Coney Island is synonymous with sun, sand, and exhilarating amusements, but its food scene is just as iconic. As the birthplace of the quintessential American hot dog, Coney Island’s culinary offerings, from savory bites to sweet treats, are integral to the boardwalk experience and overall fun. No visit to “the People’s Playground” is truly complete without savoring a classic Coney Island Food like a hot dog, indulging in fried clams, biting into a candy apple, or enjoying a refreshing cold beer.
Here’s a guide to the best Coney Island food spots and must-try treats to make your visit a flavorful adventure.
Must-Try Coney Island Classics
Nathan’s Famous: Often hailed as “The Original,” Nathan’s Famous has been a cornerstone of Coney Island food since 1916. Serving their world-renowned Coney Island Hot Dogs, they have become a beloved institution for New Yorkers and visitors alike. The original stand, located at 1310 Surf Avenue, is legendary, not only for its hot dogs but also for its clam bar, crispy corn dogs, crinkle-cut fries, and golden onion rings. For those strolling the boardwalk, there’s also a Nathan’s outpost ensuring you’re never too far from this classic Coney Island food.
Ruby’s Bar & Grill: As the oldest bar and grill gracing the boardwalk, Ruby’s Bar & Grill offers an authentic dive bar experience steeped in history. Adorned with a vintage jukebox and walls lined with nostalgic photos, Ruby’s is even constructed from reclaimed boardwalk wood planks, adding to its unique character. Their menu features a range of boardwalk favorites including fresh seafood, juicy hot dogs, classic burgers and fries, all perfectly complemented by a wide selection of cocktails and beers. It’s the ideal spot to soak in the true spirit of Coney Island food and atmosphere.
Paul’s Daughter: Situated right on the bustling boardwalk, Paul’s Daughter is a go-to stand for traditional Coney Island food favorites. They serve up a delightful array of options, including a clam bar for seafood lovers, quintessential hot dogs, hearty sausage & peppers, creamy soft-serve ice cream for a sweet treat, and ice-cold beer to quench your thirst on a sunny day. It’s a perfect stop for a quick and satisfying bite while enjoying the boardwalk sights and sounds.
Coney Island Pizza & Italian Dining Destinations
Totonno’s: For pizza aficionados, Totonno’s is a historic, family-run pizzeria celebrated for its exceptional pizza. They pride themselves on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, resulting in a truly authentic and flavorful Neapolitan pizza experience. Located at 1524 Neptune Avenue, Totonno’s is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Coney Island pizza heritage.
Gargiulo’s: Serving home-style Neapolitan cuisine since 1907, Gargiulo’s is a long-standing Coney Island institution. Their extensive menu features classic Italian dishes, from flavorful antipasti and comforting pasta dishes to grilled meats and fresh seafood. It’s worth noting that Gargiulo’s offers a more formal dining experience compared to other boardwalk eateries, and they maintain a dress code, requesting no shorts to preserve the restaurant’s elegant ambiance.
Indulge in Coney Island Sweet Treats
Williams Candy: Step into a world of sugary delights at Williams Candy, an old-fashioned sweet shop conveniently located right next to Nathan’s Famous. They specialize in freshly made candies, with their Candy Apples and Marshmallow Treats being particular highlights. In addition to these signature items, they offer a wide variety of treats including creamy fudge, colorful lollipops, fluffy cotton candy, and refreshing ice cream, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Rita’s Italian Ices: For those craving frozen refreshment, Rita’s Italian Ices is the perfect stop. They serve a wide array of frozen treats, most notably their fresh Italian ice made with real fruit, available in over sixty-five delicious flavors. Beyond Italian ice, Rita’s also offers old-fashioned frozen custard, decadent sundaes, layered gelati, and delightful custard cookie sandwiches. You can find Rita’s at 1327 Surf Avenue, conveniently located across from Nathan’s and Williams Candy, making it easy to grab a sweet treat after your hot dog.
Coney’s Cones: Situated right on the boardwalk at the entrance to Luna Park, Coney’s Cones is ideally located for a pre- or post-amusement park treat. They are known for their homemade ice cream, offering both traditional flavors and more adventurous tastes like bacon ice cream for the daring palate. Besides ice cream, Coney’s Cones also serves classic boardwalk sweets like Carmel Apples, Cotton Candy, and funnel cake, as well as a selection of hot and cold beverages.
Coney Island’s food scene is as vibrant and diverse as its attractions. From iconic hot dogs and classic boardwalk fare to pizza and sweet treats, there’s a flavor for every visitor to enjoy. Exploring the culinary landscape of Coney Island is an essential part of experiencing the magic of “the People’s Playground.”
