Craving a waterfront view? The South Shore of Long Island has plenty of options, including VIEW in Oakdale (above). • Photo courtesy of VIEW
Now that August has arrived, I find myself wondering what ever happened to July? I’m shocked by the startling pace in which summer is whizzing past me. All I can think of is my desire to dig my heels into the sand and force summer to slow down. My longing for an endless summer doesn’t stem from my love of the weather but from the love of my children’s company.
For me, summer means spending long days swimming in the pool, building sand castles at the beach and eating our weight in ice cream. Our days in the sun leave us peaceful and content, wondering what kind of adventure the next day will bring. After a week filled with sun, sand and salt my favorite way to start the weekend is with a family dinner at one of Long Island’s many waterfront restaurants.
There is nothing more relaxing than watching the boats pass by and hearing the waves lapping against the bulkhead as you enjoy a tasty meal. With young children, we prefer to make our reservations early, at the start of the dinner service. That way we can relax and enjoy the view before the livelier crowds show up. Before summer ends, we are looking forward to visiting as many of these bay front restaurants as we can!
Here are some local favorites:
Tres Palms is described as a great little hideaway, with waterfront dining on the Great South Bay year-round. Views of the Robert Moses bridge are complemented by the welcoming staff and upbeat atmosphere. Tres Palms takes pride in their use of fresh beef and poultry that is hormone and antibiotic free. Reviewers rave about the fish and chips, lobster mac and cheese and coconut martinis!
Tres Palms Restaurant, 16 East Court, Babylon, NY 11702 (631) 482-1465
Fatfish is high on my list of restaurants to visit this summer. The food is described as consistently fresh and delicious with a friendly and attentive staff. The crab cakes, empanadas and the entire tapas menu make quite the lasting impression on diners. Enjoy warm summer breezes on their wraparound deck as you enjoy the stunning view.
Fatfish Wine Bar & Bistro, 28 Cottage Ave, Bay Shore, NY 11706 (631) 666-2899
https://www.instagram.com/p/BXMFjYyBfdb/?tagged=baysideclambar
A bay front restaurant that serves breakfast on the weekends? Sign me up. Breakfast just happens to be my kid’s favorite meal of the day! I can’t wait to enjoy Bayside Clam Bar & Grill’s Jamaican Rum Raisin French Toast as my kids devour the Bayside Pancakes. After you’ve eaten your fill, take a coffee to go while the kids play on the swings!
Bayside Clam Bar & Grill, 300 Bayview Ave, East Islip, NY 11730, (631) 277-9100
The name truly says it all, with breathtaking views of the Great South Bay. Located in Oakdale, diners can enjoy top-notch seafood year-round. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can cozy up next to one of three roaring fireplaces inside. Make sure you try Thai Calamari, Braised Short Ribs or the Steamed Mussels.
The View, 3 Consuelo Place, Oakdale, NY 11769, (631) 589-2694
If you are looking for a casual dining experience with a fun, easy-going vibe, Kingston’s Clam Bar is your place. Situated on the water in West Sayville, the outdoor deck is stone’s throw from the marina. Be sure to try the Lobster Roll, Crab Cakes or the Kingston Clam Bake.
130 Atlantic Ave., West Sayville, NY (631) 589-0888, 11796
If you are looking for a waterside restaurant that has a beachy, laid back, family friendly vibe, look no further. Drift 82 specializes in fresh seafood and American cuisine. Enjoy the outstanding seafood tower for two, as you watch the boats cruising in and out of the harbor.
Drift 82, 82 Brightwood Street, Patchogue, NY 11772, (631) 714-4950
