ABOUT US
From a 1957 Ice Cream Stand to a Merrick Staple
Family‑run since 2001, The Pit Stop has grown from a single walk‑up window into Merrick’s go‑to spot for scratch‑made comfort food.
What began as a tiny 1957 ice‑cream stand found new life when the Rubano family took the keys in 2001. Guided by a simple promise—serve fresh, honest food with a smile—we’ve spent more than two decades turning that little stand into a bustling neighborhood hub. Today you’ll still find us working the line, greeting regulars by name, and cooking every burger, wrap, and brisket sandwich to order. Our story is proof that with community support and a love for great food, small beginnings can lead to something extraordinary.
What Sets The Pit Stop Apart
More than just a neighborhood restaurant, The Pit Stop is where big flavor, creativity, and comfort come together in one unforgettable bite. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, our team brings passion and personality to every plate — no shortcuts.
Commitment to Quality
We don’t cut corners — we raise the bar. From fresh ingredients to careful prep and plating, every dish is crafted with care and pride. It’s not just about great flavor — it’s about doing things the right way, every time.
Made From Scratch
Real food, made the real way. We craft our dishes from the ground up — no frozen shortcuts or pre-packaged fillers. From hand-cut veggies to house-made sauces, every bite is packed with the kind of flavor only scratch cooking can deliver.
National Buzz
​Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives and loved by the Merrick community, The Pit Stop blends small-town service with big-league taste. It’s no wonder customers keep coming back — and bringing friends.
Real Food, Made Right, Since 2001.
Fresh ingredients, cooked to order—whether you’re popping in for lunch or feeding 200 guests.
Every dish that leaves our kitchen is made from scratch: never frozen, always fresh, and seasoned with the same care we use at home. From stacked burgers and street‑style tacos to slow‑smoked ribs, we build flavor the old‑fashioned way—one handcrafted step at a time. Planning a celebration? Our catering team brings that same Pit Stop quality to backyard barbecues, milestone birthdays, corporate luncheons, and weddings from Montauk to Manhattan. Wherever you gather, we deliver.
As Seen on Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives
When Guy Fieri rolled through Merrick, he knew that he found something special.
The Pit Stop was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives for its creative takes on comfort food — from spaghetti squash primavera to slow-cooked pulled pork. The spotlight didn’t change us — it just confirmed what our regulars already knew: big flavor, great people, and food worth talking about.