back setting.
The newest gastropub on Long Island receiving rave reviews has actually been a name on the South Shore for two decades. Nearing his 20th anniversary at Mary Carroll’s of Babylon, owner and founder Conor Hartnett has decided to completely renovate and create an entirely new concept for his establishment, worthy of gastropub fame.
Hartnett was 29 when he opened Mary Carroll’s of Babylon. “I was resistant to food 20 years ago. I spent 25 years in Ireland and most bars didn’t have food. Now I see it’s necessary and I’ve come full circle to actually embracing the idea. I’ve grown, and so has Mary Carroll’s." Though the bar has carried some traditional fast pub grub in recent years, like mozzarella sticks and chicken fingers, Hartnett felt it was time to consider a more substantial menu after being inspired by the gastropub trend in Manhattan and Brooklyn. “I always concentrated more on the bar side of things. We had a basic menu, but I think there is a belief with some that Mary Carroll’s in Babylon is just a late night bar, and we wanted to change that. We want this to be a place for everyone to come, not only to drink, but to enjoy great food as well.” Truth be told, the average crowd at Mary Carroll’s has been known in the past to arrive for the late night vibe, not the cuisine.
In order to make such significant changes, Hartnett recognized his need for a great chef. He hired chef Lauren Van Denise, who has worked as a sous chef here in Babylon Village as well as at "The Out" on Fire Island. Van Denise’s emphasis is on fresh ingredients and locally sourced food. She uses Long Island's famous Lakewood Bakery for their bread, and Babylon Meat Market to supply their meat and poultry. Together, Hartnett and Van Denise conceived a menu of appetizers, salads, prime meat burgers, artisan sandwiches and more, to pique local foodie interest. The Drunken Cheese Steak sandwich served with Provolone and Whiskey Butter, and Lobster BLT served with Lemon Aioli on Onion Ciabatta have become fast favorites among patrons. Their prime burgers all have a specialty twist; from the aptly named “Kegs and Eggs” Burger to the Mac Attack served over a bed of homemade Mac & Cheese. The fresh Cod with Guinness beer battered Fish & Chips is also extremely popular. Van Denise also recognized the need to offer creative salads and gourmet vegetable sandwiches. Hartnett wanted to offer fresh seafood selections, including calamari and mussels, as well as some new concepts like Shepherd’s Pie Potato Skins and Hand Cut Fries coated with various sauces, seasonings, and toppings. Van Denise will be serving up the full menu until 3am closing. Says Hartnett of Van Denise’s new menu, “She’s excellent and she got exactly what I was trying to achieve with this menu, which is upscale pub food. We’re not trying to be a fancy restaurant; I just want to have really good quality food.” The kitchen opens at 4pm daily and closes at 3am. “At most places you won’t get this level of food service after 11 or even 10pm.” Hartnett has also updated his bar to include 33 beers on tap, the largest selection in Babylon, as well as a 150-count whiskey portfolio, the largest in Suffolk County.
Although the menu changes are a major step forward for the pub,
Mary Carroll’s interior itself has undergone some tremendous renovations to welcome all of the expected newcomers to the establishment. “We used to have these giant booths and an old stage for music years ago. We wanted to make it more conducive to dining so we’ve added interchangeable Indonesian hardwood tables,” says Hartnett. He has spared no detail in order to maintain authenticity at Mary Carroll’s, and even added real cowhide and banquette seating to the dining area. More additions include a cozy fireplace, window seating, and furnishings imported straight from Ireland. The renovations were designed to make Mary Carroll’s a comfortable place for everybody, a step in diversification that Hartnett says business owners must be willing to take.
“I think I evolved over time. One of my favorite bars, my local bar in Ireland, was Nancy Blake’s, and Nancy in her 80’s was still tending bar. As a bar owner she was my biggest inspiration. I asked her what she thought the key to her success was, and she said, ‘if you’re not moving forwards you’re moving backwards. There’s no in-between. If you think everything is good, and you just sit back and relax, you’re already moving backwards.’” He believes that as an establishment owner and operator, it’s imperative to continually evolve and innovate within your space, being present and in tune with one’s patronage. “My thought is to constantly try to make the place better. Customers like to see changes and progress. As I and my customers grow and evolve, Mary Carroll’s will as well.”
