Runyons   

Step into Runyon's and you'll quickly forget about the cars cruising along Merrick Road just outside. Half of Runyon's is a bar large enough to accommodate two or three softball teams and a popcorn machine. The other half is an informal seafood restaurant and grill with cozy -- some might say claustrophobic -- booths. There are plenty of options if you just want something to nosh on with your beer; not just wings and chili, but more exotic choices like kung po squid and fried brie. A signature item is the pizetta, prepared with clams, buffalo-style chicken, spinach or pesto, stone-baked on a seasoned pita. There is also a slew of seafood, steaks, burgers, sandwiches and pasta selections, all satisfactory enough for former Newsday/Long Island Press columnist Ed Lowe to mention the place in his essays whenever he gets the chance.