April 16, 2026 · Updated April 17, 2026
Whiskey Down Diner is bringing its popular Farmingdale comfort food to Babylon, taking over the former Ristorante Gemelli space. Almond in Bridgehampton marks 25 years tonight with its original 2001 menu at 2001 prices — one night only. Plus: Long Island Restaurant Week starts April 26.
Long Island's food scene is busy this week. Whiskey Down Diner — the popular Farmingdale spot known for its creative comfort food — is opening a second location in Babylon, taking over the former Ristorante Gemelli space. On Tuesday, April 15, Almond in Bridgehampton turns 25 and is serving its 2001 menu at 2001 prices for one day only. And Long Island Restaurant Week is less than two weeks away.
Whiskey Down Diner has built a loyal following in Farmingdale, and now it's heading south. The new location is taking over the former Ristorante Gemelli space in Babylon — a spot that longtime locals will recognize immediately. The Farmingdale original is known for comfort food done right: loaded burgers, creative egg dishes, and enough weekend brunch traffic to make parking a sport.
No firm opening date has been announced yet, but the move is confirmed. Keep an eye on their socials for the debut announcement.
The new location is in the former Ristorante Gemelli space in Babylon village — walkable from the Babylon LIRR station and right in the heart of the village dining scene.
Almond restaurant in Bridgehampton is celebrating its 25th anniversary on Tuesday, April 15 — and to mark the occasion, they're bringing back the 2001 menu at 2001 prices. One day only. Almond opened in 2001 as a farm-to-table spot before that phrase was plastered on every takeout bag on the Island.
If you're planning to go, call ahead or check their reservation system early. Almond is located at 1970 Montauk Highway in Bridgehampton. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Long Island Restaurant Week runs April 26 through May 3, 2026. This is the 15th annual spring edition, and hundreds of restaurants across the Island participate.
The prix-fixe structure for 2026: $24 for a two-course lunch, and dinner options at $29, $39, or $46 for three courses. Check the Long Island Restaurant Week website for the full participating restaurant list.
On Saturday, April 25, the North Babylon Chamber of Commerce is hosting a community day at Overlook Beach. It's a free local event.
