When the holiday glow fades and Rockville Centre’s sidewalks glisten with that treacherous January sheen, the only reliable warmth comes from a steaming plate and good company. These ten restaurants offer sanctuary from the seasonal slump, each a culinary hearth where winter’s chill is forgotten bite by glorious bite.
Brew 7
$ | (516) 913-2011 | WEBSITE
Brew 7 is the most popular frozen yogurt spot in Rockville Centre, so instead of spending your afternoon craving something sweet in your stuffy apartment, go get some yogurt here and spend the afternoon sampling between their seven rotating organic flavors without having to put your shoes on to change locations.
Gino’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant
$ | (516) 766-4200 | WEBSITE
If the thought of biting into a perfectly crisp Sicilian slice with bubbling cheese sounds good to you, Gino’s Pizzeria is where you should spend your next pizza night. Plus, you can take intermittent breaks from the feast with their variety of specialty slices, and when the hunger gets to be too much, settle into their comfortable seating for another round in the laid-back environment.
The clean, spacious spot makes it easy to enjoy what many call the best pizza on Long Island, with excellent quality ingredients, perfectly cooked dough, and flavorful sauce that keeps you coming back. While parking can be tight, street spots are usually available, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine pie without the fuss.
Red Crab Juicy Seafood
$$ | (516) 442-4687 | WEBSITE
People who think seafood boils are just messy affairs clearly haven’t experienced one done right at Red Crab Juicy Seafood in Rockville Centre. The objectively best way to enjoy it is to grab a table during Happy Hour, order one of their strong and tasty drinks, and dive into those generously portioned, flavorful dishes with everyone else who appreciates great music and a lively atmosphere.
The waitress provides outstanding attention, explaining the menu options with care, and while the energy can get loud on weekends, it’s all part of the fun that makes this place worth returning to.
Mad For Chicken Rockville Centre
$$ | (516) 208-6931 | WEBSITE
Everything about Mad For Chicken Rockville Centre screams comfort. But in a good way, like one of those classic neighborhood spots that’s set in a non-existent, vaguely nostalgic-sounding town. There’s crispy chicken, a bunch of soju options that we’re assuming haven’t been ignored in a very long time, and, most importantly, flavorful food to keep you satisfied.
Park Ave Deli
$ | (516) 678-3890 | WEBSITE
Behind the simple storefront at Park Ave Deli, it’s a different world. One where there are no frills and, for all intents and purposes, no pretension or fuss. Just really good egg sandwiches and coffee for you to focus your full attention on for a quick meal, until you have to exit the bustling deli and face the day again.
Ainsworth RVC
$$$ | (516) 442-2600 | WEBSITE
You know what helps fight the feeling that your entire life is just a loud, crowded blur that goes on forever? Finding a spot with upbeat music, good food, and a casual vibe. Sadly, we imagine there are about the same number of cons as pros in this lively dream, but Ainsworth RVC has the next best thing: perfectly cooked steak sandwiches. Spend the brunch hiding from the freezing temperatures outside and trying a few standout dishes, plus an entire menu of regular American brunch classics.
Doctor shawarma
$ | (646) 358-0077 | WEBSITE
Sure, there are some downsides to living in Rockville Centre, but when it comes to quick, satisfying meals, they’re blessed. So the next time you’re craving something fresh and flavorful, head to Doctor Shawarma, order their juicy chicken shawarma with crispy homemade fries, watch their efficient service in action, and pretend you’re far, far away from ordinary fast food.
Amy’s Chinese Restaurant
$ | (718) 279-0010 | WEBSITE
There are a lot of Chinese restaurants with takeout boxes in Rockville Centre, but Amy’s Chinese Restaurant, a small gem with some pretty good American Chinese food, has traditional take-out boxes. This means that no matter where you choose to enjoy your hot, generous meal, you’ll be satisfied pretty quickly.
Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices
$ | (516) 255-0899 | WEBSITE
Should the next heatwave hit on a Tuesday or Thursday, head to Ralph’s. Those are the days when you can get their special mango and strawberry swirl, which consists of two generous scoops of icy perfection served in a classic paper cup that you enjoy with a spoon. It might not be geographically located in Italy, but all air conditioners are broken anyways, so this is your next best option.
The New Vibe Lounge
$$ | (646) 523-1814 | WEBSITE
The New Vibe Lounge is both a vibrant nightclub where a talented DJ spins the latest R&B hits, and also an impressive dining destination where you’ll want to savor their exceptional fish and rum punch as often as possible. After spending an entire evening dancing to soulful beats and feeling the electric energy, sitting at their bar with that rum punch and their acclaimed fish—which one customer called the best they’ve had in the U.S.—is exactly where you want to be.