Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar

- 282 Main St, Farmingdale, NY 11735

Located in the heart of the thriving downtown district, Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar has established itself as a premier dining destination on Long Island, offering New York residents a true taste of authentic Italian cuisine with a distinct Sicilian influence. Far from a typical local pizzeria, Vespa presents a sophisticated, yet welcoming, environment where traditional home-cooked recipes meet a modern, upbeat ambiance. The restaurant, owned and operated by the Lo Manto family, prides itself on using the freshest ingredients to prepare everything on the premises, ensuring a rich tradition of quality in every dish.

The menu is expansive, designed to cater to both the comfort-food enthusiast and the adventurous foodie. Starting with their 'FOR THE TABLE' selections, signature items like Mamma Vincenza's Meatballs—classic veal, pork, and beef meatballs slow-cooked in tomato sauce—and the Baked Clams Oreganata showcase the kitchen's dedication to robust, savory flavors. The offerings extend well beyond appetizers, encompassing substantial salads such as the VESPA Chopt' Salad, hearty soups like Pasta é Fagioli, and an impressive lineup of wood-fired specialties.

The culinary journey continues through their celebrated PASTA and ENTRÉES sections. Pasta lovers can choose from classics like Rigatoni Alla Vodka or dive into more specialized Sicilian dishes such as the rich Pasta A'Forno Siciliana (anellini pasta with meat sauce, eggplant, peas, and cheese) and Pasta Con Le Sarde (bucatini with sardines, roasted cauliflower, raisins, and pine nuts). For a truly luxurious main course, options range from the melt-in-your-mouth Osso Bucco di Maiale and Braciole Alla Siciliana to high-end cuts like the Tomahawk Veal Chop and fresh seafood choices like Branzino and Swordfish Messina. The commitment to fresh, quality ingredients is evident across the board, making it a favorite spot for those craving authentic, memorable Italian flavors in the New York region.

Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar is prominently located at 282 Main St, Farmingdale, NY 11735. This address places it squarely in the vibrant Farmingdale Village, known for its busy mix of restaurants, bars, and local shops. Its location on Main Street makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors traveling through Long Island.

The restaurant has made significant efforts to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience for all patrons. The property is designed with comprehensive accessibility features, including a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. Parking is also convenient, with options for a Free parking lot, Free street parking, and a Paid parking lot nearby. Furthermore, for guests who wish to enjoy the vibrant Main Street atmosphere, Dogs are allowed outside on the patio seating area, making it a friendly choice for pet owners.

The atmosphere inside is described as a thoughtful blend of Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy, featuring modern design elements like exposed brick walls, Carrara marble bar tops, and Edison light bulbs that give it a warm, old-Brooklyn trend feel. The welcoming setting, complete with a magnificent bar and comfortable seating, is popular for a diverse crowd, including College students, Family-friendly groups, and large Groups.

Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar offers a full spectrum of services to meet various dining needs, from a quick bite to a full-scale catered event:

• Full Dining Options: Available for Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, featuring full Table service and spacious Seating.
• Reservations: The restaurant Accepts reservations, with Brunch reservations recommended and Dinner reservations recommended, especially for larger parties or weekend dining.
• Beverage Program: Features a fully stocked Bar onsite with a Great beer selection, Great cocktails (including house specialties and private-label infusions), an impressive Great wine list, and Hard liquor.
• Off-Premise Services: Provides comprehensive Catering services, including an Online Catering Ordering option, making it ideal for large Long Island events.
• Private Events: A dedicated Private dining room is available for special occasions, corporate gatherings, and celebrations.
• Convenience & Speed: Offers Takeout, Delivery, and is known for Fast service for those needing a Quick bite during their lunch break.
• Family Amenities: Good for kids with a dedicated Kids' menu featuring dishes like Rigatoni and Chicken Tenders, and includes High chairs for younger guests.
• Dietary Considerations: The menu offers clear labeling and options for Vegetarian options and staff are attentive to food allergies.
• Modern Payment: Accepts all major payment types, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

The elements that distinguish Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar from other New York dining spots include a blend of authentic cuisine, high-quality drinks, and exceptional hospitality:

• Authentic Sicilian Cuisine: The menu is heavily influenced by the owner’s hometown of Castellammare Del Golfo, Sicily, showcasing authentic recipes and local specialties like Pasta Con Le Sarde and Caponata.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: The venue has a well-deserved reputation for having a Great wine list and particularly strong cocktail offerings, with reviewers praising the Great cocktails and house-infused Sicilian BIVI vodka selections.
• Signature Dishes: The restaurant is known for its comforting yet refined dishes such as the rich short ribs, delectable burrata, flavorful eggplant caponata, and the much-loved Mamma Vincenza's Meatballs.
• Complete Dining Experience: Offers the full arc of Italian dining, from appetizers and wood-fired PIZZETTE to sophisticated ENTRÉES and a selection of desserts and a dedicated Great coffee service to finish the meal.
• Warm Hospitality: Customer reviews highlight the top-notch service and the welcoming nature of the staff and ownership, noted in one instance where the owner personally accommodated a solo diner's request for an extra side of risotto. The staff, including the bar team, are praised for their attentiveness even during busy times.
• Versatile Atmosphere: The setting can shift seamlessly from a cozy brunch spot to a trendy dinner location, accommodating everything from solo dining to romantic dates and large family celebrations.
• Late-Night Options: The inclusion of Late-night food service ensures that the bar area remains a destination after regular dinner hours.

For reservations, takeout, catering inquiries, or general information, please use the following contact details:

Address: 282 Main St, Farmingdale, NY 11735

Phone: (516) 586-8542

Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar is worth choosing for New Yorkers seeking an elevated yet approachable Italian dining experience that consistently delivers on both quality and atmosphere. It stands out because of its commitment to authentic Sicilian heritage, which shines through in unique and flavorful dishes not commonly found at standard Italian-American restaurants on Long Island. The attention to detail, from the rich gravy on the short ribs to the meticulously crafted Papperdelle Bolognese and house-made focaccia served with pasta dishes, makes every bite a rewarding culinary experience.

Furthermore, the establishment is perfect for those who value comprehensive service and amenities. Whether you need a quick business lunch, a romantic dinner with access to an impressive Great wine list, or require the use of their Private dining room for a party, Vespa is equipped to handle it all with efficiency and professionalism, as evidenced by the praise for their Fast service and gracious staff. The fact that they cater to a wide audience—offering both high-end steak options like the Tomahawk Veal Chop and budget-friendly Kids' menu items—cements its status as a versatile and reliable choice for any occasion in the New York region.

Vespa Italian Kitchen & Bar

282 Main St, Farmingdale, NY 11735, USA