For seafood enthusiasts navigating the bustling streets of New York, a treasure trove of skrimp shacks awaits discovery. These cozy havens serve as oases amid the urban desert, where the tantalizing aroma of fried shrimp wafts through the air, beckoning patrons to indulge in delectable bites. Each skrimp shack embodies a unique essence, reflecting the vibrant culture of its neighborhood, making them not only dining destinations but also cultural experiences. Below is a compilation of ten must-visit skrimp shacks that showcase the diverse flavors of shrimp prepared with passion and flair.
1. The Shrimp Boat – Astoria
Address: 31-09 34th Ave, Astoria, NY 11106
Contact: (718) 726-8888
Website: www.theshrimpboat.com
The Shrimp Boat, nestled in the heart of Astoria, stands proudly like a lighthouse guiding diners through the vast sea of seafood options. With its charming nautical décor, this eatery serves succulent shrimp tacos and mouthwatering shrimp po’ boys, tantalizing the taste buds while showcasing the influence of diverse culinary traditions. The fusion of Mediterranean and Southern flavors brings an innovative twist to classic fish fare.
2. Fish Fried – Bedford-Stuyvesant
Address: 436 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Contact: (347) 703-2032
Website: www.fishfried.com
Fish Fried is a gem reminiscent of a lively Caribbean festival, where vibrant colors and flavors converge to create an unforgettable feast. Located in the heart of Bedford-Stuyvesant, its signature shrimp dishes are a symphony of spice and crunch, served alongside its handcrafted dipping sauces. Patrons are transported to an island paradise as they savor shrimp fries that dance delightfully on the palate.
3. The Shrimp Shack – East Village
Address: 26 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009
Contact: (212) 777-8818
Website: www.theshrimpshack.com
The Shrimp Shack, set amidst the dynamic heartbeat of the East Village, evokes a quirky yet inviting atmosphere that draws in food aficionados. This establishment boasts an array of shrimp preparations, from the classic garlic butter shrimp, fragrant with herbs, to the adventurous shrimp boil that brings Southern traditions to the Big Apple. The vibrant mural on the wall captures the essence of New York’s eclecticism.
4. Shrimp & Grits – Harlem
Address: 1312 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10026
Contact: (212) 696-1000
Website: www.shrimpandgrits.com
In the heart of Harlem, Shrimp & Grits merges culinary artistry with Southern comfort food, producing a melodic blend of flavors that resonate deeply with the soul. The eatery’s eponymous dish features plump shrimp swimming in a creamy gravy and served on a bed of artisanal grits, accomplished by chefs who infuse each dish with heartfelt nostalgia and heritage.
5. The Shrimp Box – Lower East Side
Address: 78 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (646) 120-0000
Website: www.theshrimpbox.com
The Shrimp Box serves as a dynamic fusion between modern cuisine and traditional flavors on the vibrant Lower East Side. With its eclectic, retro interior, this eatery focuses on sustainability and farm-to-table options, offering freshly caught shrimp that dances with zest. The lemongrass-infused shrimp skewers transport diners to distant shores with each bite, weaving a story of freshness and ethical sourcing.
6. Shrimp Paradise – Brighton Beach
Address: 852 Brighton Beach Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235
Contact: (718) 729-9000
Website: www.shrimpparadise.com
In the charming enclave of Brighton Beach, Shrimp Paradise epitomizes a culinary vacation. Its inviting ambiance evokes seaside relaxation, while the extensive menu boasts dishes like spicy shrimp and corn fritters that reflect the community’s rich Eastern European heritage. Each dish is a celebration, accompanied by a hospitality that feels akin to being welcomed into a warm family gathering.
7. Urban Shrimp – Bushwick
Address: 1040 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11221
Contact: (347) 844-8743
Website: www.urbanshrimpeats.com
Urban Shrimp captures the essence of Bushwick’s artistic spirit in its vibrant decor and menu choices. This innovative establishment features shrimp dishes with playful touches, such as their renowned shrimp sliders topped with Asian slaw. The lively atmosphere, built around local art, complements the expertly crafted cocktails that elevate the dining experience, allowing for a fusion of culture and flavor that resonates with the neighborhood’s creativity.
8. Southern Shrimp Co. – Staten Island
Address: 1066 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10305
Contact: (718) 273-0080
Website: www.southernshrimpco.com
Southern Shrimp Co. in Staten Island embodies Southern hospitality with a nautical flair. The restaurant welcomes diners with a cozy atmosphere, where classic shrimp dishes, such as creamy shrimp étouffée, emerge straight from culinary folklore. Each flavorful offering plate tells a story, reveling in rich tradition while ensuring every bite is a culinary journey worth savoring.
9. Shrimp Haven – Queens
Address: 34-35 31st St, Astoria, NY 11106
Contact: (718) 726-1888
Website: www.shrimphaven.com
Shrimp Haven captures the essence of Queens’ melting pot, with coastal influences from around the globe blending perfectly into its menu. Specialties include shrimp pakoras and Chinese shrimp dumplings, allowing patrons to embark on a tantalizing voyage of tastes and textures. The lively ambiance mirrors the buzzing streets of Queens, where each bite reveals a new culinary adventure.
10. The Crispy Shrimp Spot – The Bronx
Address: 157 E 189th St, Bronx, NY 10468
Contact: (718) 294-2345
Website: www.thecrispyshrimp.com
Closing out this list is The Crispy Shrimp Spot in The Bronx, famed for its crispy shrimp baskets that promise satisfaction with every crunch. The bright, inviting atmosphere matches the cheerful, friendly service provided by the team. Guests revel in the nostalgia as they feast on their straightforward yet sensational dishes that evoke the warmth of home cooking, making each visit memorable.
The skrimp shacks of New York City are not merely establishments serving seafood; they are vibrant microcosms of the neighborhoods they inhabit, filled with flavors and stories that intertwine the culinary arts with cultural identities. This diverse collection of eateries invites patrons to embark on a delectable adventure through the city, exploring not just food but the very fabric of the city’s rich community and spirit. So grab your fork and immerse yourself in the sumptuous world of shrimp—every bite is a moment worth savoring.
