Marina Cafe gets into a summer groove for shore-loving al fresco fans - SILive.com

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Briny breezes from the Great Kills Harbor beckon al fresco dining fans to the Marina Cafe.

Co-owner Rosemarie Saladino said the response from enthused patrons this Memorial Day weekend was encouraging, a promising glimpse into a summer hitting up the borough’s seaside spots — and checking out a few fresh things at the Cafe.

“Why go down to the Jersey Shore? We’re bringing the seaside experience in dining right here to Staten Island. We have a DJ Thursday through Saturday and live music on Sundays. It gives it a nice, chill vibe — and no traffic!” said Saladino.

With 150 seats in the waterside Tiki Bar section plus a front patio, the Marina Cafe has expanded its outdoor dining options throughout COVID. The sections are overwhelmingly popular choices in which to dine, said Saladino, and the one perk to come from the pandemic.

She reflected on where the restaurant was just two years ago. The 50-year old establishment, like other NYC eateries, headed into its peak season with the moratorium on indoor dining as a potential handicap. Marina adapted with additional seating around the restaurant and in the front yard. But the populated tables attracted the attention of the State Liquor Authority in August 2020.

At that time, investigators discovered infractions on then-mandatory mask-wearing. Officials also clamped down on guests consuming alcohol without buying food. In July 2020, then-Gov. Cuomo had said all alcohol beverages served at restaurants and bars needed to be accompanied by a food purchase. The mandate has since been lifted for restaurants but the steep fines for the Marina stuck.

Saladino said it was a relief to be free of restrictions and that it’s good to be back to business once again.

“Things feel normal again. It’s wonderful to see people getting out and dining — kicking back and enjoying life. That’s what the restaurant business is all about,” said Saladino.

Now, the Tiki Bar is open from noon to 1 a.m. with bottle service for intimate couch areas and its iconic tropical island-style bar.

Inside, at the bar only, there are a few deals on tap. Mondays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. is “Twice as Nice” with half price house drinks and half price select appetizers. Tuesdays are “Taco Tuesdays,” a program that gets a body two tacos for $6 along with discounted drinks. Ladies Night also is on Tuesdays where cocktails and booze are half price from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Marina Cafe is located at 154 Mansion Ave., 718-967-3077; MarinaCafeSINY.com.

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Marina Cafe gets into a summer groove for shore-loving al fresco fans - SILive.com
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