Like most of the world, I started my New Years with a list of goals. One of which was to make time for the valuable people I am lucky enough to have in my life. So, a friend and I went to the perfect spot for some long overdue time together.
If you have heard the hype around The Shed Restaurant in West Sayville, believe the rumors. The place itself was the perfect setting for meeting with an old friend. Formerly known as the 21 Main Steakhouse and later Bluestone Tavern, the Shed came in and took over the great mansion, renovating and transforming it into an intimate, modern restaurant with a touch of that new age dining experience.
The building itself is grandiose and became even more impressive with a spacious, close parking lot— something that can be rather unexpected when dining at a former residence. I made my way up the front steps and through the large front doors, and immediately felt at home.
The décor was also rustic meets farmhouse in a collaboration that will want you to immediately take off your jacket and get ready to stay a while. We were seated immediately.
We sat in a crisp dining area where the bar was located – somehow, some way, the focal point no matter where you were in the building. The bar itself was inviting, as, like the rest of the restaurant, it made you feel at home. The dining room was dimly lit for the night, with ample seating, but much room for privacy.
The menu offered a variety of different options. We started with the Fried Pickles and Calamari. I will say that both items were fried in such a light, tasty, crispy batter that allowed the true flavor of the food to come out. The dipping sauces were an asset. The sauces paired perfectly with each starter.
While we did not drink, in solidarity with the “Dry January” campaign, the restaurant came fully loaded with a drink menu. Beers, wines, mixed drinks, hard ciders, and seltzers— you name it, they most likely have it. The Watermelon and The Shed Lemonade came highly recommended from not only our server, but steady patrons of the restaurant as well. I thought it was a nice touch to offer a Mocktail Menu, too.
I decided to choose from the “Shed Favorites” menu because when in Rome right? If this is a Shed Favorite – obviously it’s popular. The grilled chicken paillard won the “should I” game and I am so happy that it did. Upon ordering, the waitress let me know that it was one of the most popular on the popular list – so I felt good about my choice. Chicken, arugula, tomato, radish, balsamic and parmesan crisp all meshed for a surprisingly light but very filling dish. The amount of food they give is extremely generous. Personally, I never knew grilled chicken could be so flavorful and juicy. I left not one piece behind.
The Shed checked every box off for me from spacious parking to immaculate bathrooms. I have passed many times before and have seen people eating on picnic tables outside in beautiful weather. From the experience I had at dinner – I will be one of those people outside for brunch come this spring.
I’ll see you there.
