The best restaurants in Nassau County

“Chain outlet serving pizza, plus pasta, calzones, chicken wings & submarine sandwiches.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Catcher's Fish House & Grille is a popular waterfront restaurant and bar on the Nautical Mile serving fresh, locally caught seafood with creative twists, plus steaks, chops, and pasta. Specialty drinks, a relaxed vibe, and Sunday brunch make it an easy go-to for Freeport regulars.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 28, 2026

“Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.”

“Traditional Italian trattoria serving renowned pies & slices, as well as other standard fare.”

“Italian-American steakhouse with pasta, wine & cocktails in a snug, rustic-chic space with a patio.”

“Whether you’re craving pecan-crusted orange roughy, jumbo lump crab cakes, or perfectly broiled scallops, Nautilus Cafe does the classics right with an elegant waterfront vibe on the Nautical Mile. The kicker for your group... landlubbers can dig into prime rib or duck, and the service is reliably on point.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.”

“No-nonsense but popular Italian trattoria serving up a large menu of family-style platters.”

“Classic, old-school diner offering typical American grub including omelettes, salads & burgers.”

“Relaxed family-owned cantina serving tacos, burritos & other Mexican standards, plus margaritas.”

“Snug, modern lounge offering prime cut steaks, seafood & vegetarian menus, plus happy-hour deals.”

“Local American mainstay for creative burgers & grilled bites, with 2 bars & patio seating.”

“Outlet of a BBQ chain serving wood-smoked meats & sides in an American West-themed space.”

“Updated spins on Mexican fare join craft cocktails in this chic, contemporary space with a bar.”

“Standby counter-service joint dispensing a daily menu of soups along with burgers, salads & wraps.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.”

“Open year-round in Freeport and built for quick, no-reservations hangs, Taco Tuesdays turns out fresh tacos, empanadas, and salads that hit the spot. Hit Birria Fridays before they sell out, then toast the new location with margaritas, sangrias, or local beers.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Warm, relaxed stop for American fare like burgers, seafood & brunch staples, plus wine & beer.”

“Sushi-centric restaurant also serving classic Japanese entrees in a warm, contemporary space.”

“Laid-back and family friendly, Pollos Mario Steak House & Seafood delivers the kind of Colombian comfort that fixes weeknights fast, from juicy roasted chicken to grill-showcase plates like churrasco, entraña, and parrillada, plus seafood paella and fresh natural juices that actually taste like the fruit.”

From the Yonkers newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Typical Japanese eats such as teriyaki & sushi served amid contemporary decor with splashy lighting.”

“Casual chain serving charred-crust pies, plus wings, subs & Italian plates in a modern setting.”

“Casual, eco-minded regional chain for organic burgers (from beef to bison) & more, plus beer & wine.”

“Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.”

“Fast-food chain serving chicken sandwiches & nuggets along with salads & sides.”

“Bobby Q's Jus Like Mama's serves comforting, home-style plates that taste like a Sunday at grandma's, from rib dinners and turkey wings to char-grilled salmon and chicken & waffles. Order online when the craving hits, or let them cater the next backyard get-together.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Since 1982, Atlantic Avenue Deli & Catering has kept Freeport fed with classic 12 inch heroes like the Godfather, Boar's Head-stacked sandwiches, and no-nonsense breakfast hits from the Hungryman to the Breakfast Reuben. Freshly baked rolls and bagels daily, big portions, bigger smiles.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Unfussy neighborhood pizzeria serving pies & diverse Italian dishes for takeout or dining in.”

“Italian specialties & wood-fired pizza at a restaurant with a Tuscan vibe & sidewalk dining.”

“Modest restaurant preparing traditional Mediterranean eats including gyros & souvlaki.”

“White-tablecloth restaurant with simple decor serving Italian plates with a modern twist.”

“This festive cantina serves standard Mexican eats & takes on a nightclub vibe after dark.”

“Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.”

“Health-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.”

“This counter-serve sandwich chain offers hot, cold & panini-grilled subs, plus wraps & salads.”

“An extensive selection of panini & salad is offered at this informal Italian chain cafe.”

“Simple & inviting neighborhood restaurant serving specialty pizzas, pastas & other Italian dishes.”

“Snug Japanese option offering a large sushi menu, teriyaki & Thai plates in a casual setting.”

“Steakhouse serving high-end cuts in a contemporary space with a fireplace, a bar & outdoor seating.”

“Buzzy, bustling eatery dispensing Pan-Asian plates plus wine & other drinks in a sleek setting.”

“Luigi's Pizzeria of Mineola leans into creative pies with gourmet toppings while keeping the classic Italian comfort dishes you actually crave. It’s an airy, contemporary neighborhood spot that works for low-key weeknights or last-minute gatherings when you want something reliably delicious without overthinking dinner.”

“Counter-serve spot featuring a vast menu of homemade fare including burgers, wraps & hand-cut fries.”

“Neighborhood American bar/eatery offering happy hours & down-home cuisine in relaxed surroundings.”

“Northern Italian fare, brick-oven pizzas & wine in an intimate, upscale-casual setting with a bar.”

“Contemporary cantina featuring Mexican staples such as tacos, fajitas & enchiladas, plus cocktails.”

“Brisas Del Mar Restaurant FreeportNY keeps things cozy and flavorful with classic Salvadoran cooking that hits the spot on a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, and you can even order online when the couch refuses to let you go. A reliable neighborhood standby without the fuss.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Mexican restaurant & bar serving classic meals & cocktails in a quirky space with murals & TVs.”

“Classy, high-end American eatery at the Garden City Hotel offering steak, seafood & Sunday brunch.”

“Compact outfit serving a range of Central American specialties & enduring favorites like burritos.”

“Lisbon Cafe brings classic Portuguese plates to our side of Long Island, with family-style dishes for two, bacalhau, grilled octopus, and paella that beg to be shared. Take a sangria out to the courtyard and catch weekend live music when you need a mini-vacation close to home.”

From the North Hempstead newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Bakery & cafe with some seating, offering breakfast & lunch items, including bagels & muffins.”

“Modern New American spot serving hearty fare & often drawing lively crowds on weekends.”

“Classic & Sicilian pizzas join pastas, seafood & Italian meat dishes in a casual, dark-wood setting.”

“This trattoria serves brick-oven pizzas & other traditional Italian fare in a rustic setting.”

“Hip, counter-serve chain for gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers & frozen custard.”

“Small, elegant Japanese spot offering innovative sushi rolls & fusion eats plus inventive drinks.”

“El Sabor Dominicano is the go-to when you want down-home Dominican and Latin comfort without overthinking dinner. Think hearty plates, stews, and all the good stuff that tastes like Sunday at abuela’s. Friendly, unfussy, and consistently satisfying...”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Trendy pick doling out innovative sushi rolls plus hibachi & teriyaki in buzzy, illuminated digs.”

“Neapolitan wood-fired pizza & other southern Italian dishes offered in a refined, intimate space.”

“Italian restaurant with red-checkered tablecloths serving pasta, panini & pizza made in a coal oven.”

“If you’re craving jerk chicken, rasta pasta, or that slow-cooked oxtail, Platinum Cuisines does it with a little fusion flair and a waterfront vibe right on the Nautical Mile. Great for a laid-back dinner that can easily turn into a late night hang.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Light-and-crispy bagels made fresh daily, breakfast all day, and fun extras like açai bowls, smoothies, waffle toast, and French toast make DOZ Bagels of Freeport Pantano's a go-to when you want real-deal Long Island comfort. From the Pantano’s crew feeding LI since 1995... just follow your nose.”

From the Freeport newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Exposed-brick walls & red-checkered tablecloths create a homey backdrop for Italian favorites.”

“An expansive craft brew selection & American eats draw crowds to this down-to-earth watering hole.”

“American-Italian bites (including various flatbreads) served in a contemporary space with a bar.”

“Open since 1950, this 24/7 diner serves breakfast & comfort food in a space with art deco touches.”

“English-style pub offers a large rotating brew selection & beer-pairing dinners in a casual space.”

“Casual neighborhood joint featuring a broad American menu & a full bar with TVs tuned to sports.”

“Fast-food chain serving signature beef, chicken & fish sliders, plus extras such as onion rings.”

“Petite eatery offering breakfast & lunch fare along with wine & beer in relaxed digs.”

“Well-known fast-food chain serving grilled burgers, fries & shakes.”

“Health-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.”

“Max Bialystok & Company hand rolls, boils, and bakes bagels the old-fashioned way, then stacks them with all-day egg sandwiches, classic smoked salmon, homemade bialys, and a parade of seasonal cream cheeses. Locals swear by their big, chewy rings and 2024 Best Bacon Egg & Cheese bragging rights.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Uchi Sushi Fusion is a Valley Stream spot doing it right, from clean, classic rolls like California and Shrimp Tempura to Spicy Tuna heat and bolder pairings that actually work, plus crisp pork gyoza to start. Order delivery or swing by for pickup when the sushi craving hits and you want it crafted with care.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 20, 2026

“When you want more than a basic pie, Jack's Pizzeria in nearby Island Park turns out a killer Grandma Pie, craveable Buffalo Chicken Pizza, and hefty Chicken Cutlet heroes, plus classic Chicken Francese. Fresh ingredients, generous portions, easy takeout or delivery...”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Margaritas Cafe keeps it easy with a big menu of comforting Mexican favorites plus cold beer and cocktails, perfect for a low-key weeknight or a loud group hang. Keep an eye on their Instagram for live music and show updates, then stroll over and make it a night.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Driftwood Boardwalk Eatery is a coastal spot on the Long Beach Boardwalk serving fresh egg sandwiches, smoothies, smash burgers, and lobster rolls Newsday named among Long Island’s best. Easy breakfast with a view, casual lunch, or a sunset bite... a quick hop from Valley Stream.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Brands Delicatessen nails the classics, from hefty subs and crisp salads to legit breakfast sandwiches, and they move fast with friendly service when you're on the go. Need to feed a crew? Their catering spreads are clutch for office lunches or weekend gatherings.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Whether you’re team Neapolitan, Sicilian, or Grandma, Genovese Pizzeria nails the classics then mixes it up with an upside down garlic bread pizza, buffalo chicken pies, and a hero roster that reads like a novella. Great for family-size trays, pasta-and-knots nights, or lazy Sunday football spreads.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 16, 2026

“When you want crisp brick oven pies, big juicy burgers, and a rotating lineup of craft beers and cocktails without leaving the neighborhood, Brixx & Barley delivers. It’s also clutch for game days with 33 TVs, plus easy online ordering, reservations, and catering when the crew comes hungry.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Contemporary parlor & restaurant serving pizza & classic Italian fare like pasta & chicken marsala.”

“From Hot Off the Grill Breakfast to the Il Bacio Hero, chicken marsala, and fudgy Homemade Brownies, Pantano's Gourmet Hewlett nails that craving you don't want to cook for. It's the kind of nearby spot that also crushes catering, so weeknights, game days, and birthdays are covered.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 6, 2026

“JJ Coopers nails the modern American thing with gourmet burgers, fresh seafood, a roomy patio, and a sky-lit bar that’s basically sunshine insurance.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Sushi Burrito & Poke Bowls keeps it fun with made-to-order bowls and burritos, bases like sushi rice, black rice, or greens, and house-marinated fish plus homemade dressings. Craving more? There’s comforting ramen, bubble tea for the sweet tooth, and a full bar for, well, balance.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Since 1962, Gino's Long Beach has been the go-to for Neapolitan and Sicilian pies that hit the sweet spot between crisp and chewy, served in a modern setting. Founded by Gino Branchinelli of Italian ices fame, it’s comfort food that actually tastes like home.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, October 2, 2026

“From breakfast through dinner, The Bungalow East keeps things fun with creative dishes the chefs are always refreshing, plus shakes, salads and wraps that actually earn their beach bragging rights. A reliable, low-key spot when you want something tasty without overthinking it.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 27, 2026

“When the rotisserie chicken craving hits, Chicken Coop Colombian Restaurant delivers with juicy birds, generous steak and seafood platters, and cocktails that actually pair well with everything. Locals love it for easy online ordering, real-deal flavors, and catering when your family party suddenly doubles in size.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Nagahama Japanese Restaurant keeps it low-key but delivers premium sushi from Chef Hide Yamamoto, plus crisp tempuras and comforting teriyaki. Fun fact, Nagahama means Long Beach in Japanese, and Zagat’s No. 1 Long Island sushi pick makes a strong case with every bite.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Casual, family-owned pizzeria and restaurant serving Italian dishes including pizzas, pasta and salads, plus catering.”

“When a big game is on, Canz Long Beach delivers with 50+ TVs for every angle, a wide lineup of canned and draft beers, and crowd-pleasing bites with incredible desserts. Easy place to rally the crew or decompress solo without missing a score.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Long Island Bagel Cafe in Long Beach keeps it classic with hand-rolled, old-fashioned New York bagels and loaded bagel sandwiches, plus easy online ordering when mornings go sideways. They also handle full catering, so your next office spread or backyard hang has less stress and more everything bagel.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 28, 2026

“Eddie D's has been serving Valley Stream for 40+ years with thin, crispy pies, a craveable sauce blend, and no-nonsense slices that hit the spot. Go plain or Sicilian, enjoy the old-school, welcoming vibe, and see why locals rave about the consistently fresh pies.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 23, 2026

“For an easy, kid-friendly dinner that still tastes like a treat, Tepache turns out comforting classics like enchiladas, tacos, and that soul-warming black bean soup, all with margaritas, beer, and cocktails for the grownups. Relaxed vibe, generous plates, the kind of local spot you keep in your rotation.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Mitchell's Diner-Restaurant is that Valley Stream standby where the griddle never seems to cool, the booths and counter feel like a second home, and the day can end with a scoop of homemade ice cream... or start with pancakes and a plan to behave tomorrow.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.”

“Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.”

“Casual Italian eatery with a warm ambiance and a friendly staff, serving pasta and baked clams.”

