Butler's Flat Clam Shack

- 86 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050

For New Yorkers dreaming of a perfect summer day by the water, complete with authentic, freshly shucked and fried seafood, Butler's Flat Clam Shack in Port Washington is the ultimate seasonal destination. Located right on the water in the heart of Nassau County, this beloved eatery is far more than just a typical Restaurant; it is a classic, New England-style Seafood restaurant that captures the quintessential charm of seaside dining without requiring a trip outside of the New York metro region.

Inspired by the timeless tradition of the clam shacks of Massachusetts and the Long Island fishing community, Butler's Flat offers a refreshingly simple and high-quality menu. The focus is purely on the freshest catches, prepared perfectly. Their claim to fame is the New England-style fare, including their highly praised Whole Belly Clams and the quintessential Lobster Roll. Diners in the know appreciate that the lobster meat in their rolls is served without heavy mayo, allowing the natural sweetness of the Maine and Canadian lobster to shine—a true mark of quality.

The menu is built around three pillars: fresh Fried Seafood (including Whole Belly Clams, Scallops, and Flounder), hearty Sandwiches (like the iconic Lobster Roll and Spicy Shrimp), and comforting Specials such as Steamed Littlenecks and the savory New England Chowder. What truly sets Butler's Flat apart is its transparency regarding the Seafood Origin. They proudly source their ingredients from premium Northeast locations: Clams from Essex, MA, Scallops from New Bedford, Lobster from Maine, and Flounder directly from Montauk, reinforcing their commitment to freshness and local purveyors.

Open seasonally—typically mid-May through September/October—Butler’s Flat Clam Shack is a casual, family-friendly venue where the stunning view of Manhasset Bay is as much an attraction as the food. It offers a genuine escape, transforming a simple meal into a memorable waterfront experience right on the North Shore of Long Island. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is authentic Comfort food, and the commitment to quality makes it a mandatory stop for seafood lovers in the New York area every summer.

Butler's Flat Clam Shack is perfectly situated at 86 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA, within the Capri Marina West. This prime location places the clam shack directly on Manhasset Bay, offering patrons picturesque views of the water, boats, and the tranquil Long Island shoreline—an instant vacation vibe for anyone driving in from the bustling city or nearby towns.

Accessibility and ease of visit are central to the experience, making it convenient for Long Island locals and New York visitors alike. The restaurant is an outdoor eatery, making the beautiful view a natural part of the dining setting.

Key accessibility and location features include:

• Waterfront Setting: Located in Capri Marina West, providing a relaxing, maritime atmosphere overlooking Manhasset Bay.
• Parking Convenience: Guests benefit from a dedicated Free parking lot nearby, which is a significant advantage in the Port Washington area, ensuring hassle-free access.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The establishment provides facilities to accommodate guests with mobility needs, with:
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom

The location on Orchard Beach Boulevard is easily reachable for those exploring the North Shore of Long Island, making it an ideal lunch or dinner stop after a day on the water or exploring the local community. The casual, dockside setting contributes heavily to the "shack" experience, offering a uniquely relaxed environment that stands in contrast to the more formal dining options in the area.

Butler's Flat Clam Shack focuses on providing a convenient, straightforward, and high-quality seasonal dining experience with flexible service options tailored for the modern customer. As an entirely outdoor establishment, the services are streamlined to focus on efficiency and comfort by the water.

