Where Great Food Meets Great Views

There is something magical about dining beside the water on Long Island. Maybe it’s the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore, the gentle breeze engulfing our faces, or the spectacular sunsets that seem to pause time for just a few moments. Whatever it is, waterfront dining here isn’t simply about enjoying a meal. It’s about experiencing the beauty of waterfront dining that makes living on Long Island so special.

We are fortunate to be surrounded by bays, harbors, inlets, rivers, and the Atlantic Ocean, creating some of the most beautiful restaurant settings anywhere in New York. The best part is that there is certainly no shortage of them. From the East End to the North Shore and all along the South Shore, waterfront restaurants are nestled throughout our Long Island towns and villages. Each one offers its own unique charm, breathtaking views, and memorable dining experiences. If you’re celebrating a milestone, enjoying a romantic evening, planning a family day, or simply meeting friends for lunch, these waterfront gems remind us why summer on Long Island is unlike anywhere else.

One of Long Island’s newest coastal treasures is Saylor Beach House in Greenport. Nestled along the waterfront, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant captures the relaxed charm of the North Fork. Fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, dockside seating, and breathtaking sunsets create the perfect setting to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the beauty surrounding us. The restaurant embraces locally sourced ingredients and an easy beach-house atmosphere that feels like a mini vacation. Taylor Dane, the three-time Grammy-nominated singer, is one of the owners of Saylor Beach House. She coordinates (no surprise here) all the music to reflect the rhythm of the day. Be prepared to have a great time. www.saylorbeachhouse.com

On the South Fork in Hampton Bays, RUMBA Island Inspired Cuisine & Rum Bar transports diners to the Caribbean without ever leaving Long Island. Palm trees sway overhead, tropical drinks arrive adorned with colorful garnishes, and every table seems to have a front-row seat to the water. It’s impossible not to relax while enjoying island-inspired cuisine as boats glide across the bay and live music fills the evening air on weekends. Take a short stroll down to their pier, where you will find comfortable swings for you to reflect in as you overlook the calming waters of the Shinnecock Bay. www.tasterumba.com

For those looking for a lively beach atmosphere, The Sunset Club at Tappen Beach in Sea Cliff offers exactly what its name promises. Sitting directly on the sand overlooking Hempstead Harbor, this North Shore favorite combines casual coastal dining with nightly live music, colorful sunsets, and the carefree feeling that summer should never end. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or lingering into the evening, it’s one of those places where conversations naturally last a little longer. It is a very family-friendly restaurant. Make a whole day out of it. Before dinner, bring the kids for an afternoon swim, build some sandcastles, and let them have fun in the playground next to the restaurant. It’s a fabulous way to spend a summer day with your favorite little people. www.thesunsetclub.fun

Then, for an upscale vibe, there’s Mill Pond Steak & Seafood in Centerport, where elegance meets waterfront charm. Overlooking the peaceful Mill Pond, diners can enjoy premium steaks, fresh seafood, sushi, and a raw bar while taking in serene water views from both the dining room and the expansive outdoor patio. This 100-year-old colonial is as rich in history as the flavor of the locally sourced food. It is the epitome of fine dining and is equally perfect for a special celebration or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable evening.

www.millpondrestaurant.com

Of course, these are only a few of the incredible waterfront restaurants that grace our shores. From Montauk to Port Washington, from the Great South Bay to the North Fork, Long Island offers countless places where exceptional food meets unforgettable scenery. Every harbor seems to have its own hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Over the next few weeks, I’ll let you know about some of the other hidden gems.

Do you have a favorite waterfront restaurant that you’d like to let me know about? Please email me at andreapeponakis@gmail.com and let me know. I’d love to try it out and feature it in my column.

As summer reaches its peak, perhaps this is the perfect time to gather family or friends, leave your phone in your pocket for a while (unless you’re taking a photo), order something fresh from the sea, and watch the sun slowly disappear below the horizon. Sometimes the best memories aren’t made on expensive vacations. They are made right here at home, with a delicious meal, a spectacular view, and the people we love.