East Northport, nestled in the northern reaches of Huntington, NY, might not be as bustling as Huntington Village, but its food scene is a treasure trove for those in the know. From Italian trattorias and charming bakeries to beloved local diners, this neighborhood overflows with culinary delights that are both diverse and authentically local. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or planning your first visit, here’s your inside scoop on where to eat, drink, and indulge in East Northport.
Italian Excellence: East Northport’s Love Affair with Pasta
No exploration of East Northport’s dining scene would be complete without mentioning its Italian offerings. On Larkfield Road—the neighborhood’s culinary backbone—you’ll find some of the region’s finest Italian eateries.
- Robke’s Northport (427 Fort Salonga Road): A true institution just north of the Larkfield Road and Pulaski Road intersection, Robke’s is where locals flock for heaping platters of chicken scarpariello, lobster fra diavolo, and veal parmesan. The atmosphere is busy and inviting, with a classic red-sauce joint vibe and consistently friendly service. Prices range from moderate to a bit of a splurge, but the generous portions guarantee leftovers.
- Mario’s Pizzeria & Restaurant (301 Clay Pitts Road): While it looks like a standard pizzeria, Mario’s is beloved for its hearty, New York-style pies and comforting pasta dishes. Don’t skip the vodka sauce pizza or their heaping baked ziti.
Rising Stars & Neighborhood Secrets
East Northport boasts more than just Italian classics. As you stroll up and down Larkfield Road and the surrounding blocks, you’ll stumble upon eclectic and locally owned gems.
- Kabul Grill (1921 Jericho Turnpike): This Afghan kitchen is a standout for its tender kebabs, aromatic rice, and house-made naan. The lunch specials are a steal, and the lamb dishes are flavorful and authentic, making it a favorite among adventurous eaters seeking Middle Eastern flair.
- Premiere Pastry Shop (41 Larkfield Road): For those with a sweet tooth, this bakery merges traditional European technique with Long Island comfort. The black-and-white cookies rival any New York bakery, and their cannoli are always fresh.
- Sweet Mama’s (9 Alsace Place): Step off Larkfield and into retro Americana at Sweet Mama’s, a comfort food destination with 50s diner charm. Their brunch menu—think fluffy pancakes, biscuit breakfasts, and extra-creamy mac & cheese—draws families from all corners. Don’t miss the milkshakes!
Asian Flavors & Global Eats
If you’re craving Asian cuisine, East Northport won’t disappoint. Here’s where to go for sushi, noodles, and more.
- Sakana Sushi (339 Larkfield Road): Ultra-fresh fish, creative maki rolls, and friendly chefs make Sakana a standout. Prices are reasonable, especially for lunch, and the spicy tuna crispy rice is a crowd favorite.
- Wok ‘N’ Roll (1966 Jericho Turnpike): For takeout Chinese, few places beat Wok ‘N’ Roll. Locals swear by the General Tso’s chicken and pork fried rice, and the lunch specials (including soup and an egg roll) are great for busy days.
- Thai Green Leaf (308 Larkfield Road): This cozy spot brings bold Thai flavors to Huntington’s north side. Pad Thai and drunken noodles are the top-sellers, but the green curry’s aromatic punch is what sets them apart. Vegetarian options abound.
Cozy Cafés and Bakery Delights
Need a caffeine fix or a place to linger over pastry? East Northport has several spots for coffee lovers and pastry aficionados.
- Caffé Portofino (249 Larkfield Road): Tucked near the bustling Larkfield Shopping Center, this Italian café offers rich espresso, sumptuous biscotti, and panini that taste like Italy. It’s ideal for both quick pitstops and leisurely afternoons.
- East Northport Bagel Café (309 Larkfield Road): Breakfast is a serious business here, with ultra-fresh bagels (try the signature everything or cinnamon raisin) and a wide array of spreads. Locals line up for an egg sandwich with bacon, and the coffee never disappoints.
Food Trucks and Local Traditions
While East Northport might not have the extensive food truck scene of bigger towns, you’ll occasionally spot gems at summer festivals or parked by the Northport-East Northport Public Library. Keep an eye out for taco trucks serving authentic street tacos and local pop-up bakeries showcasing New York-style crumb cakes and fresh doughnuts, especially during community events on Larkfield Road.
Sweet Spots for Dessert
- Dairy Barn (212 Laurel Road): This soft-serve stand is pure nostalgia. Locals flock here all summer for legendary vanilla-chocolate twists, classic sundaes, and rainbow sprinkles galore. Bring the whole family or cap off a Larkfield Road dinner with a sweet treat.
- Carvel (277 Larkfield Road): Another institution, Carvel needs no introduction. Their ice cream cakes and Flying Saucers (ice cream sandwiches) remain Long Island favorites.
Price Ranges and Vibes: Something for Every Appetite
One of East Northport’s food scene signatures is the breadth of price points and dining experiences:
- Budget Bites: Pizza slices under $4, bagels and coffee combos, and lunchtime Chinese or Mexican takeout.
- Midrange Meals: Most Italian and Asian restaurants, Afghan grills, and brunch at Sweet Mama’s.
- Special Splurges: Legacy institutions like Robke’s for family dinners or special occasions.
What makes East Northport’s dining so special? It’s the way each spot feels like a true piece of the community. Many restaurants are multi-generational, owned by the same families for decades. Friendly greetings, portions sized for leftovers, and menus that blend global inspiration with local roots—these are the hallmarks of dining here.
Final Bite: Don’t Miss Exploring Local Markets
Between restaurant visits, pop into neighborhood staples like Iavarone Bros. (1928 Jericho Turnpike) for Italian deli goodies or Key Food for specialty imports. These shops add essential flavor to the East Northport food scene, whether you’re prepping a picnic or hunting for the perfect Italian cheese.
Conclusion
East Northport might fly under the radar, but for those willing to dig in, it’s packed with flavor, tradition, and some of Huntington’s most satisfying eats. Explore the side streets, follow the scent of fresh bread or wood-fired pizza, and you’ll find no shortage of reasons to come back for seconds. Whether you’re in the mood for a diner breakfast, a bowl of noodles, or a perfect cannoli, this friendly neighborhood will win you over—one bite at a time.