Harper’s
1270 Union Turnpike
New Hyde Park
(516) 352-9000

CUISINE: American and Continental

HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. - noon to 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., noon to 11 p.m.

MENU: Lunch and dinner menu changes daily plus standards; Sunday brunch

PARKING: Lot

CATERING: Two large separate rooms for parties/meetings

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE: Yes

CREDIT CARDS: All major accepted

Harper’s is a neighborhood restaurant worth leaving your neighborhood for, combining local warmth with a continental flare.

The casual sports bar does not interfere with the elegant, intimate atmosphere of the main dining room. The cuisine is a lively blend of straightforward American fare and classic European dishes. "We also cater to dietary concerns," said Manager, Mary Bruno.

We were escorted to a tastefully dressed table with a basket of fresh rolls and water in place. Pam, our waitress, suggested the hearty clam-filled bisque — delicious ($3.95) and the jumbo stuffed mushroom caps topped with melted mozzarella ($8.95) for starters. Tastebuds now tickled, we delighted in the light, fresh salad with variety of greens, salad fixings and dressings. Several salad selections are available. (average price $5.00).

The standard menu offered ample selections of pasta varieties (average price $10.95), beef, poultry and seafood (average price $18.95). All dinners come with fresh vegetable de jour and choice of rice or baked potato.

One choice was the North Atlantic Salmon Fillet with rice. The generous portion of salmon was fresh, moist, and cooked to perfection, with the yellow rice fluffy and subtly flavored.($16.50)

Our second selection was the Veal Scaloppini Piccata with baked potato. ($15.95) The attractively garnished plate was filled with tender medallions of veal sauteed with lemon and white wine with artichoke hearts as a complement.

Fresh steamed broccoli and cauliflower accompanied each meal.

The assorted dessert menu ($3-$5) presented a challenge, but we choose the home-made warm apple crisp with cinamon sprinkled whipped cream which left us with the lingering memory of a most pleasant experience.