Named after a small volcanic island off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, Réunion calls itself a “French surf bar” and the description is pretty spot on, minus the French. Owner, surfer, and resterauneur Thomas Wilson (of Mas (farmhouse) fame) reunited with some old buddies to bring you things like the Dodo dog and the Shark Fry tacos, along with slushy frozen drinks that’ll have you singing “Tiny Bubbles” in no time.
(image via alwayshungry)
630 9th Avenue (Hell’s Kitchen)
212-582-3200
Matt Abramcyk has become a well-known name in the city as owner of the (sadly now-defunct) anything-goes Beatrice Inn, West Village speakeasy eatery Employees Only, Smith & Mills, and upscale sports bar Warren 77 (Sean Avery is a co-owner). He’s expanded his empire with Tiny’s and the Bar Upstairs, housed in a Tribeca townhouse. Go for dinner, stay for many, many drinks.
(image via T Magazine)
Tiny’s & The Bar Upstairs
135 W. Broadway (Tribeca)
212-374-1135
BBQ-lovers, you are in luck with Swingbellys. Not only is their food delicious, but they have the following specials that you need to pay close attention to:
Mondays – all-you-can-eat Monster wings for $9.99, and $10 pitchers
Tuesday – Fried chicken night, with 5 pieces, a side, and cornbread for $12.95
Thursdays – $1 rib night. Yes, you heard us – each rib is only ONE DOLLAR. Seriously?
Plus, they have a live surf cam.
(images courtesy Thomas Brookins)
909 West Beech Street, Long Beach
516-431-3464
People claim that Jimmy Hays is the best steakhouse on Long Island, and who are we to argue with the people? If you love cheese or garlic bread, order the infamous Gorgonzola Garlic Bread appetizer. And since it IS a steakhouse, you’re pretty much obligated to order beef, like the Brontosaurus-sized porterhouse for two or the ribeye. Tip: Jimmy Hays is one of the few places on our Long Island list that you can’t roll into right off the beach; shorts, sand, and flip-flops won’t fly at this spot.
4310 Austin Blvd, Island Park NY
516-432-5155
Wanna get your weekend sports fix while taking a break from the beach? The Beach House is your jam, with plenty of TVs broadcasting every game or match possible (well, maybe not curling)…and buffalo calamari!
906 West Beech Street, Long Beach
516-208-8733
If Vito’s was a person, he’d be a big Italian guy that was all, “Oi mate, how’s about a pint and some chips? Fuhgeddaboutit!” ‘Cause see, the big thing about Vito’s is its fish and chips – not pizza, as the name might imply. Prime location right on the beach side, next to the showers. Showers!
Vito’s (no website)
5 New York Ave, Long Beach
516-889-4650
Classic deli sandwiches, including those of the breakfast (like bacon, egg, and cheese) and hero (like the “Raging Bull”) variety. Note: the heroes are massive and can easily serve as two meals. Also – they deliver to the beach!
250 West Park Ave, Long Beach
516-432-1918
Just one short block from the beach, Minnesota’s has got you covered with American fare, a focus on seafood, and a large bar area and outdoor patio. Chill here after being in the sun all day long.
(image courtesy Thomas Brookins)
959 West Beech Street, Long Beach
516-432-4080
1016 West Beech Street, Long Beach
516-432-9185
Billed as “Long Island’s premiere live music venue”, The Inn also has a restaurant that boasts nightly specials like Taco Tuesdays with $1 tacos and $3.50 Dos Equis, and Extended Happy Hour Fridays, with cheap-ass drinks and 2 for 1 entrees from 7pm – 10pm.
(image courtesy Thomas Brookins)
943 West Beech Street, Long Beach
516-432-9499
