Bull Smith’s Tavern opens to fanfare in old Croxley’s spot in Smithtown

Bull Smith’s Tavern has been welcomed with open arms in Smithtown.

The new restaurant celebrated its grand opening on Friday, May 17, at 155 W. Main Street, drawing a packed crowd after months of hard work renovating and transforming the old Croxley’s building. Scroll down for photos.

How has it been since then?

“The response has been beyond our wildest dreams, and we could not be happier to be a part of the Smithtown community,” said Bull Smith’s owner, Max Feinberg.

This marks the first Suffolk spot for the restaurateur. “And hopefully not the last; we’re happy to be here,” Feinberg added.

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.

He hit the ground running at Bull Smith’s Tavern, which is nearly unrecognizable from the old haunts that previously occupied the prominent W. Main Street address, including Croxley’s Ale House, which closed in 2020 after a decade-long run in town.

The first floor now hosts a community tavern, with the second floor mostly reserved for private parties.

The downstairs area is Nashville-inspired, featuring exposed brick and wood decor, while the upstairs is fashioned in the style of a 1920s speakeasy.

“The two rooms aren’t twins, but they are clearly related, and I think they work well together,” Feinberg commented.

Additionally, there’s a lounge area and outdoor dining available for the warmer months.

Anyone familiar with Smithtown will understand the origin of the name, 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.”

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.

— Reporting with Matt O’Leary