Central Islip folks who are fond of dining out have a new place to try – a ‘California coastal’ type restaurant on Main Street.
Long Island Beach Bowls Acai Cafe opened at the end of September in the former Sunset Restaurant Off the Beach space. Sunset was a successful venture, but its owner Sal Cataldo, along with his partner Christine Kim, wanted to give the community a more health-conscious option.
Cataldo said that since they were already using a beach theme, they decided to go with that, and consider healthy food that made people feel good at the same time. Acai, he said, is considered a “superfood” that offers many health benefits, and is popular worldwide. The Mayo Clinic has reported that acai has improved arthritis, lowered cholesterol, and improved skin appearance. It also offers many nutritional benefits, including the fact that it is high in antioxidants.
The new cafe uses the berry in its bowls, and blends it with strawberries, bananas, and soy milk to make a pudding. Its signature dish, the San Diego Bowl, starts with the acai mix put between two granola layers, and topped with fresh fruit and a honey drizzle.
In addition to using acai in their dishes, the owners carry out the California theme in the décor, which includes tiki accents and patio loungers.
Companies like these can benefit by working with flyer printing companies, which can create handouts, including coupons, for distribution near new restaurants and stores, encouraging people to stop in.
