Top Restaurants in Long Island New York | Dining Guide
Explore Long Island, New York’s rich food scene, known for its wide variety. You’ll find everything from farm-fresh meals to international dishes. Long Island restaurants bring you flavors from roadside stands to fine dining. You can enjoy fresh seafood or meals by famous chefs. This place promises a unique taste journey.
New restaurants appear often, showing the area’s growing food scene. For a fancy night, Meju offers a dinner for $185 per person. Adda serves delicious dishes, most under $30. For Mexican food lovers, Chinelos has birria tacos at about $14. M. Wells has been a favorite for over ten years. Plus, there’s a cozy sushi spot near the Queensboro Bridge. These spots highlight Long Island’s exciting food offerings.
Farm-to-Table Delights on Long Island
Long Island’s farm-to-table scene is alive and well, all thanks to its vast and protected farms. This isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a way of life here. By choosing local ingredients, restaurants offer fresh meals that help local farmers and protect our planet.
Notable Farm-to-Table Restaurants
- Seasons 52: Known for a menu that changes seasonally, highlighting the freshest ingredients and showcasing adaptability to local availability.
- Mirabelle at Three Village Inn: Led by Chef Guy Reuge, this restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients, offering a contemporary take on classic French cuisine.
- The Shed Restaurant: Operating two locations in Huntington and West Sayville, this eatery emphasizes sourcing from local farms and purveyors for its farm-to-table menu.
- Orto: Located in Miller Place, Orto regularly updates its menu to reflect the seasonal bounty of Long Island.
- The LakeHouse: Bay Shore’s The LakeHouse boasts a seasonal menu that includes the best of Long Island’s produce, seafood, and meats.
- Foster: Specializes in hyper-local food sourcing and sustainability, with a constantly evolving menu reflecting Long Island’s agricultural diversity.
Signature Dishes to Try
At these eateries, you’ll find dishes loaded with local veggies, meats, and seafood. Each meal showcases what’s in season on Long Island.
- At Seasons 52, the seasonal vegetable flatbread showcases fresh produce with every bite.
- Mirabelle offers a modern twist on classic French cuisine with dishes like duck breast with local berry reduction.
- The Shed Restaurant’s farm salad features a medley of greens from nearby farms.
- Orto’s roasted root vegetables highlight the best of Long Island’s fall harvest.
- The LakeHouse impresses with its pan-seared local sea scallops served with seasonal risotto.
- Foster’s wood-fired dishes, such as their open-flame roasted chicken, are not to be missed.
Why Farm-to-Table is Popular
Farm-to-table dining is big on Long Island for many reasons. For starters, it’s sustainable, reducing the food’s travel distance. It also helps local farmers make a living. Plus, the focus on fresh, organic foods is right in line with today’s health trends.
Places like Farm to Table Catering by Chef Filomena Lombardi push for healthy, simple diets. Foster’s approach to flavorful meals with minimal waste is another great example. This commitment to quality and sustainability makes these spots a hit with food lovers.
Seafood Restaurants with Fresh Catches
Long Island’s coastline is perfect for seafood lovers. The area’s seafood spots offer fresh catches daily, straight from the ocean. Dive into popular places and must-try dishes that make Long Island a seafood paradise.
Popular Seafood Spots
Some seafood joints in Long Island are famous for their fresh meals and history. Louie’s Port Washington has served great seafood since 1905. Mill Pond House, in a Colonial home, has been around since about 1924. Jolly Fisherman & Steak House in Roslyn has welcomed diners since 1957.
Elliot’s of Freeport offers fresh seafood six days a week all year round. Orient By The Sea is seasonal, closing in winter. Limani lets diners pick their meal from fresh seafood on display. H2O Seafood & Sushi by Bohlsen Restaurant Group blends local farm produce with seafood.
