A popular Roslyn restaurant has changed hands, and the new owner is looking for a new vibe.
Chalet at 1 Railroad Ave. in Roslyn was recently purchased by Matthew Prince, and he said he is changing the name to Vienna in honor of Billy Joel’s 1977 song.
“I’ve been an owner of many [restaurant and lounge] locations and I have a certain way I like to run things, and Kevin [Durson], who had it for 21 years and I’m friends with, runs it differently,” Prince said. “It felt like it wouldn’t feel Chalet-like, and I was a Chalet customer, so I understand how Chalet was run. I just wanted a change.”
Prince ran the former Bogart’s in Hempstead and Long Beach and took a nearly decade break before jumping back into the night life industry to open Vienna.
“I took about nine years off because running these industries can be tiresome. I always loved the place, and I was excited to do something different here and make it something the village would be proud of.”
Until Vienna is ready early in October, Prince said Chalet will continue to serve patrons Wednesday through Saturday in the restaurant and daily in the tap room.
Prince said he hopes to add more private events, and plans to roll out a stronger social media presence once the new lounge is running.
Prince is keeping the red trim, though trading the tan for a bright white exterior. The interior will also be painted white but thanks to new LED lighting technology, Prince said he will be able to tint the rooms any color for events and parties.
Railroad Avenue has limited parking, and Prince said Vienna will also begin offering valet service.
“I have my vision in my head, and I’m trying to build it,” Prince said. “I know this area enough between Woodbury and Syosset and Roslyn to know what goes on around here, and I feel like most of these places are restaurants who throw a DJ in. I feel like we’re more of a lounge with great food. I didn’t want to be the white tablecloth place. I wanted it to be a little New York City in Roslyn, a little more fun.”
Prince is shifting the menu to focus on small plates, bringing Chef Frank Falgiano, formerly of Barrique in Babylon, into the kitchen. Prince is also expanding the fine wine and liquor list.
