Exploring NoFo

Along Sound Ave in Riverhead is Sound Shore Market & Farms, a destination that is a local favorite. If you’re a fan of fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal goods, this market is a must-visit. One of the standout features of Sound Shore Market & Farms is its impressive selection of fresh produce. The market offers seasonal fruits and vegetables sourced directly from local farms. From vibrant tomatoes and crisp lettuce to juicy peaches and sweet corn, the produce here showcases the rich agricultural of Long Island. The quality of the fruits and vegetables is evident with every bite, representing the care and attention that goes into local farming. Each item is handpicked to ensure freshness, making it easy to create meals that are not only delicious but also support local agriculture. The market’s emphasis on seasonal produce also means that you’re always getting the best that each time of year has to offer. The market’s produce section is well-organized and beautifully d...

On my recent adventure of exploring the North Fork of Long Island, I discovered Kenney’s Beach in Southold. This visit to Kenney’s Beach was a refreshing change, offering a quieter, more intimate beach experience that I hadn't encountered in New Jersey (where I previously lived) before.  Kenney’s Beach contrasts the more crowded beaches I was accustomed to in New Jersey. Unlike the vast sands of the Jersey Shore, Kenney’s Beach is smaller in size, creating an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for a peaceful day by the water.  One major difference is the rocky sands. The beach is covered with smooth, rounded stones both on the shore and in the shallow waters. While the rocks might not be ideal for those who prefer a soft, sandy surface, they do add a certain charm to the setting like you're on an island. The rocky beach also means that you might need to bring water shoes if you’re planning to swim in the water. I didn’t enjoy the rocks and prefer the soft sand in New Jersey....

Since moving to Long Island and settling into life on the North Fork, I've been trying out many new places. One of my favorite restaurants so far has been Cooperage Inn in Calverton. This restaurant gives off cozy vibes as it is a cabin decorated like you are at your grandmother's house. They serve all different types of comfort food such as pot roast, mashed potatoes, pasta, soups, and much more. But what they are known for is their homemade pot pies. While this restaurant is far from my house, my family and I make the trip often to pick up a pot pie for dinner. That is why I was so excited to hear about them opening a market closer to home.  Eager to explore, I visited NoFo Pot Pies Country Market in Mattituck. This market brings the flavors of their famous pot pies - available in chicken, seafood, turkey, short rib, chicken marsala, and vegetables right to your doorstep. Stepping into NoFo Pot Pies, I immediately noticed the various freezers filled with various frozen meals ...

Since moving to Long Island's North Fork, I've been eager to discover this area’s charm and hidden gems. Recently, my mom and I decided to venture into Greenport for a night out, hoping to experience its dining scene, local culture, and waterfront atmosphere. Our evening began at Lucharitos, a vibrant restaurant known for its delicious Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere. Inside, the atmosphere was cool and inviting as you seat yourself, making it the perfect setting for a casual dinner. We started our meal with the chip dip trio - an appetizer that offered a mix of guacamole, queso, and salsa, accompanied by fresh tortilla chips. Their guacamole was very fresh and the salsa had an amazing taste, so I ordered some to take home. For our main course, my mom decided on the short rib quesadilla while I chose the steak burrito. They messed up my order, but their quickness in fixing this mistake made up for it. Despite being a popular spot, the prices were reasonable for the area, ...

                     Located in the heart of Southold is Southold’s Fish Market. This is a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts like myself. This market offers a unique experience as it has fresh seafood and the option to eat meals cooked inside the market.  Upon arriving at Southold Fish Market, I was immediately drawn to its setup. The market features both indoor and outdoor seating options. At first, I was confused as to why there was seating at a fish market, but once entering the store I was surprised to see they had a dine-in section. One side of the market is dedicated to showcasing their impressive array of seafood, displayed on ice to highlight their freshness. Meanwhile, the other side houses a menu where customers can place orders and have their food called out when ready, providing a casual yet efficient dining experience. There is also a small bar area, where customers are served by a bartender, which mak...

As I continued my journey through Long Island's North Fork, The Halyard Restaurant in Southold was a place highly recommended by my neighbors. Known for its stunning views of the Long Island Sound and exceptional dining experience, I decided to make reservations for brunch as their online menu interested me.  Upon arriving at The Halyard, I was immediately struck by its elegant ambiance. The restaurant has floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer panoramic views of the Long Island Sound. The interior is designed with a modern coastal aesthetic, creating an atmosphere that complements its waterfront location. The space was full of natural light from the windows and sunroof and even had a bar and fireplace area with seats to lounge in. Additionally, there was an outdoor seating area but we chose to stay inside due to the heat wave Southold has been receiving.  Brunch at The Halyard had a slightly limited menu compared to their dinner offerings, but each item sounded delicious. ...

Having recently moved to Long Island's North Fork, I've been eagerly exploring its hidden gems, and 67 Steps Beach in Greenport quickly became one of my favorite spots. This beach is ideal for anyone looking to escape from the chaos. Whether tanning in the sun during the day or watching the sunset at night, 67 Steps Beach has something beautiful to offer.  Arriving at 67 Steps Beach during the day, I was greeted by a very small parking area with lots of trees and bushes. I wasn't expecting much until I walked closer and saw a series of 67 wooden steps that descended through the greenery. The descent, though just 67 steps, felt like a journey to a secret paradise. At the bottom, the sight that you see is nothing short of breathtaking. The beach stretches out with sand and rocks of all sizes. The water was a beautiful deep blue and cool, perfect for a swim on a warm summer day. I couldn't resist the urge to swim, as there were a few other people in the water. The beach...

As part of my exploration of the North Fork of Long Island, I recently visited Ralph's Italian Ices in Greenport, and it was an experience worth sharing. This spot is more than just a place to get Italian ice as it has almost any sweet treat you can think of.  Upon entering Ralph's, I was immediately struck by the vibrant display of flavor options. The menu has an impressive selection of choices that anyone can find something they would love. From traditional Italian ice to creamy soft serve and decadent ice cream, Ralph’s has something for everyone. But it doesn’t stop there as their selection also includes cream ice, which I have never heard of before. Creme ice is a combination of Italian ice and 1% milk, as it makes a less creamy consistency than ice cream but still has an amazing taste. The variety of flavors was so extensive that I could not make up my mind. Luckily, I was able to sample a few flavors. The staff at Ralph's were very welcoming and even recommended some...