Must-Try Seafood Dishes
Long Island’s seafood restaurants have delicious dishes from local waters. Lessing’s VIEW has appetizers like jumbo lump crab cakes costing over $15. Snapper Inn has been delighting diners since 1929 with classic favorites. The Steamroom, a Port Jefferson tradition for 35 years, offers dishes that bring comfort.
These restaurants offer a wide range of seafood dishes. Limani and H2O Seafood & Sushi prepare unique, fresh meals. With about 10 spots between Port Washington and Port Jefferson, Long Island is a seafood lover’s dream.
Global Culinary Experiences
Long Island is known for its global cuisine, offering a variety of dining options. You can find everything from Mexican flavors to French dining, Pan-Asian dishes, and Italian meals. There’s a taste for everyone’s liking here.
Top Mexican Eateries
In the mood for genuine Mexican food? Long Island is home to many places that serve up the vibrant tastes of Mexico. Tacombi Neighborhood Taqueria is one such spot, known for its traditional tacos and street food. It’s like taking a quick trip to Mexico.
Authentic French Restaurants
For a touch of French elegance, Long Island has spots like Mirabelle Tavern. Chef Jason Weiner uses local foods like Long Island duck to create seasonal dishes. This guarantees a dining experience that’s both sophisticated and unforgettable.
Pan-Asian Cuisine
Looking for Pan-Asian cuisine? Long Island’s restaurants are celebrated for mixing different Asian tastes into unique menus. Take P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, for example. They offer classic Chinese meals with a modern flair, all in a lively setting that makes the meal even better.
Italian Dining Destinations
Italian dining on Long Island features a selection of places focused on hearty, tasty meals. Places like Borrelli’s Italian Restaurant and Café Baci have been serving up beloved Italian dishes for decades. Their generous dishes have truly stood the test of time.
To help food lovers find the best spots, here’s a comparison of popular global cuisine restaurants on Long Island:
Restaurant | Type of Cuisine | Distance from Major Hub (miles) |
---|---|---|
Tacombi Neighborhood Taqueria | Mexican | 0.4 |
Mirabelle Tavern | French | 1.2 |
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro | Pan-Asian | 3.0 |
Borrelli’s Italian Restaurant | Italian | 0.8 |
Café Baci | Italian | 2.0 |
Celebrity Chef Restaurants on Long Island
Long Island is a magnet for celebrity chefs. They are drawn by its fantastic local produce and eager food lovers. These spots offer special meals where the chefs’ own recipes shine. They mix local flavors with global cooking styles.
Famous Chefs
Long Island’s celebrity chef spots are full of top culinary talent. Chef Eric LeVine is celebrated as the Best Chef on Long Island in 2023 and 2024. Chef Stephen Rosenbluth made his mark at Anchor Down, winning recognition in 2022. Chef Chris Seidl of Maliblue Oyster Bar has been honored for his cooking skills multiple times. And then there’s David Burke, who stands out for his menu creativity and unique techniques. One example is the Himalayan sea-salt dry-aging method at Orchard Park.
Chef | Restaurant | Awards |
---|---|---|
Eric LeVine | 317 Main Street | Best Chef 2023, 2024 |
Stephen Rosenbluth | Anchor Down | Best Chef 2022 |
Chris Seidl | Maliblue Oyster Bar | Best Chef 2018, 2020, 2021 |
David Burke | Red Salt Room | Numerous accolades |
Signature Dishes and Recipes
Long Island’s top chefs create incredible meals with unique dishes. Chef Eric LeVine focuses on seasonal items. At David Burke’s Red Salt Room, dishes like Braised Short Ribs and Duck Cassoulet stand out. Chef Stephen Rosenbluth is known for his simple yet tasty seafood at Anchor Down. Chef Alejandro Gonzalez at Quetzalcoatl highlights traditional flavors.
These celebrity chef restaurants each have their own way of making meals special. Chef Burke’s dry-aging technique for steaks is a hit. Chef Gonzalez puts a local twist on classic dishes. Their creativity makes Long Island an exciting place for food lovers who want amazing dining experiences.
