Long Island

Long Island Restaurants Perfect for Fourth of July Weekend

June 25, 2026 | What To Do

By: Ashley Rea

Nothing says summer on Long Island quite like fireworks over the water—and pairing a great meal with a spectacular fireworks display is the perfect way to spend the holiday weekend. From waterfront seafood and fresh local fare to elevated dining with a view, these Long Island restaurants offer ideal locations to enjoy dinner before one of the area's annual Fourth of July fireworks celebrations. Here are four spots worth visiting this holiday weekend.

18 Bay Restaurant – Jamesport

Credit: 18 Bay Restaurant – Jamesport

Perfect for: S. Jamesport Beach Fireworks (July 4)

The Town of Riverhead's annual Fourth of July fireworks show over South Jamesport Beach lights up the North Fork sky each Independence Day, drawing families and visitors from across Long Island. The fireworks are launched over Peconic Bay, creating a stunning waterfront backdrop for the holiday.

Just minutes away, 18 Bay Restaurant offers one of the North Fork's most refined dining experiences. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the restaurant serves contemporary coastal Italian cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and local products. Guests can choose from thoughtfully crafted pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine program showcasing many of the region's best selections. For those looking to elevate their Fourth of July plans beyond burgers and backyard barbecues, 18 Bay provides the perfect start to an evening of fireworks along the Peconic Bay shoreline.

The Cove – Glen Cove

Credit: The Cove – Glen Cove

Perfect for: Glen Cove Fourth of July Fireworks at Morgan Park (July 4)

Glen Cove's annual Fourth of July celebration culminates with a waterfront fireworks display at Morgan Memorial Park, following an evening concert overlooking Hempstead Harbor. The event has become one of Nassau County's most popular Independence Day traditions.

Located right on the water, The Cove offers an ideal pre-fireworks dining destination. Known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, outdoor seating, and panoramic harbor views, the restaurant captures everything people love about summertime dining on Long Island's North Shore. The menu features fresh seafood favorites, sushi, steaks, salads, and craft cocktails, making it easy to satisfy a variety of tastes before heading to the nearby fireworks festivities. Arrive early, enjoy dinner overlooking the marina, then make your way to Morgan Park for an unforgettable holiday finale.

Castaways – Port Jefferson

Credit: Castaways – Port Jefferson

Perfect for: Port Jefferson Village Fireworks (July 3)

Port Jefferson kicks off the holiday weekend with its annual fireworks display on July 3, a tradition that brings residents and visitors into the village for an evening of celebration. Fireworks are scheduled to begin at West Beach and are viewable from East and West Beach.

Before the show, make a stop at Castaways, one of Port Jefferson Village's standout dining destinations. The restaurant combines a nautical atmosphere with a menu centered around fresh seafood and creative cocktails. Located in the heart of the village, Castaways places diners within easy reach of Port Jefferson's shops, waterfront, and holiday festivities. Whether you're planning a date night or gathering with family and friends, it's an excellent choice for kicking off Fourth of July weekend.

Topside at Gosman's Dock – Montauk

Credit: Topside at Gosman's Dock – Montauk

Perfect for: Montauk Harbor Fireworks (July 4)

Few places feel more quintessentially Long Island in the summer than Montauk Harbor on Fourth of July weekend. Each year, fireworks illuminate the harbor, drawing crowds to the easternmost tip of Long Island for one of the season's most anticipated celebrations.

For front-row harbor views, Topside at Gosman's Dock is hard to beat. Perched above the iconic waterfront destination, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the harbor alongside a menu filled with local seafood, lobster, sushi, and classic East End favorites. The relaxed atmosphere, waterfront setting, and proximity to the fireworks make Topside an ideal choice for visitors looking to turn Independence Day into a full Montauk experience. Arrive for dinner, enjoy the harbor at sunset, and stay for one of Long Island's most memorable fireworks displays.

Whether you're spending the holiday weekend on the North Fork, North Shore, Port Jefferson waterfront, or all the way out in Montauk, these restaurants offer the perfect combination of exceptional dining and easy access to some of Long Island's most beloved Fourth of July fireworks celebrations.

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