Finding 100 things to do in Smithtown is going to be easy, so we're starting with an activity that might as well be the town's official pastime: breakfast at Maureen's Kitchen.
More recognizable than perhaps the gilded bull statue on Jericho Turnpike are the lacquered cows standing outside this 25-year-old eatery on Terry Road and the larger-than-life bust that's mounted on its gable. The bovine motif is carried out on the inside too, where shelves are lined with cow figurines, the chairs and stools are draped with the black-and-white hides of dairy cows, and even a motorcycle that keeps with the barnyard look sits on display in the waiting area.
But the food is what has people waiting on the long weekend lines. Maureen's kitchen is home to one of the best breakfasts on Long Island, serving thick, 3-egg omelets, mounds of bacon, baked oatmeal and a large assortment of pancake flavors, from plain, blueberry and pumpkin to more decadent ones like chocolate chip and Oreo. There's always a new creation on the specials board, too, such as carrot cake pancakes.
Another staple is the stuffed french toast, made with battered croissant rolls, cream cheese and jam.
Prices are affordable, too, though the restaurant only accepts cash.
Winter or Summer, this is a weekend must. The wait may be long, but the kids won't mind. In fact, most have a blast climbing on the cow statues and checking out the toys. A great, local breakfast like this is worth the wait.
Category: Family, Food
Price: Affordable
Season: Year-round
Note: Cash Only
Stay tuned for # 99 next week, same time same place.