The Checkmate Inn

"YOU'VE NEVER BEEN TO THE MATE?!" is my usual exclamation to Port Jeff, Stony Brook, and Setauket locals. Even if you're not from the area, it's a must visit. The main problem with this place is how hidden it is, but that is the point of this blog right? It took me a few visits to remember how to get there myself, but that was only due to the amount of beer I consume whenever I do visit.
Set north of 25a in Setauket, at 94 N. Country Rd, it is still near impossible to find with use of a map or GPS for that matter. Most Google and Mapquest links point you in the wrong direction too (I'm beginning to wonder if this is by design). So here's the best way I can describe how to get there. Take Nichol's Rd. Northbound ...all the way to the end. Make a right on 25a and a left at the next traffic light (after The Curry Club/ Velvet Lounge). Now, keep a look out on your left about a quarter to half mile down.
Set in a neighborhood of 18th and 19th century victorian homes, the only distinguishing feature will be the neon lights in the windows. I'd actually like to see the zoning permits on this place, because it must be grandfathered in since the 1800's that they can actually have a liquor license.
At first glance,it looks like a dive bar...at second and third glance, you're loving this dive bar. With shotty decor of surfboards, road signs, skis, and a busted up wooden plank floor, this is the ugliest of hole in the walls. This must have been a home at some point in history. After analyzing the layout, the bar is situated in the back of the house, where the kitchen most likely once inhabited. The living room area, complete with a woodburning fireplace, has two dartboards and a jukebox- that's it. A front foyer area sometimes houses tables, other times live musicians. A large front porch with portable heaters makes for a great cigarette and conversation spot. Up until only a few years ago, the only heat in the place was from the fireplace. I do recall chopping firewood a few times, which they have out back for anyone who complained about the heat (or lack there of).
A great selection on tap and by the bottle. Back in the day prices, and an eclectic mix of clientelle make this spot a favorite of mine.
You're sure to run into a local "sap person" (the guys that live upstairs work for a tree cutting company and often smell of fresh pine sap). As well as a professor or two from the nearby StonyBrook University. University students, and doctors from StonyBrook Hospital fill the bar nightly.
One TV, about 10" large usually features an old flick, like "Smokey and The Bandit" or "Blazing Saddles". Both of which the bartender, 10 years back, made me take home and watch before I was allowed to return to the bar! Be sure to ask someone how to play "Kill George", a locals favorite for killing time on slow nights.