Fundraiser Helps Eateries That Struggled To Stay Open In Pandemic

MATTITUCK, NY — A woman who worked tirelessly to help front-line heroes during the pandemic is now throwing a lifeline to local North Fork restaurants that struggled to stay afloat during the past year.

Wendy Zuhoski, owner of Wendy's Deli in Mattituck, recently unveiled the "North Fork Restaurant 'Fun' Raiser." She, along with Andy Binkowski and Ian Zuhoski, have teamed up to organize the event.

"We are looking for as many family and friends as we can find to help spring eight local restaurants into the season," Zuhoski said.

The restaurants included in the fundraiser include CJ's American Grill, East on Main and the North Fork Roadhouse in Mattituck, the Red Rooster Bistro in Cutchogue, Founders Tavern and Sophie's Rest in Southold, and Front Street Station and Andy's in Greenport.

Here's how it works: Those who want to participate will donate $100 each in advance to reserve a seat for either Sunday, March 21, Monday, March 22, Tuesday, March 23, or Wednesday, March 24 at one of the eight eateries.

Those who attend will be responsible for food, drinks, and gratuities.

On each of the days, each restaurant will be presented with the funds garnered from ticket sales — either to share with staff, use toward restaurant-related expenses, or to help others.

The idea, Zuhoski said, came from a post the trio had seen to have 100 people each give a $100 tip at a restaurant — ultimately tipping $10,000, "which could be life-changing for some people," she said. "With this in mind, we wanted to start it here on the North Fork and pay it forward."

While takeout will be available, the aim is for all to eat at the restaurants and join in the fun, she added; restaurant capacity will be at 75 percent by then and social distancing protocols will be followed.

"Let's support our friends and thank them for staying open through tough times," Zuhoski said. "They are really excited to have us come and fill their seats," Zuhoski said.

Seats are limited and tickets beginning Monday at Wendy’s Deli, located at 55 County Road 48 in Mattituck.