Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant

- 172 Main St, Port Washington, NY 11050

Welcome to Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant, an authentic Italian experience nestled right on Long Island’s Main Street in Port Washington, NY. For those of us in the New York area seeking a truly memorable and high-quality Italian meal, Flora’s provides an intimate and elegant escape. This isn't just a place to eat; it’s a 'cozy jewel box of a space' that invites guests to linger and savor every moment. Owned and operated by the personable husband-and-wife team, Ervis and Gabriella Xhelaj, who hail from Italy, the restaurant delivers an authentic Italian Osteria feel combined with local Long Island sensibility.

From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the magnificently renovated space, which features a sophisticated aesthetic complete with 'boudoir lighting,' antique mirrors, up-lit shelving, and a pressed tin ceiling over the inviting bar. This setting creates an atmosphere that is at once cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal destination for a date night, a gathering with friends, or simply a refined solo dining experience. The dedication to quality is apparent not just in the ambiance, but also in the culinary philosophy, which centers on fresh, handmade pastas, top-tier ingredients, and an exceptional wine program.

Whether you are craving classic comfort food, healthy options, or exquisite small plates, Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant promises a flavorful journey through Italian cuisine right here in Nassau County.

Location and Accessibility

Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant is conveniently situated at a prime location in Port Washington, NY, making it an accessible spot for locals and visitors across Long Island and the greater New York region. Its presence on Main Street makes it a natural hub for dining and socializing.

The full address is:

172 Main St, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA

Accessibility for all patrons is a priority, as the restaurant features wheelchair accessible seating. For drivers, both free and paid street parking options are generally available near the location. Furthermore, for those who prefer dining at home, the restaurant offers multiple take-out and delivery services, ensuring the authentic taste of Flora’s is never far away.

Services Offered

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy the cozy, romantic, and trendy atmosphere with table service for both lunch and dinner.
• Reservations: Dinner reservations are recommended and can be easily accepted.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options available including curbside pickup and no-contact delivery.
• Catering: Specialized catering services are provided for events and gatherings.
• Full Bar Service: A comprehensive selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, and hard liquor is available.
• Wine Bar: A central focus on an almost all-Italian wine list, including organic and biodynamic selections.
• Dessert Service: An array of great desserts to complete the dining experience.
• Children's Menu: Dedicated menu options for kids, including pasta with butter/tomato and chicken cutlet with fries, along with high chairs.
• Private Events: A suitable location for groups and special occasions.
• Payment Options: Accepts major credit cards and debit cards.
• Dog-Friendly Seating: Dogs are allowed in the outside seating area.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Italian Cuisine: Specializing in fresh, handmade pastas and authentic Italian dishes, ensuring a high-quality, flavorful experience.
• Exceptional Wine List: The wine program heavily features Italian selections, including sought-after organic and biodynamic choices like the Sicilian orange wine, Pithos by Cos, alongside Barolos and Amarones.
• Popular Dishes: The menu features a variety of highly-rated dishes, with customer favorites often including the classic Bolognese (Fresh Mafaldine with Veal Ragu), the Fried Artichokes (Carciofi) with Jalapeño Mayo, the classic Roman Cacio e Pepe, and the Milanese (thinly sliced breaded chicken breast).
• Signature Items: Beyond the popular staples, the menu boasts unique offerings such as the Whipped Ricotta Crostini with spicy honey and black truffle paste, Linguine Carciofi with shrimp, and the 10" Honey Pepperoni Cauliflower Pizza.
• Craft Cocktails: Known for great cocktails, popular choices have included the Negroni Bianca, the Vodka Gimlet with elderflower, and the Mezcal Paloma.
• Cozy and Romantic Ambiance: The interior is described as an 'unexpectedly glamorous' and intimate 'jewel box' with sexy, careful lighting and Italian-inspired decor, perfect for lingering.
• Friendly and Attentive Service: The restaurant consistently receives praise for its fast, welcoming, and attentive staff, with a focus on personal hospitality from the owners themselves.
• Varied Menu Offerings: Caters to diverse dietary preferences with Gluten-Free Friendly options, healthy choices, comfort food, and small plates.

Contact Information

For reservations, takeout, or general inquiries, you can reach Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant using the following details:

Address: 172 Main St, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA

Phone: (516) 758-3233

What is Worth Choosing

Flora's Wine Bar & Restaurant stands out in the bustling Long Island dining scene for several compelling reasons, making it a truly worthwhile choice for your next meal. At its core, the experience is defined by a commitment to Italian authenticity and high-quality, fresh ingredients. The chef's dedication to crafting fresh, handmade pasta, such as the Mafaldine Bolognese or the Tonarelli Cacio e Pepe, ensures a dish that is far superior to mass-produced alternatives and has sparked a loyal following across the area.

Beyond the main courses, the appetizers are a highlight that perfectly embody the wine bar concept. Favorites like the "most liked" Carciofi (Fried Artichokes) and the classic Meatballs are excellent choices for sharing alongside a glass of wine. The pizza offerings are also noteworthy, particularly the 10" Honey Pepperoni on a gluten-free cauliflower crust, which provides a unique, sweet-and-spicy twist that customers absolutely love.

For beverage enthusiasts, Flora’s is a mandatory stop. The focus on an almost-all Italian wine list—with a special emphasis on organic and biodynamic selections—is rare and impressive. It allows New York diners to explore regions and styles not typically found in standard restaurants, like the "stunning skin-contact Sicilian orange wine." Coupled with a celebrated cocktail program, including favorites like the Negroni Bianca, the drink menu complements the food perfectly.

Finally, the atmosphere and service elevate the entire experience. The meticulously renovated space is described as an "unexpectedly glamorous" yet cozy and romantic setting. This intimate backdrop, combined with the personal welcome and attentive service from the owners and staff (like Edwin, a frequently praised team member known for making great drinks), creates a dining experience where every patron feels valued. It's an ideal venue for locals, couples, or groups who appreciate a setting that encourages lingering and conversation. For families, the presence of a dedicated Kids Menu and high chairs also makes it a surprisingly welcoming option, ensuring a pleasant outing for all ages. In Port Washington, Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant offers a complete package of excellent food, exceptional drink, and a beautifully curated environment.

Flora’s Wine Bar & Restaurant

172 Main St, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA