Looking for seafood in Manhasset, NY can feel a bit like diving into the bay—there’s a lot beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered. I still remember the first time I tried a creamy clam chowder at a tucked-away local spot in Manhasset; it had just the right brininess, and one bite was all it took to convince me that this town takes its seafood game seriously. Whether you crave a delicate filet or something fried, Manhasset pulls off seafood classics and surprises in equal measure.
With so many options, choosing where to start can be daunting. That’s where this guide comes in. I’ve pored over menus, chatted with chefs, and sampled more catches than I care to admit to friends and family. From elegant bistros to cheerful fish shacks, each spot featured here brings something special to the table. Curious which restaurant serves the most unforgettable grilled fish or the freshest shrimp? You’re in the right place. Let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the best bites Manhasset has to offer.
Where to find the best seafood in Manhasset, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Manhasset, NY:
- La Coquille
- Benihana
- Villa Milano
- Harbor Seafood
- Erawan Seafood & Steak
- Sea Bar
- Atlas New World Bistro
- Mediterranean Seafood
- Mediterranean Seafood And Grill
- Kings Premium
1. La Coquille
Stepping into La Coquille feels a little like visiting an old friend’s kitchen—warm, elegant, and quietly buzzing with happy conversation. The moment I tasted their sautéed branzino, delicately crisp on the outside with flakes that practically melt, I knew this spot takes seafood seriously.
What sets La Coquille apart is its dedication to freshness. No frozen shortcuts here; everything bursts with the flavors of the season. The menu moves with the mood of local markets, offering creative twists on time-honored recipes.
For starters, try the classic bouillabaisse, a soulful showcase of the daily catch and garden herbs. Those seeking something lighter shouldn’t miss the pan-seared sole—tender, bright, and impossibly fresh. It’s the kind of place where each dish tells a story, and seafood steals the show.
2. Benihana
Dining at Benihana in Manhasset is so much more than a meal—it’s half culinary theatre, half bustling feast. The first time I sat around a teppanyaki grill, I couldn’t help but grin as the chef flipped shrimp tails with the kind of flair you usually only see in movies.
What sets Benihana apart is the blend of precise technique and fun. Fresh seafood is prepared right before your eyes, with each flip and sizzle building anticipation. The communal tables turn even a regular night out into a shared occasion.
For seafood lovers, the hibachi shrimp and scallops are hard to beat. Covered in a glossy, garlic-butter sauce and served sizzling, they capture Benihana’s knack for turning the simplest ingredients into something memorable. It’s dinner and a show, all on one plate.
3. Villa Milano
(516) 365-3440Call
Villa Milano in Manhasset has the inviting feel of a beloved neighborhood institution. On my last visit, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with hints of the sea—always a promising start. There’s something about this spot that manages to be both classic and energetic, ideal for a seafood-focused Italian meal.
What sets Villa Milano apart is its dedication to both Italian favorites and exceptional seafood. The kitchen leans into local ingredients while honoring traditional recipes, giving each dish a homey, satisfying depth.
If you’re craving seafood, the seafood fra diavolo is a must. It’s a vibrant medley of tender calamari, shrimp, and mussels, simmered in a bright, mildly spicy tomato sauce. The flavors speak of the Mediterranean, proving Villa Milano’s strength with both land and sea fare.
4. Harbor Seafood
When it comes to freshness, Harbor Seafood sets a gold standard near Manhasset. My first visit ended with a simple grilled fish, served the way the sea intended—no heavy sauces, just a hint of lemon. The flavor was pure, a testament to the quality of their daily catch.
Harbor Seafood operates as both a restaurant and wholesale supplier, so the ingredients rarely travel far or linger long. That crispness shines through in every bite, and the menu caters to both the seafood purist and the adventurous diner.
It’s easy to recommend the steamed clams or whole branzino, both highlighting Harbor’s focus on straightforward, quality-driven cooking. If you’re after seafood that rides the line between unfussy and flavorful, this spot is well worth a detour.
5. Erawan Seafood & Steak
(718) 229-1620Call
Erawan Seafood & Steak delivers a refreshing spin on surf and turf just a short drive from Manhasset. My first meal here began with a plate of crispy calamari, which set the stage for the main event: wildly fresh seafood paired with unfussy sides.
The restaurant stands out for its unpretentious charm and value. The setting is relaxed, making it easy to focus on what matters—the food. Prices here are gentler than most, so you can sample a few dishes without hesitation.
Don’t overlook the seafood curry or classic garlic shrimp. Both highlight Erawan’s knack for seasoning and fresh ingredients. Portions are generous, flavors are bold, and the menu proves good seafood doesn’t require white tablecloths or high prices.
