MERRY PEDLAR:
339 Jericho Turnpike,
Floral Park, NY 11001 (516) 488-8780

PARKING: Private lot at rear with direct entrance to dining room.

ATMOSPHERE: Cozy like a small private club. Private room for parties.

HOURS: Closed Monday. Open for dinner six days a week, lunch Tuesday through Friday and brunch on Saturday.

ENTERTAINMENT: Live music and dancing Friday & Saturday 8 p.m. to Midnight.

CREDIT CARDS: All major credit cards accepted.

RESERVATIONS: Necessary on weekends, for large groups and for catered affairs.

This friendly restaurant has been attracting attention under the direction of the Tom Moran family for the past four years. Its private parking lot, dance music, large dining rooms, bar and the cozy country atmosphere makes it seem like a club for couples, families and party groups.

From the luncheon fixed price menu ($10.95), we choose and shared a large bowl of Corn Chowder- rich and creamy- followed by a Caesar Salad. To this, Mr. Moran added an a la carte side dish normally available only at dinner, Grilled Assorted Vegetables, so we could experience the greater variety of the dinner menu. Actually, the dinner menu is also available during lunch hours so we ordered from it.

The Catch Of The Day Special was Striped Bass attractively served with an herbed cream sauce, a medley of julienne vegetables and roast potatoes ($16.95). Another entrée from the dinner menu was a unique Asian Stir Fry with beef, snow peas, bean sprouts, mushrooms and broccoli served in a small wok ($15.50).

From the large, well-stocked bar you can enjoy domestic or imported wines by the bottle or by the glass as well as all mixed drinks. Why not? Order before, during and after your meal.

The young chef, Marianna Ruiz, excels in desserts from Chocolate Mousse Cake to the luscious Hazelnut Cappuccino Sundae. Indulge yourself! They are all delicious.