11 Tiny New York Seafood Shacks And Stands People Happily Drive Out Of The Way For

There’s something magical about finding a tiny seafood shack tucked away on a quiet corner, where the smell of fried clams and buttery lobster rolls drifts through the air. New York is home to some of the best little seafood spots you’ve ever tasted, and trust me, they’re worth every mile you’ll drive to get there.

These Brooklyn’s waterfront gems and Long Island’s hidden treasures serve up fresh catches with a side of charm that big restaurants just can’t match.

Let me take you on a tour of some outstanding tiny seafood stands that have people lining up and driving out of their way for one more bite.

1. The Crabby Shack

Brooklyn doesn’t always feel like beach territory, but step into The Crabby Shack and suddenly you’re transported to a laid-back coastal town where flip-flops are acceptable footwear and seafood is the only thing on the menu. This spot nails the casual vibe without sacrificing quality, which is exactly why locals and visitors alike make the trip.

You’ll find it at 345 Avenue X in Brooklyn, tucked into a neighborhood that might not scream “seafood destination” at first glance.

Their lobster rolls are generously stuffed and lightly dressed, letting the sweet lobster meat do all the talking. Fried clams come out crispy and golden, with just the right amount of seasoning to make you reach for another handful.

The shrimp baskets are another crowd favorite, served with tangy slaw and crispy fries that disappear fast.

What really sets this place apart is the atmosphere. Picnic tables, nautical decor, and a staff that treats you like a regular even on your first visit create a welcoming environment.

It’s the kind of spot where you can show up in your weekend best or straight from the beach, and nobody bats an eye. Honestly, it feels like a mini vacation every time I walk through the door.

2. Bigelow’s New England Fried Clams

Generations of Long Islanders have grown up making pilgrimages to Bigelow’s, and once you taste their fried clams, you’ll understand why this place has such a devoted following. Located at 1560 Newbridge Road in North Bellmore, this legendary spot has been serving up seafood classics since 1939, and they’ve perfected their recipes over the decades.

Walking up to the counter feels like stepping back in time, in the best possible way.

The fried clams are the star of the show here. Crispy on the outside, tender and briny on the inside, they’re everything a fried clam should be.

Their clam chowder is rich and creamy, packed with chunks of clam and potatoes that warm you from the inside out. Don’t sleep on the fried shrimp either.

They’re plump, juicy, and coated in a light, crunchy batter that never feels greasy.

Bigelow’s operates as a classic takeout stand with outdoor seating, so come prepared to eat al fresco or take your haul to the beach. The lines can get long, especially on summer weekends, but the wait is always worth it.

Families return year after year, creating new memories while honoring old traditions, and that sense of continuity is part of what makes this place so special.

3. Red Hook Lobster Pound

Maine lobster in Brooklyn might sound unusual, but Red Hook Lobster Pound makes it work beautifully, bringing authentic New England seafood to the waterfront neighborhood of Red Hook. You’ll find this gem at 284 Van Brunt Street, where the industrial-chic setting perfectly complements the no-nonsense approach to serving exceptional lobster rolls.

They source their lobster directly from Maine, ensuring every bite tastes like you’re sitting on a dock in Portland.

The Connecticut-style lobster roll, served warm with butter, is pure indulgence. Rich, decadent, and utterly satisfying.

If you prefer the Maine-style version, you’ll get chilled lobster meat with a light mayo dressing that lets the lobster’s natural sweetness shine through. Both are served on perfectly toasted, buttery rolls that somehow don’t fall apart despite being loaded with meat.

Beyond lobster rolls, they offer lobster bisque that’s velvety and flavorful, along with crab rolls and shrimp rolls for those who want to mix things up. The casual counter-service setup keeps things simple, but the quality never wavers.

On warm days, grab a seat outside and watch the neighborhood go by while you crack into your roll. It’s become a Red Hook institution, and for good reason.

This is lobster done right, no compromises.

4. Randazzo’s Clam Bar

Sheepshead Bay has a rich maritime history, and Randazzo’s Clam Bar embodies that heritage better than just about anywhere else in Brooklyn. Operating since 1963 at 2017 Emmons Avenue, this waterfront institution has been serving generations of families who come for the fresh seafood and stay for the old-school atmosphere.

Watching the boats bob in the bay while you eat adds a layer of authenticity you just can’t fake.

Their legendary red sauce has achieved almost mythical status among regulars. It’s tangy, garlicky, and pairs perfectly with their fresh clams.