Kitchen Sink Burger with Fries Mussels in Thai Coconut Curry
•
PUBLISHER
Joanne Lifavi
ART DIRECTOR
Jennie Alberto
CO-EDITOR
Michaela Connors
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Rosemarie Kluepfel
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography
Mary Carroll's (fc/p2)
Willy Nilly Trading (p11)
RECIPE SUBMISSIONS
Rich Fisher
Verde Kitchen & Bar
INTERNS
Brant Eckert
Melanie Zerah
Ailise Schendorf
Advertising Inquiries, call 917.559.7821
If you know a business to suggest, want to submit an editorial, or have other inquiries, email us at connect@thelistmagazine.com
We would like to thank Marshall Brown, President and Co-Founder of Save the Great South Bay, for contributing an insightful article in our Fall issue: "The Most Beautiful Place on Long Island". Although an alias worked for Dickens and George Eliot on occasion, Marshall Brown's name was misprinted as Marshall Howard in our Fall issue. We look forward to having him write for our magazine again in future issues. For more information on how to get involved in this most worthy cause go to www.savethegreatsouthbay.org
COVER STORY
2 Mary Carroll's of Babylon Village
MUST KNOW
10 Nature's Inspiration for Creating a Holiday Table Setting
20 Inspiring Ideas for Keeping Spirits Bright
22 4 Must Know Basics to Perfectly Cook your Special Holiday Roast
24 Holiday Tipping Guide
27 Gift Card Check List
WISE WORDS BY REAL PEOPLE
14 An American Holiday Portrait
MUST GO
WELCOME WINTER
16 Lace Up Your Skates!
18 Holiday Happenings Around Town RECIPES
28 Holiday Cookie Swap
29 Apple Cinnamon Margarita
Dear Readers,
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE...
LIST PICKS
AUTO 3
PET CARE 30
HEALTH & WELLNESS 15, 16
HOME & GARDEN
11, 30, 31, BC
HAIR & BEAUTY 17
REAL ESTATE 4, 5, 6, 7, 9
RESTAURANT / CAFE / NIGHTLIFE
FC, 12, 13, 18, 19, 22, 24, 25, 29
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
9, 15, 20, 23, 26, 30
SHOPPING & GIFTS
11, 16, 21, 23, 26 TRAVEL 26
Welcome to our holiday issue of The List. We had fun putting it together and it’s designed as a holiday guide to help you shop, dine and celebrate during this special time of the year. We hope to be your concierge, making suggestions for “Must Knows" and "Must Go’s” so you can enjoy all the season has to offer.
It’s filled with both creative and helpful ideas including cookie swap recipes, festive table settings, holiday tipping, preparing for overnight guests and even inspirational tips to keep your spirits bright.
Mark your calendar…we have a long list of things for you to do with family and friends on our Holiday Happenings page.
I am reminded of how wonderful holiday traditions are as I start some new traditions of my own this year. As family dynamics change, new traditions can be made. We hope you are able to gather some ideas from our holiday issue that may become new traditions for you and your loved ones.
As we close out the year with our holiday issue, I want to say a big "Thank you” to our small but dynamo team who make it all happen.
Almost five years ago, I started The List Magazine in hopes of bringing local businesses and readers together to explore all that our Great South Bay communities have to offer. For those of you who remember, we published our very first issue in March 2012 with Aji 53 on our front cover. I am so proud that we are able to hold true to our mission. We hand select quality businesses and professionals and feel confident to recommend them in our magazine.
I want to send a heartfelt thank you to you, dear readers, for welcoming us each season and encouraging us with your feedback. We love inspiring you to love where you live and to connect with us as your community lifestyle magazine.
Stay connected with us in between issues on our face book page or on Instagram. Be sure to enter to win a $100 gift card from any restaurant or merchant of your choice in this issue.
Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas and happy holidays to our readers of all faiths.
FRESH IDEAS:
• Create mini-centerpieces for each dinner plate by using pinecones or cranberries encompassed with rosemary,
• Drop a few fresh cranberries in water goblets for a splash of color.
• Pinecones, acorns, dried hydrangea blooms, pine and holly branches are all abundant in our area. To add a little elegant shimmer to your table, try coating them in silver and gold spray paint.
• Show off your reclaimed wood or farm table with a festive runner down the center of the table. Use lots of natural green branches, acorns, pinecones and berries around small red or white votive lanterns for a country Christmas look.
• Include aromatic herbs in centerpieces such as cinnamon sticks, rosemary and thyme.
• For a warm glow, place long taper candles in crystal candle holders in the center of the table. A combination of votive and taller candles can be spread center stage across the table and used as the focal point of an evergreen swag.
• Arrange ivy sprigs, pine and holly branches in between candles and around centerpieces that feature various shades of red and white blossoms.
