Frank Guido: “I Don’t Want to Change. I’m Who I Am” | Bon Appétit

"A family-run, old-school Italian-American red-sauce restaurant in Midtown Kingston that opened in 2007 and has become a community anchor where regulars celebrate births, anniversaries and often hold after-funeral gatherings. The atmosphere mixes dark wood, white-linen tablecloths and a photo wall of family and famous visitors, conveying continuity and comfort. Signature offerings include a best-selling chicken Parmesan, fried calamari, a “Traditional NY Style” pizza topped with mozzarella and Mama’s tomato sauce, meatballs and gravy inspired by the owner’s grandmother, and a special “filet and tail” of sliced steak with lobster and pasta; customers frequently ask to take home the house tomato sauce (sometimes packed in 16-ounce containers). While small, modern additions have appeared—such as a goat-cheese, pear and arugula pizza—the focus remains on plentiful portions, familiar favorites, long-standing vendors and a refusal to change the core identity even as the founder steps back and his son takes over." - ByJen Doll