Roadtrip replaces Rock City Dogs in Bay Shore
Massachusetts-inspired New England clam chowder at Roadtrip in Bay Shore, a restaurant that focuses on state-by-state food. Credit: Newsday/Marie Elena Martinez
Roadtrip, which recently opened in Bay Shore, takes diners on a culinary journey across the country with weekly-changing specials focused on the most beloved delicacies in particular states. Roadtrip's main menu is ambitious, especially with a weekly highlight of dishes from a featured state.
For starters, think Maine with apple cider mussels ($17) or California with lollipop street corn ($16) that takes inspiration from neighboring Mexico. There’s Vermont maple peppered bacon ($17) and chili-lime Brussels sprouts with grilled pineapple ($14), inspired by Hawaii. A roasted pumpkin dip pays homage to Illinois, the pumpkin capital of the world. Sandwiches include the New York-inspired pastrami on rye ($23), a classic Philly cheesesteak ($24) or a spicy Carolina pulled pork on Texas toast ($18).
Entrées abound, from house-smoked St. Louis-style barbecue ribs ($32) to Cajun seafood tagliatelle to a Gulf Coast mahi mahi ($28). Desserts include apple blossom pie and carrot cake. The recent Massachusetts spotlight menu offered a New England clam chowder ($13) and spicy clam and corn fritters ($17).
Gulf Coast mahi mahi with romesco sauce at Roadtrip, an homage to the food of America's 50 states in Bay Shore. Credit: Newsday/Marie Elena Martinez
Owner Phil Krumpter has been in the restaurant business since he was 15 years old, working positions from dishwasher to cook to manager. His resume includes stints with corporate brands such as Houlihan’s, TGI Friday’s and Miller’s Ale House. A Huntington resident, Krumpter said he always "wanted his own spot in Bay Shore," which he calls "a perfect up-and-coming town." The former Rock City Dogs location had good bones — including state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The concept came from his childhood.
"When we were kids, we would go around the country and see different menus. In New York, they all look similar," he said. "I thought it would be a good idea if each week we highlighted a different state." Roadtrip’s chef Mike Artist changes out the state menus on Wednesdays. Recently featured states include Massachusetts and Montana.
Notably, Roadtrip only serves domestic products. "So, if you want a Corona, we’re going to give you a Landshark," Krumpter said.
Roadtrip, 3 E. Main St., Bay Shore, 631-876-2530, roadtriprestaurant.com. Open Sunday through Wednesday from noon to 9:30 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from noon to 10 p.m.
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.
