If you think Island Park is just a sleepy seaside hamlet, think again. This Long Island gem is where you’ll find some of the freshest seafood on the East Coast and a laid-back vibe that pairs perfectly with everything from a casual dockside clam shack to an elegant Italian trattoria. Here, great flavor is in, while any hint of pretension is out.
Panda House
$ | (516) 897-8888 | WEBSITE
Come for the best chicken and broccoli in Island Park, stay for the staff that knows your order and acts like they’ve been eagerly waiting for you to walk in the door. In fact, it’s not unusual to feel like everyone’s a regular here—servers seem to know their customers’ favorites or at least have recommendations ready to go. Maximize your enjoyment by grabbing a table near the kitchen and chatting with the friendly team about what dishes they love or their secret to perfectly crispy dumplings.
This is our go-to spot for going to town on Chinese classics and appetizers, both of which consistently delight us, including their bao buns, a satisfying savory mix of fluffy steamed bread, tender pork filling, and a sweet hoisin glaze finisher.
Jordan Lobster Farms
$$ | (516) 889-3314 | WEBSITE
Even though you’re in Island Park rather than the coast of Maine, this bustling seafood spot will do its best to convince you that you’re dockside in a New England fishing village. Start with their steamers and a bowl of the NE chowder before digging into a full lobster cooked to perfection and served with attentive, friendly service. The cozy restaurant has nautical-themed decor and a spotless interior where you can watch the dedicated staff prepare seafood all evening.
Just know you’ll need to arrive early or be patient with street parking due to its popularity, especially on nice days when the outdoor seating offers better ambiance.
Fruit Warehouse Deli
$ | (516) 897-0259 | WEBSITE
Fruit Warehouse Deli has a terrific weekly sale every Thursday where you can stock up on essentials like discounted avocados and fresh bread. They also keep those deals going through the weekend, so it’s a great place to grab staples like lettuce, celery, and seasonal fruits. The interior feels like a bustling neighborhood market filled with wooden crates, produce displays, and friendly chatter.
They also do a phenomenal selection of fresh eggs and candy—the seasonal berries with their own salad dressing often inspire us to make a special trip.
Dunkin’
$ | (516) 432-4924 | WEBSITE
Dunkin’ might be a chain, but this Island Park location feels like it’s frozen in a simpler time when coffee shops were just about good coffee and friendly service. It’s also where you’ll find the neighborhood’s go-to spot for grabbing breakfast or treating yourself to a morning pick-me-up. The menu stays consistent, but you’ll always get excellent coffee that’s better than usual and delicious croissants with egg and cheese prepared exactly as requested.
It’s a lot of comfort food in a spotlessly clean space, and all the efficient service and welcoming staff might momentarily distract you from that parking challenge due to the dumpsters out back. They also do solid donuts and espresso if you’re looking for some morning treats to start your day.
Dox
$$ | (516) 992-2222 | WEBSITE
Right on the water in Island Park, Dox is our go-to spot for summer dining. We make a tradition of bringing our favorite boat-owning friends (you’re welcome!) to experience the steak tidbits that are incredibly popular, just so we can watch them relax with a drink while taking in the beautiful view of the bay. Both the casual outdoor atmosphere and cool music pair perfectly with generous portions and excellent service, and their accommodating staff may also be the best in town.
There’s always going to be a crowd at this pet-friendly restaurant, so dock your boat, enjoy the lively ambiance, and soak up the waterfront-meets-party room vibes.
Jimmy Hays Steak House
$$$$ | (516) 432-5155 | WEBSITE
This Long Island steakhouse serves a satisfying dinner and a classic menu that’s the real standout. They’re not playing it safe for steak lovers either. When we were there, the menu had ribeye steak, shrimp scampi, and a Gorgonzola bread with bacon that we’re still thinking about. The dining area is warm and inviting, with dark wood and soft lighting creating that perfect old-time steakhouse feel.
The staff claims the service is phenomenal, which totally tracks when you’re sipping a cocktail and watching regulars enjoy what might be the best Beef Wellington they’ve ever had. We’re still connecting the dots between the market salad with red roquefort dressing and the expertly prepared entrees that arrive at just the right temperature for each guest.
A Taberna
$$ | (516) 432-0455 | WEBSITE
A Taberna looks and feels like a classic neighborhood restaurant, but the menu sure says otherwise. And unlike other neighborhood spots, the seafood is the best thing here and should make up most of your meal. Order the seafood soup starter (with fresh shrimp, monkfish, and clams in a rich broth), Chicken A Taberna, and monkfish with champagne sauce. If you must eat some dessert, you’ll never be disappointed by their wow-inducing finales or the generous portions throughout.
Stop by for a celebratory dinner in one of their welcoming booths, or just hit the updated bar for a unique and special cocktail.
Outback Steakhouse
$$ | (516) 897-8989 | WEBSITE
At Outback Steakhouse in Island Park, the atmosphere is lively, the TVs are playing sports highlights or classic rock music, and the hearty American fare is consistently satisfying. Come for a reliable casual dinner, where you’ll share the space with families and couples celebrating simple nights out. For us, it’s all about the steak and lobster combo that, at around $45, delivers one of the most generous (and well-executed) meals in Island Park.
The managers regularly check tables to ensure your experience meets their “above and beyond” standards, while servers like Emily, Brandon, and Priscilla provide the attentive service that makes this location stand out.
