Review: Blond's Cuisine Delights the Palate of the Experimental Food Lover

Overview:  is a within the strip malls, fast food establishments and supermarkets of Route 25A. The restaurant has an eclectic, ever-changing menu, with most cuisines created from the imagination of restaurant owner and chef, Samih Melodic. Melodic said he enjoys taking traditional restaurant items and serving them with a "twist" – such as fried calamari with Asian slaw and wasabi aioli and garlic roasted shrimp with chickpea hummus. The cuisine served at Blond is ideal for "foodies" or anyone willing to try and experiment with new entrees or conventional foods given a new look, a new flavor. Although Melodic said the restaurant caters to all, the atmosphere is surely ideal for couples looking for a romantic evening with great food, a worldly and large wine selection and excellent customer service.

Decor: Blond is a restaurant that brings a contemporary, New York City-style feel, largely unfamiliar to Long Island. The rear wall is painted in a contemporary style with brushstroke texture visible throughout. The relaxed atmosphere is provided by a dimly lit dining room, taupe walls and burgundy drapes, which adorn bay windows. A slight liveliness is provided by a moderately up-tempo acid jazz soundtrack, which compliments the calming mood provided by the décor. Blond has a comfortable feel and allows for pleasant conversation at the table while eating excellent food.

Drinks: The wine list is extensive and worldly, with more than 50 wines to choose from. The list is separated by red, white and sparkling wines – also by what is available by the glass and by the bottle. The bottles range from $34 (Hays Ranch/Merlot/California/2008 and a few others) to $290 a bottle (Opus One/Napa Valley/California/2005).

Appetizers: The aroma of the corn chowder ($7) was intoxicating, so much that you wouldn't want to consume it but rather smell it–until you take the first sip and are instantly happy you chose it. The restaurant offers other sides and appetizers, which include Imported Cheese & Artisan Salami with Flat Bread and Imported Olives ($7), Crispy Calamari with Asian Vegetable Slaw and Wasabi Aioli ($10), Yellow Fin Tuna Tar-Tar (Raw) with Sesame Soy Ginger Vinaigrette, Crispy Wantons and Wasabi Aioli ($15) and more.

Entrees: Just as intoxicating to the nose as it was to the taste, much like the corn chowder, was the main course of Bacon Wrapped Jumbo Shrimp with Risotto Cake and Smoked Tomato Buerre Blanc ($27). Other dinner items on the menu include Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Crusted, Potato Puree, Asparagus and Red Wine Demi ($36), Veil Chop with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Wild Mushroom Veil Reduction ($39) and more.

Service: The Blonde staff is polite, courteous, and far from overbearing, allowing you to enjoy your meal and your company. Melodic is also very hands on and will come out from time to time to check in on his guests.

Address: 691 Route 25A Suite 21, Miller Place, NY 11764

Phone: 631- 821-5969

Website: millerplace.blondrestaurant.com