New Traditions
NATURES INSPIRATION
For Creating a Holiday Table Setting
A beautifully set table will put your dinner guests in the holiday spirit the moment they sit down. A little sparkle and shine paired with gifts from Mother Nature are the perfect ingredients for creating a festive table that everyone will want to gather around.
• Using floral wire, string cranberries to make mini-wreath napkin rings.
• Wrap satin ribbon around napkins in a festive print or plaid. Tuck in sprigs of pine, holly, rosemary or thyme, and tie with natural jute twine to create simple, rustic napkin holders your guests will love.
• A tiered tray stacked with fruit, featuring oranges that have been pierced with cloves, adds not only color, but scent as well. A large crystal bowl filled with red and green apples adds a bright and festive touch and gives guests something crisp to nosh on.
• Decorative place card holders can be made easily using natural elements. Coat pinecones with gold (or silver) spray paint; cut a groove into the top of pinecone and insert a place card.
• A small box of decadent chocolates tied with a burlap bow and placed on each dessert plate makes a nice gift for your guests to take home.
For added inspiration make sure to have some holiday music playing in the background. Enjoy!
Every year, purchase one nice piece for your tabletop and let Mother Nature supply the rest. Both Willy Nilly Trading in Bay Shore and Roomor’s in Babylon Village have an extensive selection of fabulous holiday table accent pieces. Plan a nature walk with your family each year to collect some yuletide treasures for your holiday table.
Night Life
HAPPY HOUR Monday-Friday, 3-7pm
FRIDAYS Live Music • Two for One Drink Specials
FRIDAY & SATURDAY DJ and Dance After 10
Dining
Classic American Cuisine
Steaks • Chops • Seafood
PRIME RIB SUNDAYS $24.95
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY All Bottles of Wine ½ Price
THURSDAY PRIX FIXE • 4-10PM $24.95 and $12.95 all you can drink wine (dining only)
Now Taking Reservations for Christmas Eve Dinner New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dancing
Catering
Catering is Our Specialty
Holiday Parties • Corporate Functions Bridal & Baby Showers • Weddings All Occasions
Choose from a number of party package options •
BUFFET MENU BRUNCH MENU SIT DOWN MENU
PRIVATE COCKTAIL PARTIES
An American Holiday Portrait
BY ROSEMARIE KLUEPFEL
Born to Italian immigrants, I grew up in a small apartment in Brooklyn during the 1960s, yearning for the holidays that were portrayed in Norman Rockwell paintings. I envisioned platters of turkey with all the trimmings served on crisp white linen, children gathered around presents stacked high under a tall pine tree, stockings hung from the fire place mantle as the fire roared, and carolers spreading holiday cheer.
Having migrated to the states, my parents were not versed in American holiday traditions. What they learned came mostly from department store advertisements and television holiday specials featuring crooners like Perry Como and Bing Cosby. We had no fireplace or dining room, and gifts were scarce under our small artificial tree. Still, Christmas was my favorite holiday as three generations of extended family gathered tightly in those cramped quarters.
Our apartment-sized oven would not accommodate a huge turkey so my mother stuffed small Cornish hens instead. My father used a 4-by- 8 foot plywood board to construct a makeshift dining room table. We sang along to songs like “White Christmas” on the radio, and watched the Yule Log on our black and white television. Occasionally blankets of snow would help create the winter wonderland I longed for. In my late teens, my father moved us to a house in the
suburbs which had a formal dining room and a real wood burning fireplace. As years went on, the holidays began to look more and more like those Norman Rockwell paintings. Garland and bright glass ornaments came to decorate the sprawling pine that nearly touched the ceiling of our new home. My father hung lights around our windows and my mother perfected the art of basting a turkey, as my parents continued to embrace the traditions from their beloved America. It was a testament to their ability to live the American dream.
When I got married and had children of my own, I worked to keep up those new traditions. Decorations filled nearly every room of my house and my three young children were dressed in coordinating outfits to recreate those picture perfect scenes that I longed for as a child. Family would gather around my dining room table to devour holiday
feasts, but less in numbers, as my brothers and cousins had also married and started traditions of their own. The presents were plentiful and the house looked warm and inviting, yet there was little joy in my home during those years. My marriage was deteriorating and the holidays made the tears flow more. We separated, and eventually divorced.
Our middle class lifestyle was uprooted and I struggled to juggle work with raising my young children. Money grew scarce. Holidays became especially stressful. The mountains of toys were replaced with functional presents like pajamas and snow boots. Worse yet, joint custody meant the children had alternating holidays with their father. My Norman Rockwell painting was fading.
