LONG ISLAND ROAD FOOD

A guide to (almost) every eatery along the LIE

BY PETER M. GIANOTTI, ERICA MARCUS, JOAN REMINICK AND SYLVIA CARTER
Newsday Food and Restaurant Critics

Click to tour the LIE exit-by-exit


For those who live here, Long Island's most salient feature is not its windswept beaches nor its pine barrens nor even its shopping malls. It's the Long Island Expressway, the route that runs most of its length and is the all-important boundary between what's North Shore and what's South Shore.

It is omnipresent, the butt of a thousand jokes and - what with the traffic and the construction - a regular source of driving frustration. Yet most people know very little of what lies beyond the exit ramps other than their own.

Which is a big problem when they're hungry.

And so, in preparation for the summer driving season, here is a compendium of where to eat within about a mile north and south off every exit of 495 in Nassau and Suffolk counties. (If it took driving an extra quarter of a mile to uncover a clutch of eateries, so be it. Where driving a mile and a half still revealed nothing, so noted.)

Exits 37 (Mineola/Willis avenues) and 55 (Motor Parkway) have been accorded "Blue Ribbon" status because they boast a wealth and variety of good places to eat.

Please bear in mind that restaurants open and close with alarming speed. And while some of these eateries are specifically recommended, a venue's mere inclusion is not an implicit endorsement - only an assurance that it serves food.

Happy motoring, and bon appetit.

EXIT 33

Northbound Lakeville Road Seven Seas Diner, 607 Northern Blvd., Great Neck; 516-482- 0980. A Great Neck institution, this expansive diner has an equally expansive menu.

Burton & Doyle, 661 Northern Blvd., Great Neck; 516-487- 9200. This plush steak house offers a traditional carnivore's menu, plus sushi, sashimi and a good assortment of fish entrees.

Morton's, The Steakhouse, 777 Northern Blvd., Great Neck; 516-498-2950. The Great Neck outpost of the well-regarded Chicago-based national steak-house chain.

Northbound Community Drive

Antonino's, 997 Northern Blvd., Great Neck; 516-627- 0660. Order a pizza to go, or have a proper sit-down dinner at this pleasant pizzeria-restaurant.

Pearl East, 1191 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-365-9898. One of the North Shore's most dependable and attractive Chinese restaurants, Pearl East does well with both the Chinese-American classics - such as General Tso's chicken, moo shu pork and chow mein - and more authentic fare such as sesame noodles, sauteed Chinese broccoli and spicy "Ma Pao" tofu with minced pork. A selection of dim sum is available at all times, and the Peking duck (with either pancakes or Chinese blini) is recommended. There's even a sushi bar.

Southbound Lakeville Road

Pisces I, 271-02 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park; 718-347-8052. A full-service restaurant specializing in Greek-accented seafood dishes.

Subway, 271-06 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park; 516-326-3384.

Mr. Lo, 271-11 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park, 718-343-9888. This Chinese restaurant shares quarters with Fresco Tortillas. Eat in or take out.

Fresco Tortillas, 271-11 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park, 718- 343-8222. Fresco Tortillas, a Tex-Mex taco-and-burrito purveyor, shares quarters with Mr. Lo.

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery, 271-19 Union Tpke. No. A, New Hyde Park; 718- 347-3065. Caribbean fast food featuring coco bread, jerk chicken and fish, meat patties.

Café Cardini, 271-20 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park; 718- 343-2728. Solid neighborhood Italian.

Skyline Diner, 271-27 Union Tpke., New Hyde Park, 718-347-1195. A friendly diner with a large, varied menu.

Alessio, 2054 Lakeville Rd., New Hyde Park; 516-326-2953. Beyond Alessio's extensive pizza offerings - Neapolitan, Sicilian, Margherita, heros, calzones plus more than a dozen specialty pies (e.g., Grandma, baked ziti, chicken Parmigiana, "kitchen sink") - is a solid lineup of Italian-American standards: salads, pasta, chicken and veal entrees. No credit cards.

Dunkin' Donuts, 2062 Lakeville Rd., New Hyde Park; 516-775-8630.

EXIT 34

Southbound New Hyde Park Road

Papa Ciro's, 1624 Marcus Ave., New Hyde Park, 516-354-4051. This bustling establishment is half full-scale pizzeria, half casual-elegant Italian restaurant.

Win Hou, 1612 Marcus Ave., New Hyde Park, 516-488-1520. Chinese food to eat in or take out.

Starbucks, 1596 Union Tpk., New Hyde Park, 718-831-1323

EXIT 35

Northbound Shelter Rock Road

Larry Forgione's Signature Cafe at Lord & Taylor, 1440 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-627-3000. Noted chef and artisanal-food champion Larry Forgione oversees the cafe on the second floor of this department store.

TGI Friday's, 1445 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-869- 9300.

Nick & Pedro's, 1496 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516- 365-6930. With three branches on Long Island (the other two are in Port Washington and Smithtown), this warm, attractive restaurant offers something for everyone - provided everyone likes Italian food. The menu has dozens of salads (including some American standards such as Caesar and Cobb), plus a good selection of antipasti, creative pastas and entrees.

Stresa, 1524 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-365-6956. Along with its sister restaurant, Stresa East in Woodbury, this is one of Long Island's top Italian restaurants, with dishes that cross regional borders and a knockout chocolate soufflé.

Café Continental, 1538 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516- 627-4269. No surprises here: This venerable cafe serves Continental cuisine, with Italian influences.

IHOP, 1586 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-365-2732.

EXIT 36

Northbound Searingtown Road

Benihana, 2105 Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-627-3400. Satisfy your yen for Japanese food and knife skills at this bastion of theatrical hibachi cooking.

Cipollini, 2110C Northern Blvd., Manhasset; 516-627-7172. A hip-and-happening trattoria at the Eastern tip of the Americana shopping center.

Landmark Diner, 1023 Northern Blvd., Roslyn; 516-627- 4830. A friendly diner in a super-posh setting, the Landmark is the place to go if you're suffering from the sticker shock brought on by the Americana shopping center, across the street. In the tradition of diners everywhere, the menu offerings are vast (burgers, sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, seafood, steaks and chops, Greek specialties, ice- cream treats, pastries, and breakfast all day), the portions are large and the prices are reasonable. This is one of the few restaurants in the area that is open late: until 1 a.m. on weekdays, 3 a.m. on weekends.

