20 Best Restaurants in Montauk New York (For First Timers!)

Getting the best restaurants in Montauk will not be a problem because, over the years, Montauk has changed from being a surf town full of fishermen to an extension of the West village on summer weekends.

However, mouthwatering seafood still awaits you in this oceanfront town, with many beach restaurants providing you with lovely views of the Atlantic Ocean and fresh food.

Even if you are not a lover of shrimp, lobsters, fish, and crabs. You would likely leave this town loving them.

Asides from local dishes like seafood, you can also find international cuisine like the Mediterranean, Mexican, and of course, American dishes.

You will surely find a place to satisfy your cravings when you visit Montauk.

Best Restaurants in Montauk

1. Scarpetta Beach

This Hampton’s outpost of the Scarpetta Beach is everything you would expect it to be if you have ever been to a Scarpetta or Gurney’s before.

However, the service is tentative without being overbearing, and the quality, presentation, and taste of the food are excellent.

Hence, this spot is a shining example of what a perfect dining experience should be.

Though it is expensive, it is worth every penny you spend on the experience. Aside from being the local’s favorite, I would say this is one of the best restaurants in Montauk.

First and foremost, the service is impeccable, with multiple servers who are attendants, but not bothersome.

The servers know the menu well, go into detail when explaining your question dish, and offer perfect pairings of wine/drinks.

Then from the bread to the exotic dessert, the food is fantastic. Unique and delectable from the creamy polenta, to the pickled snapper, to the basil spaghetti, short ribs, the wagyu strip, black cod, and the perfectly prepared scallops.

Everything is beyond excellent! What makes the dining experience even better is the ambiance.

You can sit outside on the deck while overlooking the Atlantic ocean with one of the best views in the Hamptons.

Also, on moonlit nights, it can’t be beaten; the outside lounge offers a fire pit, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or after-dinner cordials with their unique, tasty desserts.

Beautiful food, beautiful staff, and beautiful views. From your first hello from the enthusiastic hostess to the last goodbye from your professional servers (or, on many occasions, the dining room manager).

You will enjoy an incredible experience at this excellent restaurant.

Address: 290 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954

2. Inlet Seafood Restaurant

Magical experience right on the bay, with a truly magnificent atmosphere and even better food.

Inspired cuisine, friendly and attentive staff, and an incredible visual experience overlooking the water.

Inlet Seafood Restaurant is a must-go if you are lucky enough to find a table when you are in Montauk.

They are definitely the top 1 or 2 restaurants in this city. Located right on the inlet, epic sunsets, and you can watch the boats come in and out. Literally one of the best sushi restaurants in Montauk.

So fresh and prepared perfectly, the fish is fresh and seasonal, exactly what you want from a fishing town.

Speaking of its menu, the clam chowder is so good on a cool, drizzly day. Seared tuna app, yellow tail app, and seaweed salad are some of the people’s favorites.

Also, they have sandwiches and entrees, are very sustainable, and only serve fresh fish and whatever is in season.

Hence, they run what seems to be weekly specials as well for both lunch and dinner, including app, entrees, and desserts.

The best thing is that this spot has plenty of non-seafood options on the menu, so those who dislike fish are not left with slim pickings like at many seafood restaurants.

Absolutely a must-visit when in Montauk.

Address: 541 E Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

3. Pizza Village

If you are craving pizza in Montauk, nothing should stop you from going to Pizza Village. It has been a Montauk staple for a long time, while all other pizza restaurants in Montauk have turned over.

Having tasted a lot of pizza, I can say theirs is solid and exceptional for Long Island and excellent when compared to the other parts of the state/country.

However, this spot is the place to go in Montauk for your pizza fix. It is a dated establishment that has been around for a long time. A classic old-school pizzeria with tables inside and outside.

Very good pizza slices, pies, and an assortment of Italian favorites. The Greek salad has a very tasty, thick homemade dressing.

Also, the wings are breaded and perfectly cooked (plenty of blue cheese and hot sauce on the side), and the meatball is excellent.

Although pizza prices are quite high compared to local hotels and restaurants, this is cheap eating for Montauk.

Visit daily from 11:30 AM – 9 PM.

Address: 700 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954

4. John’s Drive-In

First, there are basically four kinds of burgers in the world, and they all have their place in my heart. There is the restaurant burger (great and high quality, though sometimes too fussy and trying too hard to be special).

Also, the diner/coffee shop burger (heaven for a heavy meal with all the fixings), the fast food burger (when that is what you want, it is all that will do).

Then there is the fourth kind, the burger one can only find at local spots in smaller cities and towns across the United States, and that is the variant offered at John’s Drive-In; the classic drive-in burger.

However, the sear on the two high-quality patties, the size, the toppings, the bun, the cheese (melts directly on both burgers), the proportions, and the general vibe of the place make this spot stand out from other burger restaurants in Montauk.

Not too big, not too small, and not aiming for anything other than a good, solid flavor, this unassuming burger hits the mark every time.

But as their name makes clear at the John’s, the ice cream is the real star.

It is truly delicious, and in addition to traditional favorites (like a great black cherry), John’s also offers an ever-changing variety of interesting, homemade flavors.

Hence, this spot is an excellent choice for a family sit down, a snack stop, or a quick grab to go. It is also the perfect place for a post-game respite after a round of miniature golf at puff ‘n’ putt, which is a few yards down the road.

Address: 677 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954

5. The Dock  Bar & Grill

Great dockside pub featuring all your favorites along with a long list of daily specials, beers on tap, cocktails, and wine.

The Dock Bar & Grill is near the sunset beach; go there in the evening, and you can walk to sunset beach (just a minute’s walk) to get a fantastic view of the sunset.

Hence, it is very relaxed, laid back, and rustic outside. The food is always quality; you can stop for lunch or dinner. It is that good compared to other restaurants in Montauk.

However, the buffalo Mahi bites are like nothing you have ever tasted. Fresh-tasting and delicious fried food is not an easy feat.

First, their buffalo sauce is just a good quality classic and delicious buffalo sauce (their wings are also amazing).

The fish in the Mahi is exceptionally fresh, the breading is done to perfection, and it comes with blue cheese (delicious). You would love it.

Then the soft shell crab sandwich (special), served on an English muffin with their homemade tartar sauce. Their mussels and baked clams are solid choices too.

Also, almond-crusted Mahi as a special is impressive; their fries and the kale caesar salad are delicious.

You really can’t go wrong with anything at the dock.

Address: 482 W Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

6. Hooked

This spot has the best New England clam chowder! If you like creamy, delicious clam chowder, this is it (a decent amount of clams in the soup also). The kale caesar salad with shrimp is absolutely delicious.

Hence, the shrimp is incredibly fresh, the caesar dressing is great, the perfect amount of croutons, and plentiful freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Also, the fishwich and sweet potato fries are both crispy and delicious; the fishwich comes on a potato bun with amazing tartar sauce.

When you are in Montauk, this place is a staple! Crab and corn chowder is out of this world (a little spicy, but perfectly done).

It is creamy and delicious; you can take it to go or pick it up at the window and eat at one of their picnic tables in the front or on the side (very cute picnic tables if you want a little more privacy).

Although Hooked might be smaller than most restaurants in Montauk, the flavors are big and bold. Great soups and chowders, tasty fish entrees, and a lobster roll that is second to none.

Then the service here at this restaurant is quick, friendly staff, and reasonable prices ensure that you will be “hooked” as soon as you try them.

Address: 34 S Etna Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

7. Hideaway Montauk

Great little spot off the beaten path that is very easy to miss, even if you are looking out for it.

Find it, and you will be treated to a very casual spot with picnic tables style seating, both indoors and outdoors, that overlooks the water.

Definitely, a more locals-friendly spot that has a great chilled and laid-back vibe in contrast to other restaurants in Montauk now opened, which caters to the young, affluent socialite.

Interestingly, there is a bar area inside that has a few TVs to catch your sports while enjoying one of many spicy cocktails that are delicious and made with house infusions of habanero, jalapeno, or Arbol, to name a few.

However, this is not the main attraction. You come for the delicious food priced very reasonably for the area.

The tacos are deliciously seasoned and given with good-sized portions of meat, no matter which protein source you go for.

Hence, the tamales are amazing, and so is their signature appetizer of slow simmered chicken served in a jalapeno, with cream on top.

Also, check their special menu for treats like mole sauce items, which are Mexican for spicy, chocolaty deliciousness that you can pretty much put on top of anything, and be happy with life.

Then, the owner is a lovely and chill woman with a warm staff, relaxed views, and tasty fresh food made from scratch, and with love for a surprisingly fair price.

However,  Hideaway Montauk is for locals and visitors that prefer something more down to earth, as opposed to trendy/obnoxious.

Note, temporarily closed for the 2022 season, opens back in May.

Address: 364 W Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

8. Westlake Fish House

The real Montauk gathers here after they hop off their fishing boats!

The Interior is just how you would love it, step back in time to an era where the guys washed their catch out back and then earned a barstool to toast a great few days on the high seas.

However, it is a special atmosphere and quite unique on the East end. Check the handwritten charts near the front door for the biggest fish catches of the week.