As the years passed, my children and I had to make adjustments and new traditions were formed. My oldest daughter married a wonderful man from
the Midwest, so now her holidays are also divided amongst inlaws across state lines. Just as my parents’ beloved America accepted a melting pot of immigrants, and with it new cultures and traditions, so did my ever changing family dynamics require me to adjust and reflect on my own holiday rituals.
Today, American family portraits have changed to include single parents, stepfamilies and an assorted combination of households. I traded in my Norman Rockwell vision of the holidays for one that is more eclectic; a combination of old, new and improvised. I have learned to accept the adjustments needed to make way for new traditions as my holiday plans now involve coordinating with ex-spouses, in-laws and out-of-state relatives. I’ve come to realize that the only tradition that matters is spending time with family.
WELCOME WINTER...
LACE UP YOUR SKATES!
A wide selection of jewelry, accessories, fun & functional items for that special lady.
Gift certificates for one of our world class therapeutic services as facials, massage and reflexology.
3 Classic Places to Ice Skate in NYC.
Avoid the holiday crowds! Plan a trip to NYC right after the New Year...it will give you something to look forward to.
A special selection of items for men. OLIVINA® MEN as seen in GQ is a range of natural grooming products designed for the man who is health conscious and practical.
Tribute pieces for the home or that special person with inspirational words.
FOR KIDS
Children gifts to encourage self-expression. All of our toys and gifts for children (of all ages!) are clean, green, safe and best of all, no batteries required!
Many unique gifts are under
Combine it with a hand written note to make someone feel extra special.
Need a gift in a hurry? Our grab and go gifts are a big hit every year. Find a gift that is wrapped and ready to go for anyone on your list, for any budget!
CENTRAL PARK
Wollman Rink
Wollman Rink, with its picturesque Central Park scenery and priceless backdrop, puts visitors beneath the sensational New York City skyline by day, and its twinkling lights by night. For more information, wollmanskatingrink.com
MIDTOWN
Rockefeller Center
One of New York City’s most celebrated attractions! In the heart of Midtown, steps from Times Square and the Theater District, ice skating at Rockefeller Center is a New York City tradition that everyone can enjoy. For more information, therinkatrockcenter.com
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park Rink
Open daily until January 2nd, The Winter Village at Bryant Park is a European inspired open-air market featuring artisans from around the world. It’s truly New York’s North Pole and a sight to behold. Bryant Park’s 17,000 sq. ft. outdoor rink is free and open late. It is situated behind the New York Public Library in midtown. For more information, Bryantpark.org
LOCAL LONG ISLAND RINKS
The Arches at Tanger Outlet, Deer Park
The Rinx, Hauppauge
Superior Ice Rink, Kings Park Dix Hills Park Ice Rink, Dix Hills
Mark Your Calendars for HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AROUND TOWN
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2016 • 5- 9PM
A Dickens Winter Wonderland Holiday Cheer and Shopping in Babylon Village
Sponsored by the Babylon Chamber of Commerce
Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Stroll the Village and enjoy holiday specials. Many stores open late. You may even see old Mr. Scrooge himself!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 • 8PM
Suzy Bogguss “A Swingin’ Little Christmas”
Tickets: $40.00-45.00
YMCA Boulton Center
A fun-filled night of all the holiday classics sprinkled with some of Suzy’s hits through the years. The whole family wi ll enjoy this show.
37 W. Main Street, Bay Shore • 631.969.1101
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10
SantaCon 2016
New York City
Thousands of people dressed up as Santa for a bar crawl through some of NYC’s best bars for charity and because it’s fun. One of the most popular (and despised) events held in NYC. Bad Santa’s are not welcome.
To register or for more information: SantaCon.info/NewYork
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 • 11AM - 3PM
Christmas at Sagtikos Manor
Admission: Adults $25, Seniors & Students $20, Children (5-12) $8
Sagtikos Manor
Learn about the Myths and Legends of Christmas 677 Montauk Highway, Bay Shore • 631.661.5169
Call for reservations or register online SagtikosManor.org/Events
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 • 11:30AM – 12:30PM
14th Annual Reenactment of the Flying Santa
Free Admission – Come Early
Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park
Relive this historic event as Santa arrives at the Lighthouse... A great photo opportunity!
For more information: 631.661.4876
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 • 12-4PM
Islip Arts Council 7th Annual Plein Air Limner Society (PALS) Art Show
BAFFA Gallery, Gillette House
“Seasons on Long Island” Meet the artists and view paintings of local houses, towns and scenery of Long Island throughout the seasons.
