Nothing beats the anticipation of a good seafood meal, especially in a town like Holtsville, NY. When I first wandered through these local spots, I found more than just fish and shellfish — I stumbled upon a community that takes its catch seriously. There’s a real distinction between the places that treat seafood as an art and those just trying their luck with frozen fare.
This guide draws on firsthand bites, honest conversations, and too many napkins to count. No need to trawl through endless reviews or risk a disappointing dinner. If you want to know which spots truly deliver the freshest lobster or the crispiest fried calamari, you’re exactly where you need to be. Discover Holtsville’s tastiest seafood, one thoughtfully curated option at a time.
Where to find the best seafood in Holtsville, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Holtsville, NY:
- The Monster Crab
- Harbor Crab
- Popeis Clam Bar and Restaurant
- Lombardi’s on the Bay
- The Cull House
- Oar Steak & Seafood Grill
- Nancy’s Crab Shack
- Red Lobster
- Catch Oyster Bar
- Cajun Claws
1. The Monster Crab
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The Monster Crab on Morris Avenue grabs your attention with its lively atmosphere and a menu filled with fresh shellfish. The first time I visited, the aroma of spices and sizzling seafood hit as soon as I walked in. It’s clear this isn’t just a crab boil joint—it’s a full-on experience.
What sets The Monster Crab apart is its build-your-own seafood combos. You choose the catch, sauce, and spice level. Each piece arrives soaked in flavor, from sweet snow crab legs to juicy shrimp. Their signature garlic butter sauce elevates everything it touches.
If you only order one thing, try the Dungeness crab with Cajun seasoning. The flavors are bold, and the seafood is always cooked just right. For something shareable, the seafood boil bag is never a bad idea.
2. Harbor Crab
Stepping into Harbor Crab feels a bit like finding a slice of the coast right on Division Street. Its two-level space buzzes, especially when live music drifts from the bar. My best memory here is watching the boats drift by from the dockside tables with a platter of fresh shellfish in front of me.
Harbor Crab stands out for its blend of charm and versatility. The menu covers everything from classic clam chowder to satisfying seafood salads. It’s an easy place to linger, whether you’re with family or friends who appreciate good conversation and great food.
The crab-stuffed shrimp is a signature dish worth the drive. Their fried calamari, impossibly light and crisp, makes a perfect prelude. Save room for daily specials, too—the chefs keep things interesting and always showcase the freshest catches.
3. Popeis Clam Bar and Restaurant
Popeis Clam Bar and Restaurant in Sayville feels friendly from the moment you walk in. The dining room has that casual, lived-in feel of a true neighborhood staple. My favorite visits have ended in laughter over heaping platters of shellfish after a long day.
The menu delivers on both value and flavor. It’s tough to beat their fresh steamers and tender lobster tails, often arriving at the table quicker than expected. Prices here lean friendly, making it easy to sample a bit of everything.
The fried clam strips are the classic move, golden and crisp enough to satisfy any craving. If you’re craving variety, their seafood platter gives a taste of several favorites on a single plate. It’s seafood done simply and well.
4. Lombardi’s on the Bay
Lombardi’s on the Bay pairs panoramic views of the Great South Bay with a seafood menu full of Italian influences. On my last visit, the sun set over the water just as my first course arrived—a setting that made the food even more memorable.
This spot stands out for its upscale but welcoming energy and its creative mashup of surf and Italian classics. Even regulars find something new to love with every visit, thanks to a chef who isn’t afraid to experiment.
The grilled branzino shines with Mediterranean flavors, light but packed with taste. If you want comfort, try the seafood risotto, brimming with clams, shrimp, and calamari. The atmosphere here matches the menu—elevated yet inviting.
5. The Cull House
The Cull House in Sayville is one of those rare finds where tradition and fresh seafood go hand in hand. My first meal here felt like a local rite of passage. The staff greets you with the kind of hospitality that’s become a trademark since 1977.
What sets The Cull House apart is its laid-back vibe paired with serious attention to quality. The menu leans into local catches and seasonal shellfish. There’s a sense that every dish is crafted with a nod to decades of neighborhood favorites.
Their steamed clams are a classic starter, simply prepared to let the freshness shine. For something heartier, the broiled seafood platter heaps scallops, shrimp, and catch of the day. Everything arrives at the table cooked just right, never overdone or fussy.