Don’t miss Monday evenings at Westlake Fish House – 6 pm start through to sunset with the amazing Lynn Blue band.

Lynn plays on the patio, and you will want your camera out for the best “red sky” pictures of your summer.

They play great covers of your favorite rock tunes with the band’s own twist. It will have you wishing sunset was at 11 pm; ring toss and deck games are a fun addition, reminding you of great Fla Keys vacations.

When its time to order, here is your best plan: seared tuna app, maki combo roll, grilled whole fish of the day, chowder all night, burgers & macaroni, and specialty sushi rolls, especially the Montauk and Westlake rolls.

Although it can get crowded on weekends, minimal wait at the back bar adds to the fun summer vibe.

Saturday nights are awesome on the covered patio, with live music and a packed house enjoying another stellar Montauk weekend.

Speaking of its bar, local drafts, super fresh Lime ‘Ritas, and comped sodas if you are the DD.

You can’t beat the location; nice, really lovely hardworking servers, many from Ireland, add to the charm compared to other restaurants in Montauk.

Address: 352 W Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

9. Montauk Brewing Company

When visiting Montauk, the first thing to do is to begin to unwind from the stress of life by visiting Montauk Brewing Company.

Small, intimate tap room with an open and laid-back feel, with picnic tables outside in the courtyard area facing the park. It is a perfect Montauk setting.

However, the beer is very good and offers an excellent variety for their limited location.

You should order a flight (which includes a take-home Montauk Brewery glass) to sample their offerings which change with the seasons.

Hence, their staple beers (Summer, Driftwood, and so on) can be found in New York City.

And the people’s favorite is the Wave Chaser IPA! Also, a very cool lady works the taproom and converses with everybody in a friendly tone.

If you are hungry, you can walk to several inexpensive restaurants in Montauk to grab a quick bite to go with your brew.

And if you can’t make it out to Montauk, be sure to grab a six-pack of their beer when you see one in your store. You will not be disappointed.

Plan a visit to Montauk Brewing Company on Mondays – Sundays from 2 PM – 6 PM. Note: closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Address: 62 S Erie Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

10. Rick’s Crabby Cowboy Cafe

This delightful family-friendly, casual eatery is away from the craziness of Montauk’s main drag. What an unsung spot, with great fresh seafood and delightful staff.

Indoor and outdoor seats, fire pits right on the water, what more could you ask for? This spot is definitely one of the best restaurants in Montauk.

Speaking of its menu, order its signature Montauk Pearl Oysters, which are harvested from the oyster farm at the end of the dock. Also, the lobster and crab bake and a soft shell crab sandwich.

All delicious and cooked properly. Now, this is not the four seasons, and they are not trying to be either.

This is an ideal Long Island experience and a MUST when visiting the East End.

If you want great quality seafood without pretentiousness, then Rick’s Crabby Cowboy Cafe is the way to go.

Also, the view of the backyard marina and oyster farm is just plain lovely. Come early to get some good seats; this place is a favorite and fills up on the weekends.

Address: 435 E Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

11. The Lobster Roll Amagansett

Looking for that quintessential I am on vacation meal? Lobsters, sweet corn, clams/ it did not get any better than coming to The Lobster Roll Amagansett.

An icon welcoming your arrival to Montauk, menu choices are everything seafood plus a few grilled types of meat for land lovers, unlike other seafood restaurants in Montauk.

Additionally, they have express orders for quartz of soups and takeout too. And they have many healthy salads and add too.

Also, for those concerned about health issues, sanitize, wear masks, and appear exceptional in paying attention. And also have both indoor and covered outdoor seating depending on the weather and mood you are in.

Their service is pretty quick, and the food is tasty, making you know that you are in a coastal town.

However, this place is iconic and has one of the best lobster rolls. I find it more interesting that they serve their lobster on the side and make your own sandwich.

This is the type of place where you don’t look at prices because it’s all worth it, and yet not skyrocketed prices. Order what you like, and you can’t go wrong.

Address: 1980 Montauk Hwy, Amagansett, NY 11930

12. The Montauket

Prosecco in hand and a beautiful sunset, what more can you ask when you are at the end of the world?

It is a hidden bar situated on a steep hill, and the patrons are mostly locals.

Also, there is beach access but a bit tricky to find the path since the restaurant closed off the fence.

Interestingly, a live band playing 70’s rock to 90’s alternative sets the tone for head bops and swaying hips. A casual bar with an array of beers on tap.

Absolutely worth it for the view and outdoor seating! The drinks are great, the service is good, and the view is outstanding.

However, there is generally less wind on the good side, and if you want a vacation and outdoor feel, The Montauket is the one.

