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The White Whale Reopening: 7 Shocking Details About The Long Island Icon's 2025 Return

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The White Whale, a legendary Long Island waterfront eatery, has officially returned, ending a nearly six-year hiatus that left a major void in the Seaford community. The highly anticipated revival is more than just a new restaurant opening; it’s a heartfelt restoration of a local landmark, driven by a new owner with a deep, personal history tied to the establishment. As of this December 2025, the doors are wide open, revealing a completely transformed space and a fresh, modern menu that honors the restaurant's coastal roots while setting a new standard for dining on Bayview Street.

The journey to this grand re-opening was a saga of passion, preservation, and a commitment to preventing the beloved 3,800-square-foot property from being converted into condos or apartments. The new iteration, helmed by a local who fell in love with the spot decades ago, promises to bring back the "feeling of home" that made the original White Whale a cherished destination for generations of Long Islanders.

The Visionary Behind the Revival: Tom Frintzilas's Story

The emotional core of The White Whale's return lies entirely with its new proprietor, Tom Frintzilas. His acquisition and subsequent overhaul of the property is a true labor of love, making his story essential to understanding the restaurant's new chapter.

  • Full Name: Tom (or Tommy) Frintzilas
  • Role: Owner and Visionary
  • Connection to The White Whale: Frintzilas's relationship with the restaurant is deeply personal. He first met his wife, Tammy, within its walls decades ago, and the couple later held their wedding reception there in 1999.
  • Motivation for Purchase: The property had been shuttered since 2019, and Frintzilas intervened to purchase the landmark location to prevent it from being sold to developers who planned to build apartments or condominiums, saving the site for the community.
  • Business Entity: Frintzilas Enterprise Inc. (operates under the assumed name The White Whale).
  • Vision: To not create something entirely new, but to revive the local favorite and restore the warm, familiar "feeling of home" for Seaford residents and visitors.

The Stunning 2025 Transformation: A Full Renovation

The original White Whale, which first opened its doors in 1990, was a staple for nearly three decades before its closure in 2019. The new team, led by Frintzilas, understood that a successful return required more than just a fresh coat of paint; it demanded a comprehensive modernization to meet contemporary dining expectations while retaining the essential coastal charm.

From Shuttered Landmark to Waterside Gem

The 3,800-square-foot waterside eatery underwent a full, extensive renovation. The goal was to brighten the space and enhance the natural beauty of its waterfront setting at 3580 Bayview Street. The result is a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that feels both fresh and familiar.

  • Interior Design Philosophy: The new interior is described as having a better attitude and service, suggesting a focus on an elevated guest experience.
  • Architectural Changes: While specific details of the renovation are proprietary, the overhaul was substantial enough to mark a pivot from the old establishment, ensuring all facilities are state-of-the-art.
  • Community Impact: Local officials, including Senator Steve Rhoads and members of the Seaford Chamber of Commerce, attended the re-grand opening, highlighting the significance of the restaurant's return to the local economy and social fabric.

This commitment to quality and community preservation is what sets the new White Whale apart. It’s a deliberate effort by Tom Frintzilas to honor the past while securing a vibrant future for the landmark.

A Deep Dive into the New Coastal Menu by Chef Joe Macchia

Perhaps the most exciting change for returning patrons is the completely revamped culinary program. The new menu, spearheaded by Chef Joe Macchia, is described as fresh, modern American fare with a strong focus on high-quality, diverse seafood options. This pivot ensures the restaurant remains a premier coastal dining destination while offering a broader appeal.

Must-Try Entrees and Signature Dishes

Chef Macchia’s menu balances classic American comfort with sophisticated seafood preparations. Here is a look at some of the most talked-about dishes and price points that are defining the new White Whale experience:

  • The Legendary Lobster Roll: Available hot or cold, this signature item is listed at $38, cementing its place as a premium seafood offering.
  • Clam Banh Mi: A creative fusion dish, featuring fried clams served on a baguette with house slaw and remoulade sauce, priced at $23.
  • Fish Tacos: Market fish, available fried or sautéed, served with house slaw in a remoulade sauce (3 tacos for $24).
  • The New York Strip Steak: For land-lovers, a robust New York strip steak is available for $44, showcasing the menu's modern American range.
  • Fish and Chips: A comforting classic, offered at $26.
  • Breaded Clams: Early reviews have specifically called out the breaded clams as "really tasty."

Appetizers and Lunch Specials

The menu also features an array of tempting starters and a dedicated prix fixe lunch option, offering exceptional value and variety:

  • Prix Fixe Lunch: Available Monday through Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm for $18.95 (no substitutions).
  • Soup Course Options: The prix fixe lunch includes a first course cup of soup, with choices like Clam Chowder, Chicken Noodle, or a premium Lobster Bisque (+$4.95).
  • Smoked Chicken Wings: Another appetizer option signaling the kitchen's commitment to modern, flavorful bar fare.

The extensive and thoughtful menu, combined with the beautifully renovated space, positions The White Whale as a major culinary anchor for the Seaford waterfront. The blend of high-end seafood and approachable American classics ensures there is something for every diner, whether they are revisiting an old favorite or experiencing the new iteration for the very first time.

The White Whale's Legacy and Topical Authority

The name "The White Whale" carries significant topical weight, not just for its Moby Dick reference, but for its history as a community hub. The Seaford location has always been synonymous with waterfront dining on Long Island. The successful 2025 reopening solidifies its status as a permanent fixture in the region's restaurant landscape, contrasting sharply with the fate of many other restaurants that shuttered during the pandemic era. The owner's personal investment—both financial and emotional—to save the location from development has resonated deeply with the local population, establishing an unparalleled level of goodwill.

This revival also contributes to a broader regional trend of revitalizing historic waterside properties. By maintaining the name and location while completely modernizing the interior and menu, Frintzilas and Chef Macchia have created a destination that appeals to both nostalgic diners and a new generation seeking high-quality, contemporary coastal cuisine. The White Whale is not just back; it’s positioned to be better than ever.

The White Whale Reopening: 7 Shocking Details About The Long Island Icon's 2025 Return
the white whale reopening
the white whale reopening

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