Aunt Jake's, a pasta haven, has expanded its reach to Huntington Village, offering a delightful culinary experience that promises to tantalize Long Island's taste buds. The restaurant's commitment to pasta is unwavering, showcasing eight homemade shapes crafted with unique dough recipes and an array of eight sauces. Prices range from $18 to $22, making it an affordable treat for pasta enthusiasts. The restaurant's ambiance, a renovated bi-level space with a warm elegance and a welcoming bar, adds to the overall dining experience.
What sets Aunt Jake's apart is its dedication to providing both dining and educational experiences. The Huntington location emphasizes dining, with a focus on creating a vibrant atmosphere. Nick Boccio, the restaurateur, believes in the power of a bustling restaurant, stating, 'I’d rather be busy than empty.' This philosophy is reflected in the menu, which features creative starters and mains, with prices ranging from $14 to $36. The restaurant also offers a complimentary filtered still or sparkling water, making it an even more attractive option.
The Huntington location's menu is a delightful blend of traditional and innovative Italian cuisine. Chef Carmine DiGiovanni's non-pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy, showcasing unique combinations such as avocado-grapefruit salad with shaved fennel and pickled red onions. Mains include crisp-skinned salmon with citrus gremolata and roasted half chicken with garlic and broccoli rabe. Desserts, including a seven-layer chocolate cake, are also available.
Aunt Jake's also caters to those seeking a more casual dining experience with its weekend brunch, offering an abbreviated pasta menu alongside honey-butter pancakes and French toast. The restaurant's wine list features a dozen Italian selections by the glass, ensuring a perfect pairing for any meal.
In addition to dining, Aunt Jake's Huntington provides pasta-making classes, a unique offering that allows customers to learn the art of pasta-making. These classes, held in the second-floor dining room, cost $60 and include 75 minutes of instruction, a ball of dough to take home, and a three-course meal from the regular menu. This combination of dining and educational experiences makes Aunt Jake's a versatile and captivating destination for food enthusiasts on Long Island.
