Bonanza's

- 25 Shore Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

For generations of New Yorkers, Bonanza's in Oyster Bay, Long Island, is more than just a fast food restaurant—it is a beloved piece of local history and a timeless summer tradition. Established in 1897, this iconic, family-run establishment has evolved from a simple pushcart selling homemade lemon ice into a cherished snack hut, now famous for its classic American fare alongside its heritage Italian ices. It masterfully combines the charm of an "old school snack hut" with the efficiency of modern quick-service dining.

Located in the quaint, picturesque town of Oyster Bay, Bonanza's serves as the perfect casual destination for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a delightful dessert outing. It is officially classified as a fast food restaurant, dessert shop, family restaurant, hot dog stand, ice cream shop, and takeout restaurant, underscoring its broad appeal. Patrons of all ages, from solo diners to entire families, frequent the location for its quality offerings and nostalgic atmosphere.

What truly sets Bonanza's apart for local users is its dedication to tradition and community. The business has been proudly run by the Bonanza family across four generations. While they are celebrated for their classic hot dogs and signature loaded fries, the heart of the business remains its spectacular array of Italian ices, a tradition that dates back over 127 years. The atmosphere is refreshingly casual and trendy, while remaining deeply family-friendly and welcoming to all, including being explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly and allowing dogs in the outside seating area.

Bonanza's is perfectly positioned in a highly appealing area of Long Island, adding to its draw as a scenic detour or destination. The location at 25 Shore Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 places it ideally near the harbor, allowing patrons to enjoy their treats with a walk along the water or in the nearby quaint town area.

Accessibility is straightforward and accommodating, designed for the typical Long Island drive-up customer as well as those enjoying a stroll:

• Parking: Customers benefit from free street parking in the vicinity, which simplifies the process of stopping by for a quick bite or dessert.
• Seating and Dining Environment: The restaurant offers ample dining space, including both counter service and dedicated seating. Crucially, they have a substantial "backyard" area providing "lots of seating in their backyard," which is a perfect feature for families, date nights, or simply enjoying the beautiful New York weather.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: For local dog owners, Bonanza's is a great choice, as dogs are allowed, specifically in the outdoor seating area.

The structure is often described as a "little red shack" or "snack hut," maintaining a historic and charming aesthetic that contrasts pleasantly with the modern fast-paced world, contributing to its status as a landmark.

Bonanza's offers a comprehensive and flexible range of services to meet the demands of modern New York users, whether they are dining in or taking their food to go:

• Multiple Service Modes: Customers can choose from Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery, Curbside pickup, and even No-contact delivery. Many patrons choose the "food to go" option to enjoy their meal while exploring Oyster Bay.
• Outdoor Dining: Extensive Outdoor seating is a major highlight, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the "snack hut" atmosphere.
• Counter Service: The primary service method is efficient counter service, which contributes to the "Fast service" highlight.
• Catering: Bonanza's offers catering services, making their popular hot dogs, snacks, and famous Italian ices available for local Long Island events and parties.
• Full Dining Availability: The establishment is open for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.
• Amenities: The premises include a Restroom and offer Wi-Fi access, adding convenience for those dining in.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts all major payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Bonanza's is renowned across the New York region, particularly for these distinctive features and menu highlights:

• Historic Legacy and Atmosphere: Operating since 1897, the restaurant is a historic, four-generation-old landmark. Its casual, old-school "snack hut" aesthetic is a major draw, offering a nostalgic and family-friendly environment.
• Exceptional Italian Ices (Sweets): This is the cornerstone of the business, which was originally founded on "fresh-squeezed lemon Italian Ices." The menu features over 25 flavors of Italian Ices ($4.50 each), including:
  • The famous Chick's Famous Lemon.
  • Unique and popular flavors like Blue Raspberry (described as "delicious" by a customer), Peanut Butter and Jelly, Orange Creamsicle, Cotton Candy, and Pistachio.
  • Classic Ice Cream flavors are also available, such as Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry Ice Cream.
• Signature Hot Dogs: The hot dogs are a staple, often topped with generous and messy piles of chili and cheese. Must-try options include:
  • The Bonanza Dog ($5.99), a signature item with special toppings.
  • The Chili Dog ($4.99) and Sloppy Bo ($4.50), an all-beef hot dog topped with sloppy joe meat sauce and melted cheese (based on similar Long Island menus).
  • The classic Hot Dog ($4.50), which customers describe as "solid."
• Loaded Snack Menu: The snack selection is robust and designed for indulgence, featuring:
  • Bonanza Fries ($6.99) and Bonanza Nachos ($6.99), which are generously loaded with chili, cheese, and other toppings.
  • Highly praised Onion Rings ($7.99), often noted as the "battered fried onion rings."
  • Other great quick bites like Mozz Sticks, Chicken Tenders, and Homemade Chili.
• Family and Community Focus: The establishment is known to be family-friendly, "Good for kids," and provides an engaging, casual, and social setting for the local Oyster Bay community.

For Long Islanders and visitors planning to stop by Bonanza's, here is the necessary contact and location information for this historic establishment:

• Physical Address: 25 Shore Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
• Phone: (516) 922-7796
• Mobile Phone: +1 516-922-7796
• Operation: Bonanza's is open every day, typically from 11:00 AM, making it a reliable spot for lunch, dinner, and dessert seven days a week. It is always recommended to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date seasonal hours.

Bonanza's is worth choosing for New Yorkers seeking a genuine, high-quality, and nostalgic fast food experience that transcends the standard corporate chain. The most compelling reasons to visit center around their unique menu and exceptional atmosphere.

The first reason is the unmissable Italian Ices. No visit is complete without trying their signature frozen treats, a testament to over a century of family tradition. Whether you opt for the original Chick's Famous Lemon, a creamy Chocolate, or a vibrant flavor like Blue Raspberry, this is a Long Island classic that cannot be replicated. At only $4.50, it is an affordable, perfect dessert for any occasion, whether a "desert on date night" or a treat for the kids.

Secondly, the combination of savory comfort food and signature toppings makes their dogs and snacks a must-try. Choosing the Bonanza Dog or the fully loaded Bonanza Fries or Nachos ensures you get the full, indulgent experience the place is famous for—messy, hearty, and satisfying. The onion rings, which receive specific high praise, are an excellent side choice.

Finally, the "cute old school snack hut" atmosphere, coupled with the generous outdoor seating in the back, makes dining here a relaxing experience. It is a fantastic option for families and those looking for a casual, comfortable spot where dogs are welcome and the vibe is guaranteed to be casual and friendly. Bonanza's delivers fast, quality food and a genuine slice of Long Island history, offering a rare blend of convenience, quality, and heritage that makes it a favorite landmark in the Oyster Bay community.

Bonanza's

25 Shore Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771, USA