If you’re looking for a “daycation” destination that gives you a Martha’s Vineyard feel without breaking the piggy bank, City Island is your place.
As a native Bronxite, I’ve taken City Island for granted. I spent my adolescent years going on and off the island for school, but never really considered this gem of a place that’s right in our backyard! From the seafood to the coastal breeze you’re pretty much whisked away to another world once you cross the bridge.
The boats in the water, the eateries and restaurants, the fishing, City Island is a place where you can choose your own adventure. Whether you’re celebrating with friends at one of the many restaurants, having a casual seafood dinner by the water at the end of the island, grabbing a cup of coffee from Clipper Coffee, or ice cream from Lickity Split, there’s something for everybody here. Antique shops. Thrifting. Sitting by the docks looking out on the water. I had a great time just taking in the sights with an iced latte.
Somethings to keep in mind:
It’s a small, but mighty town, so beware of small crowds on the sidewalks getting into restaurants, or bottlenecks of hotspots towards the beginning and end of the island. I recently went for a ride to the island and it was around 3pm. It was bustling, for sure, but there was still room to move around and take a walk. Id suggest visiting the island during the day to avoid the young adult crowds, especially if you’re a family with kids.
All in all, it’s so worth the visit. Especially, for locals looking for a quick get away, or something to do on...
Read moreI happen to love City Island. The views are amazing, the seafood is as delicious as it's famous for. But, I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the traffic police in that area.
6 MOS ago it was a near a holiday weekend, a friend of mine was visiting from out of town, just asked me to drive, literally was behind the wheel for 1 exit.
The exit that points to City Island and Orchard beach, a guy spins around the corner from nowhere, cut me off forcing me to speed up. I got pulled over by the police. I asked did he see what happened, of course he didn't. Fine! He clocked me for 46 in a 35. (Personally I feel it was a DWB situation. Driving While Black) Yeah I said it!!
I politely showed him my military ID. He said, "SO". Ok I showed him by PBA card Policeman Benevolent Association. The traffic cop simply said,"I don't know that guy".
I was polite, I asked him could he lower the speed at least 5 points because the scale he showed me was hefty. FAT CHANCE. So end of the day I got 6 points on my license and a $673 ticket.
So the next time I wanna spend $800 for lunch, I'll A). Fly to RT Paris, B). Go-to Charlie Birds in Soho, or C). Go-to the Space Needle restaurant in Seattle. I have other options but it will make a long story LONGER.
**Lessons learned: Either Uber to City Island, or just Always use the Waze app in City Island so you won't ruin your marvelous day with people who may try to ruin your day. **
Beyond that, City Island is a great place to visit. The food will make you crave that place!! I hope you enjoy it like I...
Read moreI loved the Island. I will NEVER go to Sammy's again that's 4 SURE 💯 I dined in the ⛺️, There was a fly in my water right off, with those prices a proper mesh frame should be securely around that with privacy settings. The food was TERRIBLE! The waiter was polite, but he was a bit off. I ordered two separate dishes one displayed Pasta with shrimp scampi, my other choice was a chilled butter lobster. I received a Dry poorly heated lobster Salamander probably. With a side but in the same Dish as the lobster. No pasta 😡 I'm sure it was not a race thing, we were both Hispanic. The guy just assumed we didn't have $ or was a poor listener. If the food would have been good, I would have complimented it. It was Luke warm dry and just had butted bread crumbs. It sat too long no salt no Garlic No LOVE. 😫 😪 It was supposed to be a treat turned into a nightmare. My night was great with Family, but not a memorable experience in there. Oh and bathrooms across the damn street and maze in 🙄 I'll happily retrain...
Read more