Sachem Regulars Flock to Bruno's

Bruno's Village Restaurant has been an important eatery in Sachem for years. Owner Doug Brohan describes the bar and restaurant as a "community center" of sorts.

Bruno's was established in 1958 and has a longstanding history with the Sachem Central School District. Brohan, a graduate of Sachem in 1974, has worked at Bruno's for over 25 years and is currently in his 10^th year of ownership. He has maintained a direct personal relationship with the community, having coached both Sachem and community sport leagues.

Perhaps this is why Bruno's welcomes the Sachem football team along with family and friends after each game. Brohan, who owns the eatery with his wife Doreen, obtains a copy of the game and replays it for all to see. It is this type of activity that validates the concept of Bruno's as a community center because it recognizes the importance of bringing family and friends together amidst sports and good food.

Brohan describes the establishment as three venues in one. There is a choice to sit at the sports bar, which boasts 22 televisions, in the dining room, or, occasionally, in the catering room.  The sports bar comes highly equipped and allows patrons to play Lotto, Quick Draw and Scratch-off Tickets. Bruno's is also an Off Track Betting venue.

Bruno's has, "carried the traditional atmosphere while making changes to grow according to the needs of society," Brohan said.

The catering room has been home to various fundraisers for Sachem athletic teams, high school reunions, and small weddings.  Additionally, outside catering is available. 

The menu runs incorporates seafood, pasta, salad, wings and pizza, with most items running from $15-$20. Nightly specials vary by the day, but are always a great deal. For example, Bruno's has a Thursday night special of all-you-can-eat snow crab legs at merely $23 per person.

Brohan describes his restaurant as "affordable with a relaxed, casual atmosphere." That's exactly the initial impression I was hit with upon entering. I was greeted by both employees and regulars at the bar, amidst a casual atmosphere and could see myself being comfortable spending some time there. 

Though the crowd is generally 30 and over, a typical Saturday night sees Bruno's packed with people of all ages. Former Sachem students, used to the tradition of attending Bruno's, always feel welcome, and stop by often. Being inside for just a short while, I saw people whom I graduated from Sachem with. Bruno's definitely has a familiar feel. I visited the restaurant on three different occasions, and saw many of the same people sitting around and chatting. Laughter and good conversation are a guarantee.

I tried one of the Italian items on the menu, to get an idea of the flavors and presentation of the food and was immediately impressed by the friendly service and the elegant way in which my meal was prepared. My server Elaina took great care of me to make my experience a good one, and a good one it was.

The restaurant has basic beers on tap, including Budweiser, Bud Light, Long Islander, Killian's, Blue Point and Blue Moon. Wednesday night is steak night, when customers can get a 16 oz. shell steak – flame broiled or marinated – with potatoes, vegetables and a soup or salad for just $13.

Bruno's is great for anyone who wants to have a casual and enjoyably affordable night out. 

Bruno's Village Restaurant

451 Hawkins Ave.

Lake Ronkonkoma

631-588-9843