Fred Bollaci with Co-Owner Giulio Donatich.
Giulio Cesare, the Italian name of emperor “Julius Caesar” has been regarded as one of Long Island’s top authentic Italian ristoranti since opening in 1973, and has been named a Fred Bollaci Enterprises Golden Palate Partner® featuring hands-on dedicated staff and excellent cuisine that has remained consistent for 4 decades. The restaurant actually is named as a combination of the two owners, Giulio Cesare is named for its two owners, Giulio Donatich and Cesare Dundara. Mr. Donatich is the chef and Mr. Dundara the Maitre d’, and both are seen in the dining room mingling with guests, many of whom have been steadfast regulars from the early days.
The restaurant serves dinner and caters to a well-heeled clientele who appreciates the Old World charm and hospitality. Frequent guests include business people, families celebrating special occasions, and the occasional celebrity. Growing up on Long Island, I was a regular with my family–in this case it is nice to see that some things haven’t changed. Diners can expect attentive, professional service, authentic cuisine cooked to order, and a number of specials, as well as a full cocktail menu and approachable wine list in an atmosphere that is a throwback to the old days of Italian dining on Long Island.
On a recent visit, we enjoyed a beautiful Caprese Salad with excellent, ripe beefsteak tomatoes and the addition of perfectly poached, chilled jumbo asparagus to start, followed by Penne Giulio, which is served tossed in tomato sauce with ricotta, a side of excellent, moist, flavorful veal meatballs (served with a tomato-mushroom sauce), and fresh Snapper Livornese (the fish was exceptionally fresh, moist, and delicious)–this is as fresh as it gets! For dolci, don’t miss the Zabaglione made to order, or the house-made ricotta cheesecake served with fresh fruit.
See you on Long Island–and please be sure to visit Giulio Cesare and tell Giulio that Fred Bollaci sent you, and buon’ appetito!
Giulio Cesare
18 Ellison Ave.
Westbury, NY 11590
516.334.2982
