Business News

Nathan’s eyes spring opening

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Nathan’s, the famous Coney Island hot dog eatery and franchise, will open its doors in Wantagh sometime in April but no later than early May, according to its owner. The new business will be located at 3341 Beltagh Ave., next to the Beverage Barn. Harry Rotenberg owns both businesses. He is also the proprietor of Cherrywood Auto on Wantagh Avenue.

“I’ve been in Wantagh for 30 years and I have a certain way of doing business,” Rotenberg said. “Nathan’s is a family place and I intend to do what’s best for the community,” he said.

For example, “Nathan’s will not be open until 2 a.m.,” Rotenberg said. The establishment will most likely close around 9 p.m. each evening and open between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., depending on the day of the week.

The restaurant was slated to open its doors last year. Town of Hempstead officials told The Herald that all permits were granted. However, Rotenberg said he had to find a new contractor to finish up the interior work. He is waiting for final approvals from the Nassau County Fire Marshall’s office and the Nassau County Department of Health.

The business will have the full menu, featuring the signature hot dogs. There will be burgers, fries and shakes, as well as all soft drinks plus lemonade. The restaurant has seating for at least 12 people, Rotenberg said, and will be fully staffed.

Other Nathan’s locations nearby include Westbury, Oceanside and Farmingdale, and Rotenberg said it’s time that a Nathan’s-caliber eatery comes to Wantagh.

Wantagh High School students said they are looking forward to having Nathan’s in town. “I’m sure my friends and I will want to stop in and check out the new place,” Kenny Mintz, a senior at Wantagh High School, said. Mintz noted that a lot of students were excited about Nathan’s famous French fries.

“My friends and I will definitely go to Nathan’s during lunch,” added Brandon Blumstein, a junior at Wantagh High School. “My favorite foods are their fries and chicken tenders in addition to their hot dogs.”

Will Nathan’s presence impact the other fast food eateries in town?

“I associate hot dogs with summer barbecues,” Mintz said, “and I’m not sure if this the best location for a business. But maybe they are marketing to students instead of families.”

Students in grades 10-12 at Wantagh High School are allowed to leave for lunch.

“Nathan’s is different from other fast food establishments because they sell a different selection of food,” Blumstein said. “Nathan’s will give us an additional option for lunch and its close proximity to the high school makes it a great local lunch option for people without a car.”

Meanwhile Rotenberg is moving ahead with the opening. “We look forward to bringing a new taste to Wantagh,” he said.