As institutions go, it doesn’t get much more institutionalized than Lenny’s Clam Bar in Howard Beach. The dockside landmark continues the same tradition of fresh seafood and impeccable hospitality that first greeted patrons nearly 40 years ago.
Joe DeCandia, Jr. – the son of the original owner – said that Lenny’s started as a value-oriented, family-style restaurant and he intends to keep it that way indefinitely.
“The people who came here as children are now grown and are bringing their children here,” he said. “We’re a destination place and we’ll put our best dishes up against anyone’s anywhere else.”
Lenny’s menu consists of classic Italian fare, enticing seafood dishes and an unexpected barbecue menu featuring the house specialty baby back ribs. The combination of traditional favorites with modern day twists makes this restaurant as much of a destination today as it was in the ‘70s.
Dishes become favorites at the onset of the meal, with the starters taking a starring role. The fried calamari, one of their signature dishes, is crisp and golden. Lenny’s gets their squid locally, so it is fresh and never frozen – a fact that you’ll taste from tip to tentacle. The baked clams are another top choice for an appetizer. Lenny’s clams are served whole and prepared with a proprietary blend of seasoned bread crumbs and a light garlicky sauce that practically screams for bread dipping.
Entree options give customers a wide variety of dishes over which to drool. All of the classic pasta and seafood dishes are here – and each one comes with the diner’s choice of Lenny’s famous sweet, medium or hot sauce. Those looking for value should check out Lenny’s house combinations, which pair two menu items – such as fried calamari and fried shrimp or mussels and fried shrimp – all for under $20.
For something a little different, check out Lenny’s daily specials. Each day, talented chefs come up with exciting new dishes for patrons to enjoy. One flavorful example is the Asian-inspired sesame and panko crusted salmon. It is served with an Asian stir fry in hoisin sauce – a surprising and delicious deviation from their venerable menu.
Don’t leave Lenny’s without sampling the mouthwatering barbecue menu. The baby back ribs are out of sight – meaty pork ribs basted in their special sweet and tangy sauce. They will have you licking your fingers all the way home.
At home is how you’ll feel at Lenny’s, from the classic décor to the comforting menu. And remember, ask for Joe and get a free glass of wine on the house – just like when they opened in 1974.
