Fire Island is the quintessential getaway destination, and no such place would be complete without great dining options. In this article, we’ll touch on the best bars and restaurants that Fire Island has to offer. Each establishment has been selected based on the quality of the food, service, location and atmosphere.
CJ’s Restaurant and Bar
CJ’s Restaurant and Bar is the perfect spot for a good meal and tropical drinks in a laid-back, bar-like atmosphere. Located in Ocean Beach, CJ’s offers American style dishes and great seafood. During the summer months, music is commonplace at CJ’s, making it a festive, lively spot to hangout with family and friends.
Rachel’s Bakery and Restaurant
This is a little expensive for casual dining, but the delicious comfort food and great service makes it worthwhile place to enjoy a world-class brunch. Rachel’s most notable specialties would include the pancakes, coffee and crumble cake.
Flynn’s
Located in Ocean Beach, Flynn’s is famous for their happy hour and is an ideal place for an evening drink. Live music is the norm and is accompanied by breathtaking views. The cuisine is typical for Fire Island; grilled food and especially seafood. The crowd at Flynn’s fills in after sunset, making it ideal for a festive outing. Keep in mind that they only accept cash.
Top of the Bay
Situated in Cherry Grove, Fire Island’s Top of the Bay is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset dinner. Offering fine American as well as International cuisine, they offer a luxurious atmosphere with live music. Both their service and cocktails are superb. During the summer months, be sure to make a reservation.
The Pines Bistro
The Pines Bistro is regarded as Fire Island’s premiere Italian restaurant. Located in Ocean Beach, their food and service are excellent, and their countless, stellar reviews paint the picture. Be sure to try the martini!
Hideaway Restaurant
Overlooking the Great South Bay, the Hideaway Restaurant proposes fresh seafood and American style dishes. The beautiful view of the bay is priceless, and offers an exquisitely unique dining experience. Hideaway Restaurant is ideal for romantic dinners or for a special night out with the whole family.
Albatross
A local favorite, Albatross has been going strong for several decades. It’s a perfect place for a quick drink, a game of darts, or a bit to eat. Albatross is complete with a full bar, outdoor patio, fresh seafood, raw oysters and other American style food. You can’t go wrong, but “Don’t Swing the Lights”!
Sand Castle
Cherry Grove’s gay owned and operated Sand Castle is one of only two oceanfront restaurants in all of Fire Island. They offer a multitude of dishes with an emphasis on seafood. Lunch at Sand Castle is more casual, but any time of day is ideal to sit at the “sand bar” to enjoy any of their signature cocktails. Notable opportunities at Sand Castle would include their Sunday morning breakfast, and the piano bar on Friday and Saturday nights.
Chef Grant’s cuisine reflects her belief that eating good local food strengthens our health, sustains our economy and supports the community. At Sand Castle, you can expect fresh, organic ingredients.
Island Mermaid
Situated in the dead center of Ocean Beach, The Island Mermaid is the epitome of waterfront dining. It is a landmark destination to enjoy a night out with friends and family. Truly masters of their craft, the Island Mermaid’s chefs use only the freshest ingredients that are seasonally available.
Fire Island Tap
Located in Kismet’s Maragarita Villas, Fire Island Tap serves craft beer, strong coffee, unique wines, and tapas. You’ll enjoy a friendly, casual atmosphere. Fire Island Tap is the perfect place to relax after a day at the beach. This is also a great place to go out for breakfast!
Floyd’s
Floyd’s in Cherry Grove is known for their hearty breakfasts and dinners. This is a relaxing place with outdoor seating where you know you’ll enjoy great food and stellar service. Be sure to try the Famous Egg Sandwich!
Castaway Bar & Grill
Castaway Bar & Grill in Ocean Beach is a casual tavern with typical American grub & seafood, plus a full bar with TVs & raw bar happy hours. The varied menu is excellent and reasonably priced.
Schooner Inn
Ocean Beach’s Schooner Inn, established in 1973, is a relaxed pub grub destination near the ferry. They offer reasonably priced, great food and drink in a family-friendly, comfortable atmosphere. Schooner Inn has also made the list of the top 10 Unique Bars in New York by Best of AmericanTowns.
The Schooner is Fire Island’s only restaurant that has its own white sandy beach on the Great South Bay. They’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Town Pizza
Many consider Town Pizza in Ocean Beach to be the home of the best pizza on Fire Island. They’ve been an institution for several decades, and if you pay them a visit, you’ll see why!
The Landing at Ocean Beach
The Landing offers high quality food with fresh, local ingredients and great service. Their covered deck overlooks the Great South Bay, and the dining room decor makes for an authentic atmosphere. This is a perfect place for brunch or dinner, and the specialty cocktails, craft beer list and wine selection are certainly worth exploring.
In Conclusion
Fire Island’s bars & restaurants encapsulate the seaside ambience and complete any excursion to Fire Island. Keep in mind that some Fire Island businesses listed in this article are open seasonally, so be sure to call ahead if you plan on going out to enjoy a drink or meal in the off-season.