Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Staten Island, New York, United States
1. Staten Island Scallops
Fresh scallops cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, served at L&B Spumoni Gardens. Try this classic dish that showcases Staten Island's seafood.
- Seafood Freshness: Scallops sourced daily from local fisheries.
- Traditional Preparation: Cooked in a time-honored garlic butter sauce recipe.
- Iconic Location: Serving Staten Island's favorite dish since 1939.
2. Staten Island Slice
A large, foldable pizza slice from one of the many pizzerias along Hylan Boulevard. Savor a taste of New York's best pizza.
- Generous Portions: Giant slices, perfect for sharing or having leftovers.
- Authenticity: Crafted in the traditional New York style with hand-tossed dough.
- Pizza Variety: Find a slice to fit every taste, from classic cheese to unique combinations.
3. Tuscan Square Pizza
Thin-crust pizza at Tuscan Kitchen with a square shape and a wide variety of toppings. Enjoy this unique twist on classic New York pizza.
- Unconventional Shape: Square-shaped slice that's perfect for sharing or eating with your hands.
- Pizza Variety: A wide selection of toppings, including gourmet options like truffle oil and arugula.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Dine in a warm and inviting environment that's perfect for families or groups.
4. Baked Clams Oreganata
Clams baked with breadcrumbs, garlic, and oregano at Joe & Pat's. This classic dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Seafood Freshness: Clams sourced daily from local fisheries.
- Traditional Preparation: Baked with garlic, breadcrumbs, and oregano for a flavorful dish.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island institution since the 1930s.
5. Mulligatawny Soup
Curried soup made with chicken and vegetables at The Palace Restaurant. Warm up with this exotic dish that's popular in Staten Island.
- Exotic Flavor Profile: Infused with curry, coconut milk, and apples for a unique taste.
- Rich History: Originating from Tamil Nadu, India, this dish has been a Staten Island favorite since the early 20th century.
- Perfect for Cold Days: A hearty and comforting soup to enjoy during chilly weather.
6. Lamb Pastrami Sandwich
A unique take on pastrami at Adriatic Restaurant, featuring lamb instead of beef. Savor this tasty sandwich that's a favorite among locals.
- Meat Variety: Lamb pastrami offers a different flavor compared to traditional beef.
- Traditional Preparation: Cured, spiced, and slow-smoked for a delicious result.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island staple since the early 1900s.
7. Pizza Fritta
Fried pizza pockets at Adriatic Restaurant. This fun and tasty dish is a must-try for pizza lovers.
- Unique Preparation: Pizza dough filled with cheese, tomato sauce, and mozzarella before being deep-fried.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island staple since the early 1900s.
- Portable Snack: Perfect for a quick and tasty snack on the go.
8. Eggplant Rollatini
A classic Italian dish made with thinly sliced eggplant filled with ricotta cheese and mozzarella at Villa Richmond. Don't miss this delicious option.
- Rich Ingredients: Filled with a mix of ricotta and mozzarella for maximum flavor.
- Traditional Preparation: Deep-fried for a crispy, golden exterior and a creamy interior.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island favorite since the 1950s.
9. Clam Sauce Pasta
Pasta smothered in a rich white clam sauce at Villa Richmond. Enjoy this seafood-centric dish that's popular in Staten Island.
- Seafood Freshness: Clams sourced daily from local fisheries.
- Rich Sauce: A creamy white clam sauce infused with garlic and herbs.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island favorite since the 1950s.
10. Braised Short Ribs
Tender and juicy short ribs slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce at Villa Richmond. Savor this hearty dish that's perfect for meat lovers.
- Slow-Cooked Meat: Braised for hours to ensure maximum tenderness.
- Rich Sauce: Served in a thick, flavorful tomato sauce.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island favorite since the 1950s.
11. Fried Calamari
Crispy fried calamari at Adriatic Restaurant. This classic Italian-American dish is a favorite among locals and visitors.
- Fresh Ingredients: Calamari sourced daily from local fisheries.
- Unique Batter: Coated in a special batter that creates a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island staple since the early 1900s.
12. Fried Clams
Crispy fried clams at Joe & Pat's. Enjoy this classic seafood dish that's popular in Staten Island.
- Seafood Freshness: Clams sourced daily from local fisheries.
- Unique Batter: Coated in a special batter that creates a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island institution since the 1930s.
13. Greek Salad
Fresh vegetables and feta cheese tossed in a tangy dressing at Adriatic Restaurant. Refresh yourself with this classic Greek salad.
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.
- Tangy Dressing: Dressed with a zesty vinaigrette made in-house.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island staple since the early 1900s.
14. Greek Burger
A juicy burger topped with feta cheese, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables at Adriatic Restaurant. Satisfy your cravings with this unique twist on a classic dish.
- Fresh Ingredients: Topped with fresh tomatoes, lettuce, and red onions.
- Unique Toppings: Includes feta cheese and tzatziki sauce for a Greek twist.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island staple since the early 1900s.
15. Linguine with Clam Sauce
Pasta smothered in a rich white clam sauce at The Palace Restaurant. Savor this seafood-centric dish that's popular in Staten Island.
- Seafood Freshness: Clams sourced daily from local fisheries.
- Rich Sauce: A creamy white clam sauce infused with garlic and herbs.
- Iconic Location: A Staten Island favorite since the early 20th century.