47 Gillette Ave., Sayville • 631.589-7343
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11 • 5PM
Light the Night
Sponsored by the Beautification Society of Bay Shore and Islip Chamber of Commerce
The Bay Shore, Brightwaters and Islip community will be aglow with luminaries.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 – JANUARY 1, 2017
The Gateway’s Holiday Spectacular on Ice
Ticket prices vary, buy online or call Patchogue Theatre
Skaters, singers and dancers dazzle you with both traditional and contemporary holiday productions.
71 E. Main St., Patchogue • 631.207.1313
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17 • 8PM
One Tree Holiday: Kate Voegele & Tyler Hilton Tickets: $30.00
YMCA Boulton Center
37 W. Main Street, Bay Shore • 631.969.1101
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18 • 2PM
Long Island Resound Handbell Ensemble
Free admission
Connetquot Public Library
Enjoy music of the holiday season.
760 Ocean Ave., Bohemia • 631.567.5079
DECEMBER 17 & 18 • VARIOUS SHOWTIMES
The Nutcracker by The Eglevsky Ballet
Tickets $48.00 - $78.00
Tilles Center for the Performing Arts at LIU Post 720 Northern Blvd., Greenvale • 516.299.3100
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25 • 10AM
Holiday Ho Ho Ho Hike
Manorville Trail Center
Work off those cookies and eggnog! 10 miles of trail hiking around the ponds, over the river and through the woods past grandmother’s house. Fast and flat. Bring water and snack. ¼ mile north of LIE ext. 70 • 516.721.0223 Register at ligreenbelt.org
DECEMBER 26, 28, & 30 • 11AM
The Santa Claus Show Live Onstage Tickets: $10.00
YMCA Boulton Center
37 W. Main Street, Bay Shore • 631.969.1101
DECEMBER 28 & 29 • VARIOUS SHOWTIMES
The Nutcracker by Ballet Long Island Tickets $40.00
The Noel S. Ruiz Theater at CM Performing Arts Center 931 Montauk Hwy., Oakdale • 631.737.1964
SUNDAY, JANUARY 1, 2017 • 12:15PM
Hither Woods New Year’s Hike
Hither Hills Overlook parking lot, north side
7 mile moderate hike. Start your New Year off on the right foot – literally! Hike through Montauk’s magnificent coastal wilderness. Bring water and snack. 164 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk • 631.267.6608 Register at ligreenbelt.org
INSPIRING IDEAS FOR Keeping Spirits Bright
This year, before you get swept up and stressed out from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, make the decision to “choose calm”. This magical time of year is so short-lived. Maintaining a positive attitude and spreading goodwill is the heart of Christmas Spirit. Embrace it, live it, give it.
Here are some simple ways to keep peace in your days and ultimately enjoy this most wonderful time of the year.
BE GRACIOUS.
'Please,' 'Thank You.' and 'You’re Welcome!' said with a smile will not only get you better service, they’re contagious. Do your part to create a kind atmosphere.
SHOP LOCALLY.
Avoid the big malls, especially at peak hours, and opt for small merchants in local villages instead. You’ll be treated to more holiday spirit, better parking, shorter lines and free gift wrapping!
BUY IT WHEN YOU SEE IT.
You can always return it. Nothing is more frustrating than going back for an item that has become sold out.
GET A BABYSITTER.
Holiday shopping with small children can quickly turn disastrous. The crowds, music, toys, elves and Santas all add up to sensory overload which translates into a red hot meltdown for your little angel. If they must accompany you make sure they are well-fed and pack snacks and water just in case. Good luck.
KEEP A RECEIPT ENVELOPE.
As you gift wrap, place every receipt from each shopping trip into one envelope so you can find it if you need it. For you “type A’s”, go the extra mile and highlight the deadline-for-return date at the top of the receipt.
JUST SAY “NO.”
Being over-scheduled is a major stressor. Choose to attend only the events that are meaningful to you and spend more time baking cookies and enjoying your loved ones. You can always get together with the Book Club or the Yoga Gals after the holidays.
COOKIES & WINE.
A bottle of wine with festively wrapped Christmas cookies is a favorite one-size-fits-all gift for teachers, hostesses, coaches, neighbors, etc. For the folks who make your “Nice List” pick up a ceramic or glass holiday plate to wrap up with the cookies and make it part of their gift.
MAKE POST HOLIDAY PLANS.
So little time to get it all done and squeeze in seeing all the friends and family. Plan a Post-Holiday-Get-Together. People are more likely to be available and will be happy to have something to look forward to.
Hosting Overnight Guests?
EASY WAYS TO PREPARE FOR & WELCOME VISITORS
Nothing feels more welcoming than a warm, cozy guest room. Here are some ideas for preparing a relaxed and comfortable space for your guests to enjoy.