Best Restaurants in Long Island for Outdoor Dining
Long Island outdoor dining combines beautiful views with tasty meals. It’s famous for its variety, including garden and beachfront spots. Many places have patios that create a cozy feel everyone loves.
Waterfront Venues
Waterfront dining has a special allure, with top spots like Duryea’s Montauk and Navy Beach. These places boast large wine collections and are near the sea for fresh seafood. Restaurants like Peter’s Clam Bar, since 1940, and LaMotta’s Dockside, since 1994, are iconic.
The Nautical Mile in Freeport offers live music and seafood restaurants. Gatsby on the Ocean provides great food and views, standing out among waterfront venues.
Garden and Patio Options
Garden dining gives a more private feel. Plattduetsche Park offers a historic setting since 1901. Venues like Hudson’s on the Mile are dog-friendly, and Maliblue has live music, making them relaxing.
Places like The Freeport Inn & Marina are special finds. They show how diverse Long Island outdoor dining is.
Seasonal Outdoor Menus
Seasonal foods are key to outdoor dining, with many places serving fresh, local dishes. About half focus on farm-to-table, supporting sustainability. The Snapper Inn has valued tradition and loyalty since 1929.
Venues like Navy Beach and Duryea’s Montauk offer top farm-to-table dining. They stand out with their seasonal menus.
Restaurant | Open Since | Special Features |
---|---|---|
Peter’s Clam Bar | 1940 | Seafood Staples |
LaMotta’s Dockside | 1994 | Dock-and-Dine |
Plattduetsche Park | 1901 | Traditional Cuisine |
Snapper Inn | 1929 | Family-Owned |
Hudson’s on the Mile | — | Dog-Friendly Patio |
Family-Friendly Dining Options
Long Island is known for its great family-friendly restaurants. It’s a top spot for family meals. There are lots of choices from simple spots to fancy places, all perfect for both kids and adults.
Top Family-Style Restaurants
It can be hard to find a place that pleases the whole family with tasty and varied food. We’ve picked some of the top family-friendly restaurants on Long Island:
- Maureen’s Kitchen – A local favorite, known for its big breakfasts and brunches.
- The Milleridge Inn – A historic spot offering a unique family dining experience.
- Bridgehampton Candy Kitchen – Since 1925, it’s been loved for its classic American dishes.
- JBBQ & Shabu Shabu – Famous for its all-you-can-eat meals that bring fun to dining.
These places in Long Island are great for family dining. They have big menus that fit every diet like dairy-free and vegan. They also have fun things like play areas and themes to keep everyone happy.
Restaurant | Specialty | Kid-Friendly Options |
---|---|---|
Maureen’s Kitchen | Hearty Breakfast & Brunch | French Toast Sticks |
The Milleridge Inn | Historic Dining Experience | All-White Meat Chicken Nuggets |
Bridgehampton Candy Kitchen | Classic American Fare | Mac and Cheese Bites |
JBBQ & Shabu Shabu | Interactive All-You-Can-Eat | Avocado Toast |
Places like The Shed Restaurant and The Cheesecake Factory also stand out. They serve meals all day and have over 200 choices. Other spots like Major Steak House and Garden Social offer a cozy vibe and tasty food.
Looking for a great meal, a place to celebrate, or just time with family? Long Island’s family-friendly restaurants are perfect. With historic eateries and casual places for interactive meals, every family will find something they love.
Romantic Restaurants for a Special Night Out
Long Island’s dining scene is perfect for a romantic evening. You’ll find cozy spots ideal for memorable dates along moonlit waterfronts or secluded gardens. These places offer beautiful views and menus meant for sharing, making the experience warm and romantic.
Intimate Dining Locations
Avino’s Italian Table is in a historic 1856 farmhouse. It blends history with modern cuisine, making it a top romantic spot. Chops steakhouse has a Prohibition era decor for a private dining experience. Since 2016, Primi Italian Steakhouse is known for romance, boosted by its 2023 renovations.
