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There’s a new neighborhood hangout in West Sayville — and it’s got killer views, fresh cocktails, and four hometown owners who grew up just down the road.
The Lookout, opened this past fall, right next to Audrey’s Bakery on Montauk Highway, is heading into its first full summer season with prime views of the West Sayville Golf Course.
“The whole reason for the name ‘The Lookout’ is the view,” said co-owner Nikki Panzarino. “On a clear day, you can see the water, and even Fire Island. It’s beautiful.”
The space was formerly home to Scotty’s Pub. Now, after a full renovation and a fresh concept, it’s been reimagined as a stylish but laid-back bar built around community and comfort.
“It’s not a dive, but it’s not upscale either,” Panzarino said. “It’s a come-as-you-are kind of place — whether you’re coaching your kid’s soccer team or just want a night out.”
HOW IT HAPPENED
Panzarino, who grew up in Sayville and went to Sayville High School, has nearly 20 years of hospitality experience. She’s worked everywhere from Jackson Hall in East Islip to managing restaurants in New York City, most recently holding it down as GM and bartender at Sayville Bait and Tackle.
She partnered with longtime friend and restaurateur Dave Prunier, best known for Talulah’s and Sayville Athletic Club. The two played soccer together growing up, and when the Scotty’s space became available last year, Prunier gave her a call.
“He asked if I wanted to be on board, and I didn’t hesitate,” Panzarino said.
They later brought on Greg Wright, a veteran bartender from Blue Point, and Phil Capobianco, a chef and owner of Cafe Volo in Westhampton Beach. Wright has worked at The Portly Villager and The Village Idiot for over a decade. Capobianco, like Panzarino and Prunier, also went to Sayville High School.
“We all grew up around here,” said Panzarino. “It’s a hometown team — and we all care about this place.”
Structurally, they kept most of the layout, including the original wooden bar, which dates back even before the Scotty’s era.
“We gave it a much-needed facelift,” Panzarino said. “It’s clean, moody, and vibey. We upgraded the draft system, added a new sound system, and really wanted to make it a spot people want to come back to.”
IF YOU GO
The Lookout opens daily at 11 a.m., with a full bar, eight beers on tap, a scratch-made cocktail list.
The team also rolled out a new menu, check it out here:
The Lookout is also offering discounts for all first responders — police, firefighters, EMTs — any day, any time.
“We’re very proud to support the people who support us,” said Panzarino. “That’s what this is all about — community.”
Top: Inside The Lookout. (Credit: Facebook)