Whether you order them raw on the half shell or cooked in that famous sauce, you’re in for a treat. The fried calamari is tender and crispy, never rubbery, and comes with marinara that’s clearly made with care.

Lobster tails, shrimp scampi, and whole fish preparations round out a menu that celebrates Italian-American seafood traditions. The dining room feels like a time capsule, with wood paneling and nautical touches that haven’t changed much over the decades.

Service is friendly and efficient, with servers who know the menu inside and out. Locals treat Randazzo’s like their neighborhood spot, even though people travel from all over to experience it.

There’s a reason this place has survived and thrived for sixty years.

5. DJ’s Clam Shack

Wantagh might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of destination seafood, but DJ’s Clam Shack at 3191 Merrick Road has quietly built a reputation that draws people from all over Long Island and beyond. This unassuming spot proves that you don’t need fancy decor or a prime location to serve outstanding seafood.

You just need fresh ingredients and people who know what they’re doing. And believe me, the folks at DJ’s definitely know what they’re doing.

Their lobster rolls are generously portioned and reasonably priced, which is a rare combination these days. The meat is sweet and fresh, served on a toasted bun that holds up to the filling without getting soggy.

Fried clams are another highlight, with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate clam flavor inside.

The whole fried flounder is a menu item that doesn’t get enough attention. It’s perfectly cooked, with crispy skin and flaky, tender meat that falls right off the bone.

Their clam chowder is creamy without being heavy, and the seafood platters offer a little bit of everything for those who can’t decide. The casual, no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus squarely on the food, which is exactly how it should be.

People drive out of their way because DJ’s delivers consistently excellent seafood without any pretense.

6. Popei’s Clam Bar

Bethpage’s Popei’s Clam Bar has been packing in crowds at 3608 Hempstead Turnpike since it opened, and one visit explains why this place has such a loyal following. Families plan their weekends around trips here, couples make it a date night tradition, and solo diners belly up to the counter knowing they’re about to eat very, very well.

The energy inside is always buzzing, with the sound of sizzling seafood and happy conversations creating a soundtrack that feels distinctly Long Island.

Clam bakes are the specialty here, offering a complete seafood feast with lobster, clams, mussels, corn, and potatoes all steamed together in a flavorful broth. It’s messy, it’s delicious, and it’s absolutely worth the drive.

Their fried seafood is expertly prepared, with a light hand on the breading that lets the seafood shine through.

The clam chowder is thick and hearty, loaded with clams and potatoes in a creamy base that tastes like comfort in a bowl. Scallops come out perfectly seared or fried to golden perfection, depending on your preference.

Service can get hectic during peak times, but the staff handles the rush with impressive efficiency. Popei’s isn’t trying to reinvent seafood.

They’re just doing the classics exceptionally well, which is exactly what keeps people coming back week after week, year after year.

7. Catch Oyster Bar

Patchogue has been experiencing a renaissance in recent years, and Catch Oyster Bar at 45 East Main Street sits right in the heart of the action, serving some of the freshest oysters and clams you’ll find anywhere on Long Island. This well-reviewed spot has become a local favorite for good reason.

They take their seafood seriously while maintaining a relaxed, approachable vibe that makes everyone feel welcome. The raw bar alone is worth the trip, with a rotating selection of oysters that showcases the best of what’s available.

Oysters here are impeccably fresh, shucked to order, and served with all the classic accompaniments. Whether you’re an oyster aficionado or trying them for the first time, the knowledgeable staff can guide you through the different varieties and flavor profiles.

Clams on the half shell are equally impressive, briny and cold, with that perfect ocean taste.

Beyond the raw bar, Catch offers creative seafood preparations that go beyond typical shack fare without losing that casual, come-as-you-are feeling. Lobster tacos, fish tacos, and seafood pasta dishes show off the kitchen’s range and creativity.

The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between upscale and laid-back, making it suitable for everything from a casual lunch to a special dinner. Patchogue locals are fiercely protective of this gem, but they’re also happy to share it with visitors who appreciate quality seafood served with genuine hospitality.

8. Bayville Seafood

Sometimes the best seafood spots are the ones that locals whisper about, hoping to keep them from getting too crowded. Bayville Seafood at 8 Bayville Avenue in Bayville is one of those places.

Small, unassuming, and absolutely worth seeking out. This friendly neighborhood spot doesn’t rely on flashy marketing or trendy dishes; instead, they focus on sourcing fresh catches and preparing them simply, letting the quality of the seafood speak for itself.

