Cafe Continental

- 1538 Northern Blvd, Manhasset, NY 11030

Welcome to Cafe Continental, a cherished institution on Long Island’s North Shore. Located in the heart of Manhasset on Northern Boulevard, this establishment has been a local favorite since 1964, consistently delivering an authentic and warm Northern Italian dining experience. More than just a restaurant, Cafe Continental is known for its inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends the conviviality of a great bar with the intimacy of a fine dining room, making it a premier wine bar and cocktail destination in the New York region.

For decades, Cafe Continental has earned a reputation for its commitment to high-quality ingredients, attentive service, and a loyal clientele who consider it a home away from home. The cuisine focuses on the rich, butter-based sauces, fresh herbs, and premium meats and cheeses characteristic of Northern Italian regions like Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna. Whether you're seeking a casual evening, a romantic date night, or a celebratory gathering, this Manhasset gem offers a timeless and reliable choice for discerning diners.

The atmosphere here is often described as cozy, romantic, and upscale, featuring soft, candlelight ambiance, golden Tuscan yellow walls, wainscoting, and decorative imported chandeliers. This setting provides the perfect backdrop to enjoy an extensive meal or simply a glass from their distinguished wine list, which heavily features selections from Italy and California. It’s an ideal stop for unwinding after a day of shopping along the nearby Miracle Mile.

Cafe Continental is conveniently situated on the famous Northern Boulevard in Manhasset, NY, a prime location on Long Island near some of the area's best shopping. The specific address is 1538 Northern Blvd, Manhasset, NY 11030. Its proximity to major local hubs makes it an easily accessible destination for residents across Long Island and the greater New York metropolitan area.

When planning your visit, you'll find that parking is straightforward, as the location offers both a free parking lot and free street parking. This is a significant convenience for guests driving to the restaurant.

The venue is popular for dinner service and accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially on weekends, given its standing as a destination restaurant. While many aspects of the establishment are designed for comfort, prospective guests should note that, as a long-standing property, entry may involve navigating stairs. However, based on general public data, the establishment aims to be accessible with features like a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking lot, wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating available to accommodate all patrons. The management team and staff are known for their warm and gracious hospitality, ensuring everyone feels welcome.

As a multifaceted venue, Cafe Continental offers a comprehensive range of services, catering to various dining and celebratory needs.

• Full-Service Dining: Offering traditional Italian table service in an intimate setting for both dinner and dessert. Popular dining options include dinner seating and dedicated dessert service.
• Wine Bar and Cocktail Bar: Featuring a lively bar area with an emphasis on a comprehensive wine list (Red, White, and Cellar selections) and the preparation of great, classic cocktails.
• Takeout and Delivery: Providing convenient options for enjoying their celebrated cuisine at home, including both standard delivery and no-contact delivery service options.
• Catering and Private Parties: Available as a catering food and drink supplier, the restaurant facilitates both on-premise and off-premise catering, along with accommodating private parties and events.
• Reservations: Dinner reservations are accepted and recommended to secure your table, particularly during peak hours.
• Amenities: The restaurant is equipped with a bar onsite and a clean restroom for guest comfort. High chairs are available for families dining with children.

Cafe Continental is distinguished by several key features that contribute to its status as a local favorite in the Long Island dining scene.

• Northern Italian Cuisine Specialization: The core menu emphasizes rich, regional Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and simple, authentic preparation. Signature main courses include Chicken Continental and Veal Continental (prepared with prosciutto, mozzarella, and a famous burgundy wine sauce), and comforting classics like Chicken Scarpariello and a variety of veal dishes such as Veal Saltimbocca.
• Fresh, Homemade Pasta: A standout feature is the house-made pasta. Specialties include Rigatoni Bolognese with Continental's famous meat sauce, Pappardelle Al Funghi with a classic wild mushroom sauce, and Pasta Ragu (orecchiette with veal ragu).
• Exceptional Seafood and Broiler Options: The menu offers a wealth of fresh seafood, highlighted by the majestic Zuppa Di Pesce (shrimp, clams, mussels, scallops, calamari, and bass in red or white clam sauce) and the popular Wild Alaskan Salmon. From the broiler, guests can enjoy premium cuts like the Sirloin Steak and the impressive Veal Chop Porterhouse.
• Great Bar and Wine Program: Recognized for its superb selection of beverages, the establishment is lauded for having a great wine list and crafting great cocktails. Guests can relax at the warm, comfortable, and inviting bar area before or after their meal.
• Long-Tenured, Hospitable Staff: A hallmark of the restaurant is its incredibly friendly, accommodating, and professional service. The staff, including some members who have been there for decades, create a genuine family-friendly atmosphere and often know regulars personally, which enhances the dining experience significantly.
• Appetizers and Small Plates: The menu is perfect for wine bar-style grazing, offering numerous smaller options like Beef Carpaccio, Fried Calamari, Veal Polpette, and Crab Stuffed Portobello Mushroom.

For reservations, inquiries, or to place a takeout order, you can contact Cafe Continental directly.

Address: 1538 Northern Blvd, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA

Phone: (516) 627-4269

Choosing Cafe Continental means choosing a piece of Long Island history that excels at both classic Italian fare and a sophisticated bar experience. It is worth choosing for the following reasons:

First and foremost, the authentic Northern Italian cuisine is the draw. Diners repeatedly praise the quality and freshness of dishes, from the famous Rigatoni Bolognese to the expertly prepared seafood. If you enjoy classic, rich, and flavorful Italian food, this is a must-try.

Second, its dual identity as a fine dining spot and a true wine bar/cocktail bar offers flexibility. Whether you intend to have a full, multicourse dinner or simply meet friends for great cocktails and small plates like the Hot Antipasto or Beef Carpaccio, the lively and energetic bar provides a comfortable venue. The extensive wine list ensures a perfect pairing for any dish, from the rich veal creations to the delectable seafood.

Finally, the enduring, personalized hospitality and cozy, romantic atmosphere make the experience memorable. Regulars attest to the feeling of being at a "family get-together," where the owners and staff genuinely invest in their customers' experience. It's a place where you can feel instantly at home, relaxing with a glass of excellent wine, away from the stresses of the day. For New Yorkers looking for a classic, high-quality, and reliable Italian dining destination on Long Island, Cafe Continental stands out as an outstanding choice.

Cafe Continental

1538 Northern Blvd, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA