DJ’s Clam Shack opens in Wantagh
A Maine lobster roll at DJ's Clam Shack in Wantagh. Credit: Jeff Gagnon
DJ’s Clam Shack, which opened Friday in Wantagh, offers an antidote to the post-summer season blues with a Key West vibe, South Shore bayhouse décor and worthy snacks such as conch fritters, Little Neck clams and Maine lobster.
Owner Jeff Gagnon of West Sayville is looking to bring the South Shore a taste of his nine-year-old DJ’s Clam Shack on Duval Street in Key West (Hurricane Irma damage has not been assessed). The Wantagh outpost is serving “a mix of New England and Southern seafood,” he says. DJs takes over the space formerly occupied by Mr. Pies pizzeria, redecorated with historic clamming artifacts donated by local baymen, Gagnon said.
Menu choices include conch fritters ($11), garlic-steamed Little Neck clams in jalapeño broth ($13) New England clam chowder ($7) and Maine lobster rolls ($18)
Gagnon also is extending the season at Kingston’s Clam Bar in West Sayville, which he’s been running for 15 years. The restaurant with a marina view traditionally closed with a September fundraiser, but it will now serve through November, Gagnon says. “The deck is going to stay open, but we are winterizing the dining room and we have heat in there,” Gagnon said.
Gagnon said the move responds to customer demand. “The falls seem to be getting nicer, and our customers were saying, ‘why are you closing early?” Gagnon said. Kingston’s will “streamline” its menu with summer favorites including fresh oysters and lobster rolls. Reservations are being taken for Thanksgiving dinner.
DJ’s is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
DJ’s Clam Shack, 3255 Sunrise Hwy., Wantagh, 516-900-1400, djsclamshack.com
Kingston’s Clam Bar is open Monday to Thursday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. After Sept. 24, the clam bar will be open Wednesday to Sunday, 11:30 to 10 p.m. Kingston’s Clam Bar, 130 Atlantic Ave., West Sayville, 631-589-0888, kingstonsclam.com.
