One of the best things about living on Long Island? The food. From waterfront seafood shacks to cozy neighborhood Italian spots, we’ve got it all within a short drive. As someone who’s been exploring Long Island for years, I’ve put together this guide to help you discover the local favorites — whether you’re new to the area or just looking for your next great meal.
Long Island has hundreds of miles of coastline, and some of our best restaurants take full advantage of the views. There’s nothing quite like fresh seafood with a sunset over the Sound or the Great South Bay.
The LakeHouse — Bay Shore
A local favorite with stunning waterfront views and a menu that ranges from fresh oysters to prime steaks. Perfect for date night or a special celebration.
Prime: An American Kitchen & Bar — Huntington
Waterfront views meet quality steaks and seafood. Regulars rave about the filet mignon and the sunset views from the deck.
The Snapper Inn — Oakdale
A family-run seafood destination since 1929, right on the Connetquot River. Their king crab legs and Oysters Rockefeller are legendary. Deck seating is a must when the weather’s nice.
Grandpa Tony’s — East Rockaway
Italian classics with a gorgeous water view. Locals love their hearty portions and the live music nights. They also offer discounts for military, first responders, and educators.
Ocean — Bayville
Overlooking Long Island Sound with fresh seafood, sushi, and creative seasonal dishes. The outdoor deck is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, and Sunday live music sets the mood.
Wall’s Wharf — Bayville
Eighty years in business and still going strong. Choose between the cozy bar, the elegant dining room, or a table right on the beach.
Long Island has a deep Italian-American heritage, and our restaurants show it. Whether you’re craving homemade pasta, brick-oven pizza, or a classic veal parm, you’ll find it here.
Ficarra Ristorante — Hicksville
One of the newest additions to the Long Island Italian scene, Ficarra opened in 2025 and has already earned rave reviews. Named after the owner’s ancestral Sicilian town, it’s an upscale Italian-American experience with homemade pasta and a tiramisu that will make you close your eyes.
Barney’s — Locust Valley
Elevated American cuisine with strong French and Italian influences in a charming country inn setting. Their filet mignon has been voted the best on Long Island, and their famous Long Island Duck is a must-try.
A Taberna Restaurant & Bar — Island Park
Authentic Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere. The seafood platter and paella are standouts.
Weekend brunch is practically a Long Island tradition. Here’s where the locals go:
The Shed — Multiple Locations (Huntington, Westbury, Plainview)
Consistently voted the best brunch on Long Island. The rustic barn vibe pairs perfectly with their comfort food — think buttermilk pancakes, build-your-own omelets, and their signature Shed burger.
Thomas’s Ham & Eggery — Carle Place
Over 70 years of serving classic breakfast and brunch. Their Eggs Benedict served in a sizzling skillet is a local legend.
Nappi’s Nook — Nesconset
A newer spot that’s already earning loyal fans with whimsical lattes, over-the-top pancake stacks, and playful twists on brunch classics. Come hungry and bring your camera.
Maureen’s Kitchen — Smithtown
A family-run gem that Suffolk County locals have loved for over 20 years. Their chocolate chip pancakes are famous, and the warm, friendly atmosphere keeps people coming back.
The Garden City Hotel — Red Salt Room — Garden City
For a special occasion, the Sunday brunch buffet here is hard to beat. Made-to-order omelets, a seafood and sushi bar, and a dessert spread with a chocolate fountain.
Long Island’s dining scene keeps getting better. Here are some of the exciting new spots that opened in 2025:
The Foundry — Hicksville
Elevated American cuisine, creative cocktails, and one-of-a-kind décor. The attention to detail here has critics talking.
Royal Dim Sum — Westbury
Authentic Cantonese dim sum — think delicate shrimp dumplings and sizzling beef casseroles. A must-try for fans of Chinese cuisine.
MJ’s Kitchen — Selden
Asian fusion with a loyal following already. The Bang Bang Shrimp is a standout.
Black Pearl Seafood Chophouse — Port Jefferson
Located at Danford’s Hotel & Marina, Black Pearl offers harbor views, sizzling steaks, and a raw bar stocked with fresh oysters and shrimp cocktail.
Harvest House Tavern — Malverne
Farm-to-table comfort food with a focus on local ingredients and a warm, neighborhood feel.
Mark your calendar! Long Island Restaurant Week happens twice a year and features hundreds of restaurants offering special prix-fixe menus:
It’s a great way to try somewhere new without the full price tag. The next one runs January 25 – February 1, 2026.
These are just a few of the incredible dining options across Long Island. Whether you’re moving here or just visiting, one thing’s for sure — you’ll never run out of great places to eat.
Have a favorite spot I missed? I’d love to hear about it. Contact me and let me know your go-to restaurant!
Carolyn is a Long Island real estate agent who spends her weekends exploring the best restaurants, beaches, and hidden gems the island has to offer. Looking to make Long Island home? Let’s talk.
