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Get ready to sip, savor, and brunch like you’re basking in the South of France — no passport required.
That’s the vibe Rob Mathews is bringing to Babylon Village later this year with the opening of Millie’s Mimosa House and Eatery.
“We’re trying to tie in a little bit of a French Riviera vibe with the colors, using blues, whites, and beiges to lighten the place up,” said Mathews, the chef and owner behind the upcoming spot at 94 E. Main St.
This is the spot of the old Don Ricardo’s, which had a 30-year run in the village. That was followed by Culture Fine Food & Cocktails, then Mack’s.
The new restaurant, which is set to debut in September, will feature an eclectic blend of French-inspired brunch dishes and craft mimosas — lots of them.
As for the name?
“My grandmother,” Mathews said. “I come from a tight-knit family and when I had the mimosa idea, ‘Millie’s’ just sounded great. It’s catchy and easy to remember, and it’s also an homage to her.”
How it happened
Mathews had long dreamed of opening a place of his own. So when the distinctive corner building in the heart of Babylon Village became available, he jumped at the chance.
“Owning a restaurant was something I always wanted to do,” he told Greater Long Island. “When this spot opened up in Babylon, I saw this as my chance, and I took it.”
He credits his wife, Ali Mathews, and consultant Stephen Kalantgopoulos for helping bring the vision to life. The trio is transforming the former home of Don Ricardo’s — and several other restaurants since 2019 — into a bright and breezy destination that feels both upscale and inviting.
The space is also right around the corner from The Argyle Theatre, making it a prime brunch stop before or after a show.
And Mathews isn’t just anyone stepping into the local food scene — he’s a seasoned Long Island chef with a resume that includes time at Mirabelle, La Plage Bistro, Bliss in Setauket, and The Country House in Stony Brook. He also served as chef de cuisine at Kitchen A Bistro in St. James, which earned a near-perfect 28 food score from Zagat during his tenure.
Now, he’s turning his attention to brunch — and reimagining it.
“We’re pushing the boundaries on brunch,” he said. “Bringing my fine dining experience into the brunch mix.”
If you go
When Millie’s Mimosa House opens this September, guests can expect an elevated yet approachable brunch experience, blending traditional staples with French culinary flair.
Expect a rotating menu of innovative dishes, many of which will be made using ingredients sourced from local farms and producers.
“We’re all small businesses,” Mathews said. “We have to look out for each other, help each other.”
Of course, no visit would be complete without a signature mimosa — or a flight of them. The drink menu will feature more than just your standard OJ and bubbly, with craft blends and premium champagne options available for those looking to splurge.
The space itself is getting a full refresh, designed to evoke the light and airy charm of the French Riviera — think coastal blues, sandy tones, and a touch of glam.
Millie’s will be located at 94 E. Main St. in Babylon Village.
Hours and the grand opening date will be announced closer to September.
Follow Greater Long Island for updates.
Top: Don Ricardo’s as it appeared in 2019 at 94 E. Main St. in Babylon, before it closed after a 30-year run. (GLI file photo)
