As we continue to explore New York City, looking for that perfect oyster, we decided to expand out with an added Borough. One that is growing exponentially in the culinary scene, Brooklyn has been the highlight of some of the tastiest new comers. And so as an addition to our blog and as part of our quest to bring you the latest in crustacean news, we will be venturing out to Brooklyn twice a month, returning back with reviews, specials and your next oyster spot in Brooklyn. First Stop-Littleneck Clams in Gowanus.

A very new face to this small up and coming neighborhood between Park Slope and Caroll Gardens, LIttleneck is projected as Brooklyn’s first and only New England-style clam shack. The interior made to look like a seafood shack one might encounter by the waters of Newport Rhode Island, or Boston, it is constructed of all recycled material, built by the very hands of its owners. Originally a kickstart project, taking donations to fund its conception, it finally came together and promised to use only local ingredients from local purveryors.Having officially opened at the end of October, it didn’t take long before we front and center at the bar with a plate of freshly shucked oysters.

The menu which is limited to seasonal and fresh ingredients offers a raw bar of oysters, clams, and lobster. It continues with cooked items from small plates of grilled lobster tail to entire grilled bacon, steak style. We decided to try a little of everything, starting with a half dozen oysters and a few clams. The oysters that day were Pine Islands from Long Island, Buckley Bay from British Columbia, and Barron Points from Washington. Leaving the best for last, we started with the Pine Island. Crisp, clean and a typical East Coast, it wasn’t terribly exciting, but well shucked and fresh nonetheless. Moving West, both varieties were creamy and plum, with the Barron Points excelling on all taste points. Next up, we had the Claw and Knuckles of the lobster, followed by the 1/2 grilled lobster tail. The claw and knuckle was refreshing and cracked so no additional work was required, and the lobster tail was rich in flavors of butter and herbs, grilled to a tender perfection. Moving on to the larger plates, we tried the steamers, mussels and clam roll. Everything was absolutely delicious and we even requested extra bread to soke up the thai flavored mussel broth. Although we were intrigued by the bacon steak, we instead ventured to the other end of the spectrum, ordering the market veggie plate. Who knew vegetables could taste so good!

With an eclectic local wine and beer list, a seasonal menu, and New Englands best seafood dishes, Littleneck is worth those extra few stops on the F or R train, or a short walk from its adjacent neighborhoods in Brooklyn.

Littleneck

288 3RD AVENUE; BROOKLYN, NY 11215; (718) 522 – 1921