Best Contemporary American Restaurants in West Islip

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

FairfieldNassauQueensSuffolk

Neighborhoods

Bay ShoreBayvilleBellmoreCarle PlaceCold Spring HarborEast Meadow

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

69 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Prospect On Union

new

4.3

Awesome(16)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • West Islip

Booked 9 times today

Prospect on Union is West Islip’s New American Cuisine restaurant in the former Brownstones Coffee space. Enjoy creative shareable appetizers, elevated entrées like Braised Short Rib and Pan-Seared Salmon, fresh salads, and handhelds alongside handcrafted cocktails, beers, and premium spirits. Fun, flavorful, and neighborhood-friendly—perfect for date nights, gatherings, or a great night out. Same great team, brand-new evening vibe. Join us for dinner!

2. The Lakehouse

4.8

Exceptional(3474)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Bay Shore

Booked 54 times today

The Lakehouse in Bay Shore, NY, offers an exceptional French American dining experience, blending the sophistication of French culinary techniques with the comforting flavors of American cuisine. Guests rave about the “outstanding” dishes like grilled oysters, halibut, and Berkshire pork chops, which showcase the chef's finesse and creativity. The ambiance is equally praised, with a beautiful waterside setting that includes stunning views of the Great South Bay. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and hospitality is reflected in the “impeccable” service and meticulously plated dishes. Whether for a special occasion or a casual night out, The Lakehouse promises a memorable culinary journey.

3. The Bryant

4.7

Exceptional(1928)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Huntington

Booked 50 times today

The Bryant in Huntington is a shining star in the realm of Contemporary American cuisine, delivering an unparalleled dining experience with every visit. "Always a great meal, great atmosphere too," raves a satisfied patron, while others celebrate the "fresh salads, delicious burgers, and seafood" that highlight their diverse menu. The Bryant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in dishes like the halibut with asparagus and mushrooms, which are consistently praised for their incredible flavor. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with "five-star" service, makes The Bryant a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the true essence of Contemporary American dining.

4. The Halston

4.7

Exceptional(1028)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Melville

Booked 10 times today

Discover the vibrant flavors of Contemporary American cuisine at The Halston in Melville, where legendary restaurateur Anthony Scotto crafts a dining experience that is both "approachable and lively." With a menu that offers an extensive array of culinary delights, from signature salads and hearty burgers to exquisite sushi and seafood, The Halston truly caters to every palate. Its warm ambiance and attentive service, praised as "outstanding" and "impeccable," ensure a memorable dining experience. Whether it's a business lunch, family dinner, or a special celebration, guests consistently rave about the "truly amazing" food and the inviting atmosphere that brings "FUN back to fine dining."

5. Salt and Barrel

4.8

Exceptional(1837)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Bay Shore

Booked 14 times today

An authentic oyster bar with an urban vibe and vintage soul. Serving classic cocktails, craft taps, and coastal fare with a rotating selection of east/west coast oysters daily.

6. 317 Main Street

4.6

Exceptional(1947)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Farmingdale

Booked 13 times today

317 Main Street in Farmingdale offers an authentic American dining experience, showcasing the exceptional talent of Chef Eric LeVine, a two-time "Chopped" Champion. Known for his creativity and passion, Chef Eric expertly weaves local flavors into classic American grill dishes, creating a menu that is both innovative and comforting. Guests rave about the "delicious" food and "phenomenal" dining experiences, describing the atmosphere as fun and upbeat. Patrons appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, with standout service from servers like Janice. Whether enjoying a crafted cocktail or Chef Eric's inventive dishes, "317 Main Street" promises an unforgettable American culinary adventure.

7. Whalers

4.5

Awesome(1461)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Bay Shore

Booked 24 times today

Whalers in Bay Shore is a delightful haven for authentic Asian cuisine lovers. With a menu that features a unique blend of traditional favorites and modern twists, Whalers ensures every dish is a "fantastic" experience. The restaurant’s waterfront location offers diners stunning views of the Great South Bay, enhancing the overall dining experience. Guests rave about the "amazing" food and "wonderful" service, highlighting standout dishes like the calamari with Thai chili sauce and the seafood risotto. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or a special event, Whalers consistently delivers a memorable culinary journey that captures the essence of Asian cuisine.

A photo of H2O: Seafood & Sushi restaurant

8. H2O: Seafood & Sushi

4.7

Exceptional(4557)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Smithtown

Booked 26 times today

H2O: Seafood & Sushi in Smithtown masterfully delivers an exceptional Contemporary American dining experience that consistently delights its patrons. With a menu that harmoniously blends modern American seafood classics and innovative land dishes, the restaurant stands out for its "flavorful and fresh" offerings. Diners rave about the "delicious" Filet Mignon Wellington and the "perfectly done" roasted half chicken. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, enhanced by an upscale New England design. Regular guests praise the "outstanding service" and "great ambiance," making each visit memorable. Whether indulging in their Wednesday Wine Dinners or enjoying a casual meal, H2O promises an unparalleled dining adventure.

A photo of Nicky's on the Bay restaurant

9. Nicky's on the Bay

3.6

Very Good(105)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Bay Shore

Booked 29 times today

Welcome to Nicky’s on the Bay — a top-rated waterfront restaurant in Bay Shore, NY, known for fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and stunning views of the Great South Bay. For over a decade, we’ve been Long Island’s go-to seasonal destination for dockside dining and unforgettable sunsets. Whether you arrive by car or pull up by boat, you're always welcome at Nicky’s — where every seat comes with a view.

10. The Foundry

4.4

Awesome(62)

$$$$

• Contemporary american • Hicksville

Booked 5 times today

The Foundry is where energy, flavor, and design come together. Inspired by New York City’s iconic manhole covers, it blends industrial grit with modern sophistication. The menu reimagines elevated American favorites with global flair, matched by a cocktail program built for late nights and good company; warm lighting, bold flavors, and a pulse that carries from dinner to drinks. We look forward to dining with you.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Karen
New York City •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Vinny was our exceptional waiter. Very descriptive of the daily oyster selection and made excellent recommendations. He was also very knowledgeable about the wine list and food choices. Food was excellent, and we were never rushed allowing us to enjoy each course.
More info
Salt and Barrel$$$$• Contemporary American• Bay Shore
•
4.8
G
Glenn
New York City •142 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The Lakehouse was even better than I had remembered it. We enjoyed the duck confit and the wagyu steak, and the desserts were outstanding. Our server, Erika, was wonderful. We had a beautiful night and the Lakehouse and will definitely return !!!
More info
The Lakehouse$$$$• Contemporary American• Bay Shore
•
4.8
J
JoanneGold
Southwest Florida •22 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Excellent food and especially excellent service from David. He was efficient, knowledgeable and very pleasant!
More info
The Halston$$$$• American• Melville
•
4.7
P
PamelaGold
West Palm Beach •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
My mom and and I started with the Thai coconut mussels. They are my favorite and more absolutely delicious. We then shared the steak Fritz. It was cooked to perfection and was delicious. The service is always a 10 out of 10. We love this place.
More info
The Bryant$$$$• American• Huntington
•
4.7
B
Braidy
New York City •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 15, 2026
Great service and great bartender. Sat at the bar. Food and cocktails were delicious!
More info
Prospect On Union$$$$• American• West Islip
•
4.3

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