FRESH FLOWERS.
Instant happy.
LUXE LINENS.
Make the bedding special for your guests with fluffy towels and fresh white or flannel sheets. Perfect time to treat yourself; shop the holiday sales and buy some new linens for your guests to use and for you to enjoy after they leave.
BASKET OF TOILETRIES.
Line a basket with a holiday themed hand towel then fill it with shower gel, body lotion, lip balm, hand cream, travel size tooth paste, a toothbrush and deodorant. Don’t forget the aspirin.
BARE ESSENTIALS.
Water bottles, pen and paper, tissue box, Wi-Fi password.
GIVE THEM SPACE.
Clear a closet or dresser drawers ahead of their arrival so they don’t have to live out of a suitcase. Have a comfortable chair in their room with some reading material and good lighting to encourage them if they want to have some alone time.
ADDED TOUCHES.
Make the room smell nice, use essential oils, sachets or potpourri. Placing a framed photo of you and your guest in their room is a nice added touch.
"BEFORE THEY NEED TO ASK" ITEMS.
Keep bathroom stocked with items some people may be uncomfortable to ask for, like extra toilet paper, femine care products, a plunger and bathroom spray. Your guests will appreciate that they don't have to come to you, should they need any of these potentially embarrassing items during their stay.
GOODIE-BAG.
Pack a goodie-bag the morning of their departure. Fill it with fresh fruit, granola bars, holiday cookies, packaged snacks, napkins and water.
Holiday Platters
PREHEAT THE OVEN. Preheating the oven is a necessity to cooking your meat, as many foods cook unevenly in a cold oven. If you have the right temperature from the start, your dish can start cooking immediately and properly.
LET THE MEAT GET TO ROOM TEMPERATURE BEFORE COOKING. Letting your meat sit on the counter for 20-30 minutes before putting it in the oven will help to cook the meat more evenly from edge to center. If you put it in at fridge temp, say 40 degrees, the outside will cook faster than the center, which is insulated.
USE A MEAT THERMOMETER. A probe thermometer is the best way to make sure that your meat is cooked to a safe temperature. It's also the best way to make sure you do not overcook it.
REST YOUR MEAT. The purpose of resting your meat is is to allow the juices, which are driven to the center during cooking, to redistribute themselves in the meat. If given the time to rest, the meat will lose less juice when you cut it, and when you eat it the meat will be juicier and tastier.
Cooking is like painting or writing a song. Just as there are only so many notes or colors, there are only so many flavors. It’s how you combine them that sets you apart" Wolfgang Puck
SALAD
• CALAMARI SALAD
• SCUNGILLI SALAD
• ITALIAN SEAFOOD SALAD
HOLIDAY TIPPING GUIDE
The holidays are traditionally a time to say “thank you” to the people in your life who provide year-round service and support to you and your household. Below is a helpful guide with suggestions from the experts at The Emily Post Institute regarding tipping etiquette.
PERSON
Au Pair
Babysitter
SUGGESTED TIP OR GIFT
1-2 week's pay & a small gift from your kids
Average day/evening pay for regular sitters and a small gift from your kids
Barber Cost of 1 regular service + tip
Cleaning Company
Day Care Staff
Cost of 1 session or a small gift, if you see the same people regularly
$25 to $50 for each staff member and a small gift from your kids
Animal Trainer Cost of 1 session
Trash Collector
Hairdresser
Housekeeper
Kids' Activities
Instructor/Coach
$20-$30 each
Cost of 1 regular service + tip
Cost of 1 session or a small gift for infrequent service
Small gift from your kids
Letter Carrier Cash is forbidden as per USPS. Gifts must be under $20. Letter of praise to supervisor
PERSON SUGGESTED TIP OR GIFT
Live-in Help (housekeeper, nanny, chef, etc.)
Mother's Helper
1-2 week's pay
Average day's pay for regular helper and a small gift from your kids
Nail Salon Cost of 1 regular service + tip
Newspaper Carrier
Nurse (in-home or private nurse, senior care aide)
Package Delivery Person
Personal Assistant
Personal Trainer
School Bus Driver
Teacher
Tutor
$10-$20
$25-$100 depending on involvement
FedEx: non-cash gifts worth under $75; UPS: encourages small gifts rather than cash
Small gift and a holiday bonus based on performance
Cost of 1 session
$10-$20
Small gift from your kids (gift card)
Cost of 1 session and small gift from your child, depending on frequency
If your budget can't support tips this year, then write a heartfelt note of thanks to all those who deserve it. Sincerity is what matters most. We all like to hear we're doing a good job. Give thanks and spread good cheer this season, be it with gifts or kind words.