Il Mulino, 1042 Northern Blvd., Roslyn; 516-621-1870. Long Island's own branch of the storied Greenwich Village Italian restaurant that has been draining wallets for decades.

Bryant & Cooper, 2 Middle Neck Rd., Roslyn; 516-627- 7270. One of Long Island's finest traditional steak houses, with a butcher shop attached.

Dunkin' Donuts, 1063 Northern Blvd., Roslyn; 516-627- 2499.

Joanne's Gourmet Pizza, 1067 Northern Blvd., Roslyn; 516- 869-8686. Joanne's serves a variety of pies, among them low-carb pizza, baked-clam pizza, taco pizza, Hawaiian pizza and bacon-cheeseburger pizza.

EXIT 37

Northbound

Mineola Ave.

Ravagh Persian Grill, 210 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-7100. A friendly, family-oriented restaurant serving the exotic cooking of Iran.

Quiznos, 211 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-7827

Green Cactus Grill, 215 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-626-3100. The motto of Long Island's own high-quality Mexican fast-food chain is "We don't use MSG, can openers, freezers, lard or microwaves." What they do use is very fresh ingredients and the results are delicious. Highlights include the fish tacos and the all-you-can-ladle-out salsa bar.

Dunkin' Donuts, 219 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-625-8788

Number One Chinese Food, 104 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-621-2060. Reliable Chinese takeout.

Attilio's Pizza, 96 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-621- 1400. Attilio's is one of Long Island's very best neighborhood pizzerias. Aside from doing fine work with the basic Neapolitan and Sicilian and the Island's own Grandma, this is a hotbed of pizza innovation: Baked ziti pizza, penne alla vodka pizza, chicken Parmigiana pizza, shrimp and garlic pizza. Plus heros, calzones, pasta and Italian entrees.

Barbara's Bagels, 113 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-3245. Very good hand-rolled bagels boiled and baked the old-fashioned way.

Chicken Kebab, 92 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-621-6828. An extensive Middle Eastern menu, with an emphasis on kebabs: chicken, lamb, fish, beef, ground meat and more.

Matteo's, 88 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-0555. Good, family-friendly Italian.

Colbeh, 1 Intervale Ave., Roslyn; 516-621-2200. A kosher restaurant specializing in Iranian cooking.

Domino's, 117 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-0440

Southbound Willis Avenue

Tofu, 255 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-7456. Housed in what looks like an old Howard Johnson's, Tofu offers a wide assortment of Chinese and Japanese dishes.

Sotto Luna, 367 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-621-2112. Sotto Luna is a friendly, low-key Italian offering a balanced menu and brick-oven pizza.

Starbucks, 373 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-625-7390

Jade King, 376 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-621-2143. Jade King has been serving chicken chow mein, egg foo yung and spareribs since 1975. Newer items include Chilean sea bass with black bean sauce and lobster pan-fried with ginger and scallions.

Riodizio Churrascaria, 388 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-621-4646. Don't eat too much at this Brazilian restaurant's appetizer bar; you'll want to save your appetite for the grilled meats that are delivered dramatically, on skewers, to your table.

Bagel Boss, 400 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights; 516-626-5599. A very dependable store offering bagels and all the go-withs. Eat in or take out. Under kosher supervision.

Hokkaido, 1162 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-621-1887. An ambitious Japanese restaurant, from its showy dining room to its lively kitchen. Deep-fried bean curd, crisp fried chicken, and beef tataki are among the snappy appetizers. Also recommended: Udon noodles in soup with batter-fried shrimp and sukiyaki. Here, the best sushi is the simplest.

Hot Bagels and Bialys, 1152 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-621-9520. A bustling bagel bakery with a good selection of baked goods and spreads.

Subway, 1185 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-484-2374

Baci Gelato, 1136 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-801-1706. Good gelato and sorbet, plus shakes, crepes and hot drinks.

Dunkin' Donuts, 1051 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-746-5999

Parkway Deli, 1045 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-747-5540. A long-time Albertson fixture, this friendly deli has something for everyone.

Yogurt and Such Café, 1018 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-626-7890. Yogurt, ice cream, wraps, salads and the like.

Deli on Rye, 1008 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-621-2471. This friendly, efficient eatery blends old-style deli standards - gefilte fish, stuffed derma, knishes, kasha varnishkes, hot dogs, chopped liver, brisket, pastrami, corned beef, tongue, Romanian steak - with more modern favorites such as chicken fingers, Niçoise and Oriental salads and wraps. Take-out customers gather at the long counter, while those eating in enjoy booths in the relaxed dining room.

Vincent's Pizzeria, 1004 Willis Ave., Albertson; 516-621-7530. Good pizza, hero sandwiches, calzone, pastas and other Italian-American favorites.

EXIT 38

No restaurants.

EXIT 39

Northbound Glen Cove Road

Kitchen Kabaret, 409 Glen Cove Rd., Roslyn Heights; 516-484-3320. One of the North Shore's most popular caterers, Kitchen Kabaret is also a great place to go for a quick meal. The spacious, rambling market has a huge assortment of ready-made fare: Cold and hot sandwiches, prepared pastas, salads and entrees, a full-service bakery; made-to-order pizzas, a chopped- salad bar, a juice and smoothie bar, an omelet station and a coffee bar with tables and chairs.

Southbound Glen Cove Road

No restaurants.

EXIT 40

Southbound Jericho Tpke.

Angelino's, 1 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-997-7333. Since 1976, Angelino's has been serving a wide range of Italian and Italian-American specialties. On a more casual note, the menu also offers traditional and brick-oven pizzas.

Frank's Steaks, 4 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-338-4595. The motto here is "We ain't just steaks," but beef is nevertheless the best reason to eat at Frank's, from the prime rib, porterhouse for two, and T-bone for one to the bone-in strip and the Romanian skirt steak. Grilled loin veal chop spiked with thyme, and the calf's liver with sauteed onions and bacon are also recommended. Service is attentive and accommodating.

Bagel Boss, 10 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-334-0300. A very dependable store offering bagels and all the go-withs. Eat in or take out. Under kosher supervision.

Nagashima, 12 Jericho Tpke. No. A, Jericho; 516-338-0022. Lively and inviting, Nagashima has ranked among Long Island's better Japanese restaurants for many years.

