53.0°,
Overcast Welcome to the neighborhood
Storefronts begin to pop up in East Meadow
New businesses are beginning to emerge again in East Meadow. This summer, new eateries and a dance studio were among the newest locations to grace the hamlet.
The Chamber of Commerce and a number of residents were disappointed after the Town of Hempstead denied variances for the fast-food establishment Sonic, but other franchise and business owners were welcomed to the community.
Ayhan’s Pita Express Mediterranean Snack Bar
This eatery on Newbridge Road opened in June, said owner Aylan Turgut. About one year ago, Turgut purchased Johnny B’s Coffee Shop, changed the name to Aylan’s Newbridge Café and ran the local breakfast establishment. However, she decided to change directions, embracing her Mediterranean roots.
Turgut left Cyprus for America in 1983, but her brother, Ayhan, established Ayhan’s Shish Kebab Mediterranean Restaurant in 1979, she said. She drew inspiration from his restaurant and opened Ayhan’s Pita Express Mediterranean Snack Bar this summer.
“I love serving this community. It’s very nice and the neighbors are friendly,” Turgut said about East Meadow. While the economy is tough, she added that her customers are worth the effort and she will continue to do her “best.”
The gyros and chicken kebabs are the most popular entrees and prices range from $2.99 for soup to $12.99 for Roumanian Skirt Steak, the most expensive specialty dish.
Sarko Japan Teriyaki & Sushi Express
This modern meets traditional Japanese restaurant opened on Hempstead Turnpike in June and offers healthy menu options that are quickly prepared to order, said Manager Ron Marks.
“East Meadow is a high-volume area with a good density of hardworking Long Islanders who want fast food,” said Marks. “We offer something different, something healthy.”
The food is prepared quickly upon ordering, said Marks, describing the restaurant as convenient. “Everything is fresh,” he added.
The most commonly ordered dishes are chicken teriyaki and chicken and shrimp teriyaki, but sushi is also popular. Prices range from $5.99 to $9.99.
