Chance Drive Lands Mannino's in Commack

In 1996, Joe Mannino left his own neighborhood in Bohemia and ended up in Commack with visions of gnocchi and orecchiette.

"I was just driving through. I don't remember why. I saw this shopping center and I liked it," Mannino said.

More than 14 years later, Mannino couldn't be happier that his little road trip took him through Commack that day. Since opening Mannino's Restaurant, he's served thousands of Commack residents who've been happy to wait for tables – sometimes for an hour or more.

In fact, Mannino's has so many Commack regulars, the owner can tell you who'll be having dinner there on any given night even before they walk through the door.

"I can usually bet on it," Mannino said.  

It's the traditional Italian fare – many dishes prepared by Mannino himself – friendly service, and tasty food made with fresh ingredients is what has Commack coming back to Mannino's Restaurant week after week, even during the recent recession.

"It wasn't very slow, but people in this neighborhood were nervous and so they were definitely watching their money. We crawled out of the recession," Mannino said.

"I've never lowered prices; in fact, I'm increasing them in a few weeks. It hasn't changed business in the past," Mannino said.

Mannino staffs 12-14 servers on average to handle the ever increasing Commack clientele.

Mannino and his brothers have also Mannino's Pizzeria Restaurant  on Main Street in Smithtown, and Mannino's Restaurant & Lounge in Oakdale.

Check out our latest review of Mannino's.