And trust me, it speaks volumes.

The selection changes based on what’s fresh and available, which means you might find something different each time you visit. That’s part of the charm.

You’re eating seasonally and locally without even trying. Fried fish sandwiches are a standout, with flaky, moist fish encased in a crispy coating that doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor.

Steamers are perfectly cooked, tender and briny, served with drawn butter that enhances rather than masks their natural taste. The clam chowder is a comforting classic, rich without being too heavy.

What really makes Bayville Seafood special is the personal touch. The owners and staff genuinely care about what they’re serving and who they’re serving it to.

It’s the kind of place where you become a regular after just a couple of visits, and where the seafood tastes like it came straight from the water to your plate, because essentially, it did.

9. Snapper Inn

Oakdale’s Snapper Inn at 500 Shore Drive offers something special that goes beyond just good seafood. It delivers an entire waterfront experience that makes the drive feel like part of the adventure.

Situated right on the water, this laid-back spot has been drawing crowds for decades with its combination of fresh seafood, beautiful views, and relaxed atmosphere. Pulling into the parking lot and seeing the water sparkle in the distance immediately puts you in vacation mode, even if you’re only an hour from home.

The menu covers all the classics you’d expect from a Long Island seafood shack, executed with care and consistency. Lobster tails are sweet and tender, grilled or broiled to perfection.

Fried seafood platters are generous and satisfying, with a variety of options that let you sample multiple treasures from the sea in one sitting.

Clams and oysters on the half shell are always fresh, and the clam chowder has that perfect balance of creamy and briny that makes you want to order a second bowl. What sets Snapper Inn apart is the setting.

Dining on the deck with water views and a gentle breeze creates an ambiance that elevates even the simplest meal. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, conversations flow easily, and you remember why you love living near the water.

People make special trips here not just for the food, but for the entire experience.

10. Bostwick’s Chowder House

East Hampton brings a certain Hamptons glamour to everything, but Bostwick’s Chowder House at 277 Pantigo Road keeps things refreshingly down-to-earth while still delivering the quality you’d expect from this upscale area. Beloved by locals and summer visitors alike, this spot serves New England-style seafood fare that attracts road-trippers from all over Long Island and beyond.

During peak season, the parking lot fills with cars from every corner of the state, all driven by people craving fresh fish and that classic coastal atmosphere.

The chowder is legendary. It’s creamy, loaded with clams, and seasoned just right.

It’s the kind of chowder that ruins you for the canned stuff forever. Fresh fish preparations change based on the daily catch, with simple grilling or pan-searing techniques that highlight rather than hide the quality of the seafood.

Lobster rolls are generous and delicious, served with crispy fries that disappear almost as fast as you can eat them. The casual, nautical-themed interior feels authentic rather than contrived, with enough charm to make the space feel special without being stuffy.

Bostwick’s has that rare ability to appeal to both the dressed-down beach crowd and those looking for a nicer meal out, without alienating either group. Summer season brings the biggest crowds, but honestly, it’s worth visiting year-round if you’re in the area and craving honest, well-prepared seafood.

11. Southold Fish Market

North Fork’s Southold Fish Market at 54745 County Road 48 in Southold represents everything wonderful about small-town seafood spots. It’s unpretentious, community-focused, and absolutely committed to freshness.

What started as a classic fish market has evolved to include prepared foods and small plates that turn a quick stop for fish into a full dining experience. Locals plan day trips around visits here, combining a seafood feast with wine tasting at nearby vineyards for a perfect North Fork adventure.

The market side offers whatever’s fresh off the boats, with knowledgeable staff who can recommend preparations and even share recipes. But the prepared foods are where things get really interesting.

Lobster rolls are made fresh throughout the day, with sweet lobster meat piled high on buttery rolls. Fish tacos feature whatever’s freshest, with creative toppings that add interest without overwhelming the star ingredient.

Clam chowder, seafood salads, and smoked fish round out a selection that changes with the seasons and the catch. You can grab your meal and head to nearby beaches or parks, or enjoy it at one of their outdoor tables while soaking up the North Fork vibe.

What makes Southold Fish Market special is the connection to the local fishing community. This isn’t seafood that’s been trucked in from far away.

It’s caught locally, sold locally, and enjoyed by people who appreciate that direct connection to the source. That authenticity is increasingly rare and absolutely worth celebrating.