The services offered include:

• Dining Options: The menu is available for Lunch, Dinner, and even Dessert, with a consistent menu throughout the day.
• Seating: All dining is offered via Outdoor seating with picnic-style and umbrella-covered tables overlooking Manhasset Bay, providing an optimal summer dining experience.
• Takeout & Pick-up: Provides convenient non-dine-in options, including Takeout and Curbside pickup, perfect for enjoying a Lobster Roll or Fried Clams at home or on a boat.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods for quick service:
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments (Apple Pay, etc.)
• Beverage Program: Offers a curated selection of adult beverages:
  • Alcohol offerings include Beer, Wine, and Cocktails. The beer menu highlights NY, MA, & RI craft brews like Brooklyn Lager and Montauk Ales, while the Wine list focuses on local Long Island & Hudson Valley vineyards (Wolffer, Duck Walk).
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Designed to accommodate guests of all ages:
  • Good for kids with a dedicated Kids' menu that includes Grilled Cheese and Hot Dogs.
  • High chairs are available for the youngest guests.
  • The crowd is intentionally Family-friendly.
• Pet Policy: Offers a truly welcoming environment with Dogs allowed outside, ensuring no family member is left behind.

This blend of service options, particularly the strong focus on local New York State beverages and family accommodation, ensures a complete and enjoyable casual experience.

The charm and success of Butler's Flat Clam Shack are rooted in a few distinct features that make it a local favorite and a must-visit for seasonal dining in New York.

• Authentic New England Clam Shack Experience: This is the primary appeal—a relaxed, Seasonal waterfront shack providing classic New England seafood dishes right here on Long Island. It is named after the Butler Flats lighthouse in Massachusetts, a nod to its authentic regional inspiration.
• Fresh, Sourced Seafood: A commitment to quality is evident in their transparent sourcing: Lobster Maine & Canada, Flounder Montauk, Scallops New Bedford, and Clams Essex MA. This focus guarantees a fresh, high-quality product in every dish.
• Specialized Lobster Roll Preparation: Their famed Lobster Roll is a highlight, featuring a quarter-pound of fresh, sweet lobster meat with minimal to no mayo on a buttered and grilled New England roll, allowing the quality of the lobster to dominate.
• Atmosphere and View: The restaurant’s greatest non-menu feature is the serene and picturesque Outdoor seating that offers a continuous view overlooking Manhasset Bay, creating a relaxed, vacation-like Vibe praised by customers.
• Local Beverage Selection: The drink menu supports regional commerce, featuring Beer from New York and New England, and a curated Wine list from Long Island & Hudson Valley vineyards, providing a truly local-focused pairing for your meal.
• Menu Simplicity and Quality: While primarily a seafood haven, they also offer simple, high-quality Comfort food and Vegetarian options (like their Grilled Cheese and Plant-Based Burger options) to ensure everyone in the party is catered to.

For an immediate escape and a taste of the sea, here is the essential contact information for Butler's Flat Clam Shack.

Address: 86 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA

Phone: (516) 883-8330

Mobile Phone: +1 516-883-8330

For any New Yorker seeking an authentic, fresh, and perfectly executed seafood experience, Butler's Flat Clam Shack is unequivocally worth choosing for three compelling reasons: the View, the Vibe, and the Quality.

First, you are choosing an escape. The serene, dockside Outdoor seating with a breathtaking view of Manhasset Bay provides an unparalleled atmosphere that instantly transports you far from the bustle of city life—it’s a simple, genuine, and relaxing backdrop for any meal. The casual, Family-friendly Vibe, where even Dogs are allowed outside, makes it the perfect low-key outing for all ages.

Second, you are choosing Quality. In a crowded market, Butler's Flat prioritizes the integrity of its ingredients, proudly sourcing Lobster from Maine, Flounder from Montauk, and Scallops from New Bedford. This dedication shines in every bite, particularly in their iconic Lobster Roll, a New York favorite that features large chunks of sweet lobster meat with minimal dressing, served on a perfectly grilled New England roll.

Finally, the restaurant offers an authentic slice of regional seaside culture. From the New England-style Whole Belly Clams and the savory New England Chowder to the hyper-local selection of Long Island wines and NY State craft beers, every detail is curated to deliver a true coastal dining experience. For a seasonal burst of fresh, no-fuss seafood goodness, Butler's Flat Clam Shack is the essential Long Island choice.

Butler's Flat Clam Shack

86 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050, USA