Merrick Gables Cafe' Coming to Merrick

Owning a business has always been a dream for Brian Sztabnik, 27, who grew up in Merrick, and now that vision has become a reality.

Sztabnik recently hosted a ribbon cutting for the Merrick Gables Café’, which will be located at 2203 Merrick Rd., the former site of TCBY.

Sztabnik attended Old Mill Road School, Merrick Avenue Middle School and Calhoun High School before heading to SUNY Old Westbury. He’s also a baseball player that’s gone through the Merrick/North Merrick Little League and played for teams in high school and college as well.

“Hard work always pays off,” Sztabnik said. “To actually be able to say something, and to be standing here today and get it done, it’s pretty awesome.”

He also said the spot on Merrick Road is perfect for what he’s trying to provide, which is easy food and a relaxed environment.

“It’s the town I grew up in, and the location is the number one thing,” he said.

The Merrick Gables Café’ has no set opening day, although Sztabnik recently told Patch that the business should be open within a couple weeks. The open café/take-out store will offer crepes, paninis, salads and gourmet hot dogs. Breakfast will also be offered early in the morning, and WiFi will be available as well. The eatery will have a lower east side theme.

“Today was spectacular,” Merrick Chamber of Commerce President Randy Shotland said. “Obviously, with a surge of new businesses in the town, we’re a strong town. We care about our people, and our merchants care about what our stores look like.”

“We’ll see you soon at Merrick Gables Café’,” Sztabnik added.

What do you think of the Merrick Gables Café’ coming to Merrick? Tell us in the comments section below.