Where to find old

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Illustrations by Kelly Franké

From old-fashioned egg creams to retro candies to roller skates and disco balls, travel through time with this throwback guide to the North Fork.

Cliff’s Elbow Room, Jamesport

This low-key local tavern has been serving up savory steaks, juicy burgers and fried seafood since 1958. With a friendly atmosphere and generously sized cocktails – you’re sure to make friends here. Cliff’s Elbow Room is located at 1549 Main Rd., Jamesport and is open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 10 p.m.

Modern Snack Bar, Aquebouge

Modern Snack Bar is a local landmark with an iconic neon marquee and decadent, homemade pies and classic fare. This eatery, now over 80 years old, is a can’t-miss restaurant on your way on or off the North Fork. Located at 628 Main Rd., Aquebogue. Open on Wednesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays from noon to 8 p.m.

Silver Sands Motel, Greenport

Although the motel recently underwent renovations to give the place a modern facelift, Silver Sands Motel & Beach Bungalows continue to transport guests to a simpler time. Nestled at the end of a wooded road, the motel sits on 1,400 feet of beach and offers stunning views of Shelter Island. The motel is located at 1400 Silvermere Rd., Greenport and you can book your stay here.

The Jamesport Country Store, Jamesport

2023 marks this old-timey store’s 50th anniversary. Located right on Main Road in Jamesport, this charming country store sells a collection of hats, local jams, vintage candy, antique signage, and more. Jamesport Country Store is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

George D. Costello Roller Rink, Greenport

Refurbished in 2018, you can now take the whole family skating under the disco ball. This indoor roller rink offers all-day skating on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Wednesday nights, those 18+ can head to the roller rink for adults-only skate nights from 5 to 9 p.m. Improve your skills with private lessons, shop at the pro shop and munch on pizza or hotdogs at their concession stand. The GDC Roller Rink is located at 102 3rd St. Greenport.

Drossos Snack Bar & Mini Golf, Greenport

A Greenport staple, Drossos Snack Bar & Mini Golf has entertained families for over six decades. Spend your warm summer evenings playing mini golf and eating delicious soft serve. Don’t forget to check out the seasonal pop-up Jennie’s at Drossos, featuring gourmet takes on classics, such as fish and chips and tuna sandwiches. Drossos is conveniently located of Main Rd. at 102 3rd St. Greenport. Open Fridays through Sundays, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Star Confectionary, Riverhead

Since 1920, the Meras Family has served up classic American fare and delicious housemade ice cream at Star Confectionary. With dark wooden booths, checkered floors and simple yet delicious food, you feel as if you took a step into the early 20th century. This luncheonette is located at 4 E Main St. in Riverhead – just look for the wooden sign with an ice cream sundae. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays, 7 a.m. to noon.

The Cutchogue Diner, Cutchouge

Built in 1941, this Cutchogue staple has been owned and operated by the same family since 1987. Head to the shiny stainless steel building with its eye-catching red awning to dine on classics like burgers, meatloaf and pancakes. The Cutchogue Diner is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and located at 27850 Main Rd., Cutchogue.

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