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Dungeness crab and salmon from Alaska, a Philly cheesesteak made with filet mignon, and classic crawfish jambalaya from Louisiana.
As its name implies, the new Road Trip restaurant set to open later this month in Bay Shore will take diners on a culinary journey across the United States. In addition to its diverse and expansive main menu, Road Trip will rotate a specials menu each week, focusing on a different state.
For example, Oregon will serve as the specials menu’s theme for opening week.
So get ready for hazelnut-crusted mahi-mahi, served up with a cucumber and heirloom tomato salad and accented with a drizzle of Oregon wildflower honey. Pasta tossed with Oregon chard and Changarelle, crisp applewood-smoked bacon, and a light garlic cream sauce is another choice.
“We wanted to create something that celebrates the diversity of American cuisine, where every week feels like a culinary journey to a different state,” said Phil Krumpter, one of Road Trip’s four owners and operators. “From Maine lobster rolls to Louisiana crawfish, we’re bringing the flavors of the entire country to Long Island.”
Located in the heart of downtown Bay Shore, directly across from Coastal Kitchen & Daiquiri Bar and next to Changing Times, Road Trip will supplant the former Rock City Dogs location. The rock ‘n’ roll-themed hot dog restaurant officially closed down this month after three years in business.
Road Trip’s owners and operators are a team of seasoned industry veterans, namely Krumpter, 52, a Huntington Station native who has previously managed the openings of three Miller’s Ale House eateries in Florida and the first on Long Island. Most recently, Krumpter was a regional manager for Burgerology.
The other partners include Jesse Lee Roenbeck, who is the lead singer of the popular Long Island band Oogee Wawa and has worked in the restaurant business for a quarter-century. Rounding out the team is Melissa Zelli, 38, a Patchogue-based attorney from Centereach and a veteran bartender, and Ed Shine, 51, a Patchogue resident who owns a real estate business and is part of the new ownership team set to relaunch Fadeley’s Deli Pub in Patchogue this September.
Krumpter noted that the restaurant’s executive chef Mike Artist — who owns the popular Artist Dining catering service — will put forth a menu of classic American dishes with an elevated twist.
“We’re focusing on true American staples, but we’re elevating them,” he explained. “For instance, we’re doing a Philly cheesesteak with filet mignon. Everything will be made from scratch in our kitchen, from the slow-roasted brisket to the homemade bread.”
To complement its elevated menu, Road Trip will feature a modern, upscale interior with a little rustic feel, while reflecting the diverse flavors of the 50 states.
The new restaurant, which is eyeing an Aug. 31 opening, will also stand out by only serving American-made liquors, beers and wines, further emphasizing its commitment to celebrating the best of American food and beverages.
“So if you want a Corona, we’re going to give you a Landshark. If you want tequila, we’re gonna give you a mezcal,” Krumpter said. “We’re very supportive of American products.”
Additionally, Krumpter said that Road Trip intends to be a hub for community support. Krumpter said the restaurant will contribute 10% of its gross sales every Monday to charities benefiting first responders and military personnel.
“We’re excited share our love for American cuisine with the community,” Krumpter said.
Photos: Courtesy images.
