Vip On The 19Th Tee

If you find yourself driving down 661 Riverside Dr in Riverhead, NY, you might spot a cozy spot that seems to hum with quiet confidence and delicious promise - Vip On The 19Th Tee. Tucked beside the scenic greens of a local golf course, this restaurant isn’t just for golfers coming off the last hole. It’s a hidden gem that welcomes anyone who loves hearty food, friendly service, and a relaxed vibe where every meal feels like an occasion.

Walking in, the first thing that caught my eye was the warm wood décor and the soft hum of conversation blending with the sound of sizzling from the kitchen. The staff greeted us like old friends - the kind of genuine hospitality you can’t fake. I’ve visited plenty of diners and upscale restaurants in the area, but few manage to combine laid-back charm with refined flavors quite like this place.

The menu immediately impressed me. It’s not overly complicated, but every dish feels carefully thought out. From the signature burgers - juicy, seasoned to perfection, and topped with crisp lettuce and fresh tomatoes - to the tender steaks grilled just the way you like, there’s something here for everyone. I tried their grilled Atlantic salmon on my last visit, and it was a standout: flaky, buttery, and lightly kissed by citrus. A friend went for their ribeye, cooked medium-rare, and swore it was one of the best he’d had east of Long Island.

Beyond the main courses, their appetizers and sides deserve their own praise. The crispy calamari, golden and delicate, came with a tangy house-made marinara that balanced flavor and heat just right. Their seasonal soups are another quiet highlight - I had a butternut squash soup once that felt like fall in a bowl. Even the salads are vibrant and fresh, a testament to their commitment to quality ingredients.

Professionally speaking, it’s rare to find a restaurant that maintains this level of consistency. According to recent data from the National Restaurant Association, customer satisfaction often depends less on novelty and more on reliability - and that’s exactly where this place excels. You know what you’re getting, and you know it’s going to be good. Locals often mention it in reviews for its “comforting yet upscale” feel, and that balance shows thoughtful management and culinary expertise.

One of my favorite things about Vip On The 19Th Tee is how it caters to different moods. Come in the afternoon, and you’ll find golfers discussing their game over club sandwiches and cold beer. In the evening, the crowd shifts to couples enjoying candlelit dinners or friends laughing over cocktails. The outdoor seating area, overlooking the greens, adds a touch of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere in Riverhead.

Over several visits, I noticed a pattern: people linger here. They don’t just eat and go. That speaks volumes. Good food draws customers in; good energy makes them stay. The service team knows regulars by name, remembers orders, and checks in without hovering - small gestures that build trust and loyalty over time.

While I haven’t found a single dish that disappoints, it’s worth mentioning that the kitchen sometimes gets busy on weekends. Reservations are recommended if you’re visiting during dinner hours, especially on Fridays. Still, even when things get crowded, the staff handles it with professionalism and warmth.

In terms of pricing, it’s fair and transparent - you get what you pay for, and every bite feels worth it. The bar menu is equally inviting, featuring a mix of craft beers, classic wines, and signature cocktails that perfectly complement their hearty meals. The “Cucumber Cooler” is my personal favorite - refreshing after a day outdoors and just the right balance of sweet and crisp.

Restaurants like this remind me why dining out is such a joy: it’s not only about the food but about feeling seen, welcomed, and cared for. Vip On The 19Th Tee, with its prime location at 661 Riverside Dr, Riverhead, NY 11901, United States, manages to blend familiarity and sophistication with ease. It’s the kind of place where memories are made over shared plates and laughter.

If you’re passing through Riverhead or looking for a new favorite spot to unwind, this is the one worth bookmarking. Whether you’re coming off the 19th tee or simply craving a meal that hits all the right notes, this restaurant delivers - every single time.