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FOODIE
Sapsuckers Soars In Huntington
By Danny & Sona/foodie@longislandernews.com
What’s
in a name? At Huntington’s Sapsuckers Hops and Grub,
it’s for the birds. Literally.
When owner Nino Antuzzi, who also owns Huntington’s Red
and Osteria Da Nino, went to Caumsett Park one day, he ran
into a birdwatcher, Sapsuckers manager Peter Arnata said.
“He asked, ‘What are you looking for?’”
Arnata recalled. “And he said, ‘The yellow-bellied
sapsucker.’”
The bird stuck in his head and became the name for his newest
eatery that features high-quality brews and all-American comfort
food, with a keen focus on taste. In season, they get organic
microgreens and eggs from Huntington’s own Makinajian
Poultry Farm, artesian breads and small farm-raised beef,
pork and poultry.
The cozy, spacious bar and with Audubon bird illustration-bedecked
dining room, designed by chef de cuisine Kelley Danek (she
did the patina on the copper ceiling by hand, Arnata said),
sets the scene for the cuisine. The Three Little Pigs ($8)
– pulled pork sliders with a pickle and slaw – will
have you going “wee, wee, wee” for more. The deliciously
wood-smoked pork pairs contrasts and flavors and textures
beautifully. Spicy Shrimp Gumbo ($10) has an authentic Cajun
kick without being overwhelming. Try it with Speakeasy’s
smooth, fruity White Lightning wheat beer, one of dozens available.
Warm, filling Potato Pierogis ($9), served with sour cream
and caramelized onions, fit the season wonderfully.
Check out the Sardinian Dog ($9), a homemade Wild Boar sausage
topped with onions and dressed in a balsamic reduction, for
a new, satisfying twist on sausage. The Mallet Burger ($12),
a half-pound, juicy, flavorful house-ground patty, is a must
for burger lovers, and the organic Chicken Pot Pie ($15) with
its flaky crust, creamy filling and fresh ingredients captures
what Sapsuckers is all about. The Alabama Slammer ($10), a
concoction of braised beef, Fontina cheese and gravy on ciabatta
is atop the list for a return visit, as are the Organic Fried
Chicken ($16) and Lamb Meatloaf ($18).
Many dishes come with crispy, tasty thin-cut and seasoned
French fries ($5 as a side). And value-oriented diners will
love the whole menu – the most expensive entrée,
is $20.
“Organic tastes like the real thing,” Arnata said.
“We’re very proud of the product at the price point.”
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