In West Islip proper,
Nonnina Italian Bistro, 999 Montauk Hwy, West Islip, 631-321- 8717, makes for a worthy destination. Here, you'll find a vibrant Italian menu featuring such dishes as whole roasted branzino and a Berkshire Farms pork chop with cherry peppers and sweet apple.
If you're out with the kids, a diner is always a safe bet.
The Delphi Diner, 350 Montauk Hwy, West Islip, 631-587-2003, offers the whole spectrum of standards, from burgers to omelets to sandwiches to salads to such Greek specialties as chicken and pork souvlaki.
On one side of West Islip is Babylon, a village densely packed with places to eat.
Shiki Japanese Restaurant, 233 Main St., Babylon, 631-669-5404, serves a colorful array of sushi rolls as well as such classics as chicken teriyaki and beef negimaki.
For fine Maryland-style crab cakes and spicy steamed shrimp, head over to
Tricia's Cafe, 26 E. Main St., Babylon, 631-422-7879, an informal spot also known for burgers and sandwiches.
If it's something Italian you crave, consider
Ristorante Gemelli, 175 E. Main St., Babylon, 631-321-6392, which does well virtually everything from spaghetti with garlic and olive oil to a husky veal chop.
To the east of West Babylon, in nearby Brightwaters, is
Sea Levels, 391 N. Windsor Ave., 631-665-8300, a cozy dining spot with an appealing New American menu that features such dishes as chicken and corn chowder and Parmesan crusted swordfish.
Heading toward Bay Shore, you'll find
The Lake House, a gracious pond-side restaurant at 240 W. Main St., Bay Shore, 631-666-0995. Here, chef co-owner Matthew Connors and sous chef Charles Treadwell offer a seasonal menu that might include house made pappardelle with braised duck or roasted rack of lamb.
For a taste of the Far East,
Peninsuila FS, 55 W. Main St., 631-666-8811, has it all, from sushi to steamed sea bass. Kids will get a kick out of the koi pond at the entryway.
And then, there's the justly renowned
Smokin Al's Famous BBQ, 19 West Main St., Bay Shore, 631-206-3000, where pit master Al Horowitz puts out an impressive array of slow-smoked meats -- ribs, chicken, pulled pork and brisket -- as well as commendable sides. Finish with a slice of warm pecan pie.