Papa Joe's, 18 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516- 334-1141. A friendly pizzeria (with pasta), Papa Joe's also serves the Italian ices of Ben Faremo, the lemon ice king of Corona.

Quiznos, 22 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-876-8666.

Kim's Fruit Bowl, 24A Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-807-7733. Need a healthy meal? This tidy produce market has an extensive selection of prepared fruits and vegetables, plus a small self-serve salad bar.

Burger King, 52 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-334-7203.

Dunkin' Donuts, 81 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-334-7351.

KFC/A&W, 83 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-334-7236.

Wendy's, 90 Jericho Tpke., Jericho, 516-333-3059.

McDonald's, 105 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-876-0140.

Genji, 111 Jericho Tpke., Jericho; 516-876-8855. A new, bi-level restaurant specializing in hibachi and sushi.

EXIT 41

Northbound 106/107

Whole Foods, 429 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-932-1733. This organically oriented supermarket has a huge prepared-food department, and a pleasant cafe in which to eat.

Starbucks, 475 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-433-4611.

Jericho Deli, 523 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-822-4477. This bustling establishment is formally known as Jericho Deli, Bagel Bakery, and Salad and Yogurt Bar. In other words: everything but pizza.

Café Dolce Vita,495 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-935-2233. Café Dolce Vita functions both as a pizzeria (standard Neapolitan and Sicilian pies, plus 10-inch pizzettes and specialty pies) and, on the raised platform at the back, a proper Italian restaurant.

Green Melody, 519 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-681-5715. A godsend for traveling vegetarians, Green Melody specializes in the Chinese art of fake meat. Here the words "duck," "beef," "chicken" and "fish" translate into either a soy product or wheat gluten. Nonvegetarians will probably feel more comfortable with the straight-ahead vegetable preparations such as sauteed eggplant, or "sizzling mushroom infinity" - mushrooms, gingko beans, carrots, jicama and basil served bubbling on a platter with broccoli and bean sprouts.

Milleridge Inn, 585 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-931-2201. Established in 1672, the Milleridge Inn serves lunch and dinner in a Colonial-esque setting, as well as hosting every size and shape of catered affair.

Southbound 106/107

Dunkin' Donuts, 336 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-938-5768.

Fanatico Italian Bistro and Bar, 336 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-932-5080. An attractive trattoria-pizzeria from Emilio Branchinelli, the pizza-preneur behind Emilio's in Commack and Pasta-eria in Hicksville.

Gabby's Gourmet Delicatessen, 309 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-931- 0370. Eat in or take out at this new deli offering sandwiches, salads, bagels (plus bialys and flagels), omelets, wraps, muffins, cookies and cakes.

Burger King, 344 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-822-6484.

Bagel Doctor, 289 North Broadway Jericho; 516-932- 0620. A bagel-centric deli with a good selection of sandwiches, including hot breakfast sandwiches.

La Primavera, 294 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-938-0220. This long-standing Italian (it used to be on Glen Cove Road) mixes up the standards with more contemporary fare. Plus, there's a pianist on Fridays and Saturdays.

Mulberry Street, 287 North Broadway, Jericho; 516-933- 7974. A very good pizzeria-

restaurant that features Martinucci desserts imported from Italy.

Broadway Diner, 287 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-681- 3982. A huge menu, friendly service, a full bar and a welcome if incongruent selection of quesadillas distinguish this bustling diner.

McDonald's, 280 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-681-2434.

KFC/Long John Silver's, 272 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-932-7201

Mama Sbarro's Pizza, 265 North Broadway, Hicksville, 516-933-9800. Sbarro's more mature relative, Mama Sbarro serves more upscale Italian specialties, plus, of course, pizza.

Red Lobster, 1 Nevada St., Hicksville; 516-822-8393.

Jani, 260 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-433-0622. An opulently decorated Chinese-Japanese restaurant serving the cuisines of both nations. Dim sum also available.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, 215 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-822-4074. Yes, Virginia, fast food at a national chain can be organic, fresh, and prepared with care. At this snappy-looking taqueria, the menu is comprised of four basic items: burrito, taco, fajita burrito or the tortilla-less burrito "bol." Your choice is assembled, while you watch, from an array that includes barbacoa (spicy shredded beef braised with chipotle), carnitas (highly seasoned seared and braised pork), guacamole and black beans.

Boston Market, 100 Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-822-1484.

On the Border, 1401 Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-942-4044.

Boulder Creek, 200 North Broadway, Hicksville; 516-942-7800.

Panera, 201 Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-935-6300.

Ruby Tuesday, 363 Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-681-5039

Marble Slab Creamery, 358-B Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-822-0605. A wide variety of ice creams, with a comparable variety of "mix-ins." Waffle cones are baked fresh on the premises.

Qdoba Mexican Grill, 216 Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-433-3110. Burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos and more.

Johnny Rocket's, 213 Broadway Mall, Hicksville; 516-433-8260. Burgers, shakes and fries in a retro-diner atmosphere.

EXIT 42

No restaurants.

EXIT 43A

No restaurants.

EXIT 43

Southbound S. Oyster Bay Road

Luigi Q, 400B S. Oyster Bay Rd., Hicksville; 516-932-7450. Excellent Italian restaurant, especially for seafood and pasta dishes, regional and seasonal specialties. Fine service. Not for young children.

Green Cactus Grill, 379B S. Oyster Bay Rd. (Plainview Shopping Center), Plainview; 516-937-3444. Another casual link in the chainlet, for quesadillas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas and a few jalapeño poppers.

Ayhan's Shish-Kebab, 379 S. Oyster Bay Rd. (Plainview Shopping Center); 516-827-5300. One of four in Nassau, with a Mediterranean accent, from feta-and-spinach pie to hummus, moussaka and, of course, kebabs.

China View, 395 S. Oyster Bay Rd. (Plainview Shopping Center), Plainview; 516-935-6177. Open since 1954, features familiar, suburban Chinese; the No. 1 specialty is General Tso's chicken. Plenty of chow mein, lo mein, moo shu, and egg foo yung.

Cold Stone Creamery, 375 S. Oyster Bay Rd. (Plainview Shopping Center), Plainview; 516-942-2240.

Dunkin' Donuts, 337 S. Oyster Bay Rd. (Plainview Shopping Center), Plainview; 516-932-2245.