Personal Pharmacy Service Has Returned To Babylon Village!
At Village Pharmacy, we can easily transfer your prescriptions with just one phone call. You pay the exact same insurance co-pay as you would at any of the big chain drugstores.
MAKE HOLIDAY SHOPPING EASIER WITH OUR
GIFT CARD CHECK LIST!
We've put together a list of some favorite restaurants, retailers and service professionals that sell Gift Cards or Certificates!
From stocking stuffers and "think outside the box" ideas to big wishes fufilled, use our Check List for all the very special people on your Holiday Shopping List. (Some even come with a special bonus gift card for you!)
RESTAURANTS
☐ Argyle Grill & Tavern, Babylon P12
☐ Aria Melanie, Bay Shore P25
☐ Babylon Carriage House, Babylon P13
☐ Barrique Kitchen & Wine Bar, Babylon P12
☐ Bay Shore Bean, Bay Shore P18
☐ Babylon Bean, Babylon P18
☐ The Lake House, Bay Shore P19
☐ Any Lessing's Restaurant, lessings.com P25
☐ Mary Carroll's, Babylon P2
☐ Maxwell's, Islip
☐ Molto Vino & Cheese Osteria, Babylon P12
☐ Post Office Cafe, Babylon
☐ Primi, West Islip P19
☐ Salt & Barrel, Bay Shore P24
☐ Southside, Bay Shore
☐ Treme, Islip P18
☐ Verde, Bay Shore P29
☐ View, Oakdale
RETAIL
☐ Healthy Alternatives, Babylon P16
☐ Nook and Cranny, Islip P16
☐ Realm, Babylon BC
☐ Roomers Gifts & Jewelry, Babylon P21
☐ South Shore Paddle, Babylon P21
☐ Willy Nilly Trading, Babylon P11
BEAUTY & WELLNESS
☐ Soho Urban Wax & Boutique, Islip P17
☐ Little Lash Boutique, Babylon P17
SPECIALTY MARKETS
☐ Caroline's Flower Shoppe, Islip P23
☐ Frank & Maria's, Bay Shore P22
☐ Manhattan Bakery, Islip P23
☐ White Cap Fish Market, Islip P22
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
☐ Anderson Travel, Islip P26
☐ Doggie U, Bay Shore P30
☐ Eyes on Main, Islip P26
☐ Islip Cleaners, Islip P23
☐ John McLoughlin DDS, Bay Shore P15
☐ Pinot's Palette, Babylon P25
☐ Surfset, Babylon P16
☐ Tire Express, Bay Shore & East Islip P26
☐ Village Pharmacy, Babylon P26
FILL IN YOUR OWN!
HOLIDAY COOKIE SWAP
ENJOY THESE FAVORITE CHRISTMAS BAKING RECIPES THAT WERE CONTRIBUTED BY LONG ISLANDERS
Venetian Corn Cookies
Famous Christmas Butter Cookies
Everyone loves these delicious, crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth butter cookies.
RECIPE YIELDS 48
Ingredients
• 8 ounces unsalted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
• 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• One egg yolk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
1. Before baking, preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Beat the butter, sugar, salt and vanilla together until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in the egg yolk.
4. Add the flour and mix, scraping down the sides of the bowl.
5. Scrape onto a lightly floured board and knead a few times, until the dough smooths out.
6. Turn onto a sheet of plastic wrap and roll into a log, wrap up and refrigerate for several hours or freeze.
7. Line your baking sheets with parchment.
8. Cut the dough into slices about 1/8" thick or cut the cookies into desired shapes, and then use a metal spatula to transfer the cookie to one of the prepared baking sheets. (they won't be spreading very much, but they need air room around each cookie)
9. Sprinkle the cookies with decorating sugar if desired. Repeat with the remaining dough.
10. Bake until JUST beginning to turn golden around the edges, about 16-18 minutes.
“I dip the ends into melted dark chocolate and then roll them in sprinkles or smashed candy cane. You can roll them in almost anything - chopped nuts, mini-chips, etc.” MC
A taste of Venice, Italy, that’s perfect with after dinner coffee or as an early wake-up treat on Christmas morning.
Ingredients
• 1 ¼ cups wheat flour
• ¾ corn flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 ¼ sticks of butter, at room temperature
• ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil
• ¾ cup of raisins, lightly chopped in a food processor
• ¼ cup dark rum
• 1 egg yolk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ cup of whole milk
Directions
1. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine raisins and rum. Microwave for 30 seconds on high, then allow them to soak in the rum for at least 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the batter in the bowl of stand mixer. Start by creaming together the softened butter and sugar until well combined. Add the egg yolk and mix again to combine.