If you are snacking, try the chicken wings. All the seafood entrees are delicious, and the portions are large.

Try the stuffed seafood platter or local flounder with horseradish sauce. It is crowded around sunset, so plan accordingly.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Sundays from 2 PM – 9 PM.

Address: 88 Firestone Rd, Montauk, NY 11954

13. La Fin Kitchen & Lounge

Without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Montauk! If you are a pescatarian, you will really appreciate every seafood dish on the menu, as everything served is local.

This is probably the only restaurant in the Hamptons serving local seafood. All recipes respect the main ingredient flavors, clean and light with no heavy sauce or heavy seasoning.

Speaking of its menu, steamed flounder is excellent; black bass is to die for, grilled baby squid is incredibly tender and fresh, and both tuna and swordfish with lobster bisque on top are excellent.

However, La Fin Kitchen & Lounge has great options for vegans and vegetarians. Eggplant “meatballs’ is just ridiculously good! Super outdoor space on the water is enjoyable for both lunch and dinner.

The whole vibe is great; there is great weekend music with DJs and live bands. The bar definitely has a fantastic vibe! Ellen, Julia, and Candice rotate at the bar and are all great.

They are incredibly charming and very knowledgeable about both food and drinks.

Great selection of tequilas and mescals, and wines. The food overall is so good; definitely worth checking out if you want something a bit nicer in the area.

Plan a visit to La Fin Kitchen & Lounge from Mondays – Sundays from 5 PM – 10 PM.

Address: 474 W Lake Dr, Montauk, NY 11954

14. Street Food

Best unique lobster roll! Street Food is absolutely incredible and a much-needed addition to Montauk’s food scene.

However, the Asian-inspired street foods from different cultures make this spot different from other restaurants in Montauk, which you cannot miss.

You will be overwhelmed by all of the choices on their menu, as everything looks and sounds good.

Most especially the steamed pork dumplings, chicken lomein, and lobster roll. The quality and freshness of the ingredients can’t be ignored.

Hence, the flavor profile is fresh and original. The dumplings and chicken lomein are really good.

Now, the lobster roll is slightly toasty and buttery soft; the lobster itself is fresh and not frozen and cooked to perfection. The sauce is so light and refreshing.

The ginger-glazed lobster is beyond anything you have eaten before; it’s probably better than any lobster roll that you can eat from around town.

The flavors mixed with the natural taste of the lobster are exquisite, and the udon noodles are perfect.

They are boiled, and the meats cooked with the sauce are perfect; if you are in the area and need a quick bit to eat and don’t want to spend excessive money.

You should try this spot; you definitely get your money’s worth with high-quality food, exceptional service, and not to mention a decent amount of food.

Address: 58 S Erie Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

15. Duryea’s Montauk

A great place to relax and have good food. It’s a little isolated but not far from the center of town. Great views and fresh food.

Is it a great place to have dinner? Absolutely! You see the sunset, the ocean breeze (if it gets chilly, you could ask for a blanket), and the sound of waves while you dine. Great selection of wines, and the staff is all friendly and competent.

Honestly, the food is expensive, but it is worth the money for what you are getting.

Also, they have generous serving, which is unlike fine dining in other restaurants in Montauk.

Where you have just the presentation, even the kid’s meal has a generous amount of serving, and paired with their delicious fries, would satisfy even a hungry adult.

However, Duryea’s Montauk is not considered a “full-service restaurant” but a “fish market” business.

Therefore, you will have to go and order/pay for your food at the booth, and then they will bring the food to your table.

But one of the main reasons you go here is the ambiance; they get really packed, and wait time can go up to an hour, but it’s not bad because you can just grab a wine and enjoy the place and view while you wait.

Address: 65 Tuthill Rd, Montauk, NY 11954

16. Sel Rrose Montauk

Beautiful and cozy ambiance with unique decor, from the monochrome murals spanning walls and ceilings to the symmetric yet mismatched chairs.

Chic decor plays with the Montauk aesthetic, extending it to a sophisticated beachside supper club.

However, the food at Sel Rrose Montauk is truly delicious, just as good as a top downtown restaurant, hitting all the marks that Jean Georges aims for with ABC kitchen.

Also, the kitchen is the strong point of this little bistro/bar. Amazing culinary experience! From the cocktail (the hunter is exceptional) to the dessert (ginger creme Brule).

Hence, they make an “everyday dinner out” like a special occasion. Oysters, burgers, truffle fries, and the margarita is heaven.

As long as the chef runs the swordfish special, you are in luck with the best succulent swordfish ever.

Then the soft shell crab looks so appealing; they make the best. Perfectly fried and stacked with incredible tastes and flavors.

