BRACCO'S Clam and Oyster Bar, Open Air Dining on the Canal
Written: Aug 17 '04 (Updated Jul 03 '06)
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Pros: Easy going atmosphere, (Update)That seems to have changed on weekend nights.
Cons: Saturday Night Rain
The Bottom Line: All the fish dishes are the freshest anywhere.
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| popsrocks's Full Review: Bracco's Clam & Oyster Bar |
One place that has grown in leaps and bounds on Freeport's Nautical Mile over the last few years is Bracco's Clam and Oyster bar. I believe this place has the best overall New England maritime feel with three docks that make their way out into the canal.
The bands playing live Reggie music are under tacky, yet apropos, plastic palm trees are terrific to listen to and bring in a festive spirit on many summer nights. If the bands aren't there, plenty of piped in upbeat music always is. The pace is fast with the owner out front watching all the comings and goings like a hen looking out for her chicks.
This long established place has tried keeping up with the influx of new establishments on the fast growing Nautical Mile. It has been successful. I believe it's the outdoor festive feel, and good service, that makes it popular.
A BIT ABOUT BRACCO'S
Bracco's Clam & Oyster Bar is actually an extension of Ben's Fish Dock, a seafood store that has been selling fresh fish for over 70 years. The restaurant extension of the fish store serves the freshest fish you can get on the docks. That I can tell you by what I have been served over the years.
This place does not have anything special as far as the menu goes. Many foods are grilled, broiled or fried and simply cooked. No gourmet touches here, but who expects them when you are seated at wooded picnic tables with paper towels racks and simple condiments at each table. "Hey, pass that hot sauce!"
When the sun starts to set the white lights of the lamps start to glow. You can witness party boats and pleasure boats making their way up and down the canal as the music continues to play.
This place now has three decks that jut out into the canal. I like the views. The bar is closer to the street and is fine for a beer and something from the clam bar. The music is nearby too. My only gripe here is that the bar seats, though very comfortable are too low or the bar too high. I feel like a munchkin reaching over to grab my beer.
Bracco's attracts families, friends and couples. It is a mix of clientele. A few of the local bikers may join in too. It is a very comfortable atmosphere. T-shirt and shorts are the norm in the hot summer, though some people will dress a bit on a Saturday night. Very little bit.
(Update July 2006) Over the last year Braccos seems to be attracting a more boisterous and younger crowd at the bar on weekend nights. It was a bit scary when a fight between some pretty big fellas broke out suddenly at the place last night.
(End update)
Don't be surprised to see a bare chested fellow sleeping in a lounge chair near the bar soaking up rays in the middle of the day. That's the owner getting rest for the night action yet to come.
I've always had a chuckle every time I see a sign that was posted years ago. It says something in the order of. Wanted, Clam Shucker, (Must Also Play Piano).
It seems that someone there has an attachment for Key West in that there are a number of signs and license plates honoring the place. I happen to love the Keys.
Look for another sign giving high props to anybody who can fit the description of a Yellow Jacket Killer. I have never been around when those pesky insects are, but maybe they are a problem at times.
The MENU
Starters include Steamed Mussels, Little Neck Clams, L.I.Steamers, and more. Maryland Crab Balls, Soprono's Seafood Salad, Shrimp Cocktail, and a Cold Lump Crab Cocktail round it out. All are $9.00-$16. We enjoy the steamers that cooked in Lemon and White wine.
The raw bar offers Clams on the Half Shell, Oysters, and a combo dish that has three clams three oysters and three large shrimp @ 14.95. Salads and Soups are also available.
They have one menu that seems to be work all day, lunch or dinner. The fresh Catch of the day features a grilled variety of fish choices. These are Salmon, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Swordfish,, Softshell Crab and Mako. All are $10.95-$13.95. These come with a toasted bun and fries.
Some of these same dishes can be ordered as the Captains Table. These are definitely dinner portions. These also include Surf'n Turf, $21.95, Stuffed Shrimp, $19.95 and Sea Scallops, $19.95.
For the Land Lovers Bracco's serves Grilled Chicken or Chicken Fingers, $9.95 Bracco Burger, $5.95 these are pretty good, and hot dogs$ 3.95.
Better cuts of meat are available too. Grilled Black Angus Sirloin Steak is $16.95.
Brocco's Clam Bake for two is $69.95. This consists of two pound and a quarter lobsters, king crab legs, beer battered shrimp, mussels and Little Neck clams with corn on the cob and fries.
Whenever we go, we keep have the Fish 'n' Chips, $12.95. A nice piece of cod is cooked up in a beer battered dip. It is light and very tasty. They fry in peanut oil. Another favorite is the Calamari Boat, $14.95. They cook it just right, never too much getting it rubbery. We always choose the hot sauce over the mild. Other fried dishes are also available. Whiting and Flounder Fillets and Jumbo shrimp boats or soft shell crab are on their menu too.
If you are willing to spend a few extra bucks go for the Nor'Easter. This will combine Fillet of fish, Beer battered Shrimp, Clam Strips, and Maryland Crab cakes with fries @ $29.95.
I almost forgot a favorite of mine. Ipswich Clams. I enjoy these fried specialties. $19.95
The prices are always changing at this place so expect to find some of mine a bit off.
SERVICE
The owner is outside watching everything. The hosts are quick to ask you, "how many?" They are always looking to move 'em in. You never get a feeling of movin'em out. They do clean up any empty table quickly and try to fill it immediately. This makes the lines move quickly. Expect lines on Friday and Saturday nights. They do move well, faster than the lines at many other places.
I have found the help know the menu well enough. There are no substitutes that I have seen and there really isn't a lot to learn. The wait staff is very efficient in this place. They are friendly too.
REFRESHMENTS
They have a full bar, but for the most part you will see bottled beers and frozen drinks coming out. Kids can get sodas, or iced tea. We have a few beers. They go down nice and easy while eatin' the food, and enjoyin' the music as the sun disappears from the sky. Man, I just love the atmosphere. I just hope the place doesn't become a hangout for a more rowdy crowd. It's still pretty good during the week.
FREEPORT
Freeport's Nautical Mile A wonderful summer destination!!
Freeport's South Street Seaport annex museum
Freeport's Nautical Mile Eateries
The Crab Shack
Rachel's Waterside Grill
Cafe By the Sea Dining and wonderful desserts. Some fun entertainment too!
Otto's Sea Grill Fine dining or partying on the canal
Water Lilly's Waterside Cafe
Pier 95 A very fine Portuguese-Mediterranean Restaurant on the Hudson Canal just minutes from the Nautical Mile
Montana's pizzeria and restaurant Good Italian food near Nautical Mile
Ralph's Famous Italian IcesThey are on Freeport's Nautical Mile and elsewhere across the Island.
Recommended:
Yes
Kid Friendliness: Yes
Best Suited For: Large Group
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