New Karate Studio Slated for Main Street

Main Street's newest business will pack a bit of a punch - a karate studio is set to open at 31 Main Street.

The studio, ATA Martial Arts, is moving from its former location on Sunrise Highway. It will feature mixed martial arts for children and full contact fighting for adults.

Co-owner Brent Rosenkranz said he decided to move down to Main Street because the town is "absoutely beautiful."

He said he expects many of his old clients will continue to attend classes. And some local black belts-to-be have already expressed interest.

"We already have a lot of people who pre-signed up when we posted our phone number on the window," he said.

The new karate studio joins a handful of other dance and martial arts locations on Main Street. , which teaches Brazilian jiu jitsu, is situated right down the road.

Owner Melissa Regis said she's been impressed with the amount of interest her six-year-old business has garnered from children and adults alike.

"It's a different type [of martial arts] all together," she said. "But it's been very popular."

Thirty-one Main Street has hosted a series of stationery stores over the last several years. It's most recent tenant, , closed last year.

Realtor said she is considering dividing the storefront in two.

Byrnes said many potential clients have asked about opening a yoga studio and health food restaurant in the space. But the Town of Islip's strict zoning regulations make it difficult for food service businesses to get the necessary permits.

"Good restaurants would bring people into the town," she said. "But it's very hard to do it here in Sayville."