Starbucks, 397A S. Oyster

Bay Rd. (Plainview Shopping Center), Plainview; 516-932-5071.

Northbound S. Oyster Bay Road

Patsy's Pizzeria, 407 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-802-3507. Casual and to the point, for pizzas and pastas. Popular - and therefore not always quick.

Fulton & Prime Steakhouse, 352 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-921-1690. The successor to Manero's, run by the same owners. Good steaks, pleasant surroundings, recommended for the whole family. There's a meat market, too.

Jewel of India, 347 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-677-9898. Dependable Indian restaurant, with all the standard dishes, and very good breads, too. Vegetarians and carnivores alike have plenty of choices.

Mario's Pizza, 326 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-921-7071. One of several full-service pizzerias.

The Healthy Eatery, 356 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-496-3344. Salads, wraps, hot dishes that vary daily.

Gabby's Gourmet Bagels, 408 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-496-3888. Eat in, takeout; good bagels, salads, smoked fish, black-and-white cookies. Those flat bagels, or "flagels," deliver the crunch.

Celebrity Diner, 312 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-364-1970. The full range, with enough architectural glitz to preclude the need for lights.

Quiznos, 536 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-496-7849.

EXIT 44

Northbound Route 135

Cafe Testarossa, 499 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-364-8877. Casual Italian restaurant. Once it was trendy and vrooming along, now more mainstream and toned-down.

Sagamore Steakhouse, 650 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-496-8000. Very good steak house, and recommended not just for meat-eaters. Stylish design, consistent kitchen, and an exceptional wine list, including many by the glass.

Quiznos, 536 Jericho Tpke., Syosset; 516-496-7849.

EXIT 45

Southbound Manetto Hill Rd.

Fairway Market, 50 Manetto Hill Rd. (Manetto Hill Mall), Plainview; 516-937-5402. There's a cafe in this first-class market, where you also can quickly put together a picnic basket or food and drink for a very long ride. Don't miss the cheese and smoked-fish counters.

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 12 Manetto Hill Rd. (Manetto Hill Mall), Plainview; 516-939-2237. Playful, entertaining and very good. The motto is "big is better." The full-pounder is the highlight. Egg creams, floats, shakes, malts, Edy's ice cream. John Belushi must be smiling.

Kumo Sushi, 18 Manetto Hill Rd. (Manetto Hill Mall), Plainview; 516-681-8881. Modest, satisfying Japanese eatery, at ease with the raw more than the cooked. Tasty sushi rolls.

Caruso's Pizza, 64 Manetto Hill Rd. (Manetto Hill Mall), Plainview; 516-433-4999. Parmigianas abound, alongside baked pastas, antipasti, soups, salads, wraps, calzones, pizzas and individual pizzettes.

Subway, 82 Manetto Hill Rd. (Manetto Hill Mall), Plainview; 516-681-4335.

EXIT 46

Northbound Sunnyside Blvd.

Monroe's, 215 Sunnyside Blvd., Plainview; 516-349-1240. A Continental restaurant situated inside the Holiday Inn. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

EXIT 48

Southbound Round Swamp Road

Maxwell and Dunne's Steakhouse, 1600 Round Swamp Rd., Plainview; 516-694-6200. Pricey, blunt steak house, in what used to be The Vanderbilt. Also housed here is The Race Palace where you can grab a steak and watch the horse races.

Super Cafe, Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, 333 S. Service Rd., Plainview; 516-694-6500.

Southbound Old Country Road

The Old Country Pizza & Deli, 1660 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-753-5417.

Morgo's Dynasty, 1163 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516- 942-8688. Uncomplicated Chinese restaurant, better for the more traditional choices. If you want spiciness, definitely ask.

Robata of Tokyo, 1163 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-433-5333. Japanese cuisine.

Hama Sushi, 1115 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-938-1117. Reliable Japanese restaurant, best for the sushi rolls.

La Piazza, 1137 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-938-0800. Informal Italian, easygoing and good for a quick meal.

The Mixed Grill, 1135 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-932-7300. American and more, from salads and burgers to steaks and fajitas.

Regal Kosher Deli, 1110 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-938-3588. Wonderfully atmospheric.

Plainview Diner, 1094 Old Country Rd., Plainview; 516-822-0766.

EXIT 49

Southbound Broadhollow Road

Sbarro Cafe, 401 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-454-1500. Italian food, served cafeteria-style. Quick and pretty good, too.

Four Food Studio, 515 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631- 577-4444. A lively, creative restaurant that's the newest magnet on Route 110; entertaining design and very good New American cooking, ending with a cloud of cotton candy.

Express Coffee Shop, 535 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-753-8882.

Kentucky Fried Chicken_606 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-293-3496.

Suburban Eats _ 610 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-293-3287. A full-flavored deli, with good daily specials and a creative approach. Brick-oven specialties, panini, sandwiches, salads, more ambitious entrees.

Southbound Walt Whitman Rd.

Deli Worx Inc., 1790 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville; 631- 755-1011. Sandwiches and breakfast/lunch food with originality and quality.

News Stand Deli, 1730 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville; 631- 501-0550. Sandwiches and more.

Northbound Broadhollow Road

Cirella's, 14 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-385-7380. Casual Italian restaurant and bar, better for simpler dishes. Very busy on weekends.

Relli's, 64 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-549-4413. Pizzeria, also offering pastas and panini.

Melville Deli, 90 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-351-9338. Sandwiches, salads, takeout.

Gemini Deli, 1198 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville; 631-692-6400. Sandwiches, salads, takeout.

Sweet Hollow Diner, 100 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-549-0768. The full range, but better for breakfast items.

Frederick's, 1117 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville; 631-673- 8550. A veteran Continental restaurant, especially right for business lunches, but also commendable for a night out.

Herrmann's Barolo, 1197 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville; 631-421- 3750. Traditional and contemporary come together at the successor to Herrmann's Black Sheep. Italian fare, seafood.

Blackstone Steakhouse, 10 Pinelawn Rd., Melville; 631-271- 7780. Big-time steak house that also has New American cooking and a commendable selection of sushi. Pricey and busy.

Rosewood Inn, 1148 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville; 631- 271-2616. Pubby Continental, better for the simpler dishes.

Golden Express, 66 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-385-3383; standard Chinese fare.

