Johnny's Reef

Food is amazing. They’ve been around for years it’s a community staple. As a kid I’d always get fried clams and French fries. Portion sizes are good and price is decent. CASH ONLY It’s cafeteria style so don’t forget to grab your own condiments. The tartar sauce is crazy good. And the cole slaw, comes with every meal. Inside the restaurant can be loud and outside is usually packed. Ppl hang out in the parking lot with lawn chairs by their cars.

We recently dined at Johnny’s on City Island in the Bronx. While it may lack the frills of upscale restaurants, if you're a seafood lover looking for a reliably tasty meal with a view, this is the go-to spot! The highlight for me was the fried lobster tails – they were absolutely delicious and always hit the spot. The batter was crispy, and the lobster inside was tender and flavorful. It's a must-try! What sets this place apart is its optimal view of the Long Island Sound. The waterfront setting adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience. It's perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Quick line, and short wait for the food since all is made in bulk. I got steamed lobster...that was so so good. I recommend this over the fried since it's healthier. My partner got the steamed snapper, and it looked very good but he said it was just a bit bland in flavor. Needed more seasoning. The piña coladas are so worth it though. My partner got a henny colada and loved it. I opted for a regular colada. Can't come here and not get one.

City Island is our spot for a Seafood Getaway as we travel from Maryland at least once a month. We frequented Johnnies Reef often back in the late 80's and 90's and decided to check them out as they were still in business. Still customer friendly and food cooked with great texture. We ordered our favorites fried lobster tails and shrimp. Both were tender, but seemed as though the seasoning was decreased, making the taste somewhat bland. The Pina Colada's were still amazing and we will return again when we travel back to City Island. Even though the seasoning was a little bland, they still deserve (5) stars.

I am a senior now, so I came this past Thursday (June 20, 2023) morning with a group from the NORC program. Johnny's Reef is CASH ONLY! Good thing they had an ATM machine. I feasted on frog legs. It was very nice to be able to sit and eat and not worry about birds swooping down, or baptizing you or your food with poop. There are wires overhead that one can barely see, but they prevent the birds from entering the space. Best idea they have had. The frog legs were excellent. I just wish they offered other vegetables as side orders. The frog legs only come with fries. Besides corn, they do not offer other options. However, I was happy to have the frog legs as I have not seen them offered any other place.