Babylon Carriage House delivered a New Year’s surprise by announcing its closure on the popular restaurant’s website and social media. But the restaurant is slated to reopen in the spring as The James — a new American brasserie focused on bistro fare, prime steaks and fresh seafood at a mid-range price.
“We’re closed. After almost 20 years since it opened, Babylon Carriage House has closed its doors. We thank our staff and community for your continued support and we can’t wait to share what’s to come,” the Explanation.
The facility at 21 Fire Island Ave. opened in 2003 in an authentic carriage house built after the Civil War. The building was recently acquired by Standard Hospitality Group, which also owns The Piermont in Babylon, Mission Taco Street Eats & Cocktails in Huntington, Arlo Kitchen & Bar in Northport and North Shore Synagogue in Syosset.
Within hours, more than 100 Long Island residents commented on the closure, expressing their disappointment. These included Brian Canobbio from Lindenhurst, who worked as a bartender/bar manager at the Babylon Carriage House for five years after it opened.
“It’s the end of an era; Gerry Cusak revived Babylon’s bar and restaurant scene when he opened the Babylon Carriage House in 2003. Now you see every other bar and restaurant in Babylon following his design,” said Canobbio, 48. “BCH has been a great place to work. Gerry and Cindy Cusak were the best owners a staff could ask for. We will miss it very much!”
Corinne Roig, 40, from Babylon added: “So sad. We had so many great dinners there, fun nights out and parties for our children’s christenings there. This was definitely one of our favorite places in Babylon.”
David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday’s exploreLI, covering entertainment events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.
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