Thursday, October 1, 2026
When I walk into gourmet shops, specialty supermarkets and cafes that feature foods that range from retro to multi-cultural to inventive to trendy, I imagine they’re “food museums.” As I stroll up and down the aisles or read the menus, I discover countless ways people from all parts of the world enjoy devouring everything from egg creams to eggplant rollatini. Admission is free. Plus, as a takeout queen, I marvel at the delicious options, so I won’t have to cook. This month, I found three new “food museums.”
Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace (130 Wheatley Plaza, Greenvale)
This mega-specialty supermarket is the ultimate “museum of foods.” In addition to traditional supermarket produce and products, I found aisles filled with freshly prepared or baked artisan bread, cheese, pasta, deli-counter creations, bakery treats, chocolates, and so much more. Many foods wear a “Uncle Giuseppe” (UG) label and have Italian spins. To share the overall experience, I’ll list 26 of the most innovative highlights, from A to Z:
Artisan raisin walnut bread; Baked salmon; Cinnamon butter; Dieter’s Delight—shrimp with spaghetti squash; Egg creams in the espresso aisle; Family-sized black and white cookies; Gluten-free aisles; Habanero maple gourmet popcorn; Irish mozzarella; Jalapeno popper dip; Knishes; Limoncello gelato; Mortadella; Nonna’s broccoli rabe; Olive aisle; Parmesan crusted cauliflower streaks; Quiches; Ravioli with shrimp and lobster; Special diet aisles; Taleggio cheese; UG half cherry pie; White eggplants; X-tra sharp UG imported aged provolone; You’ll love the spacious dining area; Ziti baked for two.
Wonder (6 Soundview Ave., Port Washington; 48 Great Neck Rd., Great Neck Plaza)
I’d call this new type of eatery a “techno-food museum.” As I entered the Port Washington location, I was puzzled. A typical restaurant set-up was replaced by a computer sitting on a counter. I tapped the screen and learned I could mix and match everything from starters to sides to entrees to desserts from combinations of more than 20 different, multi-cultural restaurants. My meal would be prepared in a large kitchen on the premises and could be ready in 10-15 minutes. Many of the dishes have been created by award-winning celebrity/Food Network chefs.
So, begin your meal with Michael Symon’s za’atar carrots and broccoli bowl. Follow it with Boby Flay’s filet mignon. Add Marc Murphy’s onion rings with horseradish on the side. For dessert, munch on pumpkin spice pudding by Magnolia Bakery. During my visit, I ordered fried rice with tofu and pineapple. Within 12 minutes, a staff member placed it on a pickup shelf. It’s a takeout queen’s dream.
Salt and Honey Café (320 Sea Cliff Ave., Sea Cliff)
I’d call this cool, new, contemporary coffee shop a “neighborhood food museum.” You’ll feel a very friendly vibe as you check out a menu that features organic, espresso blends. Drip coffee, iced coffee, flash brew, espresso, and cappuccino are just a few of the inventive choices. Many beverages can be served as hot or iced lattes, matchas, or teas. I couldn’t resist two of the specialty drinks created with house made syrups: the Banana Bread Latte (which tastes like real banana bread), and the Strawberry Cacao Chip latte with a creamy, whipped topping. Pair them with locally baked muffins, scones, cakes, everything cream cheese croissants, and my favorite: Sugar Daddy Baker jumbo cookies!
See you next month.
