Since 1993, Dennis and Diane Harkoff, husband and wife of 37 years, have owned in New Suffolk. They’ve built up the business formerly known as Bonnie’s By the Bay into a true destination for locals and visitors from all walks of life.
“We always wanted Legends to be a community place for people to see their neighbors and catch up with their friends,” Diane Harkoff said. “Just like the Irish pubs in the old country.”
The Harkoffs reopened for business with a after a harsh winter destroyed parts of their rooftop. The investment in the revamp has paid off with one of the best winters on record for the longstanding New Suffolk stop. North Fork Patch had a chat with Diane Harkoff, a proud owner of three English Mastiffs — — the day before the Cutchogue parade.
Patch: Where are you both from originally?
Harkoff: I’m from Queens, Dennis is from Bellmore, but he finished high school out here in Mattituck.
Patch: Are you Irish?
Harkoff: Partly. My maiden name is McMahon. But we have a big St. Patrick’s Day party here at Legends. I’ve always felt that was a special day in life. My father’s name is Patrick, my brother’s name is Patrick. And when I worked in Manhattan, I could always just walk out the door and watch the big parade on 5th Avenue.
Patch: What’d you do in Manhattan before opening Legends?
Harkoff: I worked in the cargo end of the airline industry for KLM …I’ve traveled for work and for pleasure. We had the idea of incorporating food from all around the world at Legends, and Dennis had the concept of the beers and the sports bar.
Patch: Why do you think you were chosen as grand marshals for the parade this year?
Harkoff: I think one of the former chiefs at the suggested us. We’ve always found time to get involved in donated dinners for good causes over the years — we gave away gift certificates for the and have worked with the But, on a day-to-day-basis, we always wanted Legends to be a community place for people to see their neighbors and catch up with their friends — just like the Irish pubs in the old country.