Though a bit pricey but decent for the Hamptons, look for happy hour specials only at the bar midweek. One of the few restaurants in Montauk still opens during the “off-season.”

Address: 4 S Elmwood Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

17. Shagwong

“Clam shucker wanted, must play piano.” If you know this saying, you might know the Shag. Fun spot in the center of Montauk village that has been here since the 1950s.

Hewitt’s family ran it as a perfect fisherman’s divey hangout bar, enshrining the old timer’s boats and catches in an honored place against the front wall.

A great little spot right on the main drag of Montauk, with simple good food in a traditional tavern interior. A long wooden bar on the left, with a nice selection of beers on tap, and a dining room on the right.

A sports bar with classic wood finishes and TVs throughout. Good sound system and good tunes (classic rock).

Also, you have a pool table, a jukebox, and an ATM if you fall short of cash.

However, Shagwong never disappoints with flavors, portion size, and overall dining experience!

Food is flavorful, and the attention to detail is better than in some high-end restaurants in Montauk at the double the price.

The chef clearly cares about the quality and consistency of what they put out.

The food is simple but excellent; the shrimp is cooked with juicy pieces of cod. The steamed mussels have a buttery rich flavor, the seafood is fresh, and the french fries are thick and tasty.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Sundays from 12 PM – 9 PM.

Address: 774 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954

18. Tauk At Trail’s End

Nice little lunch place with tiny outdoor tables, as well as indoor seating and a bar. Casual, beach atmosphere in the village of Montauk. Awesome menu with inventive twists and classic dishes.

Hence the menu is diverse, and almost everything you want is available. I must mention “Steve’s Fall Off The Bone Baby Back Ribs” is the best you will ever have; the meat fell off the bone! The lobster quesadilla is so good as well.

Then for your entrees, order the chicken ala mike and broiled filet mignon, which is cooked to perfection.

The proportions are very generous, which you will enjoy. Also, for your sides, order Brussels sprouts, which are delicious and complement your meals.

Do not forget to order crepe and wontons for your dessert. Very amazing and a perfect way to complete your meal.

Make sure to visit Tauk At Trail’s End when you are in Montauk. You need to add it to your must-do list in Montauk! Hands down one of the best restaurants in Montauk to visit.

Address: 63 S Euclid Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

19. Muse @ The End

Forget the other restaurants in Montauk, and have every meal here at Muse @ The End! Besides well-priced dining, the food is exceptional.

Definitely a hidden gem lovely atmosphere, too, with a  gorgeous patio, diving room, and bar.

This spot is great, with soft lighting, live music on Saturdays, a reasonable seafood-forward menu, a casual vibe, a pretty bar, and great service.

Definitely try the lobster mac & cheese, lots of fresh lobster, and I’m assuming they cook the macaroni in the lobster water because it has a wonderful taste.

Also, the grilled octopus, chimichurri skirt steak, salmon scallopini, and zeppoles are all fantastic.

If you can request to be sat in Francesco’s section, you will have one of the best dining experiences. The entire ambiance, indoor & outdoor, is amazing.

Plan a visit to Muse @ The End on Mondays – Sundays from 3 PM – 10 PM.

Address: 41 S Euclid Ave, Montauk, NY 11954

20. Sausages Pizza & Pastabilities

One of the best pizza restaurants in Montauk that offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery. This is a New York City-style pizza joint with a few small booths and outdoor tables for dining in.

Hence, the staff treats you like family, and you can tell they care about providing quality food and service to their customers.

They are one of the best pizza restaurants in Montauk; their crust is superb, and the quality is top-notch.

However, the bread is fresh with just the right amount of crispiness, and the meatballs are tasty, not overly spiced, not too tough, or with odd flavors.

Also, the lobster ravioli with marinara sauce is nicely seasoned with just a little bit of spice.

Then, you can also try the fettuccine carbonara! Which comes with bread and salad. The Italian dressing is prepared in-house and is wonderful.

The fettuccine carbonara is excellent, cooked just right, and flavorful.

In addition, they are known for their sausages (made in Sausages Pizza & Pastabilities), as the spot’s name suggests. So it will be good to try those as well.

Plan a visit on Mondays – Sundays from 11:30 AM – 9 PM.

Address: 781 Montauk Point State Pkwy # B, Montauk, NY 11954

Final Remark

By now, you shouldn’t have any problem with the best restaurants in Montauk to dine in when visiting.

Crave seafood, pizza, sausages, steamed mussels with buttery flavors, french fries, or even international dishes.

You will find all these restaurants in this list, beers on tap, cocktails, and whatever wine or juice you want; you will have them all.

Bon Appetit!