West Islip Home to First New York Gelato Spot

It’s hard to imagine finding a more out of the way location in West Islip than where a new frozen treat shop has opened up. But it clearly isn’t getting in the way of business.

New York Gelato quietly opened its doors last week at the corner of Oak Neck Road, located in the back of Saltwaters Bait & Tackle on Montauk Highway. Just head for the VMA Kemo/Jui Jitsu center at the rear of the tackle building and you’ll see the back door to New York Gelato, or walk to the east side of the bait store to go in the front door.

On a Wednesday evening this week the new frozen dessert and beverage stop was busy, with the customer line sometimes reaching from the big counter display to the front door.

Word about the daily rotating 48 flavors of on-site made gelato is getting around West Islip fast thanks to word of mouth and social network sites.

Co-owners Kevin Gottlieb and Michael McGee aren’t too surprised about the response as the nearest homemade gelato spot is in Williston Park, Nassau County.

“Every flavor we serve is made fresh daily and we’re doing flavors customers are asking for in addition to the usual favorites of strawberry, fresh banana and peanut butter,” said Gottlieb, a former contractor who lives in Blue Point.

“We’ve got the signature flavors, like New York Cheesecake, that people love too,” he added.

There are options for those needing fat-free and sugar -free products and also much of the gelato sold is gluten free, he noted. In addition the eatery offers a wide range of beverages including tea.

The store offers two very comfortable seating areas. One is a table for two in a quiet corner while the rear room provides seating for bigger groups.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day except Tuesday when New York Gelatto is closed.

The two partners hope to create a franchise business from the initial store opening.

“That’s our ultimate goal. To have New York Gelato all over the country,” said Gottlieb.