Revival by Toast, since November 2022, has a hidden wine program in its new space. It’s great for those seeking a quiet spot. Besito is known for its dim, vibrant setting and is one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America.
Best Dishes for Two
These places offer great menus for couples. At Chops steakhouse, enjoy steak from an 8-ounce Petit Filet to a 40-ounce Tomahawk Ribeye. Besito’s menu features rich Mexican flavors with shareable plates for a close night.
Primi Italian Steakhouse offers special Valentine’s Day meals with three to four courses. The Sandbar and Thai Station Café provide special menus for a memorable evening. Opus’ Surf & Turf, with two lobster tails, is perfect for a luxurious seafood dinner.
Farm Italy Restaurant & Bar focuses on fresh, local ingredients since its opening in February 2023. These venues are among the top choices for intimate dining on Long Island, always considering the ambiance.
Restaurant | Specialty | Highlight |
---|---|---|
Avino’s Italian Table | Italian Cuisine | Historical charm in a historic farmhouse |
Primi Italian Steakhouse | Steakhouse | Luxurious dining with renowned ambiance |
Besito | Mexican Cuisine | Top 100 in America, dimly lit vibe |
Revival by Toast | New American Cuisine | Hidden gem wine program |
Farm Italy Restaurant & Bar | Italian Cuisine | Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients |
The Best Places for Comfort Food
Long Island is perfect for those who love comfort food. It has places with classic American meals and cozy spots. These spots make eating out a joy. Let’s look at the best spots for comfort food on Long Island.
Traditional American Classics
American classics are a hit on Long Island. Places like Blackbirds’ Grille have delicious dishes. They were voted Best Soul Food and Southern Restaurant in 2024. Favorites include fried chicken and cornbread. Biscuits & Barbeque in Mineola is known for great barbecue and biscuits. These spots are loved by locals and visitors.
Raan Thai offers the Chicken Pad See Ew as a comfort dish. Noor Food has amazing lamb and chicken combo platters. Pizzetteria Brunetti in the Hamptons has tasty individual pizzas. These places are known for their rich flavors.
Cozy Ambiance Locations
Cozy restaurants are key for enjoying comfort food on Long Island. They often have warm lighting and welcoming decor. Avocados has an amazing $7 lunch deal. It comes with a drink and a choice of burrito, taco pack, or salad. This makes it a great place for a casual lunch.
Pizzetteria Brunetti offers an upscale, yet relaxed atmosphere. Their individual pizzas cost $15-20. This mixes sophistication with comfort. Wineries in the North Fork offer food with local wines. This showcases the region’s rich agricultural background.
- Blackbirds’ Grille: Best Soul Food and Southern Restaurant 2024
- Biscuits & Barbeque: Best Soul Food and Southern Restaurant (multiple years)
Must-Visit Restaurants in Long Island New York
Long Island’s food scene is exciting, with many top-quality restaurants to try. These places offer tasty dishes and unique dining experiences. Check out these top spots when you’re eating out in Long Island.
First up is Peter’s Clam Bar, around since 1940. It’s famous for its fresh seafood and old-time charm. Peter’s Clam Bar offers classic clam meals, showing off Long Island’s rich sea culture.
Since 1994, LaMotta’s Dockside has provided meals by the water. Known for its seafood, it gives diners lovely views of Long Island’s shores.
Gatsby on the Ocean is special too, found by Jones Beach State Park’s boardwalk. With amazing ocean views and fine meals, it makes for a memorable meal. It celebrates the area’s beauty and flavors.
The Snapper Inn, open since 1929, is known for its top entrees and local seafood. Its dedication to quality and service keeps people coming back.
