A 'Blend' of Food and Fun

It’s all about relaxed fun at Blend Wine and Tapas in Hauppauge, which has made its outdoor patio a local entertainment destination.

Owner Jimmy Pace, who admits that he saw more shows than midterms in his college years, is a self-proclaimed “chaser of sound.” He said that he loves music just as much as quality food, so when an opportunity to add a sister restaurant to Pace’s Steakhouse came around last year, he and partner Tommy Quinn decided to make the restaurant a harmonious mix of fun and food. Thus, Blend was born.


Every Thursday through Saturday, and sometimes Sunday, musicians play live music for guests at Blend on the outdoor patio, which features a large, fully stocked bar and tables. The atmosphere carries a more relaxed feel than Pace’s Steakhouse, and lends itself to being a place where residents go to unwind on the weekend.

“We’re here to serve. We take pride in our level of service and food, and to add music to it is natural,” Pace said.

The restaurant was full this past Thursday when tie-dye and flips flops marked the theme of the night as Half Step, a Grateful Dead tribute band, kept the tunes going all night long.

The wait staff got in on the fun too, wearing tie-dyed T-shirts. Even Chef Mike donned a tie-dyed apron.

“I love the notes,” Pace said of the restaurant’s musical lineup. “You only get so many breaths. Enjoy every one is my approach.”

Blend is located at 321 Nesconset Hwy. in Hauppauge.