Bites Nearby: A Spin on Classic Comforts at The Wobbly Olive

The Wobbly Olive

Overview: The Wobbly Olive is a new gastropub that opened its doors in Hauppauge's Industrial Park on May 20. Co-owners Vincent Marghisi and Vinnie Montenegro hope to start a new trend where classic comforts get new, upscale twists served in a pub-like atmosphere.

Decor: Gone are the former checkered table clothes and bright golden yellow walls of Pomodorino's. In stark contrast, The Wobbly Olive's owners have painted the walls in a light sage green complimented by the dark wood tables and bar. Wall-mounted street lamps and overhead lighting is dim while low alternative adult rock is played in the dining area.

The Drinks: The gastropub has a full-service bar with a fairly standard beer, wine and cocktail list. Specialty drinks include "The Wobbly," allegedly for professional drinkers only, which combines Pinnacle vodka, Pinnacle whipped, Absolute pears, Absolute Mandrin, Sauza Gold, orange juice, cranberry juice and whipped cream into a 45 ounce glass ($25). There are plans to start a VIP Drink Service in the evenings with a $250 minimum.

Appetizers: A first glance at the appetizer menu appears to turn up familiar American favorites including mozzarella sticks ($8), a trio of hot dogs ($12) and Wobbly wings ($8) in your choice of either buffalo sauce or a sweet and spicy ginger soy sauce both served with a pepper sour cream sauce.

However, on second glance, many beloved favorites have gotten a makeover from the chef. Take the Ginger Soy meatballs ($8), tender, melt-in-your-mouth Thai-styled meatballs covered in a rich, sweet yet spicy soy sauce that the ginger gives the sauce a refreshing kick.

The mac and cheese ($9) is for the adults, as its made with Fussili pasta, English cheddar, chopped tomato, smoked sausage and grilled red onion that is seamlessly brought together by the melted cheese.

Entrees: This gastropub's entrees are divided into five categories: Pizzottes, Sandwiches/Flatbreads, Burgers, Pastas, and Entrees. The lunch dishes of the sausage and pepper sandwich ($13) features a sweet Italian sausage grilled with a mixed of red and green bell peppers and onions, lightly seasoned over a thick slice of Italian Bread that's lightly toasted to a crisp. Per the menu, the dish is traditionally served with a roasted potatoes that were substituted with home-cut steak fries that were small, circular potatoes wedges with a crisp skin and soft insides.

One diner said the Classic burger ($8) was perfectly charred and cooked to a medium-rare served with lettuce, tomato, and pickle on a brioche bun. Additional toppings of American, Swiss or cheddar cheese, mushrooms, bacon or caramelized onions for one dollar each.

Sides: Salads range from a basic House salad ($6) for lettuce, red onions and cherry tomatoes in a balsamic reduction to a Chicken Croquette and Peach Salad that throws together a mix of spring greens, goat cheese, chicken, peaches in a lemon raspberry vinaigrette.

Desserts: The gastropub's desserts focus on cakes and pastries from a finger-friendly trio of cupcakes ($8) to the caramel Tiramisu and homemade mixed-berry Napoleon ($8).

Service: The new gastropub has plenty of seating to deal with crowds, as wait staff is friendly and attentive to needs. The waitress quickly verified custom changes to an entree could be made and was very accommodating of diner's needs.

The Wobbly Olive
Address: 160 Adams Avenue
Chef: Richard Desmond
Cost: $$