Johnny's Reef
Seafood restaurant · City Island ·
Fried & steamed seafood, frozen cocktails, waterfront views, cash only
Fried & steamed seafood, frozen cocktails, waterfront views, cash only
"This whole time, you’ve been saying “Positano” wrong. It’s actually pronounced “City Island.” The Bronx enclave sitting in the Long Island Sound may not have pristine beaches and upscale resorts, but it does have Johny’s Reef, a counter-service seafood destination where you can eat calamari on a vast sun-soaked patio. Bring cash, and sample every local delicacy, including the cherry-topped piña colada." - bryan kim, molly fitzpatrick, willa moore, will hartman, sonal shah
"The ageless, very casual seafood restaurant is the perfect spot to while away the day with fried calamari and frozen cocktails while gazing upon the calming waves of City Island Harbor. Remember, it’s cash-only." - Nadia Chaudhury
"If it’s above 59 degrees outside, you should know that’s technically referred to as “Johnny's Reef weather.” Get in a car (or hop on a bus) and make your way to this City Island institution, where you can dive into a pile of fried shrimp on a sprawling concrete patio near the water. Order in the indoor area that’s set up like a food hall with counters offering steamed and fried clams, scallops, lobster tails and more, and pair everything with a Henny Colada in a little plastic cup." - bryan kim, willa moore, molly fitzpatrick, will hartman
"Sometimes, it’s nice to have one glass of wine by a body of water and then go home and do your skincare routine. Sometimes. But when the urge for six Henny coladas and some sea breeze hits, head to Johnny’s Reef on City Island. There’s a massive concrete patio where you can chug frozen cocktails and listen to someone on a motorcycle play loud music from a speaker, and inside there are cash-only counters where you can order things like battered shrimp and steamed lobster tails. Your fried clams won’t taste all that great, but you aren’t here for the food." - willa moore, bryan kim, neha talreja, matt tervooren, molly fitzpatrick
"The best fried seafood in the city, on City Island, where you can feast on fried lobster tails, clam strips, shrimp, or even frog legs if you’re feeling adventurous." - Edward Barsamian