Restaurant | Established | Specialty | Location |
---|---|---|---|
Peter’s Clam Bar | 1940 | Clam Dishes | Long Island Shoreline |
LaMotta’s Dockside | 1994 | Seafood | Waterfront |
Gatsby on the Ocean | Jones Beach State Park | Oceanfront Views & Gourmet Dishes | Boardwalk |
The Snapper Inn | 1929 | Local Seafood | Riverside |
Don’t forget about The Freeport Inn & Marina’s “The Patio” for awesome seafood and tacos. Also, there’s Freeport’s Nautical Mile, filled with music and food. These spots have bars and outdoor seating with great water views, making dining even better.
Many of these great places also have live music, with bands playing. This mix of tasty food, history, and tunes makes dining out in Long Island a rich experience.
Conclusion
Long Island’s food scene celebrates its rich farms, ocean treasures, and various cultures. Places like Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton bring farm-to-table joy. You’ll also find fresh seafood at famous spots.
Famous chefs add flair with their unique dishes. Plus, there are great outdoor and family spots for everyone.
Dining in Long Island keeps getting better with places like Blackbird Kitchen & Cocktails and Limani. They focus on fresh Mediterranean food. The Old Mill Inn and other beautiful spots show off Long Island’s beauty. Feed Me’s Top 100 list also highlights the best eateries since 2013.
Looking for cozy comfort food, global dishes, or romantic dinners? Long Island’s restaurant reviews cover all this and more. From legendary places with history to new, trendy spots, there’s lots to discover. Simply, Long Island’s food adventure is growing, inviting everyone to try its amazing flavors.
FAQ
What are the top restaurants in Long Island, New York?
Long Island has many top-notch restaurants. You’ll find everything from fancy dining places to simple eateries. Favorites include Peter Luger Steak House, Sandbar, and The LakeHouse. They’re famous for great food and service.
What makes farm-to-table restaurants in Long Island unique?
Farm-to-table places in Long Island are special because they use local, fresh ingredients. This practice supports local farmers and ensures meals are delicious and nutritious. Places like North Fork Table & Inn and Jedediah Hawkins Inn are well-known for this.
Where can I find the best seafood in Long Island?
Long Island’s coastline means fresh seafood is easy to find. For top picks, try Nick & Toni’s and The Clam Bar. They offer fresh seafood dishes that make you feel close to the ocean.
Which Long Island restaurants offer global culinary experiences?
For international flavors, Long Island has much to offer. Besito serves authentic Mexican, Mirabelle Tavern has French dishes, Kashi offers Pan-Asian cuisine, and Vincent’s Clam Bar is known for Italian. These spots highlight Long Island’s diverse tastes.
Are there any celebrity chef restaurants in Long Island?
Yes, Long Island hosts restaurants by famous chefs like Tom Colicchio and Bobby Flay. These include Topping Rose House and Bobby’s Burger Palace. They’re recognized for creative dishes and using top-quality ingredients.
What are the best restaurants in Long Island for outdoor dining?
For beautiful views, check out The Montauk Yacht Club’s dining options. Prime – An American Kitchen and Bar offers garden and patio dining. Both places boast seasonal menus featuring local produce.
What are some family-friendly dining options in Long Island?
Long Island loves families. Spots like The Shed Restaurant and Toast Coffeehouse provide a friendly environment. Their menus have something for everyone, pleasing both adults and kids.
Where can I find romantic restaurants for a special night out in Long Island?
For a romantic outing, try Orto in Miller Place or Waterzooi in Garden City. Orto uses seasonal ingredients for a unique menu, while Waterzooi gives off a cozy vibe. Both are perfect for a special night.
Which restaurants in Long Island serve the best comfort food?
For traditional American food, Smokin’ Al’s and Big Daddy’s Restaurant are must-visits. They’re known for excellent barbecued ribs and creamy mac-and-cheese. The settings are cozy, making for a comforting dining experience.
What are the must-visit restaurants in Long Island, New York?
Be sure not to miss The Frisky Oyster and Artie’s South Shore Fish Market. The Frisky Oyster is well-known for seafood, while Artie’s offers famous fish and chips. They’re celebrated for their fresh takes on dining.