Concrete Shoals — Review by Eater
New York, United States — Seafood
Matthew Rhys visits Concrete Shoals in New York City for lunch and enjoys the restaurant's signature dishes including crab toast and baked clams. He appreciates the authentic New York atmosphere and vibe of the establishment, comparing it favorably to other NYC favorites like Il Buco and The Ear Inn.
What was great: Crab toast and baked clams, the welcoming yet slightly unwelcoming atmosphere that makes it feel like a true establishment
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
During the visit to Concrete Shoals, the reviewer enjoyed two standout dishes: crab toast and baked clams. These signature offerings represent the restaurant's approach to coastal, seafood-focused cuisine that celebrates the ingredients and traditions of the region.
The Experience
Matthew Rhys appreciated the atmosphere at Concrete Shoals, describing it as having that authentic New York feel where there is a slight sense of being unwelcomed in the best way possible. This is reminiscent of true New York establishments like The Ear Inn, where staff greet you with a somewhat gruff but genuine demeanor that makes the place feel real and unpretentious. The vibe creates an intimate, no-nonsense dining experience that appeals to those seeking authentic local character.
Value and Pricing
No specific pricing information was mentioned in the transcript.
Notable Moments
When asked about his favorite New York bars, Matthew Rhys said: 'What I almost love is that when you walk in, it slightly feels almost unwelcomed. Do you know what I mean? That they're always like, What? What do we have? What WE HAVE?'
The conversation also touched on the Billion Oyster Project and efforts to improve New York Harbor, connecting the restaurant's seafood focus to broader environmental initiatives in the region.
The Verdict
Concrete Shoals is recommended for those seeking an authentic New York dining experience with quality seafood dishes and genuine local character. It appeals to diners who value unpretentious atmospheres and classic coastal cuisine in a traditional setting.