6. Sea Bar
Walking into Sea Bar in Great Neck, I immediately noticed the open, vibrant energy. Behind the counter, the kitchen team worked with a sense of rhythm—a sign they really know their seafood. My grilled octopus arrived perfectly charred and impossibly tender, proving their claim to “cook seafood like rock stars” isn’t just talk.
The menu celebrates freshness, with daily deliveries shaping what ends up on your plate. There’s a lively buzz here, driven by attention to detail and an obvious pride in their craft.
For first-timers, the whole branzino is a winner, showcasing their commitment to simple, top-quality ingredients. If you’re in the mood for something playful, try the shrimp tacos. Sea Bar’s knack for keeping the flavors clean and bright puts it a notch above your average seafood joint.
7. Atlas New World Bistro
Stepping into Atlas New World Bistro feels like taking a quick trip around the globe—without ever leaving Roslyn. I remember being struck not just by the posh, inviting atmosphere, but by how each seafood dish hinted at a different culture’s favorites. There’s real excitement in every bite here.
Atlas separates itself from the crowd with globally inspired flavors and a chef-driven menu. The service is attentive, the plating is artful, and the seafood stands out in both quality and creativity.
Start with the tuna tartare, served with a kick of Asian-inspired seasoning. If you want something bold as a main, don’t miss the Moroccan-spiced branzino. At Atlas, seafood is a passport to new tastes, all with a local, upscale twist.
8. Mediterranean Seafood
Mediterranean Seafood in Great Neck brings the sun-soaked flavors of the coast right to Long Island. My standout memory: a plate of grilled dorade, skin perfectly crisp, crowned with herbs and a squeeze of lemon. It’s the definition of unfussy, letting the freshness take the lead.
This spot stands apart for its classically Mediterranean approach—think bold olive oil, ripe tomatoes, and the cleanest seafood around. The space feels open and cheerful, built for lingering over platters of shared small plates.
The whole charcoal-grilled fish comes highly recommended. For starters, try the octopus salad, which is bright and surprisingly tender. Here, each dish highlights the simplicity and generosity of Mediterranean hospitality, all while showing off seafood at its finest.
9. Mediterranean Seafood And Grill
(516) 498-9300Call
Mediterranean Seafood And Grill is the kind of place where flavors are bright, the welcome is genuine, and every plate arrives looking like summer on the Aegean. My visit was marked by laughter and dishes meant for sharing—a real nod to Mediterranean hospitality.
What makes this spot special is its balance of comfort and elegance. The seafood here is always fresh, paired with herbs, citrus, and olive oil for pure, clear flavors that linger. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to slow down and savor each bite.
Order the mixed seafood platter for an introduction to their strengths, from expertly grilled shrimp to tender calamari. The sea bass kebab also stands out, juicy and smoky from the grill. Every dish celebrates seaside simplicity and real freshness.
10. Kings Premium
Kings Premium lives up to its name with a sharp focus on quality—each visit feels like a trip to a fisherman’s market with a chef ready to serve. My last stop here ended with a platter of sashimi that tasted like it took the express route from boat to table.
Kings Premium stands out for both variety and flexibility. Whether you lean toward raw bar favorites or crave something hot off the grill, the menu adapts without missing a beat. The fish market side gives you the option to select your catch and have it cooked to preference.
Start with the sashimi sampler for a taste of peak freshness. For a heartier meal, try their grilled whole fish, simply dressed and expertly cooked. Kings Premium brings market freshness straight to your plate, no shortcuts.
More Things to Try in Manhasset, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best seafood restaurant in Manhasset for a classic experience?
La Coquille is the favorite among locals for classic, expertly prepared seafood and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Their menu focuses on fresh, never-frozen ingredients.
Are there any places that do seafood takeout near Manhasset?
Yes, many spots offer takeout, including Kings Premium for market-fresh dishes and Sea Bar for creative daily catches. Both keep quality high, even on the go.
Is there a spot with good Mediterranean seafood in the area?
You’ll find top-notch Mediterranean-inspired plates at Mediterranean Seafood and Mediterranean Seafood And Grill. Each specializes in simply grilled fish and vibrant sides.
Where can I find sushi or raw seafood near Manhasset?
Kings Premium and Benihana both offer beautifully presented raw and sushi options. The sashimi especially stands out for freshness and skillful preparation.
Which places cater to larger groups or special occasions?
Atlas New World Bistro and Louie’s Oyster Bar and Grille are great for groups, with spacious settings and a wide-ranging seafood menu suited to all tastes.