Greater Huntington coverage is funded in part by The Farm Italy — a striking neighborhood restaurant and cocktail bar that brings the simplicity, beauty and seasonal freshness of local Italian dining to Huntington.
A new Melville eatery is preparing to serve everything from morning coffee runs to late-night pizza cravings — and it’s bringing a few over-the-top creations along with it.
Say Cheese Pizza Cafe, opening May 27 at 89 Ruland Road in the former Ruland Road Deli space, aims to be more than a traditional pizzeria.
Owner Rosario Asta said the concept was designed as an all-day Italian-inspired café that can appeal to commuters in the morning, office workers during lunch and families at dinner.
“We wanted to create a place where people can come any time of day and find something different,” Asta told Greater Long Island.
Espresso and pancake pies
The café’s breakfast menu will include coffee, espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches and omelets — along with a specialty item that feels more IHOP than Island pizzeria.
It’s the Pancake Pie, a deep-dish pancake served in a pizza box and topped with combinations like Nutella or Fruity Pebbles.
“I know my kids love pancakes with all different kinds of toppings, so I figured why not do that here too for kids and adults,” Asta said.
Roman Slices, family recipes and ice cream
As the day progresses, the menu shifts into a more traditional pizza café lineup featuring hot and cold heroes, Philly cheesesteaks, pasta dishes and both Roman- and New York-style pizza.
Among the signature pies are the “Patata Rosa,” topped with potatoes, rosemary, pecorino, caramelized onions and mozzarella, and the “Prosciutto & Rucola,” featuring burrata, arugula and roasted peppers.
“My favorite might be the mortadella pie made with mozzarella, burrata and basil,” Asta said. “But they are all so good.”
Head chef and general manager Angelo Amato said his love for cooking traces back to his childhood growing up in an Italian deli.
“My grandma used to make mozzarella and sausage in the kitchen, so I learned everything from her,” Amato said. “I love creating something and having customers tell me it tastes great. That’s the goal.”
The café will also feature a dedicated dessert chef overseeing baked goods and sweets, while an ice cream truck parked outside is expected to add to the family-friendly atmosphere. Outdoor seating is also planned.
Asta said the location — just off Route 110 near Costco — was a major factor in choosing Melville.
“We are in the heart of Melville and there’s really nothing else around here like this,” Asta said. “You don’t have to deal with all the traffic and distractions of the bigger shopping areas. We’re close to both residential neighborhoods and businesses.”
Say Cheese Pizza Cafe will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from noon to 9 p.m.
Top: Owner Rosario Asta said the concept was designed as an all-day Italian-inspired café that can appeal to commuters in the morning, office workers during lunch and families at dinner. (Credit: GLI/Andrew Rappaport)
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