The Milleridge Inn in Jericho temporarily closes for renovations

The Milleridge Inn in Jericho has closed temporarily for renovations, a step that owner Butch Yamali said is necessary to bring the historic restaurant and catering hall into the modern age.

"I took over the Milleridge about 10 years ago, and it’s a fantastic location with fantastic history, but ever since COVID, a lot of our regular patrons are just not here anymore," Yamali said.

The closure is expected to last through Sept. 10 with changes happening on the grounds, throughout the interiors and updates to the food offerings. Yamali said he plans to open a gelato store on the property as well as "a fancy bakery to get cookies and cakes" while still stocking favorites — like its popular cinnamon bread — that Long Islanders have come to love. Interior updates include new chairs, silverware and tableware. The restaurant menus, which have long featured classics such as meatloaf and chicken pot pie for traditionalists, will also be refreshed.

"Yankee pot roast is great, but not every day. Who eats beef stew now? Nobody," Yamali said.

The Milleridge has a storied history that dates back to 1672, when one of the early settlers to the area, Mary Willets, built a two-room house with a central fireplace that still exists on the property. The village expanded slowly and The Milleridge remains one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the country.

During the renovation, the property will continue to host biweekly car meets and live music in its retail village on Thursdays. Yamali is looking into adding other contemporary draws, such as wine tasting events and niche labels of craft beer.

Said Yamali, "Call it a modern Milleridge."

By Marie Elena Martinez

marieelena.martinez@newsday.com@mariesworlds

A global freelancer who has checked her suitcase to raise her young daughter on her native Long Island, Marie Elena will always make time for good mezcal, even better tacos and killer conversation. Preferably, in a corner bar seat. She can be found on Instagram at @mariesworldeats.