We have enjoyed dining at various restaurants in Rye that are in locations that bring back great memories of their predecessors, some going back decades.
One of our current favorites is Fogama, which serves what it calls “neo-Japanese cuisine.” Recent reviews on Yelp included: “Solid sushi experience. I’d be happy to travel to this spot again.” And: “Really good food, friendly service.”
The restaurant that preceded Fogama at 92 Purchase Street was called Ristorante Umberto, which opened in 1976. A New York Times review in 1990 raved “UMBERTO PROSERPIO’S restaurant deserves landmark status. In the 14 years he has operated this charming, tiny dining spot, little has changed, and in the case of Umberto’s, that’s the way it should be.”
Under the new management of Ocean Blue Prime, the dining experience in food and ambience is off to a promising start.
Located at 530 Milton Road, the former 1870s home has been home to several popular restaurants over the years, including “The White Elephant.” That restaurant was opened in 1973 by a group of local commuters, including David Sayer, an advertising executive who also was a fine piano player there on weekends.
The longest occupant at that location was La Panetiere. One of Rye’s finest restaurants for nearly 40 years, it was known for its Provençal setting, classic French cuisine, and elegant hospitality since 1985.
Rye Grill and Bar is a favorite of singles, couples, and parties at 1 Station Plaza. It succeeded the Mug Ale House, which closed in 1982.
A worthy addition to this venerable group of Rye restaurants is Belluscio’s, which has been serving family-style Italian dinners at the same location on Midland Avenue since 1933!