Vine Street Café

Nestled in the charming heart of Shelter Island, Vine Street Café offers an inviting blend of New American cuisine that masterfully balances comfort with culinary creativity. This restaurant and bar is an ideal spot for those seeking a refined yet unpretentious dining experience, where each dish tells a story through textures and layers of flavor.

The menu at Vine Street Café is a treasure trove for adventurous palates. Start with the crispy duck confit, where perfectly rendered skin gives way to tender, melting meat infused with rich, savory depth. The tuna tacos present a playful twist—spicy tuna tartare wrapped delicately in a soft taco shell, offering a fresh burst of the ocean with every bite. For hearty appetites, the skirt steak shines with its beautifully harmonized spices and an impeccably juicy texture. Seafood lovers should not miss the miso-glazed salmon, a dish where the sweet umami glaze elegantly balances the fresh, flaky fish.

Complement your meal with a variety of plates that speak to seasonal freshness and bold flavor profiles: the crispy calamari salad combines a satisfying crunch with a refreshing mix of greens, while the lobster bouillabaisse offers a luxurious, aromatic broth brimming with ocean treasures. For a shared start or a light indulgence, the half dozen oysters on the half shell deliver pure, briny brightness straight from the sea.

Those with a sweet tooth can surrender to the sticky toffee pudding and classic profiteroles, both crafted with exquisite attention to texture and sweetness, making for a perfect finale to an already memorable meal.

Dining at Vine Street Café is more than just food—it is an experience heightened by a thoughtfully curated drink menu. From distinguished single malt whiskies like Oban 14yr and Macallan 12yr to an impressive array of fine brandies including Pierre Ferrand Cognac and Hennessey X.O., aficionados will find a refined companion to their meal. The digestif selection featuring Italian amari and Italian limoncello offers a sophisticated closure, lingering pleasantly on the palate.

Guests often praise the restaurant’s warm yet polished service, where staff skillfully guide diners through the diverse offerings with a genuine smile and knowledgeable recommendations. The ambiance strikes a comfortable balance—lively without overwhelming, perfect for both intimate dinners and festive outings.

Customer testimonials echo the exceptional quality and unique flavor combinations that Vine Street Café brings to Shelter Island. John Collins raves about the gluten-free scallop dish and the unique tuna tacos, describing the prawn dish over asparagus as “terrific.” Sara L calls it "a hidden gem in Long Island" thanks to its outstanding food and the chef’s dedication to customer satisfaction. While a few reviews mention challenges with pacing on busy nights, the overall consensus celebrates the restaurant’s commitment to delivering great food in a welcoming setting.

Whether you’re savoring the homemade fries alongside a perfectly cooked pastrami ribs or enjoying a rich glass of Malbec with your skirt steak, Vine Street Café captivates with bold, balanced flavors and an inviting atmosphere that will surely make you want to return.