6. Oar Steak & Seafood Grill
Oar Steak & Seafood Grill blends riverfront scenery with dishes that make any visit feel like a mini-vacation. On my last trip, I spent half my time admiring the boats passing by and the other half savoring bites that highlight the kitchen’s creativity. Over the years, I’ve seen this spot fill with a loyal crowd—locals who know good seafood when they taste it.
What truly distinguishes The Oar is its mix of tradition and fresh takes on classic dishes. Walk inside and the walls, covered in decorated oars, give a nod to its longtime patrons and a sense of fun.
The seafood paella here is a favorite, brimming with saffron rice, plump shrimp, and tender calamari. Their broiled cod is another standout, flaky and well-seasoned. Sitting by the water with a plate of shellfish is about as relaxing as dining gets in Patchogue.
7. Nancy’s Crab Shack
(631) 447-6833Call
Nancy’s Crab Shack is the kind of place you stumble on and instantly want to keep all to yourself. On my last visit, I found diners elbow-deep in crab legs, laughing over baskets of fries and piles of napkins—a true, no-frills seafood adventure.
This spot wins you over with its straight-shooting attitude and honest flavors. There’s no need for fancy presentations when the seafood itself is what draws people in. Everything arrives straight from the kitchen, hot and bursting with freshness.
The blue crab platter is the highlight here—sweet, tender, and best when paired with a side of corn. If you want something easily shareable, the shrimp basket stands out for its generous portions and crisp coating.
8. Red Lobster
Red Lobster in Ronkonkoma blends reliability with that familiar warmth you expect from a national name. My visits always begin with the famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits—fresh, buttery, and, honestly, hard to resist. There’s comfort in knowing you’ll get consistent quality every time.
This location stands out for its attentive staff and quick service, even when the dining room is buzzing. Whether it’s a family dinner or just a midweek seafood craving, the laid-back vibe makes it easy to relax.
The Ultimate Feast is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with crab legs, shrimp, and perfectly broiled fish. Their grilled salmon is a lighter option that delivers on flavor. Don’t miss the endless shrimp specials—they’re a fun way to sample a bit of everything.
9. Catch Oyster Bar
Catch Oyster Bar is where you go in Patchogue when only ultra-fresh shellfish will hit the spot. The last time I dropped by, a plate of East Coast oysters arrived at my table within minutes—cold, briny, and impossible to share.
This place stands out for its seasonal, rotating menu that always keeps things interesting. The atmosphere is casual but stylish, so it’s easy to settle in for a while, lost in conversation and good food.
The raw bar is the main attraction here—try the clams or oysters on the half shell, which boast unbeatable freshness. For something heartier, the scallop ceviche is clean and bright, showing just how much attention goes into every dish coming out of the kitchen.
10. Cajun Claws
(631) 714-4477Call
Cajun Claws in East Patchogue brings Southern zest to Long Island’s seafood scene. I remember my first bite—a forkful of spicy, buttery shrimp that left just the right kick, perfectly paired with the lively energy in the room.
This spot stands out for its customizable seafood boils and signature house sauces. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, making it easy to unwind and get a little messy without worrying about the tablecloth.
The shrimp boil with Cajun seasoning is a go-to pick—plump shrimp, plenty of corn, and potatoes cooked to soak up all those rich spices. If you’re sharing, order a platter with snow crab legs. The flavors are bold and memorable, much like the place itself.
More Things to Try in Holtsville, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood restaurants are most popular in Holtsville, NY?
The Monster Crab, Catch Oyster Bar, and Popeis Clam Bar consistently draw big crowds for their fresh catches and wide variety.
Do local seafood restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Many spots, including The Monster Crab and Harbor Crab, offer takeout, and some partner with delivery apps for added convenience. Always check their website or give them a call for the latest options.
Which seafood dishes should I try for a first-time visit?
Start with classics like steamed clams, crab boils, or the grilled branzino at Lombardi’s on the Bay. Fried calamari and raw bar selections are always crowd-pleasers.
Are there any seafood restaurants with outdoor seating near Holtsville?
Plenty of places, such as The Cull House and Oar Steak & Seafood Grill, offer outdoor seating, especially during the spring and summer months. It’s a great way to enjoy the coastal vibe.
Do these seafood restaurants have halal or vegetarian options?
Most menus highlight seafood and some vegetarian sides, but halal-certified items are rare. It’s wise to call ahead if you have strict dietary preferences.
