The “3 Brothers Pizza Cafe” located at 212 N. Long Beach Road in Rockville Centre, New York is my godsend!!! At the outset, let me state that I highly recommend a trip to this Long Island eatery for all plant-based foodies living in the metropolitan area, as well as for those visiting New York City. Although this small and informal neighborhood cafe began as a non-vegan establishment, an extensive vegan menu was added in 2009 by the owner’s son, Jay Astafa. Jay created this impressive menu when he was in high school because he is a vegan and wanted the restaurant to have vegan options!! How’s that for a compassionate teenager? Apparently, I am not the only one to notice Jay’s compassion. In 2010, Jay received a “Compassionate Teen Award” from PETA’S youth division for his role in bringing vegan fare to 3 Brothers. In 2011, PETA named Jay’s “Seitan Bacon Ranch Pie” the “Best Vegan Pizza” in the United States!!! Way to go, Jay!!!
Since I am the only vegan amongst my family and friends, the “3 Brothers Pizza Cafe” is the perfect place for a casual meal which could please everyone. Last night, I was lucky enough to eat there with my husband, Jeff, and our good friends, Sue, Mark, Rebecca and Morty. Although I was the only vegan of the bunch, the others were only too happy to share dishes from the vegan menu. Thank you, guys!!! An extra thanks to Morty who eagerly held up his bowl of vegan split pea soup so I could take a picture!!!
In any event, we ordered the following vegan appetizers: the tofu crab cakes, greek salad, and mushrooms oreganata. They were all great, but the tofu crab cakes were a standout!!! Morty really liked his split pea soup. For our entrees, we split a “Veggie Lover’s Dream” pizza on whole wheat crust, spaghetti and meatballs, spaghetti bolognese and eggplant rollatini (they are all vegan dishes with non-vegan names). Everything was really great but the eggplant rollatini and spaghetti bolognese were our favorites!!! We topped off the delicious meal with two scrumptious desserts delivered from the amazing “Vegan Treats” bakery in Bethlehem, PA: an oreo cookie cake and black and white cake. Even Mark (a “foodie” not likely to go vegan anytime soon) had to admit they were quite good!!
I can’t wait to go back to “3 Brothers” to order from their vegan sunday brunch menu which includes tofu scrambles, pancakes, crepes, french toast and many other goodies!!
