Love and Light’: Beloved Gastropub Reopens as New Italian Eatery on LI’s South Shore By Samantha Vogel-Hespos

BAY SHORE, NY — A longtime favorite on the South Shore has transformed—and diners are falling in love all over again. After six years as a popular gastropub, the once-quiet corner spot in Bay Shore has reopened with a fresh identity: Love and Light, an intimate Italian restaurant rooted in warmth and togetherness.

When the previous gastropub closed earlier this year, local food lovers mourned the loss—but now the space has been completely reimagined. The new owners have embraced a mission that’s as uplifting as it is delicious: offering comforting, handcrafted Italian fare in a welcoming setting.

“We wanted to create a place where every visit feels like gathering around a family table,” the team behind Love and Light explained. “It’s about nourishing both body and soul.”

The menu stays true to classic Italian traditions, featuring dishes like:

• Handmade pasta — try the lemon ricotta ravioli with a sage-brown butter sauce
• Signature meatballs served in a rich, slow-simmered tomato gravy
• Seasonal antipasti platters made with locally sourced produce and artisan cheeses
• Tiramisu and other house-made desserts that are already earning praise

Soft lighting, reclaimed wood accents, and an intimate bar stocked with Italian wines and craft cocktails set the stage for cozy dinners, date nights, or gatherings with friends.

Situated on Main Street in the heart of Bay Shore, Love and Light has quickly become a buzzy addition to the local dining scene—garnering attention from Instagram foodies and diners eager to sample its fare.

The restaurant is currently open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, with plans to introduce a weekend brunch later this summer.

To reserve a table or view the full menu, visit Love and Light’s website or follow them on Instagram @LoveAndLightLI.

From gastropub roots to heartfelt Italian traditions, Love and Light is lighting up Bay Shore with flavors—and good vibes—to match.

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