East Coast Roast Coffee
$$ | (888) 393-9926 | WEBSITE
This Island Park coffee roaster offers an outstanding selection of freshly roasted beans, with a variety of origins and roasts to choose from. Start with the Costa Rican-Tarrazu, which has an exceptional and luxurious flavor, plus a conversation with Richard about the roasting process. He started as a passionate one-man operation, so the simple counter, burlap sacks of beans, and industrial roaster keep the space feeling authentic.
We’ve learned the hard way not to visit without calling first, as we always leave caffeinated, educated, and eager to return for more.
Peter’s Clam Bar
$$ | (516) 432-0505 | WEBSITE
Peter’s Clam Bar is one of Island Park’s go-to waterfront seafood spots, but they also have outdoor seating right on the water that’s a better view and more relaxed. It’s first-come, first-served, most of the dishes like clam strips and crab cake platters are under $30, and there’s always a chance to see wildlife from your table. Just know that if you get a table too close to the water, you’ll start to feel like part of the scenery. (Former boaters, please restrain yourself.)
EVOO Deli
$ | (516) 226-3115 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for some fresh (and tasty) comfort food on a busy morning, EVOO Deli is the answer. The deli is in a clean, welcoming space, so while they’re not serving fancy dinners, they do make one of the best waffles in town (chocolate chips and hazelnut sauce were once considered dessert, right?). Order the amazing wrap to start, then the delicious sandwich for a main.
They also have a friendly staff that serves a variety of fresh salads, tasty breakfast options, and accommodating special requests.
Naqs Halal Food- Island Park
$ | (516) 608-9747 | WEBSITE
We love exploring the hidden gems of Island Park, which feels especially welcoming after a long day at the beach or running errands. There’s no better place to refuel with hearty, satisfying food than Naqs Halal Food. This clean, friendly spot makes us feel right at home, lulling us into ordering our usual favorites during lunch breaks over the best chicken over rice in town. Their consistently fresh menu also has tons of delicious options like moist lamb over rice and crispy fries.
It’s a great launching pad for a busy afternoon, too, since the quick service and reasonable prices mean we can grab a generous portion and get back to our day without breaking the bank.
Arties South Shore Fish Market and Grill
$$ | (516) 889-0692 | WEBSITE
The South Shore region of Island Park might not immediately conjure up images of fresh-caught seafood and bustling fish markets, but Arties South Shore Fish Market and Grill is one of the best seafood spots in New York. Many seafood lovers make the trip just to enjoy the sesame-encrusted tuna, stuffed filet of sole, or broiled halibut.
The staff is friendly and expert, meaning you’re in good hands no matter the occasion: we’ve seen solo diners enjoying homemade coleslaw over clams and families celebrating over oysters. Arties also functions as a seafood market, giving customers the chance to buy the freshest seafood from all over, with prices around $25-$40 for entrees in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Red Label Coffee Co.
$ | (516) 544-6156 | WEBSITE
Wander through Island Park’s quiet streets and you’ll stumble upon Red Label Coffee Co., one of the coziest local spots in town. After admiring the clean, minimalist interior with its warm wood accents, grab a seat at the counter, watch the baristas work their magic, and prepare for a delightful surprise. Once you’re settled, order the pecan pie latte, pistachio brew, or their signature s’mores creation.
Then, observe as they pull shots with precision and craft each drink with care, never spilling a drop despite the quick pace. You should also try their rotating muffin selection—they change flavors regularly, keeping every visit fresh and exciting, and go all-out with the presentation.
Davinci’s
$$ | (516) 889-3939 | WEBSITE
Davinci’s is the family-friendly Italian spot we aspire to be regulars at. They have cozy booth and table seating, so everyone gets a comfortable experience enjoying hearty meals made from the freshest ingredients around. Definitely order the chicken scarp and pork chop Gabriela, but don’t miss the eggplant stack or the perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts. Their menu has excellent pastas, entrees, and the highly acclaimed pizza.
Ask about the live music, too, as it sometimes makes an appearance during weekend dinners.
Aura Coastal Mediterranean
$$$ | (516) 208-7535 | WEBSITE
Aura Coastal Mediterranean is a classy spot owned by the same group behind several Island Park establishments, one of the many local restaurants that claim to do fresh Mediterranean cuisine best. Aura is the only place to get poached salmon nicoise and a $14 happy hour glass of rosé, though. Sure, it can get loud with music, like a stylish, upscale bistro with a dining room buzzing with group energy—’let the feast begin’—but the food is worth dealing with the noise.
Their pancakes with maple butter and pistachio are a near-perfect breakfast dish and would give any brunch favorite a run for its money. Seafood lovers and those seeking fresh flavors will find a lot to love too, like their fantastic poached salmon nicoise or other delicious Mediterranean dishes. We order their pancakes, salmon nicoise, and other fantastic dishes and savor them with the lively atmosphere as our go-to group gathering spot.
Gran Paradiso
$$$ | (516) 432-1200 | WEBSITE
Gran Paradiso is the best Italian meal you’ll have on Long Island that’s not seafood. Every time we eat here, we find ourselves going full Owen Wilson (“wow!”) while eating dishes like creamy fettuccine alfredo, wood-fired margherita pizza, and grilled branzino with lemon butter. This space is covered in charming Italian murals—yes, vineyards and coastal scenes (it’s lovely, we promise)—which makes the place feel oddly right for a family dinner or just posting up for a nice meal at the bar.
Go ahead and make a separate reservation for winter, spring, summer, and fall while you’re here—you’ll probably never try the same special twice.
