Noodles & Company opens in Farmingdale

A new branch of Noodles & Company -- this one in Farmingdale's Airport Plaza  -- brings the number of Long Island eateries to three, which includes the restaurants in Patchogue and Garden City.

The national franchise chain, which specializes in pasta of all nations, features its own kind of counter service. Once you've placed your order, you're handed a number; then, you find a table and wait for your food to be brought to you. If you want something more, like dessert or extra utensils, there's no need to go back on line. Just walk over to the host station, and you'll get whatever you need.

Menu items are customizable and available in small and regular sizes ($5.09 to $6.19). Select a noodle dish and then, for an additional charge ($2.39 to $2.99), add a protein, such as pork, steak, shrimp or tofu. Among options: pad Thai, Bangkok curry, mac and cheese, spaghetti and meatballs and steak stroganoff. If you don't want pasta, you can substitute greens and vegetables in the new "buff bowls" ($8.69) all of which have fewer than 400 calories. Other choices include sandwiches and salads ($4.70 to $8.19). There are vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free items, as well.

In the months ahead, watch for openings in Hicksville and Garden City Park.

Noodles & Company is at 207 Airport Plaza, Farmingdale, 631-777-4802.