Rockin' Fish a Hit in Northport

Since opening on July 1, Northport's new seafood gastropub "Rockin' Fish" has become the place to be, consistently packed with gourmands drawn to its chic, yet relaxed downtown Manhattan feel and fresh palate.

"Rockin' Fish" is the brainchild of chef-owner Rob Haddow and Chrissy Costello. After two years in the works and months sporting a veiled storefront, the pair deftly revealed their opus in a soft opening which was anything but--attracting over 300 people on its first night.

Ellen and Owen Coleman, a Manhattan couple who own a summer home in Northport, joined the fray on the second night and said they've returned nearly every day since. "There's nobody that has oysters here and they have wonderful oysters and the calamari is excellent," said Owen, who named the crispy whole branzini as among his favorite items on the menu. "It just falls off the bone."

The rustic-refined decor compliments stormy-hued walls adorned with original artwork from local painter Cathy Chiavaro that often takes a whimsical turn with scenes from Jaws and fish playing musical instruments. Rockin' Fish's menu is often as whimsical and offerings are subject to change.

The Oyster Sake Shooter with three oysters, Bloody Mary, cocktail sauce and sake ($12); watermelon salad with champagne marinated red onions, Gorgonzola cheese, and raspberry vinaigrette ($5); lobster roll ($25); grilled, organic, dry-aged rib eye in 16 oz. ($40), 24 oz. ($60), or 40 oz. ($100) sizes; pepper seared Ahi tuna ($25); Massachusetts Diver Scallops seared with black pepper and ginger garlic glaze ($24), and Cajun grilled swordfish topped with cold mango salsa ($25) are among the highlights on the menu. Lighter eaters can opt for a sandwich such as the classic burger ($15), dry aged Black Angus burger ($16), rock shrimp tempura wrap ($14), or meatball hero ($14).

Rockin' Fish features 15 domestic craft beers on tap including Goose Island, Blue Point, and Kelso of Brooklyn as well as oak aged beer from Scotland's Innis & Gunn. An extensive wine list is also available, including a high end "cellar selection" with vintages from 1991 to 2005. Diners enjoying a drink while waiting for their meal may imbibe in the outdoor patio with 32 seats, making it arguably the most spacious dining area in Northport.

Rockin' Fish is located at 155 Main Street in Northport. Call for hours at 631-651-5200.