Dunkin' Donuts, 116 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-425-0935

Starbucks, 64 Broadhollow Rd., Melville; 631-692-0392

EXIT 50

No restaurants.

EXIT 51

No restaurants.

EXIT 52

Northbound Commack Road

Meson Olé, 7 Crooked Hill Rd., Commack; 631-499-5700. This Spanish and Mexican hybrid, part of a mini-chain, serves such standards as fajitas, arroz con pollo, paella and enchiladas.

Lucarelli's, 639 Commack Rd., Commack; 631-499-5556. The classics predominate at this Italian pizzeria-restaurant near the multiplex, where you'll find Grandma pizzas, meatball heros and calamari marinara over linguine.

Conca D'Oro, 660 Commack Rd., Commack; 631-499-6199. A neighborhood Italian standby for such favorites as chicken cacciatore, veal Parmigiana and manicotti.

Premier Diner, 690 Commack Rd., Commack, 631-462-0886. What sets this gleaming diner apart is its creative breakfast menu showcasing such specials as baked oatmeal and Swedish fruit-filled pancakes. At lunch, there are hefty sandwiches, as well as char-grilled burgers and generous salads; the dinner menu offers an almost endless array of choices.

McDonald's, 2 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Commack; 631- 499-2117.

Bonwit Inn, 1 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Commack; 631- 499-2068. When a restaurant lasts more than 30 years, it's definitely filling a need. This venerable fixture is best known for its Greek salad. Dinner might be shrimp scampi or grilled New York Sirloin; lunch could be a grilled-chicken Caesar. Buffet brunch every Sunday.

La Scala, 34 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Commack; 631-499- 6049. An ambitious and popular strip-mall Italian pizzeria-ristorante where you'll find such sophisticated fare as house-made pappardelle with slow-cooked sausage ragu and truffle oil.

Mario's Pizzeria, 17 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Commack; 631-499-7000. Part of a three-restaurant mini-chain, this pizzeria-Italian restaurant serves such classics as spaghetti with meatballs and veal Francese.

China Garden Restaurant, 20 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Commack; 631-543-2922. A multiregional full-service Chinese restaurant offering such dishes as ginger-and-scallion shrimp and sesame chicken.

EXIT 53

Northbound Wicks Road

Bennigan's, 300 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge, 631-434-7890.

Northbound Washington Drive

Parkway Rotisserie & Pizza, 658 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-234-2929. A convenient take-out/eat-in spot with pizza, Greek specialties and rotisserie chicken. Select from the buffet or have something made to order.

Bagel Stop. 658 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge, 631-952-3020. A convenient place to stop in for bagels, creative wraps and more.

Food King Express Chinese Restaurant, 658 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-435-3297. For Chinese food on the fly, this takeout spot offers such dishes as orange beef and shrimp with black bean sauce or beef lo mein.

Leonardo's Pizza Cafe, 656 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-234-1522. A friendly order-at-the-counter spot for pizza, pasta, wraps, salads and heros.

Chris' Deli, 646 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-273-1150. In addition to classic sandwiches, this deli offers creative options, such as a whole wheat wrap with Cajun roast beef, American cheese and barbecue sauce.

EXIT 55

Northbound

Gasho, 356 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631- 231-3400. This replica of a medieval Japanese farmhouse resounds with the shouts of knife-wielding chefs flinging steak, shrimp, chicken and vegetables on communal hibachi tables. See the flames; hear the applause.

Mario's, 644 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-273- 9407. An Old World favorite for business lunchers, this gracious Italian spot also shines at night. Specialties include spaghetti carbonara, agnolotti Bolognese and calf's liver alla Veneziana.

Pomodorino, 648 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy. Hauppauge; 631-951-0026. This value-priced link in a chainlet features Italian specialties, including pizza Margherita, fettuccine Bolognese and chicken Francese.

Sempre Vivolo, 696 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-435-1737. A 21-year-old family-run standby that's an elegant setting for such classics as spaghetti carbonara and veal Valdostano. Since this is one of the few bastions of Old World traditions, jackets are required for men on Saturday nights.

Mama Antonia Deli, 678 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-234-7144. A busy takeout-only spot for both cold sandwiches and hot specials, for instance meatball Parmigiana and London broil with hot cherry peppers.

San Marco Ristorante, 658 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-273-0088. An Italian- Continental landmark whose menu includes baked oysters, vitello Savoia (veal with chestnut and tangerine) and rack of lamb bouquetiere.

Madison Steak House, 670 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-231-6909. A steak and seafood restaurant with a presidential theme. The rib eye and filet mignon are winners, as are the pan-seared diver scallops.

Bertucci's, 358 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-952-2100. This national chain turns out commendable brick-oven pizzas in surroundings decorated with sepia-toned old photographs. House-baked bread is irresistible. Pizzas come in many varieties; there are also salads, entrees (such as lemon-thyme chicken) and pastas.

Dim Sum, 676A Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-435-3366. For a quick roast-pork lo mein or barbecued spare-rib fix, this takeout and eat-in spot can be handy.

South Wind Deli, 676 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-234-9057. A takeout-only deli for breakfast dishes, sandwiches, hot and cold wraps and specials including meat loaf and grilled chicken breast.

Albert's Pizza, 676 Vanderbilt Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631- 273-4300. With six other Long Island locations, Albert's forte is its appealingly straightforward pies - Neapolitan, Sicilian and stuffed - as well as hearty calzones. There are also heros and such entrees as manicotti and spaghetti and meatballs.

EXIT 56

Southbound Route 111

Subway, 530 Rte. 111, Hauppauge; 631-366-1839.

Cafe La Strada, 352 Wheeler Rd., Hauppauge; 631-234-5550. Surrounded by hundreds of wine bottles, diners at this reliable Italian destination can order such specialties as veal saltimbocca and seafood pescatore.

Checkers, 32 Wheeler Rd., Central Islip, 631- 582-5219.

Northbound Route 111

One Eleven Deli, 438 Rte. 111, Hauppauge; 631- 234-8341. In nice weather, outdoor tables are available for a quick deli break. You might have a tuna salad sandwich, a grilled vegetable wrap or a special of barbecued ribs.

Quiznos, 428 Wheeler Rd., Hauppauge; 631-234-4646.

