The Farm Italy expanding to Mohegan Sun resort casino
Rigatoni with fennel sausage, spinach, hot peppers, and pomodoro rossa with an artichoke appetizer at The Farm Italy in Huntington. Additional locations are planned for Westbury and at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. Credit: Megan Schlow
Just ahead of The Farm Italy opening in Westbury next month, restaurateur John Tunney is also expanding the Italian eatery to the Mohegan Sun casino resort in Connecticut.
The Farm Italy's original Huntington eatery opened in 2023 and remains one of the most sought-after reservations on Long Island. Housemade pastas, like pappardelle Bolognese, and fresh-baked bread are two of the draws, along with its cozy front bar, lofty dining room, patio tables, terrific cocktails and generous portions.
Tunney, who also owns Besito Mexican restaurants, had a previous relationship with Mohegan Sun, having debuted an outpost of The Shed at the casino complex in October.
"I built The Farm Italy as a one-off," Tunney told Newsday as he announced the Westbury expansion. "I wasn’t going to build much more — but I always say that before I build the next restaurant." The Farm Italy is, at least for now, a three-off.
At Mohegan Sun, the current Ballo Italian Restaurant will close May 5 for its transformation to The Farm Italy, reopening just after Memorial Day. Occupying 185 acres in southeast Connecticut, Mohegan Sun is home to two casinos, two spas, two convention centers, a golf course, more than 70 shops, several restaurants — including The Shed — bars, and a 10,000 seat arena.
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.
