Ford's Garage Opening At Smithhaven Mall

Ford’s Garage Takes New York with Its First Restaurant in Long Island

Long Island native Steve Israel and Jake Israel open the state’s first location of the nostalgia-fueled burgers-and-brew eatery at the Smith Haven Mall

LAKE GROVE, NY (Oct. 28, 2024) – Ford’s Garage, where diners fuel up on juicy burgers, craft beer and satisfying comfort food in a nostalgic setting inspired by the heritage of the Ford Motor Company, is opening its first location in New York on Saturday, Nov. 2. The new restaurant, which is conveniently located in the Smith Haven Mall, is owned by Steve Israel who grew up on Long Island and his son, Jake Israel.

Steve Israel co-opened the first Ford’s Garage in 2012 in Fort Myers, Florida. At first, Israel just wanted to fill a vacancy in a building he owned, but he soon was collaborating with his partners to create the concept including the brand’s unique style and menu. Knowing that Long Island needed a solid, fun concept like Ford’s Garage, the Israels retained the rights to develop the Long Island market.  

“From the great food to the immersive atmosphere, Ford’s Garage is a one-of-a-kind dining experience, and we’re proud to be the first to offer it in New York,” said Steve Israel. “Guests at Ford’s Garage not only enjoy the great tastes from the menu but they can also savor the automotive nostalgia inspired by the legendary Ford Motor Company.”

All the brand’s locations feature branding and memorabilia exclusively licensed from the Ford Motor Company, which recreates the look and feel of a 1920s service station. The décor includes vintage vehicles, fixtures and gas pumps, with accessories like napkins made from blue shop towels, bathroom sinks that resemble tires and fuel pump nozzles that are used as faucets. To complete the effect, servers wear mechanic shirts.

Starring on the menu are burgers made with Black Angus beef and served with all-natural aged cheeses, fresh toppings and flavorful sauces on artisan buns branded with the Ford’s Garage logo. The satisfying selection includes the unique Burgers of Fame, named after influential individuals and organizations in the local community. Burgers are also available in a vegetarian option. 

Diners can switch gears from burgers to classics like homemade meatloaf, chicken wings and tenders, onion rings and macaroni & cheese. Fuel-efficient fare is also available, such as fresh salads, grilled chicken and various seafood options. Guests can top off their meal with milkshakes, sundaes and other sweet desserts. The restaurant serves wine, cocktails and non-alcoholic options as well as a large selection of beers, including drafts, with an emphasis on local breweries. 

The new Ford’s Garage is located at 355 Smith Haven Mall. It seats approximately 275 guests. Opening Nov. 2, restaurant hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.  For more information, visit www.fordsgarageusa.com or call 631-818-3673.

Ford’s Garage Smith Haven Mall is hiring. To apply for a position, visit https://fordsgarageusa.com/careers.

About Ford’s Garage

Founded in 2012 and franchising since 2015, the original Ford’s Garage opened in Fort Myers, Florida, less than a mile from Henry Ford’s winter home. Today, as an official licensee of the Ford Motor Company, enabling them to use the company’s iconic blue oval logo and other brand imagery, the 1920s garage-themed burger and craft beer restaurant franchise has expanded to include a total of 28 locations across seven states. For more information, visit www.fordsgarageusa.com.