Top 5 Waterfront Restaurants in Long Island!!!

Greetings everyone! Hope that you are enjoying this fabulous summer as well as the food and activities that come along with it. If you and your family are looking for some restaurants/ events by the water, I have some recommendations that are definitely worth trying.

1. Salt Shack in Babylon NY: 
Salt Shack is a bar and grill environment that offers live music, assorted drinks for the table, and a laid back view of Cedar Beach. This bar works well with a group of friends, coworkers, and a way to socialize and meet people within your age group. As well as having a great selection of food and cocktails, there are multiple volleyball courts and a great area to take photos if you haven't taken a sunset picture for the summer. A great choice of food that I personally had here was the Chicken Caesar Wrap with a good pairing of a light beer or a menu item called "Titos Transfusion" for the ladies which offers Titos vodka, fresh fruit and a mix of juices. Salt shack is also wheelchair accessible and open to all age groups. A fun night out is definitely worth taking and I believe this place has much to offer if you want to step outside your comfort zone.

2. SALT in Merrick NY
Even though "salt" is a common theme within this article, I believe the restaurant SALT is a great recommendation for a date night as it is less vibrant and more casual as opposed to the last spot. This restaurant offers a mix of different foods including pasta, seafood and chops. Based off their menu, I firmly believe their Twin Lobster Rolls and Thai Calamari are a great option if you want to broaden your palette within the ocean and try a dash of spice. If you also want the full beach experience, I suggest trying the Bay Rum Punch as it is often ordered in the heat driven months of July and August. This place is a step up from Salt Shack as it is affordable, but won't break the bank. It offers live music, private parties for a different vibe if you want to enjoy a good conversation while eating. The real question you should ask yourself is " does it get any better than a breathtaking view and some exquisite food?" Find out for yourself and try this restaurant out.

3. The Lakehouse Great South Bay in Bayshore, NY
The phrase "it's a classic" can be used describing many things and I can say the same with The Lakehouse. This restaurant offers a medley of foods including gourmet salads, fresh seafood and your choice of a variety of chops. For a reasonable price, I highly recommend getting dressed up for a night or par take in a double date over some fine food and a view of the Great South Bay. If you'd rather dine indoor or outdoor, there is a fireplace setting inside to set the mood in a more inclusive location. An item on the menu that is grabbing my attention is the lemon rosemary chicken as well as warm cinnamon doughnuts for dessert. It's never too late to indulge a homemade dessert! This place will send you off feeling satisfied, overjoyed, and buying a gift card for others to enjoy. This is a must try for the summer.

4. Harbor Mist in Cold Springs Harbor NY
A good restaurant in my eyes is categorized in 3 sections. Good food, service, and a stunning view. This place exceeds these expectations as it offers outstanding Italian food, steak, and seafood. if you don't believe me, the proof lies within Restaurant Guru 2024 rating best service and Best of Long Island's Clam Chowder. Harbor Mist offers a spacious dining experience, catering menus for big parties, and is also used for Uber Eats and Door Dash for customers who prefer the at home dining experience. A good item on the menu that is a must try is the Braised Short Ribs accompanied by a Cabernet Red Wine. This place is affordable for all ages.  If you are looking for a comfortable environment as well as quality food, I highly suggest this because it is fancy while providing that "homey" feel. Grab a drink and take that family photo your mother has been dying to take.

5. View in Oakdale, NY
My final recommendation of the day will be the best saved for last. View is considered to be a very elegant and memorable place. As it serves a raw bar as well as the finest of fish and a unique side of truffle risotto. Known for its daily and affordable specials Monday through Friday, View provides a setting for brunch, dinner, as well as a spot for a wedding and private events. The food at View is prepared by two executive chef's who are willing to go above and beyond for your dining experience. Over the years, this place has been rewarded and rated by "The Knot" for weddings, "Wine Spectator" for alcoholic beverages, and "Dinners Choice" for 2024 and 2025. If you want to splurge for the day and have a lovely experience with the family or a significant other, I highly recommend diving into this wonderful and everlasting journey. 

I hoped you all enjoyed my input on some dining restaurants within Long Island! During summertime, I often feel the need to get out of the house and take advantage of the temperature whether that be an indoor or outdoor experience. These 5 places have provided great food, service, and incredible memories to last a lifetime. I hope you give these restaurants a shot and I look forward to sharing more news and opinions with you!