Every town has that one place people rave about — the spot where the ingredients taste fresher, the staff knows your name, and the food actually feels made for you. For many on Long Island, that place is Roast Sandwich House.
Now, in what feels like a full-circle moment, Roast is bringing its scratch-made sandwiches and hometown roots to a new and highly anticipated location — Babylon Village. And the excitement? It’s real, it’s local, and it’s well-deserved.
A Local Favorite Expands Again — This Time to Babylon
Founded in 2011 in Melville by Joseph Cordaro, a Hicksville native and culinary school graduate, Roast Sandwich House has grown steadily over the past decade, becoming one of Long Island’s most loved fast-casual brands. With locations in Hicksville, Mineola, Syosset, Bellmore, and now Babylon Village, Roast has always kept its expansion thoughtful, community-centered, and deeply rooted in quality.
The new location officially opened its doors at 114 Deer Park Avenue, taking over the former Babylon Bagel space in the heart of the walkable downtown — a first for the brand.
Cordaro, in an earlier interview, shared what drew him to the area:
“I’ve always wanted to open in a village, and Babylon was a perfect fit. One of my investors lives and works in the area and really pushed for it. It felt like the right move.”
And locals seem to agree. Since the signage first went up, buzz on social media and local food pages has been nonstop.
A Spotlight on Chef-Driven Sandwiches — Built with Purpose
Roast isn’t just a sandwich shop. It’s a chef-driven eatery, dedicated to using house-roasted meats, scratch-made condiments, and antibiotic-free poultry, all assembled with the kind of care that’s hard to find in today’s fast-casual landscape.
Their menu features signature sandwiches like the Braised Short Rib Melt, Nashville Hot Chicken, and Thanksgiving Turkey, along with comforting soups, crisp salads, and freshly made sides.
Every location carries the same standards — but the Babylon store brings something new with its industrial-chic aesthetic, complete with custom maple counters, quartz tops, detailed tile work, and exposed ductwork. It’s the kind of design that feels modern yet cozy, upscale yet welcoming.
The Community Reacts — “This Is Exactly What Babylon Needed”
Even before opening day, Roast was already winning over hearts. On local Facebook groups, Babylon residents shared their excitement.
“Finally! I’ve been driving to Hicksville just for Roast — and now it’s down the block from me!” – Angela M., Babylon resident
“Their Thanksgiving sandwich is legendary. This place is going to be packed every weekend.” – Chris D., Bellmore
Cordaro’s commitment to bringing Roast into a vibrant, walkable neighborhood didn’t go unnoticed. The new spot isn’t just about grabbing a sandwich — it’s about creating a gathering space.
Why Roast Matters on Long Island
In an age of national chains and mass-produced menus, Roast stands as a reminder of what local food can be — personal, intentional, and rooted in community pride.
Since its early days in Melville, Roast has supported local suppliers, created jobs, and stayed loyal to its customer-first culture. For many on Long Island, it’s become a go-to lunch break favorite, a weekend ritual, and a place to bring out-of-town friends who “need to taste this sandwich.”
With each new location, the brand manages to stay personal — and Babylon is no exception.
What’s Next for Roast?
While the Babylon opening is the brand’s sixth overall, Cordaro hasn’t hinted at stopping. With growing demand, high customer satisfaction, and an ever-evolving menu, further expansion may be on the horizon — but, as always, only when the fit feels right.
Roast has built its reputation not just on food, but on staying true to its Long Island roots — and that’s unlikely to change anytime soon.
Congratulations to Roast Sandwich House
Opening a new restaurant is never easy, especially in a close-knit community like Babylon Village where expectations are high. But Roast Sandwich House is already proving it belongs.
So congratulations to Joseph Cordaro and his team — not just for a successful launch, but for continuing to grow a brand that Long Islanders can proudly call their own.
Have You Tried Roast Yet?
What’s your go-to order? The Short Rib Melt? The Thanksgiving sandwich?
Tell us in the comments — and tag someone who owes you a lunch date at Babylon’s newest hot spot
“This article was written by Kayla McFarland. AI tools were used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.”