“John Anthony's of Valley Stream keeps it casual but lets the toppings go wild, with pies like baked ziti, chicken marsala, and a very legit Grandma, plus calzones and hearty salads when you pretend you’re being good. Solid go-to for last‑minute dinners, game nights, or avoiding dishes.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Borrelli's Taproom is the next gen spin from the Borrelli's family in Long Beach's West End, serving wood fired brick oven pizzas and a menu that marries old school Italian staples with modern favorites. Settle in at the bar to catch the game, then stick around for comedy nights.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Longtime locals here in Valley Stream know Inatome Japanese Steak + Sushi for hibachi showmanship, a legit sushi bar, and cold beer or sake in a sleek, cultural setting. Open since 1975, it’s the kind of spot where birthdays get loud, weeknights feel special, and leftovers mysteriously vanish.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 24, 2026

“A short hop from Long Beach, Lumix Hibachi & Sushi nails that craving for lively hibachi theatrics and legit sushi in a sleek lounge vibe. Master hibachi chefs sear steak and seafood at your table while executive sushi chefs plate seasonal combos that make weeknights feel special.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Classy chophouse with a sizable bar turning out steaks, seafood & martinis in an old-school setting.”

“East End Pizza is a family owned Long Beach staple serving cheesy pies with a signature sesame seed crust, plus authentic pasta dishes and hearty entrees. They also handle catering for pretty much any occasion, so you can keep it local and still look like you cooked.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Francesco's Pizzeria & Restaurant has been cooking since 1984, a family-run Long Beach spot known for natural ingredients and that craveable hot honey pizza. When you want classic slices plus real-deal Italian dishes made by meticulous chefs, this is a dependable local move... and yes, you can order on Toast.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Since 1932, Laurel Diner has been Long Beach’s go-to for classic American plates morning to night, the kind of spot where counter seats feel like reserved stools and the menu nails every craving. Grab breakfast, lunch or dinner, pair it with a beer or wine, then call it a day.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Halal, quick-bite joint offering sandwiches, gyros, and other Mediterranean eats in a casual space.”

“Himawari keeps it easy with solid sushi, comforting noodle bowls, and bento boxes in a compact, laid back spot that never feels fussy. When you want a dependable roll list, plus sushi and sashimi a la carte, this is a reliable neighborhood move.”

“West End Pizza & Restaurant is the kind of spot you lean on midweek or post-beach, with dough made fresh daily, homemade sauces and the kind of pies Long Beach keeps calling the best year after year. When you’re not craving pizza, their pasta, seafood, soups, salads and full bar keep the crew happy.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Mamma Gina's Pizzeria and Grill keeps Valley Stream happy with classic pies and red sauce comfort, plus fun curveballs like birria pizza, tacos, and even shucos. When you want penne alla vodka, wings, and a Greek salad in one order, this is your move.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Queens folks, when the taco mood hits, Birria Tacos of Green Acres Mall serves birria, shrimp and beef tacos, tender chicken, and cheesy quesadillas made with fresh ingredients and homemade flavor. Casual spot, friendly crew, and exactly the kind of quick mall detour you’ll brag about.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Laffa Bar and Grill does Mediterranean-Middle Eastern fusion right in the Five Towns, with VAAD of Five Towns supervision, glatt kosher shawarma, grilled meats, burgers, and daily fresh-cut salads that actually taste fresh. Easy weeknight dinner, post-surf refuel, or call them to cater bar mitzvahs and birthdays.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Craving something cozy or crisp? Chi Ramen nails both, with rich Tokyo Tonkatsu Ramen that hugs the soul and fresh sushi, hand rolls, and poke bowls that taste like a good day. Solid, high-quality ingredients, authentic recipes, and a neighborhood vibe just minutes from the Long Beach Boardwalk.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Rockstar Korean BBQ & Chicken brings AYCE energy to Valley Stream with premium cuts sizzling at your table, plus snackable wins like kimchi fries and fried dumplings. Easy pick for a weeknight or squad dinner... fresh, flavorful, and the kind of smoky joy Queens folks will happily claim.”

From the Valley Stream newsletter, September 27, 2026

“Casual joint serving classics from pizza and pasta, to wings and cheesesteaks.”

“Baldoria does the classic-meets-creative Italian thing right, with old world flavors and new world style, plus homemade pastas that taste like someone’s nonna got a tech upgrade. It’s also a solid pick for birthdays or team dinners, with private parties and catering covered.”

From the Long Beach newsletter, September 21, 2026

“When the birria urge hits, Maya Mexican Grill delivers with 3 Birria Tacos, cheesy quesadillas, loaded fries, and churros, plus veggie-friendly picks like guacamole and a salad bowl. Order pickup or delivery direct and keep more of your money local, Queens.”

From the Queens newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Counter-serve pizzeria turning out pies, slices, and other Italian eats for lunch and dinner.”