Summers go by in a Long Island minute around here. It seems like just yesterday we were chomping at the bit to shut down our computers and let Memorial Day Weekend festivities begin. But soon, summer beach day Fridays will turn into fall work day Fridays and there won’t be a choice to sit indoors or out. But not yet. Before summer makes like the leaves on the trees and turns into fall, sit back and enjoy food and waterfront views—it’s why we put up with the taxes, after all—at these Long Island waterfront restaurants.
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Claudio’s, Greenport
image: claudios
Wait, you haven’t been to Claudio’s this summer? The oldest family-run restaurant in the nation serves up live music, an unpretentious atmosphere and seafood to write home about in its three harbor front restaurants. Dog lovers can bring their four-legged family members to the bar at Claudio’s Clam Bar, where the no-fuss menu includes oysters, burgers, fries and clams. Phone: 631-477-1889 | Address: 111 Main St. Click to taste
Prime, Huntington
image: prime an american kitchen & bar
This resort-style restaurant fits right in on the eastern end of Long Island’s opulent Gold Coast. During the summer, the dock and cabana bar treat guests to lauded surf ’n turf and cocktails with a side of marina views. When the chill sets in, consider coming back and asking for a seat in the intimate wine cellar. The candle lit tables, white tablecloths and endless supply of vino make it perfect for one of those kinds of evenings. Phone: 631-385-1515 | Address: 117 New York Ave. Click to taste
Navy Beach, Montauk
The view at Navy Beach is a sight to see image: navy beach
As summer feels like it’s drifting away, spending days and nights with toes in the sand becomes a priority. Located on a 200-foot private beach, Navy Beach satisfies guests’ extended beach day cravings, along with their hankerings for rosé and seafood. The crab cakes with pickled veggies, new to the menu this year, offer a sour-and-salty spin on the classic summertime dish. Phone: 631-668-6868 | Address: 16 Navy. Rd. Click to taste
Snapper Inn, Oakdale
This family-run spot has been delivering laid-back vibes and fresh seafood since 1929. One bite of the fried calamari and hot cherry peppers, which brings the heat even on an unseasonably cool evening, is enough to have diners understanding why it’s stood the test of time. The views of the Great South Bay are gorgeous from the deck, but people who prefer to be on the water rather than just looking at it can take two-hour dinner cruises on the Priscilla, which docks behind the eatery. Phone: 631-589-0248 | Address: 500 Shore Dr. Click to taste
New York Beach Club, Atlantic Beach
The restaurant at this venue, situated on 85,000 square feet of private beach, got a makeover this year when Lovin’ Oven Catering (Bluestone Tavern, Flowerfield Celebrations) took over. New favorite dishes include the shrimp cocktail, which comes with a pair of summery dips in watermelon salsa and mango cocktail sauce, and the lobster mac and cheese with hand pulled lobster chunks. The view of the Atlantic is as gorgeous as it ever was. Phone: 516-371-0750 | Address: 1751 Ocean Blvd. Click to taste
CowFish, Hampton Bays
It’s possible to go to CowFish numerous times and still have more rooms to explore. There’s a two-story deck, a patio, a lounge and a lawn with Adirondack chairs made for resting tired legs and watching the sunset. But each room has one important thing in common: panoramic views of the Shinnecock canal. While enjoying the view, diners can chow down on favorites like the creamy clam chowder and NOLA Shrimp, a southern-centric dish inspired by the Hersch families’ travels. Phone: 631-594-3868 | Address: 238 E. Montauk Highway Click to taste
Whale’s Tale, Northport
A laid-back vibe with knock-out fish tacos. image: www.facebook.com/WhalesTaleNPT
A hideaway on a half shell, the Whale’s Tale’s menu is as Long Island-centric as they come. The fish are from local waters and the ingredients from Long Island farms. The bang bang shrimp, which are tender, creamy and spicy, are worth every calorie. The sunset is priceless. Phone: 631-651-8844 | Address: 81 Fort Salonga Rd. Click to taste