Perry’s Restaurant Celebrates 25 Years In Sheepshead Bay
A bright banner and colorful flags flutter from the roof of Perry’s Restaurant to herald the Sheepshead Bay diner’s 25th year of business — which could be a good draw for hungry locals, as the owner is celebrating the anniversary by offering special dinner deals through the summer.
The summer specials include a one-and-a-half pound lobster for $19.95, which comes with a glass of wine and an appetizer; or eight baby lamb chops (meant for two) for $34.95, which includes an appetizer and dessert.
Perry Kokotas opened his restaurant on 3482 Nostrand Avenue, just south of Avenue U, in 1990. The Greek immigrant, who hails from the fishing town of Mykonos and worked for 16 years at the Lobster House in Howard Beach, takes pride in the seafood options on his menu. There is broiled halibut, swordfish, sole, and salmon for $21.95. A Seafood Fra Diavolo for $23.95 buries the linguine under a mountain of mussels, clams, shrimp, and scallops — the plate seems like it could cause your table to cave in.
The restaurant also offers standard breakfast and dinner fare: Omelettes and waffles in the morning; steak, burgers, and chicken at night.
Schoolteacher Mary Ellen Benedict said she dines at Perry’s nearly every week and comes for the affordable prices, large portions, and warm service.
“It’s a good local hangout, a place for a casual meal,” she said. “I’m very happy for Perry and his family that they’ve been here 25 years. I’m happy they have survived because so many places are closing in the neighborhood.”
Kokotas, now a grandfather, seems to know everyone who walks through the doors of his restaurant. He darts around the dining room, bussing tables and waving to guests. “Hey man, how are you?” he says. “You’re back already? Welcome home.”
The front desk of the diner, where the cashier sits, is cluttered with family portraits, knick knacks, and notes of appreciation from customers.
All the hallmarks and charm of a neighborhood diner are there. Pastries and muffins wait on the counter, where you can saddle up onto a red stool. There are cakes on display inside the windowed refrigerator, and a well-used coffee machine. In the two dining rooms, which fill with light bouncing off the great mirrors on the wall, there’s booth seating or large oval tables topped with white cloth for bigger parties.
Kokotas said he got into the restaurant business as a way to make money. But his greatest satisfaction comes from pleasing his guests.
“I always like greeting people,” he said. “I like to please the public, and it’s nice to be part of the community.”
Perry’s Restaurant, 3482 Nostrand Avenue, between Sheepshead Avenue U and Avenue V, 718-934-9800. Open 7am until 11pm daily.
