Unless you’re allergic to shellfish or harbor a deep-seated fear of the ocean, there’s little reason not to indulge in fresh seafood solo. It’s a simple pleasure that requires no justification. But when selecting your spot, demand these essentials: a breezy, coastal vibe, impeccable raw bar, sustainably sourced catches, and a crisp glass of something chilled. For the ultimate solo feast, start with these Yonkers gems.
Pizza Beat
$$ | (914) 961-4456 | WEBSITE
Just because a restaurant has been around for decades doesn’t guarantee it’s still worth visiting, and assuming so is often nostalgia talking. But Pizza Beat might actually prove you wrong. It’s in Yonkers, and looks like a classic neighborhood Italian joint that’s seen better days. It also happens to serve genuinely excellent food. Roberto, the server, is friendly and attentive, and the staff makes you feel welcome even if you haven’t been in 35 years.
On any given evening, it’s filled with families celebrating in the party room and regulars at the bar—and you’ll quickly realize that for many, this restaurant is their tradition. Order the minestrone soup or the chicken parmigiana, and you’ll understand why Pizza Beat has loyal customers who keep coming back.
Public Pizza Italian Restaurant & Bar
$$ | (914) 652-7611 | WEBSITE
The thought of ‘Yonkers seafood’ might bring to mind a disappointing plate of frozen fish sticks or a rubbery shrimp cocktail. But thankfully, that’s not what you’ll find at Public Pizza Italian Restaurant & Bar. This Italian-focused spot uses fresh ingredients to prepare dishes like clam pasta with a garlic white wine sauce, and penne vodka with tender chicken.
It’s not seafood as you might typically imagine it, but the warm lighting and friendly staff like Graziella make it a solid choice for your family dinner.
Off the Hook of Yonkers
$$ | (914) 457-3371 | WEBSITE
Did you just finish a long week and currently need a place to unwind with some soulful tunes and go fork-first into a pile of crispy catfish nuggets? Off the Hook of Yonkers has you covered. The atmosphere is mature yet welcoming, and the food is straightforward and reasonably priced—most plates cost around $15, and adding extra sides won’t be more than a few extra dollars. So after planning your next karaoke performance, this should be your next stop.
Sky Fish Market
$ | (914) 376-2220 | WEBSITE
This seafood market is situated in Yonkers, so it’s not surprising that Sky Fish Market has incredibly fresh offerings. But Sky Fish Market’s shrimp are also exceptional, like the plump, sweet shrimp with that satisfying snap or the perfectly cooked tilapia with savory veggie rice. There are plenty of options at the counter for you to enjoy a satisfying meal with both, and the friendly, hardworking staff is always happy to chat about the day’s catch and the ideal sides for each fish.
Caridad & Louie’s Restaurant
$ | (914) 375-9777 | WEBSITE
Caridad & Louie’s Restaurant is a straightforward, family-friendly spot in Yonkers, and it’s the kind of neighborhood seafood place you imagine locals visiting regularly. Grab a table with the pepper steak or the goat with white rice, along with a cold drink. A lot of the dishes come in generous portions, which is great if you want to share a plate. Just don’t expect perfect English from every server.
Red Lobster
$$ | (914) 965-7190 | WEBSITE
Red Lobster is a Yonkers seafood spot for fans of really consistent family meals. The dishes are a little less than its reputation for endless biscuits, but good in the scheme of chain restaurants with nautical décor and fishing nets hanging from the ceiling (of which Red Lobster very much is). Get the fish dish with broccoli substitution for fries that has a lot of flavor while being a little hot and fresh.
But you’re here most of all for a casual celebration with the family, or to see if servers like Millie and Mary Ann really have notes of ‘friendly hospitality.’
Lusitania
$$ | (914) 969-4600 | WEBSITE
Lusitania is like walking into a secret party. The exterior gives off dive-bar vibes, which makes the lively interior all the more surprising. As with many hidden gems, you might hesitate at the door, but we’re going to suggest you push right through. The paella, while not traditional in presentation, arrives on steaming hot plates with generous portions.
Come here for the energy, raise a glass during live music nights, and try to guess if that celebratory table is hosting a baby shower or sweet sixteen.
Ashburton Halal Fried Chicken
$ | (914) 613-8666 | WEBSITE
The only downside to Ashburton Halal Fried Chicken in Yonkers is that it’s hard to stop at just one visit once you’ve tried their food. But when you’re craving something quick and satisfying, it’s easy to grab a seat at one of their clean tables right away. Order any (or all) of their perfectly seasoned chicken dishes, particularly the halal fried chicken or the amazing lamb gyro. The sauce normally only comes with the gyro, but they offer it on the side if you ask, which you absolutely should.
Plus, when you sit near the counter you can watch the efficient staff work, and you can enjoy your meal and pretend that someday you’ll try making fried chicken even half as good as theirs.
Raceway Diner
$ | (914) 969-4343 | WEBSITE
Open since the early 2000s, Raceway Diner is meant to resemble a classic American roadside diner, which means you can come here and channel nostalgic family dinners or, you know, the modern version. And while the main dining area is cozy and full of families, the counter seating is where you want to be to have the fantastic chicken Parmesan. You can definitely have a nice soda here, but this place is also known for making great onion rings. Proceed accordingly.
Best Choice Jamaican Jerk & Seafood
$$ | (914) 294-0770 | WEBSITE
Best Choice Jamaican Jerk & Seafood is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal when you’re craving authentic Caribbean food. This Yonkers spot operates with counter service and has limited seating, but the welcoming vibe makes up for it. Dishes like the oxtails or curry goat with rice and peas run about $14–$18, placing them among the more affordable options in the area. You can customize your spice level, though I always stick with the classic jerk seasoning.
Best Choice shares that homey, no-frills feel with other local joints but stands out for its consistently friendly service and that must-try tropical island punch—just don’t expect to linger at a table.
El Marinero Restaurant
$$ | (914) 423-1840 | WEBSITE
We’ve long been huge fans of Ecuadorian cuisine, and El Marinero Restaurant in Yonkers is a hidden gem for authentic flavors. But right in the heart of the neighborhood is this welcoming spot that offers generous portions at affordable prices. Both the food and atmosphere are excellent choices, though the weekend specials are particularly lively with DJ nights and karaoke. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience enjoyable with surprises like birthday cakes.
Despite minor setbacks like the bathroom location, El Marinero is definitely worth a visit for those looking to explore traditional dishes like sopa de gallina, seco de chivo, and carne asada.