Sweetwaters, 470 Wheeler Rd., Hauppauge; 631-348-0808. This popular bar and restaurant is a good bet for its $10 express lunch (choices include a burger or shrimp Caesar wrap). Dinner is a bit more pricey, especially the dessert fondue, which runs $25 for two.

EXIT 57

Southbound Veterans Memorial Highway

Starbucks, 1706 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-348-6626.

New Grand Buffet, 1704 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-582-3888. At this all-you-can-eat bargain Chinese buffet, you're free to pile on all the lo mein and General Tso's chicken you want.

Dave & Busters, 1856 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631- 582-6615. At this recreational complex, kids can attack video games while parents order burgers, blackened chicken pasta or mesquite peppered rib-eye steak at the restaurant.

Thai Angel, 1812 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-348-2555. What looks like a modest storefront is really a cavernous, beautifully decorated spot for such Thai dishes as larb, a piquant ground meat salad, and fragrant orange duck served in a dish shaped like a duck's head.

Mojo's Express Grill, 1826 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-234-6656. A fast-food Tex-Mex venue for such items as chicken fajitas, nachos with chili and steak quesadillas.

Subway, 1714 Veterans

Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-234-1700.

Amazon Cafe, 1718 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-342-8100. Smoothies, soups, salads and wraps are the draw at this fast-food stop featuring an energy drink made with acai, a fruit from the Amazon rain forest and other healthful offerings.

Tony's Italian Affair Restaurant & Pizzeria, 1712 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Islandia; 631-234-0380. A casual full-service eatery for Italian fare: pizza, pasta, and anything Parmigiana.

Northbound Veterans Memorial Highway

TGI Friday's, 3045 Express Dr. N., Hauppauge; 631-232-5740.

Hyatt Regency Windwatch, 1717 L.I. Motor Pkwy., Hauppauge; 631-784-1234. The stylish dining room at this tony hotel features such lunch fare as Cobb salad and barbecue meat loaf and, at dinner, pan-seared Montauk sea bass and Long Island duck breast.

Mama Angelina's, 1251 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Hauppauge; 631-360-1463. A strip-mall Italian restaurant serving the standards.

EXIT 58

Northbound Nichol's Road

Islandia Marriott, 3635 Express Dr. N., Islandia; 631-232- 3000. This light-filled atrium makes a pleasant backdrop for three meals a day. The eclectic repertoire includes a lovely Thai ginger grilled chicken salad at lunch and dinner; at night, you can request a menu of Indian specialties.

Hooters, 3701 Express Dr. N., Islandia; 631-582-2599. Known for its provocatively clad waitresses, this chain is big on fried fare and Buffalo wings. It also has an oyster roast, steamed shrimp and steamed clams.

Southbound Nichol's Road

7-Eleven, 1224 Old Nichols Rd., Central Islip; 631-234-2563.

EXIT 59

Southbound Ocean Avenue

Sal's Pizzeria, 2402 Ocean Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631-467- 2625. An order-at-the-counter place for classic pizzas as well as heros, pastas and entrees.

Mama Mia's Pizza, 892 Johnson Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631-585-1888. A friendly spot for more than just pizza. Specialties include a crisp-crusted "crispino" pie and rigatoni rustica, a variation on the alla vodka theme made with chicken, spinach and mozzarella.

Dim Sum Chinese Kitchen,

898 Johnson Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631-737-5675. A small (three tables) Chinese takeout offering such standards as spare ribs, General Tso's chicken and chicken with broccoli.

Northbound Ocean Avenue

Amato's Pizzeria, 404 Rosevale Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631-580-3855. A dependable order-at-the-counter spot for pizza and more: pasta primavera, sausage and pepper heros, veal Francese.

EXIT 60

Northbound Hawkins Avenue

BLD's Restaurant, 299 Hawkins Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631- 981-2811. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this family-friendly eatery features tender crepes at breakfast, wraps and burgers at lunch, and, in the evening, such dishes as garlic-roasted breast of duck and country fried steak.

Bari's Pizza, 299-7 Hawkins Ave. No. 17, Ronkonkoma; 631-737-3770. Small, casual pizzeria with specialty pies as well as the classic Neapolitan and Sicilian versions. Heros and pasta dishes, too. Order at the counter and find a table.

Fortune Garden, 299 Hawkins Ave. No. 13, Ronkonkoma; 631-467-1669. Strictly takeout, this small Chinese spot offers the likes of shrimp with hot chili sauce, moo goo gai pan and moo shu pork.

Bagel Master, 416 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631- 981-7900. All manner of bagels plus more than just cream cheese; cold cuts, salads and pastries, too. Find a table and have a schmear.

Marano's Seafood Best Catch Cafe, 439 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-588- 7984. Functioning as a restaurant on Friday and Saturday nights only, this Lake Ronkonkoma seafood market serves raw-bar items (littlenecks, cherrystones, oysters) as well as cooked fare and seafood salads.

Hot Rod Cafe, 424 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631- 981-2077. This coffee shop with a racing-car theme does breakfast (pancakes, eggs, French toast) and lunch (sandwiches and Greek specialties).

La Brasa, 426 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-467- 3278. An informal Colombian eatery featuring fine rotisserie chicken as well as plump, garlicky Colombian hot dogs topped with a lively combination of pineapple sauce, lettuce, ketchup, mayo, mustard and jalapeño.

Aegean Cafe II, 472 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631- 467-6906. A cozy Greek cafe whose specialties include fried squid with skordalia (garlic potato dip), broiled fish and galaktoboureko (phyllo-enrobed vanilla custard).

Due Amici, 519 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-981- 8282. Chef-owner Mario Meringolo's family-friendly pizzeria and full-service Italian restaurant offers chicken cardinale (with ham, eggplant and mozzarella in a light marinara over pasta), mussels Posillipo and fried calamari.

Friendly's, 553 Hawkins Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-981- 6659.

Northbound Portion Road

McDonald's, 174 Portion Rd., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-467- 8599.

Long Island Grill, 200 Portion Rd., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631- 981-7893. A something-for-

everyone spot with such standards as fried calamari, Buffalo wings, filet mignon and broiled sea scallops. There's also a kids' menu.

Gino's Pizza, 214 Portion Rd., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-588- 9874. An order-at-the-counter place for pizza classics: Sicilian, Neapolitan, grandma pie and stuffed pizza. There are entrees, pastas and heros, too.

