February 13, 2013 from the island eye news:  http://islandeyenews.com/?p=8804    For 28 years, the Long Island Café has been an institution on the Isle of Palms. Much like its former neighbor, the local restaurant has seen businesses come and go, vacationers return year after year, a huge roadway project completed, and a damaging storm wipe through the island. The little hidden gem nestled away in the Island Center has remained a favorite among locals for decades. Now, with renovation of the Center in full force, the Café is undergoing new ownership. Buddy and Patty Thomas owned the establishment since its conception in 1986, but the whisper of the ocean and warm island sun pulled them away from their restaurant and into a life of retirement. Now, a trio of restaurateurs has welcomed the beloved Café in with open arms. Ravi Scher, Christiana Harsch, and Michael Proetto worked closely with the former owners as time for a transition began. “We know we have big shoes to fill,” Proetto says. “We aren’t looking to make a huge change. We know what the people here want.” Harsch has been at the restaurant for six years, and understands that maintaining a local presence is important. “It’s comforting for regulars to see a familiar face. With all the changes going on, it’s nice to know that we’re still here,” she says. Although the three will work to uphold the integrity of the island staple, certain changes are in order to give the restaurant a facelift. New hardwood floors will be installed, the interior has been painted, and certain menu items will transition to feature seasonal specials. “We’re going to focus on really local food, and get a little creative with the menu. It will be affordable….a place for the whole family to come. The core of the place will stay the same, but we’re excited about a few changes that will benefit the guests,” Proetto says. When the opportunity first came up, the new owners were ready to hit the ground running, and planned to change the name as well as the majority of the menu. After speaking with Harsch, they decided against it. “People come here and expect a certain thing. They want continuity,” she explains. Now, the owners are focused on making the restaurant better than ever. Even with serious construction projects taking place right outside their front door, the Long Island Café will remain open during the renovation. Guests can enjoy lunch and dinner, seven days a week, along with a Sunday brunch boasting $2 mimosas. Long Island Café is located at 1515-A Palm Boulevard, Isle of Palms. For more information, call 886-8809. Long Island Café is open for lunch Monday – Saturday, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., dinner Saturday and Sunday, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m., and Sunday brunch, 11a.m. – 2 p.m.