Check Out East Meadow's Newest Bar and Grill

Are you looking for a relaxing place to enjoy a burger or a couple of beers with friends? Give F&S Bar and Grill at 2564 Hempstead Tpke. in East Meadow a try. The new neighborhood restaurant opened its doors last Friday.

Westbury natives Frank Buffolino and Sam Naderi have joined forces to open a one-of-a-kind restaurant that mixes casual, quality cuisine with a modern, laid back atmosphere.

With Naderi's professional experience and Buffolino's knack for food, the duo possesses the perfect ingredients to build a successful hospitality business, and both are confident in what the other can contribute to the new establishment.

"Sam's also very outgoing and helps bring people in the door, " Buffolino said of his partner. "His business next door helps us; everyone who walks in there hears about our place."

Naderi opened Funtazia, a popular glassware and tattoo shop, in January of 2001, and over the past ten years has seen the store develop into a staple of the East Meadow community. He has high hopes for his new business partner and the next step in his enterprise.

"Frank really wants to do well with this, and I think our team is going to be really great," Naderi said. "The food is reasonably priced, and the restaurant is a good time."

F&S Bar and Grill, the previous home to Funtazia Cafe, has transformed from what was once a more upscale dinner destination to a calm and friendly environment where patrons can relax and unwind with a great meal or signature cocktail.

"I think this menu is more geared towards East Meadow and today's economy," Buffolino said. "Everything's simple and easy, and very good." Buffolino, co-owner and head chef at the new restaurant, has been cooking for more than a decade, and describes his latest creations as "American-style, gourmet bar food."

The menu features an assortment of appetizers like traditional chicken fingers and hot wings, along with more unique options like buffalo shrimp and chili cheese pierogi. Tex-mex loaded french fries, smothered in jack and cheddar cheeses, corn salsa, black beans and jalapeno, make for a great start to any meal and are generous enough to share between the table.

A variety of entrees are sure to satisfy any palate. Cheesesteaks, the restaurant's signature item, are a delicious choice for lunch or dinner. For those who are looking for a healthier menu item, F&S offers grilled chicken, wraps and a large selection of salads.

F&S burgers are 1/3 pound and can be made with mozzarella, American or cheddar cheese, jalapeno, chili, lettuce, tomato, onion and your choice of ketchup or sauce. In just a short time of being open, they have already become a customer favorite.

Looking for a new drink spot? F&S is more than just great food. A fully stocked bar offers specialty cocktails like the Topgun, an extra strong drink that tastes just like fruit punch, or an Orange Crush which mixes Stoli Orange, Red Bull and a splash of orange juice. A large selection of bottled beers are available including Bud, Bud Light, Heineken, Corona, Magic Hat, Blue Moon and rotating seasonal ales.

The restaurant's grand opening celebration will be announced in the upcoming weeks.