City Island- The Bronx’s best-kept secrets are not in rare botanical garden blooms, lion cubs at the zoo, or Italian eateries. But in the northeastern portion of the borough. It contains the neighborhood known as City Island, which is less than half a square mile in size.
The inexpensive real estate and charming community atmosphere of this nautical neighborhood is attracting New Yorkers. Though the locals refer to the newcomers as “mussel suckers,”. They include empty-nesters who are downsizing from exclusive neighborhoods in Westchester or Long Island. Moreover, young families are migrating from Brooklyn and Manhattan in search of larger houses. The place is most known for its seafood restaurants and marinas.
A BIT TO KNOW ABOUT – CITY ISLAND
City Island, once part of Pelham, New York, is a part of New York City since the late 19th century. It is part of the Pelham Islands, once owned by Thomas Pell. Although the harbor between City Island and Hart Island is known as City Island Harbor. High Island is located to the northeast. The Stepping Stones Light marks the main shipping channel into New York.
FEW FACTS
- 4,417 people were living on the island as of the 2020 Census.
- The island is well-known for its lobster and seafood eateries.
- On the Eastchester Bay side of the island, there are three yacht clubs.
- The true variety of wildlife on and surrounding City Island is found in the avian population, particularly in aquatic species.
- It is known for its vibrant community spirit. Thus hosting various events like art shows, seafood festivals, and holiday parades throughout the year.
WHAT ARE THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT?
RESTAURANTS
1) SEAFOOD CITY
With its abundance of traditional seafood dishes and arcade games, Seafood City is an unpretentious and family-friendly place. Although it appeals to both adults and children. Munch on some prawns and clams on their beach patio.
2) VISTAMAR
Vistamar is a seafood-focused restaurant and bar with a Latin flair.Though beachfront restaurant offers a diverse selection of mouthwatering seafood dishes, such as sushi, and surf & turf.
3) Scavello’s on the Island
With its extensive menu featuring pizza, spaghetti, meats, and of course, seafood, Scavello’s is a one-size-fits-all kind of eatery. Moreover, enjoy your seafood with sizzling dishes of filled lobster, whether it’s boiled, fried, grilled, or cajun-style.
CAFÉ
1) CLIPPER COFFEE
If you’re looking for a great place to get tea or coffee on the island, Clipper Coffee is the place to go. They also have avocado toast and a great assortment of pastries and sandwiches. Furthermore, that Clipper functions as a secondhand book store! You’ll be astonished at how simple it is to lose track of time. Moreover, when you curl up with a book and some refreshments in a corner.
2) THE ARTIST
The Artist also referred to as “Starving Artist,” is a café. The concert venue offers musicians and art enthusiasts the ideal hangout. Get a performance ticket and indulge in sweets along with a cup of coffee.
BAR
1) THE SNUG
Cozy up with a drink in The Snug, just next door to the City Island Diner. It’s worth following this Irish pub on Instagram to see cute pictures of Kermit the Frog. And relaxing at the bar and learning about upcoming events like quiz nights and taco nights.
2) ARCHIES TAP & TABLE
The food at Archies Tavern is just as delicious as its beverages. This is the spot to go for brunch on Sundays. They serve huevos rancheros, banana rum french toast, and mushroom omelets. Also, you can sip mimosas as you eat.
3) FELLA’S BAR & GRILL Fella’s is a dive bar that offers Mexican food in addition to classic American fare. Fella’s has a pool table, excellent cocktails, and delicious cuisine, so you can’t go wrong.
SHOPS
1) JACKS BAIT & TACKLE
Jacks, a family-owned business since 1945. It provides City Island with fishing gear, boat rentals, and chartered trips in the Long Island Sound.
2) 239 PLAY
239 Play is a vintage toy store offering a diverse range of toys. This includes trading cards, comics, figurines, and Lego sets, suitable for all ages.
3) KALEIDOSCOPE GALLERY
Kaleidoscope Gallery is owned by expert jeweler Paul Klein. It offers handcrafted jewelry, souvenirs, kids’ toys, and artwork inspired by City Island’s seashore aesthetics. Furthermore, it offers custom-designed pieces.
DESSERTS
LICKETY-SPLIT
Lickety Split, a local ice cream shop, offers a variety of flavors and toppings at a great price. Even though Operating from a refurbished cottage, customers can enjoy their delicacy on their outdoor patio after a warm summer day.
