Eclectic cuisine in Island Park

The Stone Turtle Restaurant
4160 Austin Blvd.
Island Park
(516) 431-6570
www.thestoneturtlerestaurant.com

Recommendations:
Kokonut Kalamari
Surf-n-Turf Spring Roll
Burger Shots
Tuna Tartini
Filet Mignon the Way I Like It
Lobster & White Cheddar Quesadillas
Fresh Blueberry Butter Crumb Crisp with Baklava Gelato
Dirty Ashtray Ice Cream Sundae

Bringing phenomenal skills perfected at some of the finest restaurants, such as the famed Quilted Giraffe and The Half King, Executive Chef Gregory Baumel considers The Stone Turtle to be “his baby.”

At this new eatery, expect the unexpected and don’t be afraid to be adventurous. We found each dish to be a gastronomical masterpiece, matched by superior quality and exquisite presentation.

Décor is a mix of contemporary and rustic, accented by rich wood, exposed bricks, earthy tones and artful fixtures. Look further to see the graffiti mural by Sean Griffin, a moving waterfall and mini-fireplace. The Library (stocked with Chef Greg’s favorite books) is actually the main dining area, and the stately Wine Room is used for parties. Servers are helpful and enthusiastic. Names of menu items are as creative as the dish itself.

Everything at The Stone Turtle is innovative. Burgers are available in beef, buffalo, turkey, salmon-crab, and even antelope. From the dinner menu, appetizers are $10 to $15, and salads, $8 to $28 for Bubba’s Salad Royale, which boasts poached lobster, lump crabmeat, grilled mango shrimp, asparagus, and strawberries. Entrees are $14 to $35 for the paella with lobster.

A seven-course Grand Tasting Dinner (minimum six people and 24-hour notice) is $65 per person. Desserts are $6 to $15 for a chocolate fondue for two. An extensive wine, beer and cocktail menu, and an array of nightly specials, are offered as well.

Crusty bread arrived with pesto sauce. We were wowed by the surf-n-turf spring roll, which was stuffed with filet mignon, crabmeat and arugula, joined by julienne pickled carrots and a duo of dips: ponzu and honey.

Sashimi lovers will adore Tuna Tartini — cubes of raw yellow tail tuna served over fresh guacamole on ice, garnished with homemade waffle chips.