Bay Shore, nestled on the South Shore of Islip, has earned its stripes as a true food lover’s haven. This buzzing Long Island neighborhood seamlessly blends coastal charm with an urban edge, all reflected in its exciting and eclectic food scene. From breakfast haunts steps from bustling Main Street to family-run trattorias, inventive food trucks, and seriously tempting bakeries, Bay Shore invites you to eat your way through a delicious day. Here’s your ultimate guide to dining in Bay Shore, Long Island.
Main Street Marvels: Bay Shore’s Restaurant Row
Stroll down Main Street between 4th and Shore Lane, and you’ll hit a culinary jackpot. This stretch has become the heartbeat of Bay Shore’s food scene, clustered with eateries for every palate and price point.
- Saltaire Oyster Bar & Fish House (55 Main St)
If you crave the briny bite of the Atlantic, Saltaire is an absolute must. From towers of freshly shucked oysters to delicate crudo and robust seafood stews, this stylish yet relaxed spot celebrates Long Island’s maritime roots. Prices range from moderate to a bit of a splurge, especially if you opt for their famous shellfish sampler.
- Tula Kitchen (41 E Main St)
A neighborhood favorite for brunch and lunch, Tula Kitchen’s bohemian vibe pairs perfectly with globally inspired, health-conscious cuisine. Vegetarians, vegans, and omnivores find chef-driven magic here—from shakshuka at brunch to Thai-spiced grain bowls and protein-packed smoothies, usually $15-$25 a dish.
- Butera’s of Bay Shore (8 E Main St)
Family-owned and welcoming, Butera’s plates up Italian comfort food with genuine Old World warmth. Their handmade pastas and famous Chicken Butera, served in a creamy wine sauce, keep locals coming back. Prices are moderate, perfect for a family dinner or casual date night.
Beyond Main Street: Global Eats and Local Treats
Bay Shore’s food gems aren’t limited to Main Street. Venture a block or two off the beaten path and you’ll be rewarded.
- Nicky’s Clam Bar (99 Maple Ave, right at the marina)
No visit to Bay Shore is complete without a feast at Nicky’s. This dockside institution is pure summer nostalgia—paper plates stacked with fried clams, lobster rolls, and their legend-worthy New England clam chowder. Prices hover in the $10-$25 range, making it a sweet spot for a casual lunch after a stroll by the bay.
- Pho Da Nang (230 W Main St, near Clinton Ave)
Among Bay Shore’s less-explored treasures, this unpretentious Vietnamese spot is a locals-only favorite. Hearty bowls of pho, crisp banh mi, and perfectly spiced spring rolls are the draw—plus prices rarely break $15. It’s a perfect example of Bay Shore’s expanding global palate.
- Taj Crown of India (289 W Main St, near the train station)
Spice-lovers flock here for authentic North and South Indian fare. Don’t miss their lamb vindaloo, rich saag paneer, and a dizzying selection of vegetarian curries. Lunch buffets and à la carte dinners deliver serious value, with most mains under $20.
Sweet Stops and Cafés: From Sunrise to Dessert
Start your day or cap off your meal with one of Bay Shore’s beloved cafés or bakeries.
- Toast Coffeehouse (9 S Park Ave, just off Main)
Known for its farmhouse-chic vibe and decadent breakfast menu, Toast is a go-to for perfect pancakes, creative omelets, and artisan coffee. Their Nutella-stuffed French toast is legendary, and the prices ($10-$18) make it accessible for brunch with friends.
- Moinho Bakery (225 W Main St)
This hidden gem is a flaky paradise: Portuguese pastries, crusty loaves, and custard tarts that melt in your mouth. Grab a few pastel de nata with your coffee for under $5—simple, sweet perfection.
- Dublin Bay Gourmet (69 W Main St)
For something different, this specialty food shop and café offers Irish-inspired sandwiches, hearty soups, and imported treats. Their scones with clotted cream are a true delight, and they excel at gluten-free and allergen-friendly baked goods.
Food Trucks and Local Legends
Bay Shore’s food truck scene heats up in the summer, often parked downtown or by the Bay Shore Marina.
- Empanada Queen (various locations, often at Maple Ave and Main)
This bright food truck turns out crave-worthy Latin street food—crispy empanadas oozing with flavor (try the spicy beef or sweet corn), cubanos, and yucca fries, all $3-$10. The friendly crew and portable portions make it a quick local favorite.
- Roxy’s Ice Cream Truck (seen near local parks and beaches)
No summer afternoon is complete without a visit to Roxy’s. Beyond classic soft-serve, they offer inventive frozen treats—think Nutella swirl milkshakes and homemade waffle cones.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites
- Bistro 25 East (45 E Main St)
This low-key, chef-driven American bistro excels at seasonal menus: think pan-seared scallops with local vegetables and inventive flatbreads. The dining room is intimate and the food always surprises. Entrees are $20-$35 but worth every bite for a special occasion.
- Momma’s Cuban Kitchen (153 3rd Ave, near Brook Ave)
Hole-in-the-wall, cash-only, and adored for its authenticity. The Cuban sandwiches and ropa vieja are soul-soothing, and most plates run under $14. It’s proof that some of Bay Shore’s best flavors hide in plain sight.
- Bay Shore Bean Coffee (229 5th Ave)
Tucked on a residential block, this cozy indie coffee shop is a quiet oasis. They roast their beans in-house and serve excellent espresso, hand pies, and locally made pastries—perfect for grabbing a cup before hitting the farmer’s market.
The Local Food Spirit
What makes Bay Shore’s food scene truly special is its community heart. Many restaurants are family-run, supporting local purveyors and showing true Islip hospitality. On any weekend, you’ll find the neighborhood alive with farmer’s markets, oyster festivals, and live music livening up outdoor patios. Whether you’re noshing on a lobster roll at the marina or lingering over a Parisian croissant near Main Street, Bay Shore’s food feels both unpretentious and utterly unique.
So next time you’re in Islip, skip the chain restaurants and let Bay Shore’s food scene surprise you—one delicious bite at a time!