Riverhead: First bite, Bistro 72
The lobby of the Hotel Indigo-East End has a modern motif. The Indigio has 100 contemporary guest rooms, a restaurant, a pool, an outdoor fireplace and plenty of lounge areas all within the eight acre property. (Nov. 1, 2010) Credit: Randee Daddona
Hotel Indigo is the new, stylish place to stay in Riverhead. And the restaurant in the hotel, just off the lobby and appropriately dubbed Bistro 72 (get off at Exit 72 of the Long Island Expressway), is all that and more.
Lia Fallon, who has starred at Amarelle in Wading River, has put together a terrific menu emphasizing local ingredients. The result is full-flavored, served by a fine staff in a relaxed setting.
Dishes are available either as small-plate choices or full main courses. You'll want to go with the smaller ones just to taste as many as you can.
Some early favorites include an artful napoleon of local beets and Catapano Farms goat cheese, accompanied by toasted pistachios; and a plate of assorted local fingerling potatoes served with a Mecox Bay Farms cheese fondue. You'll also enjoy the pulled pork sliders on a toasted brioche bun and the rice balls, with interiors that are as creamy as risotto.
Hotel Indigo is at 1830 W. Maint St., or Route 25, in Riverhead. It's near the Tanger Outlets. 631-369-2200 and 3325.
The lobby at Hotel Indigo.
