Seafood Sensations: A Taste of the Ocean
Long Beach, New York, is a captivating destination renowned for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and increasingly, its diverse and delicious food scene. More than just a summer getaway, Long Beach is a year-round culinary adventure waiting to be savored. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor seeking an exceptional dining experience, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through Long Beach, highlighting the very best restaurants, cafes, and hidden culinary gems that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. From the freshest seafood pulled straight from the Atlantic to comforting Italian classics and innovative casual fare, Long Beach boasts a culinary landscape as dynamic and inviting as its iconic shoreline. Get ready to explore the best food Long Beach NY has to offer!
Long Beach’s prime coastal location guarantees access to an abundance of fresh, succulent seafood. Imagine savoring perfectly grilled fish while gazing out at the rolling waves, or indulging in a plate of expertly prepared shellfish as the salty breeze whispers through the air. The restaurants in this vibrant beach town understand the importance of utilizing the ocean’s bounty, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying. When searching for the best food Long Beach NY, exploring the seafood offerings is an absolute must.
The Lobster Shack
Nestled just a block from the beach on West Beech Street, The Lobster Shack is a Long Beach institution, renowned for its no-frills atmosphere and exceptionally fresh seafood. Don’t expect fancy decor here; the focus is entirely on the quality of the ingredients. The menu boasts an impressive array of lobster dishes, from classic lobster rolls overflowing with sweet, succulent meat to creamy lobster bisque perfect for a chilly evening. Their steamed clams and mussels are also consistently praised. The Lobster Shack is the ideal spot for a casual lunch or dinner after a day spent soaking up the sun. The price range is moderate, making it an accessible option for families and budget-conscious travelers. The Lobster Shack is widely considered among the best food Long Beach NY because of its dedication to freshness and simple, yet delicious preparations.
Ocean View Bistro
For a more upscale seafood dining experience, head to Ocean View Bistro on the boardwalk. As the name suggests, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, creating a romantic and unforgettable ambiance. The menu features a sophisticated selection of seafood dishes, including pan-seared scallops with truffle risotto, grilled swordfish with roasted vegetables, and a signature seafood paella brimming with lobster, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Ocean View Bistro also boasts an extensive wine list to perfectly complement your meal. Expect to pay a higher price here, but the combination of exquisite food, breathtaking views, and impeccable service makes it well worth the splurge. It is often cited as offering some of the best food Long Beach NY when considering ambiance alongside the cuisine.
The Crab House
Located on Long Beach Road, The Crab House is a family-friendly restaurant specializing in – you guessed it – crab! They offer a wide variety of crab preparations, from classic steamed crabs with Old Bay seasoning to crab cakes, crab legs, and creamy crab dips. The atmosphere is lively and casual, perfect for a fun night out with friends or family. The Crab House is known for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying and budget-friendly seafood meal. While perhaps less refined than Ocean View Bistro, it offers an authentic and enjoyable crab experience that cements its place among the best food Long Beach NY.
Italian Indulgence: A Taste of Tradition
Italian cuisine holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs!) of many, and Long Beach NY is home to several exceptional Italian restaurants that capture the essence of traditional flavors while adding their own unique touches. From comforting pasta dishes to crispy pizzas and hearty meat entrees, the Italian restaurants in Long Beach offer something for everyone. Discovering these gems is a key element in experiencing the best food Long Beach NY.
Luigi’s Trattoria
A Long Beach institution for over two decades, Luigi’s Trattoria on Park Avenue is a family-owned and operated restaurant that serves up authentic Italian cuisine with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Luigi himself can often be found greeting guests and ensuring that everyone has a memorable dining experience. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, including homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty meat entrees like veal parmigiana and chicken marsala. Their tiramisu is a must-try for dessert. Luigi’s Trattoria is moderately priced and consistently earns rave reviews for its delicious food and exceptional service, making it a strong contender for the best food Long Beach NY in the Italian category.
Pizza D’Oro
If you’re craving authentic Neapolitan pizza, look no further than Pizza D’Oro on West Park Avenue. This cozy pizzeria uses only the finest ingredients, including imported San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, to create pizzas that are bursting with flavor. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy crust and a perfectly charred exterior. In addition to classic Margherita and pepperoni pizzas, Pizza D’Oro also offers a selection of specialty pizzas with unique toppings. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Pizza D’Oro is reasonably priced and consistently praised for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, solidifying its place among the best food Long Beach NY for pizza lovers.
