The Burlington Benny at Mack's in Babylon, which has closed.

The Burlington Benny at Mack's in Babylon, which has closed. Credit: Newsday/Andi Berlin

It didn't take long for Mack's in Babylon to become one of Long Island's top brunch spots. Based in the former home of Don Ricardo's, the restaurant opened in 2023 and stood out for its airy dining room and well-executed Benedicts. But now the spot on Main Street has closed, its windows papered over and sign removed. 

Even though he worked a day job, owner Patrick Mack spent a year during the pandemic remodeling the space, which had the feel of an outdoor courtyard with a high open air skylight. He filled the menu with vegan options and also made a spectacular fried chicken sandwich. Mack confirmed the closing but could not immediately comment Tuesday morning. 

The dining room at the former Mack's in Babylon had...

The dining room at the former Mack's in Babylon had a courtyard feel. Credit: Newsday/Andi Berlin

In September, new owners plan to reopen the space as Millie's Mimosa House & Eatery. Rob Mathews is a Long Island chef who's worked at Toast Coffeehouse, Kitchen A Bistro in St. James, La Plage in Wading River, and Mirabelle in Stony Brook under the helm of Guy Reuge. He and his wife, Ali, are doing some light renovations to the space and hope to open it as a brunch and mimosa spot. This is their first restaurant. 

"It was a now or never type of thing. Either I’m doing this now or it’s going into the 'I wish' category," he told Newsday by phone. "This spot popped up; my wife is from Lindenhurst. I've always liked Babylon Village, it’s so bustling." 

The concept will be more upscale than typical brunch spots. Menu plans include duck confit and a full menu of mimosas, with diners able to upgrade to fancier Champagnes like Moët & Chandon, Mathews said. The space is named after his grandmother Millie. 

"I haven’t slept in a few weeks. We’re trooping away on this thing," he said. "This is going to be a family business all the way."

 
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