The August 2024 Sam Tell Spotlight Is Here

Sam Tell goes beyond being a convenient destination for all your restaurant's foodservice supplies and equipment. It serves as a valuable resource, providing you with in-depth insights into the ever-evolving restaurant industry.

We shine the spotlight on the latest restaurant openings featuring Sam Tell clients in our seasonal roundup. Take a look at this season's selections below:

Photograph: Cafè Panna |  Website

Cafè Panna

Gramercy’s beloved ice cream shop, Cafè Panna, has officially expanded to Brooklyn, bringing its signature indulgent flavors to Greenpoint. Located at the corner of Norman Avenue and Banker Street, this new 4,700-square-foot spot will quickly become a local favorite. Expect a rotating menu of 12 decadent flavors, with five changing daily, alongside soft serve and granita. Founder Hallie Meyer, daughter of Shake Shack’s Danny Meyer, channels her love for Italian gelato into each scoop, adding creative twists like fruit jams, olive oil, and even in-season tomatoes. And of course, every serving is topped with a perfect dollop of whipped cream—or “panna,” as the Italians call it. 

Photograph: Veerays |  Website

Veerays

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure at Veerays, the latest addition to Midtown’s vibrant dining scene. Tucked between 2nd and 3rd Avenue on 45th Street, this new restaurant is the brainchild of Michelin-starred Chef Hemant Mathur and visionary restaurateur Sonny Solomon. Often referred to as the “Yo Yo Ma of Tandoori Cooking,” Chef Mathur brings his unmatched expertise to the table, crafting a menu that celebrates the art of the tandoor. With its opulent red and gold Art Deco ambiance, Veerays offers a classy yet whimsical setting for an unforgettable Indian dining experience. From classic dishes to unique tandoor grills, each bite is a story, and every sip of their prohibition-era cocktails is a taste of history.

Photograph: Le Veau D'Or |  Website

Le Veau D'Or 

After five long years, the iconic Le Veau d’Or has reopened its doors, reviving the spirit of old-school French dining on the Upper East Side. Now under the care of Lee Hanson and Riad Nasr, the duo behind Frenchette and Le Rock, this historic gem on E. 60th Street offers a nostalgic journey back in time. The revamped Le Veau d’Or features a $125, three-course, prix fixe menu with a selection of classic appetizers, entrées, and desserts. The charm of the original remains intact, with red banquettes, two-toned wood paneling, and a checkered floor inspired by a vintage postcard. And for those seeking a more private experience, a new dining room upstairs awaits.

Photograph: Shands General |  Website

Shands General

Shands General has breathed new life into the historic BrickHouse Brewery space in Patchogue, Long Island, offering a unique dining experience that celebrates the rich bounty of Long Island. Located at 67 W. Main Street, this restaurant captures the charm of the area with its Italian-inspired patio and a 40-foot bar that invites you to relax and unwind. The menu, curated by Executive Chef Francis Derby, is a tribute to Long Island’s vibrant community, featuring locally sourced ingredients from both North Shore and South Shore farms. With its cozy, quiet dining room and handmade black walnut tables, Shands General is the perfect spot to savor the flavors of the season.

Photograph: The James |  Website

The James

Babylon Village just got a taste of something new with the opening of The James, a modern American brasserie with a nod to French cuisine. Long Island restaurateurs Andrew Affa and Steve Squitiro have transformed the old Babylon Carriage House into a chic destination for food lovers. Located at 21 Fire Island Ave., The James offers a diverse menu that ranges from fresh raw bar offerings to wild-caught seafood, fresh pastas, and prime dry-aged steaks. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a full dining experience, The James promises a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Photograph: The Mansion |  Website

The Mansion

Nestled right on Great Kills Harbor, The Mansion offers a true taste of Italy in the heart of Staten Island. Located in a historic mansion at 141 Mansion Ave, this family-friendly restaurant is as welcoming as it is elegant. The cozy atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a grand celebration, with a menu that highlights the freshest local seafood and masterfully crafted Italian dishes. And with a dedicated children’s playroom, families can enjoy a stress-free dining experience where everyone is catered to. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a light bite, The Mansion delivers with style and warmth.