Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Fire Island: A Ferry, Fun Ritual


For many summer residents, a stop at Nicky's Clam Bar on the way in or out of town is a sentimental ritual. It's right across from the ferry on Bay Shore, Long Island and is the perfect way to start or end a trip to Fire Island.

This quaint, little restaurant seats about thirty people. Its nautical-themed decor and wood paneling make it feel like the intimate dining room on an old ship. 


They're famous for their steamed lobster right out of the tank, manhattan and new england chowders and, of course, their impressive variety of clams. You can get their little necks fresh from the bay baked with bread crumbs and bacon, sauteed in a white wine and garlic sauce or raw on the half shell if you're feeling brave. There's also large baked clams stuffed with a creamy, bread filling, deep fried whole belly top neck clams and a killer clam bisque. 


Their menu captures the nearby clam culture on Fire Island. It's common for locals to head out to the tidal flats in big rain boots and dig into the sand for these oceanic treats. Each year, there's also a clam shucking contest in the small town of Kismet. It's always packed as people from every corner of the island bike over for this spirited event. 

If you're looking for a taste of timeless, nostalgia before heading over on the ferry or back into the real world, make a stop at this neighborhood gem. You're sure to leave as happy as a Fire Island clam. 





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