Nunzi's by the Water — Restaurant in Town of Hempstead

Whatever you think of Nautical Mile spots, put those thoughts away. Nunzi's by the Water isn't located on the Nautical Mile; it's a few blocks east. Another way it's different is in the quality of its food and drinks and its quieter ambience. It's less hectic and touristy than nearby Freeport spots. No chartered fishing and party boats can be seen here; it's not even on the water. However, if you are looking for a quiet, relaxing dining experience, this is the place. My wife and I always look for newly opened establishments as our way of keeping our dining experiences fresh. Nunzi's by the Water offered us a just reward. Although clean and pleasant, the interior is unpretentious if not downright spartan. Decor is minimal and tables and chairs utilitarian. Waitstaff wear T shirts and shorts (I assume they'll cover up more during winter months). So no need to dress up if that's your vibe. A bar with a flatscreen TV provides diners who like sitting at a bar watching sports a refuge. A really nice outdoor dining area would be the better choice if the weather cooperates. Drinks were really strong and deliciously crafted. The menu is expansive but not expensive. For appetizers we had grilled octopus and slutty tomato salad (their word not mine) which both hit the mark. For entrees, we enjoyed lobster papardelle and linguine in clam sauce. We skipped desert as the portions although not huge were filling. After trying a restaurant for the first time, we all ask ourselves whether we will be back a second time. My answer is a resounding 'YES'. Can't wait to try the rest...

My husband & I have been coming here since shortly after they opened just under a year ago. We visited recently with friends & unfortunately, although the food was ok, it wasn't great. The sauce on the pasta dish I ordered was not flavorful & the texture of the sauce was not up to its usual standard. My friend ordered the Branzino & it also was dry & overall not as good as it has been. As a sidenote, Just heard that Chef Bennett, who has been there since their inception, is either no longer with Nunzi's or on temporary leave. Sorry to say, but it shows. Not diminishing the staff's efforts to do their best because they are genuinely nice people but my husband, myself & our guests happened to notice Chef's absence the evening we were there. We remarked how when we'd come in, Chef Bennett was always cordial & happy to interact with the clientele. I can't say enough about what a refreshing touch his dimeanor lends to the establishment. It makes a huge difference. I suspect his absence may be one of the reasons for the quality of the food we were served. An excellent chef knows that damage control is performed in the kitchen, not at the table. We're hoping that his leave is only temporary & that we'll be seeing him again soon because his food creations are the reason we've continued dining there. It wouldn't be the Nunzi's we know without him & we don't want...

Went here this past Tuesday for lunch - my third time here. ( my friend’s 8th time .. but who’s counting ! ) We sat at a table outside - in the shade , Lovely , breezy day .Comfortable and eye catching simple decor .. The food as usual- was spectacular! Ordered the Lina Salad - simple with an outrageously delicious dressing and homemade croutons .. shared the lemon chicken and the eggplant parmigiana- both cooked to perfection! Ample portions and the freshest ingredients.made these dishes big winners . The red sauce is a standout on its own . It’s “ just right “! Had lovely mojito mocktails bursting with fresh mint sprigs .. The dessert that we had - homemade bread pudding was absolutely too good for words . Finished with decaf cappuccinos! The staff here really aims to please . Our server Mike was pleasant , personable and went out of his to make sure that everything went smoothly . My friend and I have pretty high expectations when it comes to dining out - we are always looking for the exceptional , and the real deal . This is it ! This food is always consistently good. And it’s apparently made with love . And reasonably priced . Looking forward to heading back there soon and working my way through the menu … if I lived nearby I’d be getting takeout from there for sure . My compliments to the chef and his...