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Bull Smith’s Tavern opened its doors for a grand opening bash Friday.
And owner Max Feinberg was ecstatic, what with all the months of hard work renovating and transforming old Croxley’s building.
“This is my first Suffolk County location,” Feinberg said. “And hopefully not the last; we’re happy to be here.”
Feinberg’s restaurant portfolio also includes Memory Motel on Third Avenue and East 13th St. in New York City, along with The Ugly Duckling and Borelli’s Tap Room, both in Long Beach.
And he hit the ground running at Bull Smith’s Tavern, which is nearly unrecognizable from the old haunts that had previously taken resident at the prominent 155 W. Main St. address. That includes Croxley’s Ale House, which closed in 2020 after a decade-long run in town.
The first floor now plays host to a community tavern, with the second floor mostly reserved for private parties.
The downstairs is Nashville inspired, with exposed brick and wood decor. The upstairs is fashioned in the style of a 1920’s speakeasy.
“The two rooms aren’t twins but they are clearly related and I think they work well together,” Feinberg said.
There’s also a lounge area and outdoor dining for the warmer months.
Anyone familiar with Smithtown will understand where the name comes from, invoking the local lore of Richard Smith riding a bull to determine the length of his property.
That property was later named Smithtown, after him.
“We wanted to pick a name that captured the area and the community,” Feinberg said.
“Something that could slide in as if it’s been here for 100 years.”
Photo credit: Bull Smith’s Tavern on Facebook
If you go
Happy hour specials will be in full effect starting from opening day, from 4 to 7 p.m.
We’ve spoken about the decor and layout, but Feinberg says the emphasis here is certainly on the food, and he recommends the rack of ribs. He also expects the fish and chips to stand out.
He described the fish and chips as “authentic, U.K-caliber.”
Bull Smith’s Tavern will also be offering brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The menu and hours will also be expanding, likely after a few weeks of the soft launch.