Rosa’s Restaurant
For a more modern take on Italian cuisine, visit Rosa’s Restaurant on East Park Avenue. This stylish restaurant offers a sophisticated menu featuring creative pasta dishes, innovative seafood entrees, and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion. Rosa’s Restaurant is known for its impeccable service and attention to detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience. While pricier than Luigi’s or Pizza D’Oro, the elevated cuisine and elegant atmosphere make it a strong contender for the best food Long Beach NY in the fine dining Italian category.
Casual Eats and Beach Bites: Fueling Your Fun
Sometimes, all you need is a quick, delicious bite to eat after a day at the beach. Long Beach NY has plenty of casual eateries and beachside cafes that offer a variety of tasty options, from burgers and tacos to sandwiches and ice cream. These spots are perfect for grabbing a quick lunch, a refreshing snack, or a satisfying dinner without breaking the bank. When seeking the best food Long Beach NY, don’t overlook these more relaxed options!
Boardwalk Burgers
No trip to Long Beach is complete without a burger from Boardwalk Burgers. Located directly on the boardwalk, this casual eatery serves up juicy, flavorful burgers made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can customize your burger with a variety of toppings, including cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Boardwalk Burgers also offers a selection of fries, onion rings, and milkshakes. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, perfect for enjoying a casual meal with friends or family while taking in the ocean views. Boardwalk Burgers is affordably priced and consistently praised for its delicious burgers and convenient location, earning its spot among the best food Long Beach NY for a quick and satisfying bite.
Long Beach Taco
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Long Beach Taco on Beech Street. This casual eatery serves up delicious tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos made with fresh, flavorful ingredients. You can choose from a variety of fillings, including carne asada, pollo asado, carnitas, and vegetarian options. Long Beach Taco also offers a selection of Mexican beers and sodas. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Long Beach Taco is affordably priced and consistently praised for its authentic Mexican flavors and friendly service, making it a strong contender for the best food Long Beach NY for taco lovers.
Sundae Donuts
After all of that great savory food, you’ll need something sweet! Sundae Donuts on West Park Avenue is a Long Beach staple known for it’s decadent, homemade, and unique donuts. Don’t expect to find a plain glazed donut here; you’re more likely to see creations topped with cookies, candy, and cereal! You can also get ice cream at Sundae Donuts, making it the perfect place to bring the kids after a day at the beach or a nice meal.
Breakfast and Brunch Bliss: Starting Your Day Right
Long Beach NY offers a variety of breakfast and brunch options to help you start your day off right. From classic diners serving up hearty breakfasts to trendy cafes offering healthy and innovative brunch dishes, there’s something for everyone.
The Coffee Pot
A Long Beach institution, The Coffee Pot on Long Beach Road is known for its classic diner atmosphere and generous portions of breakfast favorites. Expect fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, perfectly cooked eggs, and bottomless cups of coffee. The Coffee Pot is a great place to fuel up for a day of exploring Long Beach. It is moderately priced and extremely popular, solidifying its place as providing some of the best food Long Beach NY has for breakfast.
The Beach House
For a more upscale brunch experience, head to The Beach House on the boardwalk. This stylish restaurant offers a menu featuring creative brunch dishes, such as avocado toast with poached eggs, lemon ricotta pancakes, and breakfast burritos with chorizo and black beans. The Beach House also offers a selection of brunch cocktails, such as mimosas and Bloody Marys. While a bit pricier than The Coffee Pot, the creative menu and stunning ocean views make it a worthwhile splurge.
Fine Dining Experiences: A Touch of Elegance
For a special occasion or a romantic night out, Long Beach NY offers several fine dining restaurants that deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
Lost at Sea
This intimate restaurant on West Beech Street offers a refined seafood experience. With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and artful plating, Lost at Sea is a culinary gem. The ambiance is sophisticated and romantic. Expect a higher price point, but the quality and presentation justify the cost, especially for a special occasion.
A Hidden Gem: The Surf Shack
Tucked away on a quiet side street near the beach, The Surf Shack is a local favorite known for its incredible fish tacos and laid-back atmosphere. This unassuming shack serves up some of the freshest and most flavorful fish tacos in Long Beach, made with grilled mahi-mahi, cabbage slaw, and a spicy chipotle sauce. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick and delicious lunch after a surf session or a day at the beach.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Long Beach, NY, is more than just a beautiful beach town; it’s a thriving culinary destination with something to offer every palate. From fresh seafood and authentic Italian cuisine to casual beach bites and elegant fine dining, Long Beach’s diverse food scene is sure to impress. When you want the best food Long Beach NY, this guide provides a solid foundation for exploration. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Long Beach, be sure to explore these amazing restaurants and discover your own favorite culinary gems! Long Beach is where the ocean meets the plate, creating an unforgettable dining experience and consistently demonstrating why it’s a must-visit destination for food lovers. Happy dining!