3. Sift together the flour, corn meal, salt and baking powder. Add the dry mixture to the butter mixture and mix well. (The mixture will be yellow and crumbly.)
4. Add the raisins and rum to the yellow crumb mixture and mix again – completely combining so that the raisins are evenly dispersed throughout and the batter is soft and won’t fall apart.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape into two logs about an inch and a half in diameter. At this point, you can wrap in plastic and chill for 1 hour in the refrigerator...
6. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper...
7. Slice the dough into slices that are just shy of 1/2 inch thick and place on your cookie sheet – allowing plenty of space for the cookies to spread while they bake. (I found that 9 cookies
per cookie sheet – 3 rows of 3 – worked best)...
8. Bake for 15 minutes or until outer edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and slide the parchment paper with the cookies still on them onto a cooling rack. Once the cookies have cooled a bit (about 10 minutes) and crisped up, remove from the parchment paper and onto another cooling rack to cool completely...
9. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 days (if they last that long!)
Apple Cinnamon Margarita
We love this cocktail from Verde Kitchen & Cocktails! Made with fresh NY farm stand apples, it's easy to make, and with a bit of advanced prep, you can really wow friends and family at your holiday gathering. To jazz it up, try crushing up candied nuts or ginger snap cookies or combine both for a tasty rim! First edge glass with Agave, honey maple syrup or simple syrup to make it stick.
Ingredients
• 1 1/2oz. Apple Cinnamon Infused Tequila
• 1oz. Apple Cinnamon Syrup (see below)
• 3/4oz. apple juice (no sugar added)
• 1/2oz. fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 2 dashes Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters
Combine ingredients in ice filled shaker tin and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. Strain over ice or into a chilled cocktail glass.
Apple Cinnamon Infused Tequila
Ingredients
• 1 liter 100% Silver or Reposado Agave Tequila
• 3 apples chopped (a variety of apples is best)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
Add all ingredients into a large container and let sit for about 3-5 days or until both apple and cinnamon flavors are detected.
Apple Cinnamon Syrup
Ingredients
• 3 cups water
• 3 cups sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 apples chopped (Red Delicious and Granny Smith work best)
Heat sugar and water on stove top (medium heat) until sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Add apples and cinnamon sticks and cook until fragrant. Let syrup cool and strain.
German Christmas Cookies, Lebkuchen
A chewy cookie with a wonderful spice flavor reminiscent of gingerbread and honeyed grahams complimented by the light tartness of the sugary glaze. Recipe by Rich Fisher, East Islip
Ingredients (COOKIES)
• 3 cups fine wheat flour, plus extra for kneading
• 1 1/4 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
Directions
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup organic honey
• 1/2 cup molasses
Ingredients (GLAZE)
• 1 cup confectioner's sugar
• 2 Tablespoons water
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1. Sift together the flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and allspice. Set aside.
2. Beat the egg and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl.
3. Beat in the honey and molasses until thoroughly combined. On low speed, stir in the flour mixture until just combined.
4. Turn the dough out from the bowl onto a well-floured surface. Knead the dough, adding more flour as kneaded, until a stiff dough is formed.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two baking sheets or line them with parchment paper.
7. On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough into a 9x12-inch rectangle. Cut the dough into 18 3 inch circles (Any shape really, even Santa’s and reindeer if you want). Bake for 10-12 minutes.
8. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let cool. Whisk together the confectioner's sugar, water and lemon juice and brush or spread on top of the cookies.
9. Allow the glaze to firm, and then store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN & CRAFT COCKTAILS
GIVE THE GIFT OF VERDE THIS YEAR WITH A HOLIDAY GIFT CARD AND RECEIVE A COUPON FOR 10% OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT.
happy hour
EVERY MONDAY-FRIDAY • 3PM-7PM 1/2 price tacos & quesadillas, $5 margaritas, $4 beers, $2 off all wines
lunch specials
EVERY MONDAY-FRIDAY • STARTING AT $13 featuring 4 tacos with soup, salad or side, take out included
taco tuesdays
EVERY WEEK • ALL DAY AND NIGHT 1/2 price tacos, $5 margaritas & $4 Mexican beers
sunday brunch
EVERY WEEK FROM • 11AM-4PM with $5 bloody mary’s and mimosas
On-premise & off-premise catering for all events. Call or email today for information. 631.665.6300 • 70 E. Main Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 info@verdekitchen.com • www.verdekitchen.com
