Click here for Greater Long Island newsletters. Click here to download the iPhone app.
There is a new spot in Port Jefferson to dine and enjoy picturesque views of the harbor.
On July 31, a fine-dining Italian restaurant called Due Baci opened at 154 West Broadway, filling the space previously housed by Graceful Rose Restaurant.
The building had been vacant for the last three years.
Before opening, the two-story building was completely renovated by longtime Port Jeff residents Maria and Patrick Aubry.
The husband-wife team, who took over the property last summer, added new decor, tables and chairs, and an elevator system.
“They had vision to enhance Port Jeff by opening a nice restaurant with a great atmosphere,” said Jim Guma, Due Baci’s general manager.
The Aubrys have experience owning restaurants in the Tri-State area having owned pizzerias on Long Island, and currently operating Amarone, a widely popular Italian eatery in Guilford, Ct.
The two are bringing Amarone’s hit menu items across the sound.
“We brought much of the same dishes that Amarone serves,” said Guma, “From classical Italian dinners to specialty seafood dishes.”
According to Due Baci, a best seller has been its Platto Di Pesce All Griglia, which is a broiled seafood platter filled with crab meat-stuffed filet of sole, shrimp, scallops, and mixed vegetables.
As for those looking to stop in for a drink, there have been upgrades to the 10-seat bar to include a new beer tap system, as well as adding TVs.
The operators of Due Baci say the patrons have enjoyed the new look.
“People have been pretty amazed how nice this place is,” said Guma. “We have been reservation-only on Friday and Saturday nights since we opened.”
In addition to serving dinner, the 125-seat restaurant wants to become a go-to spot for locals, offering lunch menus Wednesday through Sunday. And, while closed for dining on Monday and Tuesday the space will be used for private events.
“We want this be a community place for people in the area to enjoy,” said Guma, a Port Jeff Station resident. “A place people can have quality food and a great view.”
Scroll down to see photos of the restaurant.