Burger King, 254 Portion Rd., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-588- 3588.

Dunkin' Donuts, 125 Portion Rd., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631- 585-2838

Wendy's, 106 Portion Rd., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-467- 0861.

Northbound Ronkonkoma Ave.

Carvel, 290 Ronkonkoma Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631-737-5100.

Pop's Deli, 286 Ronkonkoma Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631- 737-5520. For breakfast and lunch to go; get pancakes in the morning and a corned beef Reuben in the afternoon.

Maldonado's Pizza, 278-B Ronkonkoma Ave., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-737-1600. A simple pizzeria for Neapolitan, Sicilian and Grandma pies with any number of toppings (even cheeseburger), plus a menu of heros and pastas. Order at the counter; booth seating.

Dah Lee, 90 Church St., Lake Ronkonkoma; 631-981-3230. An old-fashioned Chinese restaurant where such favorites as barbecued spareribs, egg foo yung and lo mein are never out of style.

Southbound Ronkonkoma Ave.

Best Express Convenience Store, 336 Ronkonkoma Ave., Ronkonkoma, 631-585-8275.

Scibelli's Pizza, 90 Railroad Ave., Ronkonkoma, 631-588- 9898. A spacious, friendly and informal spot adjacent to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station for pizza and more - heros, pastas and entrees.

Dunkin' Donuts, 90 Railroad Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631- 588-7421.

Bagels & Such Cafe, 90 Railroad Ave., Ronkonkoma; 631- 585-5617. All kinds of bagels and spreads; next to the Ronkonkoma LIRR station.

Red Lobster, 5010 Express Dr. S., Ronkonkoma; 631-580-2864.

Smokey Bones, 5012 Expressway Dr. S., Ronkonkoma; 631-580-2675. At this rustic Southern barbecue chain, highlights include a smoky Brunswick stew, ribs and brisket and pulled pork. For dessert, don't miss the the bag of warm doughnuts, freshly fried and tossed with cinnamon sugar.

Tru North Martini Bar & Grill at Courtyard by Marriott, 5000 Expressway Dr. S., Ronkonkoma; 631-612-5000. This in-hotel restaurant has a tapas-style appetizer menu with dishes such as hoisin duck quesadillas and Cuban spring rolls, as well as a more conventional roster featuring pork Porter House and rigatoni Bolognese.

EXIT 61

Southbound Patchogue-Holbrook Road

Joe's Pizza, 346 Union Ave., Holbrook; 631-981-3029. A neighborhood fixture for 30 years, this pizzeria and full-service restaurant is known for its Sicilian pies. A wide-ranging Italian menu prevails in the dining room.

Honey Take-out, 338 Union Ave., Holbrook; 631-981-3660. Chicken with garlic sauce and roast pork lo mein are just two of the specialties at this handy Chinese takeout spot.

Outback Steak House, 325 Main St., Holbrook; 631-585-0404.

China 4, 315 Main St., Holbrook; 631-588-8838. A Chinese takeout featuring such dishes as beef with broccoli and shrimp with lobster sauce. Bagel Brothers, 315G Main St., Holbrook; 631-285-7262. This full-fledged bagelry with tables offers almost every kind of bagel and topping imaginable, from cream cheese and lox to pastrami to reduced-fat vegetable-tuna salad. There are also omelets, salads and wraps.

Il Giardino Cafe & Bakery, 315 D Main St., Holbrook; 631-588- 3100. For those with a sweet tooth, this dessert cafe bakes all its French and Italian pastries and is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Also on the menu: Italian gelato and coffee beverages.

Greek Islands Restaurant, 315 A Main St., Holbrook; 631-467- 6066. A pleasant spot for Greek classics: spanakopita (spinach pie), gyro, kebabs, souvlaki and lamb chops.

Subway, 315 Main St., Holbrook; 631-285-7700.

Mama's Pizza Pasta & Seafood, 1057 Main St., Holbrook; 631-981-6262. Part of a three-restaurant mini-chain, this pizzeria and full-service restaurant covers all the Italian bases, from fried calamari to rigatoni alla vodka to chicken Marsala.

Lombardi's Gourmet Market, 1055 Main St., Holbrook; 631-737-8470. You'll find a wonderland of Italian epicurean treats in this retail market with bistro seating, both indoors and out. There are panini, deli sandwiches, brick-oven pizzas, a hot-food buffet and Italian pastries as well as coffee drinks.

Holbrook Diner, 980 Main St., Holbrook; 631- 471-7744. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (24 hours on weekends), this dependable diner is known for burgers, sandwiches and honey-glazed Buffalo wings, which are free with entrees Monday to Thursday.

Irish Times Pub, 975 Main St., Holbrook; 631-467-4330. Both bar and restaurant, this lively spot serves an expansive Irish-American pub-style menu that includes cheese fries, Irish- whiskey chicken, shepherd's pie and a variety of burgers.

Mamma Lombardi's, 400 Furrows Rd., Holbrook; 631-737-0774. A beloved landmark known for its robust Southern Italian cuisine. Everything works, from linguine with escarole and beans to pork chops with vinegar peppers to lobster fra diavolo.

EXIT 62

Southbound Nicolls Road

Wendy's, 175 Morris Ave., Holtsville; 631-207-3725.

Chili's, 50 Middle Ave, Holtsville; 631-654-3834.

Charlie Brown's Steakhouse, 45 Middle Ave., Holtsville; 631-289-3320. Casual steak-house chain; entree price includes salad bar, Caesar or house salad or soup.

EXIT 63

Northbound N. Ocean Avenue

TGI Friday's, 2240 N. Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631-736-3631.

Taco Bell, 2425 N.Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631- 698-5763.

McDonald's, 2301 N. Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631-698-4030.

Burger King, 2250 N. Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631-732-0127.

Applebee's, 193 5 N. Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631-758-0081.

Shui Heun Chinese Kitchen, 2310 N. Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631-736-2929. Small Chinese takeout.

Primo Pizza, 2312 N. Ocean Ave., Farmingville; 631-732- 4000. In addition to pizzas, this order-at-the-counter spot offers pastas, calzones, heros, salads and entrees.

Fax Chix (Horseblock), 868 Horseblock Rd., Farmingville; 631- 736-4600. Excellent rotisserie Portuguese chicken and authentic Mexican dishes keep this rough-hewn ethnic hybrid buzzing.

