As someone who splits their time between Long Island and Manhattan, I am always looking for what is the best of the best when it comes to the amazing culture that both parts of New York have to offer. I found a hidden gem located out east in Long Island in Oakdale called View, and was glad that I did. This seafood-based restaurant boasts a lot more than your average shrimp cocktail, and is a multi-purpose location that you can have an intimate night with your friends, or even marry the love of your life at. Here’s how.
Part of the reason why I love the ambiance that Long Island so beautifully gives its residents is that there are several towns that are surrounded by the beautiful Great South Bay. View is an amazing example of that as you can see from the picture above. The picturesque view (pun intended) are absolutely breathtaking, and with the warm lighting, elegant dining selections and wood floors adorned throughout, View really gives you an experience that goes beyond dining & hospitality.
View has many different sections for you to enjoy. If you are looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with your buds, they have a great bar located to the right of the entrance where you can kick back and watch the game. They also have a private tea room that you can reserve for a special event where it is quiet and serene. The main part of View can be used for larger events such as weddings, receptions and whatnot, and from the looks of their catering menu can supply you with everything you need for that special occasion.
Speaking of menus, the food we had at View the other night was absolutely fantastic. Seeing as they are a seafood type location, I wanted to indulge myself with as many types of seafood they could give me, with a couple of great land options as well. They offer Prix-Fixe Menus from Wednesday to Friday, 12-6, and Sunday from 4-6, as well as a Sushi menu available on the weekends and a delicious Brunch menu as well. As far as dinner is concerned, here is what I think you should order the next time you are at View.
For starters, their Maine Lobster Bisque with sherry cream and lobster claw meat is a delicious way to begin the evening and is great to savor in the cold weather that we have been having. Their Thai Calamari was a standout dish for me, as the peanuts, cilantro, lime and sweet chili glaze really gave a dish that most people consider to be bland a breath of fresh air in its concept and delivery. For a land option, their Peking Duck Tacos with avocado, scallion and Hoisin sauce is a small and savory bite, especially with the sauce added in.
For the entrees, the code here is “go big or go home”. One word describes that- Bouillabaisse. Yes, their View Bouillabaisse was quite the standout as it literally had everything under the sea (pun again) all in one delicious bowl. Lobster tail, shrimp, bay scallops, littleneck clams, mussels and Yukon potatoes all swimming in a Saffron infused Seafood Broth. Very yummy. Another great option was their Maine Lobster Pasta (pictured above) with roasted corn, smoked bacon, mushrooms, caramelized shallots, cherry tomatoes, cognac cream and garganelli pasta. This is a great selection for all the pasta lovers out there who crave some seafood mixed in.
To finish the meal off, we recommend their Peanut Butter Valrhona Chocolate Bomb with a peanut crumble and Salted Caramel Gelato or their Churros with dulce de leche & chocolate-kahlua dipping sauce. A sweet way to end an amazing meal indeed. View also has other specialty menus that they are showcasing now, including Prime Rib Night, going on between now and March 2nd and Winter Lobster Night. At $34.95 for the former and $39.95 for the latter per person, it is a great option for getting the most of your buck and having a satisfying meal.
For more information on View, check out their official website.