The restaurant is conveniently located at Open Bay Marina at 1960 Bayberry Ave in Merrick. Mr. Stephen Rosenbluth is the restaurant’s Executive Chef, and Jason DeLeo serves as Chef de Cuisine.
For starters, their Manhattan Clam Chowder is the quintessential choice for “soup of the day,” served with oyster crackers, which gives the patron the food that they are dining in New England.
The same holds true for their distinct fried calamari, which is comprised of banana peppers and the actual calamari, coupled with their homemade marinara sauce.
While the restaurant is recognized for its seafood, it bears to mention that their “Grilled Chicken Sandwich” is also tender, savory and worth more than just a passing glance. It is served with lettuce, tomato, Applewood Smoked Bacon, as well as Sriracha Mayonnaise.
For dessert, Anchor Down has a neat selection of sweet delights (including carrot cake, NY cheesecake and key lime pie), but any fans of chocolate ought to try their exquisite Chocolate Mousse cake, which is served in a creative fish-shaped dish, coupled with caramel syrup and sea salt drizzled on the corners.
The Verdict
Overall, Anchor Down is a culinary gem in Merrick. A reservation to this seafood eatery deserves to be on every Long Islander’s bucket list, since one needs to experience it for themselves. It has a warm, pleasant and ambient atmosphere. Their recent win for “Best Seafood Restaurant” in the 2017 “Best of Long Island” competition was indeed based on merit. At every visit, there is always something different to try, due to Anchor Down’s eclectic seafood menu. The presentation of their meals is meticulous and remarkable. Their wait staff are courteous and attentive to their patrons’ needs. Anchor Down Seafood Bar & Grill restaurant garners five out of five stars. Congratulations to Chef Stephen Rosenbluth and his staff for a job well done.
To learn more about Anchor Down Seafood Bar & Grill, visit its official website and Facebook page.