Welcome back to The White Whale.
After nearly six years adrift, the restaurant once considered a staple of the Seaford community is back in business.
“This area did not need more apartments or more condos,” said new owner Tom Frintzilas. “That’s what was going to happen so that’s why I did what I did.”
What Frintzilas did was buy and revive the longtime eatery at 3580 Bayview Street, which had been shuttered since 2019. To him, the White Whale was more than just a restaurant — it was a place filled with memories.
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“When I got married in 1999, we had a small party and we had it here,” Frintzilas told Greater Long Island. “If they would’ve gotten rid of this place, those memories would’ve been gone. And then no one else could’ve made memories here like I did.”
An auto mechanic by trade, Frintzilas always dreamed of owning a restaurant but never thought it would happen. To help bring his vision to life, he tapped his godson Angelo Belesis to serve as general manager.
“We wanted to pay homage to the old White Whale in the new White Whale,” said Belesis. “The interior is different and we made changes to the menu, but we wanted to revive what was once here.”
The revamped menu is being led by chef Joe Macchia, and features what the team describes as fresh, modern American fare with plenty of seafood options. There’s also a smash burger and homemade Bavarian pretzels for those seeking something more classic.
“I work in unison with Mother Earth and the ocean,” Macchia said. “What Mother Earth provides for us is what ends up on the plate.”
Frintzilas says he’s poured his heart — and a lot of money — into bringing the White Whale back for the Seaford community.
“I could’ve been selfish and bought a couple of Lamborghinis and a big yacht for the money I put into this building,” he said. “But I wasn’t selfish, and I wanted to share something special with the community.”
The White Whale officially reopened last week, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony set for Friday, Aug. 1.
If you go
- The White Whale is located at 3580 Bayview Street in Seaford
- Open seven days a week
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