Saturday Evening: Dining by the Water on the North Fork

As the sun begins its slow descent over Peconic Bay and the sky transforms into shades of gold with streaks of lavender and orange, Saturday evenings on the North Fork take on a special magic. This is when the breeze softens, boats drift lazily into the dock, and the vibrant food scene comes alive. Whether you’re looking for a lively dockside seafood shack with live music or an elegant multi-course tasting menu under the stars, the North Fork provides an unforgettable dining experience for any mood.

At the heart of it all is The Shoals, a boutique waterfront hotel and marina situated between Southold and Greenport. Guests at The Shoals are ideally located to enjoy the finest culinary experiences of the North Fork—and when evening falls, they can relax to the calming sound of water against the dock and the shimmering marina lights that illuminate the night.

This is your guide to North Fork’s top Saturday night waterfront dining, from casual clam shacks to upscale tasting rooms, all just minutes from The Shoals.

Arrive in Style: Dock-to-Dine Charters with Ride Shore

For an unforgettable evening, guests of The Shoals can enjoy our exclusive partnership with Dock-to-Dine Charters by Ride Shore. This experience provides private boat transportation to and from some of the North Fork’s top waterfront restaurants, combining the excitement of a sunset cruise with the convenience of direct dock access to your dinner destination.

Whether you're heading to Le Bilboquet in Sag Harbor or Duryea’s in Orient Point, your evening begins the moment you board. It's the perfect way to boost your weekend plans: no driving, no parking, just salty air, smooth sailing, and a front-row view of the North Fork's iconic coastline.

Ask the Shoals team to assist you in reserving a charter, and let your evening unfold with style and sea spray.

Laid-Back and Lively: Waterfront Dining with a View

There’s something truly delightful about enjoying a casual summer meal by the water. Whether it’s fish tacos, lobster rolls, or oysters on the half shell, the laid-back charm of North Fork’s dockside dining keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Claudio’s Waterfront – Greenport Claudio’s Waterfront is a popular spot for seafood lovers, boaters, and families. Established in 1870, it’s one of the oldest continuously operated restaurants in the area—and offers a true North Fork experience. During summer, Claudio’s comes alive with music, energy, and stunning harbor views.

Order a plate of crispy calamari, a classic lobster roll, or fresh littleneck clams while enjoying one of their signature cocktails. Seating is first-come, first-served, and boaters can dock right at the pier.

Live Music: Many Saturday nights feature live bands or DJs, adding to the upbeat ambiance. Check Claudio’s event calendar for special performances and dock parties.

Port Waterfront Bar & Grill – Greenport Port Waterfront Bar & Grill offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with classic coastal cuisine and gorgeous views of the Greenport Marina. Lounge on the deck and enjoy the breeze with a plate of fresh mussels or a crab cake sandwich.

Try This: Tuna poke bowl, lobster grilled cheese, and their house margaritas.

Minnow – Southold Situated right on the water at Southold Town Wharf, Minnow serves fresh, flavorful seafood in a relaxed, scenic setting. The outdoor seating allows you to enjoy expansive harbor views while savoring creative takes on local catches.

Menu Favorites: Crispy fish sandwiches, shrimp tacos, and seasonal salads with locally sourced produce. Pair with a cold craft beer or chilled glass of North Fork rosé for the perfect dockside evening.

Elevated and Elegant: For Foodies and Romantics

While dockside dining offers summer fun and salty charm, the North Fork also presents sophisticated culinary experiences that elevate local ingredients into memorable meals.

North Fork Table & Inn – Southold North Fork Table & Inn is a go-to spot for food lovers wanting a multi-course, seasonal tasting menu made from the finest ingredients of the East End. Located in a restored farmhouse, the dining area offers an intimate, romantic vibe for the evening.

Dishes might include Montauk fluke crudo, heirloom tomatoes with local burrata, and grass-fed Lamb with summer herbs. The wine list is carefully curated, highlighting local selections from North. Fork vineyards.

Perfect for: Anniversaries, date nights, or anyone seeking a thoughtful and indulgent culinary experience.

The Frisky Oyster – Greenport The Frisky Oyster offers a cozy, candlelit atmosphere downtown and serves inventive New American cuisine. The menu is playful yet sophisticated—think tempura squash blossoms, seared tuna with ginger miso glaze, and mushroom ravioli with truffle butter.

While not directly on the water, its contemporary charm and bold flavors make it an ideal ending to a vineyard-hopping afternoon or a relaxed day at the beach.

Top Dish: The Oysters Friskafella — baked oysters with spinach, garlic, and parmesan.

Back at The Shoals: Your Private Waterfront Retreat

After dinner, return to The Shoals for a tranquil, starlit evening by the marina. Whether you’re staying in a waterfront suite or arriving by boat, the atmosphere remains calm and elegant.

Relax on your balcony with a nightcap, listen to the gentle splash of water against the dock, and enjoy the shimmer of lights across the harbor. This is North Fork living at its best—easy, peaceful, and unforgettable.

Shoals Perks: • Prime location between Greenport and Southold • Walking or biking distance to restaurants and vineyards • Modern suites with kitchenettes and marina views • Dockage available for guests arriving by boat • Dock-to-Dine charters offered through Ride Shore • Relaxed atmosphere with thoughtful design touches

Plan Your Summer Evening on the North Fork

From casual seafood shacks and family-friendly harbor bars to elegant tasting rooms and romantic settings, bistros, Saturday evenings on the North Fork are meant to be savored—bite by bite, view by view.

And when you stay at The Shoals, you’re never more than just a few minutes or a boat ride away from the best seats in the house.

Reserve your stay at The Shoals today and see why waterfront dining and relaxed luxury are a perfect fit on the North Fork.