A vintage setting can add a great deal to a dining experience. Along with your entree, you also get a glimpse into another era, surrounded by the exquisite trappings of days gone by. Abel Conklin's in Huntington Village is a wonderful example of just such a place.

A visit to Abel Conklin's is akin to a step back in time - no wonder, since the restaurant is situated in a gracious home built by the original Abel Conklin in 1841. This inviting restaurant is in fact so beautifully preserved that Abel himself might even recognize his old residence. Burnished oak paneling with mahogany accents blend seamlessly with the brick fireplace and etched glass panels depicting scenes of Huntington.

Ladder-back tables and chairs share the dining space with leather-cushioned booths, all lit by the glow of charming wall sconces. An intimate, equally distinguished bar is a cozy spot to enjoy a pre-dinner drink, or plan an escape to the outdoor patio, particularly welcome after an endless winter. The wine list at Abel Conklin's is also impressive, with a carefully-chosen selection of reds, whites and sipping wines.

But far removed from simply a venerable study in Huntington history, Abel Conklin's has made its mark as a bastion of fine dining. With a well-deserved reputation as an eclectic steak house, you will find a wealth of lively dining choices prepared with a distinct continental flair. Appetizers at Abel's include Melon with Stilton cheese, prosciutto and lemon, the fabulous and famous Oysters Rockefeller, Smoked Peppered Salmon in a honey-mustard sauce and a tangy Apricot glazed Baked Brie en Croute for two. A variety of shellfish, like Blue Point Oysters on the half-shell and Pan-Fried Coconut Shrimp are also available.

A prime aged steak can be order per person at Abel Conklin's, or savor instead a Filet Mignon (prepared either with bearnaise sauce, au fromage, or au poivre) or a T-Bone with Montreal seasoning, sauteed onions and mushrooms. Loin Lamb Chops come with the traditional and refreshing mint sauce, while the Grilled Pork Chop is prepared in a tangy black currant glaze. Besides the Veal Chop in Shiitake mushroom sauce, there is the ever-changing Veal du Jour, Chicken du Jour and the daily fresh fish selections.

Desserts also vary daily, but some standards include a fresh Key Lime Pie, a Fresh Fruit Tart and the flourless Boule de Neige, rich chocolate cake topped with homemade whipped cream. Also offered is a full complement of single malts, cognacs and cordials.

Appetizers at Abel Conklin's cost from $6.50-$14, entrees from $16-28 (some items vary according to market price) and desserts are $5-$6.

Abel Conklin's is open for lunch Monday through Friday from noon-3:30p.m. and dinner seven days a week starting at 4:30p.m. Reservations are recommended on the weekends.