You’ve probably seen the photos. That massive, multi-level space in Northport with the wood accents and the outdoor patio that looks like it belongs in a Napa Valley estate rather than Fort Salonga Road. It’s a vibe. But let’s be real—vibes don’t fill your stomach. When you’re looking at the arlo kitchen and bar menu, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices. Do you go for the dry-aged steaks that everyone posts on Instagram, or is the "hidden" pasta section actually where the magic happens?
Honestly, most people walk in and order a steak because that’s what you do at a place this grand. They’re missing out. Don't get me wrong, a 40oz Porterhouse aged for 60 days is a religious experience for a carnivore, but the nuances of the menu go way deeper than just "big meat."
The Raw Bar and the "Almost" Entrees
Most tables start with the raw bar, and for good reason. It’s fresh. But if you're smart, you're looking at the Appetizers section as a meal in itself.
The Chicken Spiedini is $18 and it’s basically a masterclass in balance. You've got the grilled chicken, sure, but it’s the persimmons and the red pepper coulis that make it pop. It’s sweet, it’s charred, and it’s sorta perfect. Then there’s the Grilled Octopus ($28). If an octopus is chewy, the kitchen failed. Here? It’s charred just enough to give you that smoky romesco hit without feeling like you're chewing on a rubber band.
Then you have the Duck Confit Gnocchi. It's $24. It's rich. It's heavy. If you're not careful, you'll eat the whole bowl and realize you still have a main course coming.
The Pasta Secret
Let's talk about the Lobster Pappardelle. At $48, it isn't cheap. But you get a whole Maine lobster. Not "pieces." Not "bits." A whole lobster. The blistered cherry tomatoes and the anchovy breadcrumbs add this salty, acidic crunch that cuts right through the heavy cream sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget you're sitting in a suburban restaurant.
If you want something heartier, the Dry Aged Short Rib Ragu ($39) uses paccheri pasta. Those wide tubes are specifically designed to catch the veal demi-reduction. It’s messy. It’s glorious.
Why the Butcher Board Still Matters
Look, you can't ignore the steaks. Arlo is built for this.
The A-5 Kagoshima Wagyu Strip is $120. Is it worth it? If you've never had Japanese Wagyu, yes. It’s less like meat and more like butter that happens to be beef-flavored. But for the average Friday night? The 24oz Cowboy Ribeye ($80) is the move. It’s dry-aged for 35 days, giving it that funky, nutty edge that you just don't get with a standard supermarket cut.
- The Enhancements: Don't skip the Blueberry Jam Foie Gras Butter ($8).
- The Sides: You need the Kitchen Sink Potato ($16). It's crispy, garlicky, and comes with a confit aioli that you’ll want to put on everything else on the table.
- The Burger: If you're there for a casual Tuesday, "The James Burger" ($26) uses a dry-aged patty. It’s a massive step up from your local pub.
Cocktails and the Bar Scene
The bar program at Arlo isn't an afterthought. It’s a destination. The Arlo Espresso Martini ($22) uses Licor 43 and salted caramel. It’s dangerous because it doesn't taste like alcohol; it tastes like the best coffee you’ve ever had.
For something a bit more complex, the Cooper Fig ($20) mixes Michter’s Rye with fig and jalapeño. It’s got that "burn" from the rye, but the fig smooths it out and the jalapeño gives you a little kick at the end. It's basically a rollercoaster in a glass.
What About the Deals?
If you're balling on a budget, you have to know when to show up. Arlo does a Prix Fixe Dinner for $59 on Mondays (all night) and Wednesdays/Thursdays (if you're seated by 6pm). You get three courses. You can get the Chicken Spiedini, the Roasted Chicken (which is half a bird with duck fat scalloped potatoes), and a dessert. It’s the best value on the menu, period.
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The Happy Hour is also legit. Available at the bar until 6pm (except Saturdays), you can grab $2 East Coast Oysters and $9 specialty cocktails. It’s a great way to experience the high-end vibe without the $200 bill.
The Verdict on the Arlo Kitchen and Bar Menu
Arlo isn't just a steakhouse. It's a New American powerhouse that happens to have a really good butcher shop attached. Whether you're there for the Venison Osso Buco ($50) in the winter or a light Tuna Tartare ($22) on the patio in July, the quality is consistent.
The biggest mistake you can make? Ordering the same thing every time. The menu changes seasonally for a reason. The winter 2025/2026 menu brought in things like Foie Gras Risotto with spicy pumpkin seeds—it’s weird, it’s bold, and it works.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the Calendar: If it’s a Monday, go for the $59 Prix Fixe. It’s a steal.
- Ask About Specials: The kitchen often has off-menu catches like Wild Mosaico or Scallop Tartare.
- The Potato Rule: Always, always order the Kitchen Sink Potato. No exceptions.
- Parking Tip: The lot gets packed on weekends; arrive 15 minutes early or use the valet if they have it running.