A beloved East End culinary tradition has found a permanent way to keep its legacy alive in Southampton. After health reasons forced the closure of Riverhead’s iconic Star Confectionery—affectionately known by generations of local diners as Papa Nick’s—former owner Anthony Meras refused to let his family’s storied chocolate-making history melt away. Instead, he has teamed up with his lifelong friend Mark Parash, owner of the landmark Sip ’n Soda luncheonette, to ensure these famous confections remain a staple of the local community.
The collaborative venture marks a beautiful full-circle moment for the two families, whose fathers originally ran neighboring East End luncheonettes and maintained a close, multi-generational bond. Last year, after doctors strictly advised Meras to step away from the grueling, seven-day-a-week grind of his family’s 1917 eatery, Parash extended an open invitation to bring his specialized chocolate equipment over to Southampton. Moving the setup out of a dark basement and into a crisp, daytime kitchen has completely revitalized the production process for Meras, breathing new life into a century-old passion.
This partnership seamlessly enhances the nostalgia of Sip ’n Soda, an iconic Southampton institution celebrated for its classic retro vibe, homemade ice cream, and traditional counter service. Under the new arrangement, the luncheonette’s displays feature Meras’s premium, artisanal treats year-round, crafted using the exact same high-end, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate formulations that both families have relied on for decades.
Beyond tempering chocolate, Meras has found immense joy in the bustling atmosphere of his friend’s establishment. Regulars might catch him stepping out of the kitchen to clear tables, run food, and catch up with surprised former customers who drop in. While he deeply misses the daily connection with his Riverhead storefront, this stress-free partnership allows him to enjoy his lifelong trade without the heavy burdens of restaurant ownership. The sweet alliance keeps a cherished piece of East End confectionery history thriving, blending two legendary local legacies under one roof.
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