Southbound N. Ocean Avenue

Radisson, Old City Grill, 1730 N Ocean Ave., Holtsville; 631- 758-2900. Hotel dining spot with an American menu that's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

EXIT 64

Southbound Route 112

Angora, 2690 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-289-7008. An authentic Turkish cafe within an ethnic market. The long list of specialties includes Adana kebab, shish kebab and pide (homemade flat bread).

Quiznos, 2717 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-475-7827.

Starbucks, 2717 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-207-1480.

Kenz Japanese Restaurant, 2569 Route 112, Medford; 631- 447-1968. Small no-frills Japanese restaurant and sushi bar.

Bagel Lovers of Medford, 2690 Rte. 112, Medford; 631- 289-7255. Eat-in or take-out bagelry serving Boar's Head cold cuts plus cream cheese, lox and salads.

Tony's Pizza, 2277 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-289-0122. Order-at-the-counter pizzeria also offering entrees and heros.

Global Sports Cafe, 2016 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-758-7603. Sports bar and restaurant with pub menu featuring chicken quesadillas, wings, burgers, steaks seafood and pastas.

Northbound Route 112

Que Pasa Mexican Deli, 3135 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-698- 5000. A takeout spot for Mexican specialties, such as tortas (sandwiches) and tacos.

Rainbow Cookie Cafe, 3147 Rte. 112, Medford; 631-451-7115. A convivial crowd gathers at this friendly little breakfast and lunch spot where co-owner Robbie Rode presides at the counter and also kibitzes with those at tables. Pancakes are fluffy and light; house-made salsa accompanies the Southwestern omelet. Soups and baked goods are made by chef co-owner Pauline Strunk, known for her rainbow cookies.

EXIT 65

Northbound Horseblock Road

G.I. Joe's Hot Dog Stand, west side Horseblock Road.

Pastaria, 3209 Horseblock Rd., Medford; 631-758-5252. Pastaria offers a full menu of Italian food and the popular pizzas are freshly made.

King's Buffet, 3251 Horseblock Rd., Medford; 631-207- 1100. In addition to Chinese offerings, there are such American favorites as mashed potatoes and Italian specialties such as sauteed broccoli rabe with garlic.

EXIT 66

Northbound Sills Road

Millhouse, 284 Mill Rd., Yaphank; 631-345-0361. Rare sesame-crusted yellowfin tuna, served over mixed greens with candied walnuts, is a popular entree. Marinated rib-eye steaks have a following, too, and when Chilean sea bass is on the menu on weekends, it is well liked.

Mill Deli (Mill Road Convenience Store), 286 Mill Rd.,Yaphank; 631-924-7288.

Carmen's River Deli, 450 Main St., Yaphank; (631-924- 8337).

Black Rock Tavern, 450 Main St., Yaphank; 631-345-6000. What used to be Carmans River Inn now offers a $29.95, 5-pound hamburger. Chicken wings, hand-cut fries; food until 2 a.m. For pleasant days, there's a spacious deck.

EXIT 67

Northbound Main Street

Yaphank Deli, 631-924-9587; and Yaphank Community Pizza, 631-924-0269, are side by side in a small shopping center on Main Street. The Deli, which has a strong German slant, has five to seven homemade soups daily, and such specials as house-made tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich, $5. The iced tea is homemade and there's a large array of prepared salads. Slabs of rye bread from big loaves flown in from Germany are sold, so you could buy cold cuts and make your own picnic.

EXIT 68

Southbound William Floyd Parkway

Recently, a hot-dog truck appeared just off this exit as you come off southbound, and there also is usually one on the northbound service road as you enter the LIE.

Carlo's Pizza, Royal Tower Plaza, 451 Glen Dr., Shirley; 631-924-8760. Freshly concocted pasta dishes with plenty of excellent red sauce; the pizza is top-notch, too. But the big, fluffy rice balls with sauce and cheese are one of the most satisfying menu items.

Oriental Kitchen, 451 Glen Dr., East Yaphank; 631-924- 1334or 1333. Sesame chicken and dumplings are favorites here.

7-Eleven, 1481 William Floyd Pkwy., East Yaphank; 631-924-9304.

Lots a Licks Ice Cream, Colin Drive, East Yaphank (behind 7-Eleven); 631-924-2367. Ice cream in all of its permutations, including cakes and sandwiches.

EXIT 70

Northbound County Road 111

Maples, Raynor Avenue, Manorville; 631-727-9884. Once an inn, and a tavern since the 1880s, the venerable Maples is now a hangout for neighborhood folks, burgers, beer and bikers. There is also an outdoor bar.

Southbound County Road 111

Starbucks at North Fork Bank, 485 County Rd. 111, Manorville; 631-395-8097. Seating inside and outdoors.

Michelangelo's Pizza & Restaurant, 457 County Rd. 111, Manorville; 631-878-1555 / 11616. Pizza and pasta.

McDonald's, 460 County Rd. 111, Manorville; 631-874-4692.

Bagel Deli/Broaster Chicken, 460 County Rd. 111, Manorville; 631-395-7388.

Prima Stella, 460 County Rd. 111, Manorville; 631-281-0003. Italian, with lunch specials such as penne with sausage.

East Garden, 460 County Rd. 111, Manorville; 631-399-7300, Chinese menu.

EXIT 71

No restaurants.

EXIT 72

Southbound Route 25

North Fork Bar & Grill at Best Western Hotel, 1830 Route 25, Riverhead; 631-369- 2200. Steak, penne alla vodka and chicken Francese in a white-tablecloth setting.

Tanger Mall Food Court, 1770 W. Main St., Riverhead; Tanger office: 631-369-2732. Tanger I, food court with wraps and pizza; Tanger II, Auntie Ann's Pretzels, Cinnamonster/Taco Bell, Great Steak & Potato, McDonald's, Ragin' Cajin, Villa Pizza, Wok & Rolls.

EXIT 73

Eastbound Old Country Road

Applebee's, 1832 Old Country Rd. (Route 58), Riverhead; 631-369-3500,

Panera Bread, 11 Commerce Dr. (Route 58), Riverhead; 631-727-0277.

Tanger Mall Food Court (Food courts in both Tanger 1 and Tanger II can be reached from either Route 58 or 25.) Tanger office: 631-369-2732.

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