REVIEW: Press 195 Covers Panini Spectrum With 40 Options

When opened on North Park Avenue in October, it marked the city sandwich chain’s first venture into Long Island dining. “So far we have gotten a great response from local residents,” said John Annechino, one of Press 195’s four owners. “We have expanded the menu with each location and we would like to keep expanding.” 

When you enter the restaurant, you’ll find that Press 195’s dining area is trendy and spacious. Minimal décor gives the restaurant a modern feel. Bright paintings adorn the dining room and add a splash of color to the whitewashed walls. Roomy tables for larger groups occupy the back of the restaurant, while a fully-stocked bar surrounded by cozy tables-for-two occupies the front.

The menu’s main focus is the restaurant’s hot press. Forty panini varieties are available, all for under $10 each, making the Rockville Centre location’s menu the most extensive of the chain. Each sandwich is pressed between fresh, crispy Ciabatta bread that is baked right on the premises. Cold press selections, such as the American sandwich ($9.25) with roast beef, turkey, Vermont cheddar cheese, lettuce tomato and roasted garlic spread, are also available for order.

To start your meal, try the spicy veggie salsa ($9.50), which is topped with corn and served with warm, homemade tortilla chips. As an added bonus, this appetizer also comes with a serving of guacamole for your dipping pleasure, which is mild but has a distinct flavor combination of lime and cilantro.

A popular sandwich off the hot press is the No. 10 — prosciutto di Parma with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and a drizzling of extra virgin olive oil ($9.50). The generous helping of savory, salty meat is offset by the taste of the sweet and juicy tomato. An order of the thick, hand-cut Belgian fries ($6.50), which comes with a side of Chipolte mayo, are a must have.

If you’re looking for lighter fare, the restaurant has an extensive salad menu with classic options, like house and Mediterranean salads ($7.50-$11), as well as Press 195 originals like the Hudson Valley salad ($10.25) with mixed greens, crumbled blue cheese, hazelnuts, apples and Doc’s Draft hard apple cider vinaigrette.

No matter how full you are, don’t leave without trying one of its savory desserts. According to the owners, the Nutella press ($7.50) is a crowd favorite — warm Nutella spread atop fresh bananas and your choice of vanilla or chocolate ice cream will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Press 195 offers take-out, a children’s menu and catering for private events. Also check out our of the eatery.