Italian restaurant Centro Trattoria & Bar opens in Hampton Bays

Two of Long Island’s favorite restaurant trends, farm-to-table and classic Italian, come together at Centro Trattoria & Bar in Hampton Bays.

Owner Sal Biundo opened Centro, in the spot that formerly housed Villa Tuscano, on Dec. 9. Chef James Carpenter, veteran of some of the East End’s finest kitchens (including The American Hotel, The Living Room and East Hampton Point), helms the kitchen.

The menu is large, but the food is simple and rustic. Appetizers include clams oreganata ($12), crispy zucchini chips ($12), and Nonna’s meatballs ($16). There are salumi platters ($18 and $35) served with fig mostarda, artichoke pesto, olives, and bread. A wood-burning oven turns out pizzas topped with sweet sausage, wild mushrooms, smoked chicken and robiola cheese ($12-$18). The mixed salad ($8) features baby lettuce from Satur Farm in Cutchogue. House-made pastas ($16-$27) include pappardelle Bolognese and sheep ricotta gnudi. For carnivores there is a 20-ounce rib eye Fiorentina ($44). Pescatarians can choose between salmon with lemon potatoes and Tuscan kale ($28) and whole roasted branzino ($34).

In addition to signature cocktails and wines by the glass, the beverage menu offers 30 bottles of wine priced from $30 to $39, as well as more expensive choices.

Plans for a boccie court and back garden with produce and herbs are set for spring. Live music is scheduled for Friday and Saturday nights in the lounge. Look for Sunday brunch as well as family-style “Supper with Sal,” coming on Sunday nights in January.

336 W. Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays, 631-594-5744