Randazzo's Clam Bar - Sheepshead Bay

I know its been over 2 weeks since my last post. I've been busy planning Joel's birthday, and taking some "me" time by resting my eyes from the computer (when I'm not at work) going to the beach on my summer Fridays, and overall, just relaxing and taking in summer nights. With that said, I have definitly been eating A LOT of seafood these past 2 weeks. Joel and I discovered a long-time neighborhood seafood spot on Emmon's Avenue in Sheepshead Bay, Randazzo's Clam Bar.

The restaurant claims to be the "Pride and Joy of Sheepshead Bay" and I totally see why. First, I love family owned and operated businesses. This is a very busy clam bar with no time to waste, but yet, you do not feel rushed or ignored. Both times (yes, we went on a Friday, then the following Sunday--we're hooked!) we had the same waitress, and she was pleasant and kind of gave us a motherly vibe--she's just going to take care of us from beginning to end. There is a history here, one that I shouldn't be allowed to get into since I've only been there twice, but you'll see what I mean when you get there. This is a total fresh fish, no frills, elbows on the table restaurant that isn't fancy but definitely deserves the respect and customer loyalty it has achieved.

Now onto the food...You HAVE to try the clams--raw or baked, this is why you are here. Besides the clams, get any of the fresh seafood--don't be silly and get chicken fingers! (Except if you are allergic to shellfish, then ask a lot of questions about cross contamination).

I recommend:
Cherrystone Raw Clams

Baked Cherrystone Clams

Soft Shell Crab Sandwich

Fresh Oysters

We shared everything my first visit there. The second time around, on a Sunday, it was even busier and the wait for a table was about 15 minutes, while the wait for our food (everything above except Shrimp Francese w/Spaghetti instead of the Softshell Crab Sandwich) was about 30 minutes. I was upset at first and tried to be as understanding as I could, but it was worth the wait, and I rarely say that, because when I'm hungry, you're not allowed to speak to me until I have food in front of me. Its a fact of life--ask Joel (and a few of my closest friends and co-workers!).

This summer, go to Sheepshead Bay and support this historic landmark that is steps from the water. You can take it to go, or eat right at the bar on a first come, first serve basis. Eating outside is also an option. Parking at the Plaza around the corner is about $0.91/hour the most just in case you can't find street parking. See you there!