Farm Country Kitchen


513 W. Main St.
Riverhead, NY
631-369-6311

Had I not learned about Farm Country Kitchen from a sharp-eyed informant, I could easily have driven past it. Even so, the well-hidden takeout-eat-in shop, identifiable only by a blackboard near the road was challenge enough to find. What looked like a private home was actually the cafe, accessible by a winding path.

"People like the hunt," said owner Tom Carson, who used to own Harbor Gates in Port Jefferson. Lunch, the only meal, is served with disposable containers and flatware. The place does a huge takeout business and caters, too. Everything on the daily-changing menu is house-made.

It was hard to say which was better, the verdant spinach bisque or the smoky black lentil and bacon soup. A sprightly salad topped with three small crab cakes featured fresh field greens, mangoes, cucumbers, cabbage, carrots, endive and grilled Vidalia onions in a basil vinaigrette. I was impressed with the interplay of flavors and textures in a wrap that enfolded spicy Cajun chicken, cilantro pesto, Jack cheese, black beans and papaya.

Come summer, Carson features table service on a dining porch that overlooks the Peconic River. So romantic.

Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; closed Sunday.

Cuisine

Eclectic

Major Credit Cards Accepted

Yes

Price Range

Inexpensive (Under $15), Moderate ($15-$25)

Reservations

Not Accepted

Special Features

Open for Lunch/Brunch, Suitable for Young Children, Outdoor Seating, Water Views, Offbeat/Quirky