How Long Island Restaurant Owners Are Using Social Media to Keep Tables Full

When Social Media Becomes Part of the Job

Being a local business owner is challenging enough, but in today’s digital world, Social Media has become a second full-time job. Between filming trending videos, staying relevant in ever-changing algorithms, and deciding whether to hire a Social Media manager or handle it themselves, platforms like Instagram and TikTok can either be a powerful tool or a constant headache.

Luckily for Long Island business owners—and diners—there are several restaurant owners who have figured out how to use social media to their advantage. By showing up consistently, being authentic, and putting themselves front and center, these owners are not only keeping their restaurants busy, but building genuine connections with their communities along the way.

Chef Michael Landesberg – Jackson Hall American Bar & Grill

Jackson Hall American Bar & Grill is well known for its lobster rolls, but it’s the restaurant’s chef and managing partner, Michael Landesberg, who has truly mastered the art of social media.

Chef Mike posts videos on Facebook almost daily, sharing giveaways, contests, current specials, and behind-the-scenes looks into the kitchen. What truly sets him apart is his generosity. Whether he’s donating gift cards for local fundraisers or running giveaways for his followers, his content consistently gives back to the community that supports him.

By placing himself front and center in each video, Chef Mike allows followers to get to know him personally and understand the type of business he runs. He also educates viewers by showcasing the quality of his ingredients and explaining what makes Jackson Hall’s dishes stand out from the rest.

Of course, the famous lobster rolls speak for themselves, but Jackson Hall’s strong social media presence keeps the restaurant top of mind, turning followers into regulars and online engagement into packed tables.

Louis Selvaggio Jr. (“Louie Sel”) – Robke’s & Birdie Bar

If you’re from Long Island and haven’t heard of Robke’s, it’s almost shocking. Open since 1961 and family-owned by the Selvaggios since 1978, Robke’s is famously busy—and social media plays a major role in that.

The face in front of the camera is Louis Selvaggio Jr., better known as Louie Sel. Louie confidently puts himself out there, unapologetically being his authentic self, and it resonates deeply with viewers. His videos take followers behind the scenes, introduce them to guests, highlight celebrity visits, showcase special moments, and spotlight daily specials in a way that makes viewers feel like they’re already there.

Louie is also skilled at collaborating with local influencers, fellow restaurant owners, and businesses. These collaborations allow accounts to cross-promote, share audiences, and grow together—an approach that continues to keep Robke’s top of mind.

Of course, the consistently delicious food and famously generous portions keep customers coming back, while social media gives them yet another reason to walk through the door.

Anthony Laurino – Phil’s Pizza, Syosset

If you’re not following Phil’s Pizza on Instagram, you’re missing out. Owner Anthony Laurino has taken Long Island social media by storm with his hilariously bold and brutally honest videos.

Anthony reenacts outrageous customer interactions using his staff, turning everyday frustrations into laugh-out-loud content. The videos often include explicit language—a risk most local business owners won’t take—which only adds to their authenticity and humor.

What truly makes Anthony stand out is that he is genuinely funny and completely himself on camera, a difficult balance to strike. One of the running jokes is that customers assume his name is Phil because it’s Phil’s Pizza, when in reality, it’s Anthony—something he proudly addresses with a shirt that reads, “I’m not Phil.”

By pushing boundaries, collaborating with other local businesses, and staying unapologetically authentic, Anthony has turned Phil’s Pizza into one of the most recognizable restaurant accounts on Long Island.

Rob Cervoni – Taglio Roman Style Pizza

Chopped Champion Rob Cervoni, owner of Taglio Roman Style Pizza in Mineola and Massapequa, could easily let awards speak for themselves—but he knows great pizza still needs great storytelling.

Taglio has earned major recognition, including being ranked #3 in the United States by 50 Top Pizza’s USA Slice Shop list (2024/2025). Still, Rob uses social media to explain what truly makes Taglio unique.

As Long Island’s first and only Roman-style pizzeria, Taglio specializes in Pizza al Taglio—rectangular slices baked in blue-steel pans using dough fermented for 48–72 hours. Rob breaks down this process online, explaining why the dough is lighter, crispier, and easier to digest.

One of his most popular social media segments features Rob using a “spatula microphone” while answering pizza questions and ranking local spots as underrated, overrated, or rated correctly. His approach is honest, respectful, and educational, showing appreciation for Long Island’s vast pizza scene while clearly explaining what sets Taglio apart.

Lauren Maslov – Pietro’s of East Meadow

Pietro’s of East Meadow has been serving Italian-American cuisine since 1976 and is famous for its original sesame seed crust pizza. Third-generation owner Lauren Maslov has successfully brought the 50-year-old family business into the modern era.

Lauren has transformed Pietro’s into a destination by creating highly shareable, Instagram-worthy moments. From igloo dining to elaborate holiday décor and a giant bear photo opportunity, Pietro’s gives guests experiences they want to photograph and share—organically introducing the restaurant to new audiences with every post.

Beyond aesthetics, Lauren regularly appears on camera herself, filming funny, relatable videos with her staff and family. Her content makes followers feel like part of the Pietro’s family, reinforcing that the restaurant is exactly what it has always been—a warm, welcoming neighborhood staple.

What These Owners All Have in Common

What ties all of these successful social media accounts together is simple: the owner or managing partner is front and center. Each of these business owners is confident enough to be the face of their restaurant, allowing customers to connect with the person behind the brand.

They understand one key truth—people do business with people, not just businesses.

A Lesson for Business Owners—and a Reminder for Diners

If you’re a restaurant or local business owner, these accounts are worth following for inspiration. Each one proves there is no single formula for social media success. Whether it’s collaborating with other businesses, running giveaways, jumping on trends, making people laugh, or educating your audience, the key is finding your thing—and leaning into it. Most importantly, being your authentic self is what truly resonates and builds a loyal following.

And for consumers and diners, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate just how much time, creativity, and energy go into creating the content we scroll past every day. From filming and editing to planning and posting, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes. So here’s a well-deserved shoutout to the owners and social media teams working hard to keep these accounts engaging—and our local restaurants top of mind!