STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — With Shrimp Ajillo, paella platters and a stunning sangria, a new Spanish restaurant has opened in Richmond Valley, bringing rich flavors and a family touch to Staten Island’s dining scene. Sazón, which means “flavor” in Spanish, has taken over the space at 286 Richmond Valley Road, shifting from a former American format to a Spanish repertoire.
The 80-seat restaurant, operated by restaurant industry veteran Sammi Demiri and his daughter Lily, features a bar, booth seating, and tables that can accommodate larger groups. Attached to Sazón is a party room for private events that hosts up to approximately 130 guests. Later in the season, outdoor dining will be an added highlight on the front patio.
“We’ve been in the restaurant world now for 36 years,” Demiri said. “I’ve been in New York for 20 years in business and in Lehigh Valley for the past 10 years, but I live here, so this was a nice thing to come and join the team.”
“Along with Scottie Maurer, Demiri said he is fortunate to have Chef Lalith “Lali” Rathnayake on board.
At Sazón, Chef Lali brings international experience, having worked in Dubai at Hotel Atlantis’ two-star Michelin brasserie Rostang. His resume lists time on a cruise line and various Manhattan seafood-centric eateries. He moved to Staten Island to work as a corporate chef for the IOP Hospitality Group, a locally-owned entity that manages the Vanderbilt, Grand Oaks Plaza and the Grand Oaks Country Club…