Ekstrand: New Business Opens; Farmingdale's Best Of Bethpage Wins

FARMINGDALE, NY — A new brunch option is joining Farmingdale Village, and the village's winners from the 2021 Bethpage Best of Long Island voting was announced by Mayor Ralph Ekstrand.

"Welcome to Spring Everyone!" Ekstrand wrote in a Friday news release. "It is so nice to see more people throughout the Village, walking, shopping local, some dining al fresco with the warmer weather. Happy Passover and Easter! Spring is finally here, and we look forward to enjoying outdoor activities and events safely coming back when possible. But nonetheless, get out and enjoy the spring weather — at parks, bicycle paths, stroll the Village or your local neighborhood, outdoor dining, barbecuing, and more!"

A new brunch joint was welcomed into the village. My Grandmother's Kitchen is at 168 Main St. — formerly Chichimeca's. The eatery is owned by brother and sister, Jorge and Carolina Contreras, who learned to cook from their grandmother, Ekstrand said. The restaurant is open 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily for homestyle breakfast and lunch.

The eatery offers omelets, sandwiches, platters, milkshakes, a kid's menu and more. The bi-level restaurant currently seats between 30 and 35 people and plans to offer patio dining in the future.

"On behalf of the Board of Trustees and myself — welcome and congratulations, we wish you much success," Ekstrand said.

Long Islanders a few months ago took to voting for their favorite businesses and aspects of the island. Farmingdale's businesses were well represented in the winner's circle. Here's a look at all the village's winners of the 2021 Bethpage Best of Long Island awards:

• Best Signature Cocktail / Best Whiskey Bar - Alibi Speakeasy & Lounge
• Best Bachelorette Party Venue / Best Binge-Watching Snack - The Chocolate Duck
• Best Garage Door – Ed Mojica Installations
• Best Band Non Cover - The Electric Dudes
• Best Downtown – Farmingdale Village (6 out of 7 Years)
• Best Health Aides – Gurwin Home Care Agency
• Best Chiropractor – Priestley Chiropractic
• Best Sneaker Store – Runners Edge
• Best Window Company – Window World

Phil LoNigro, a Farmingdale Fire House hero and photographer, was rescued after he collapsed during an East Meadow vs. Farmingdale varsity football game while he was refereeing on the field.

"I am delighted to say Phil is doing well and we wish him the best!" Ekstrand said.