What’s an incredible meal at a restaurant without an appetizer to start it off? Mozzarella sticks, potato skins, calamari, quesadillas…okay, we’ll stop. Your mouth is probably watering right now, anyway. Long Island restaurants have so many different varieties of this ‘appetizing’ dish that it was almost impossible to narrow it down to one, but a contender did come out on top. This year, no matter how close or far you may live, definitely make sure you try the Best Appetizer on Long Island.
2025: Long Islanders Voted Smok-Haus Best Appetizer!
Smok-Haus
7 12th St, Garden City
(516) 400-7100 – smok-haus.com
Smok-Haus delivers an exciting start to any meal with its diverse selection of appetizers. Whether it’s the spicy buffalo wings, generously coated in flavorful sauces, or the indulgent nachos piled high with toppings, each dish is crafted to impress. The crispy fried shrimp and decadent loaded mac ‘n’ cheese add a creative touch to classic favorites. With options that appeal to all tastes, Smok-Haus ensures every guest finds something to enjoy. Known for its high-quality ingredients and inventive approach, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere where guests can savor bold flavors and friendly service. Whether dining with friends or family, Smok-Haus guarantees a memorable experience from the first bite.
2025: Long Islanders Voted Applebee’s Best Farm Stand! (National)
Applebee’s
Multiple Locations
(516) 783-9014 – applebees.com
Applebee’s appetizers are a delightful prelude to a memorable dining experience, offering a diverse selection that caters to various flavors. From the savory boneless wings in signature sauces to the crispy mozzarella sticks, each appetizer at Applebee’s offers comforting tastes and textures. The spinach and artichoke dip, a creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and melted cheeses, is a crowd-pleaser, while the crunchy onion rings provide a satisfying crunch. For those craving a taste of the Southwest, the classic nachos with a generous topping of seasoned beef or chicken are an excellent choice. The generous portions and variety make Applebee’s appetizers perfect for sharing or indulging in a flavorful start to a delicious meal.
2024: Long Islanders Voted Smok-Haus Best Appetizer!
Smok-Haus
7 12th St, Garden City
(516) 400-7100 – smok-haus.com
Applebee’s appetizers are a delightful prelude to a memorable dining experience, offering a diverse selection that caters to various flavors. From the savory boneless wings in signature sauces to the crispy mozzarella sticks, each appetizer at Applebee’s offers comforting tastes and textures. The spinach and artichoke dip, a creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and melted cheeses, is a crowd-pleaser, while the crunchy onion rings provide a satisfying crunch. For those craving a taste of the Southwest, the classic nachos with a generous topping of seasoned beef or chicken are an excellent choice. The generous portions and variety make Applebee’s appetizers perfect for sharing or indulging in a flavorful start to a delicious meal.
2024: Long Islanders Voted Applebee’s Best Appetizer (National)!
Applebee’s
Multiple Locations
applebees.com
Smok-Haus tantalizes taste buds with a sensational array of appetizers that set the stage for an enjoyable dining experience. From the zesty buffalo wings, perfectly seasoned and coated in a variety of sauces, to the indulgent loaded nachos with lots of toppings, each appetizer at Smok-Haus is a culinary delight. The crispy shrimp, expertly fried to golden perfection, and the flavorful loaded mac ‘n’ cheese offer a unique twist to traditional starters. The diverse menu caters to various palates, ensuring there’s a delectable option for every appetite. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Smok-Haus invites patrons to savor the rich flavors and warm hospitality that define its appetizer offerings.
2023: Long Islanders Voted Smok-Haus Best Appetizer!
Smok-Haus
7 12th St, Garden City
(516) 400-7100 – smok-haus.com
Smok-Haus has a selection of appetizers that will make your mouth water. The Mexican street fries are one example. They highlight the deeply satisfying flavor of Smok-Haus chili in a large boat of skin-on fries. Queso, guac, pico de Gallo, jalapeños, and sour cream are important parts of this app fit for a king’s meal. Make sure you include an order of Mac Daddy, too. The macaroni and cheese tossed with bacon and served with or without diced cherry peppers may be ordered with a quarter a pound of any of the smoked meats on this restaurant’s menu.
2023: Long Islanders Voted Applebee’s Best Appetizer! (National)
Applebee’s
Multiple Locations
applebees.com
It’s not always that an appetizer steals the show from a main course, but Applebee’s awesome appetizers selection does just that. Applebee’s has all your classic appetizers, including buffalo chicken wings, spinach and artichoke dip with chips, chicken or steak quesadillas, crunchy onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and more — all at great prices. If you have a hard time choosing, don’t sweat it, you can always go with its customizable Classic Combo, for a little of all the classic apps you love. Seriously, sometimes your whole meal is made with the appetizers alone! Whether you’re out for a quick drink with a friend or looking for a full on meal with your family, Applebee’s is always a reliable choice.
2022: Long Islanders Voted All American Wontons Best Appetizer!
All American Wontons
830 N. Broadway, North Massapequa
(516) 730-8070 – allamericanwontons.com
These are not your average wontons. All American Wontons puts the American twist on the traditional wonton by introducing a variety of both sweet and savory fillings – so many great ones, you won’t be able to choose. These delectable finger foods make the perfect appetizer because there’s something for everyone, whether it be the bacon mac & cheese wonton, spinach artichoke, nacho, philly cheesesteak, apple crumb, or many more. Put a tray out at your next dinner party before the big meal and see how quickly they’re gobbled up! You can order them hot or frozen from the North Massapequa storefront to eat right away or heat up later. Plus, there are special wontons that rotate on a regular basis, so you’ll never get tired of any one kind. Each wonton has the perfect bite of flavor, making it the ultimate Long Island appetizer!
2021: Long Islanders Voted Applebees Best Appetizer!
Applebee’s
Multiple Locations
applebees.com
It’s not always that an appetizer steals the show from a main course, but Applebee’s awesome appetizers selection does just that. Applebee’s has all your classic appetizers, including buffalo chicken wings, spinach and artichoke dip with chips, chicken or steak quesadillas, crunchy onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and more — all at great prices. If you have a hard time choosing, don’t sweat it, you can always go with its customizable Classic Combo, for a little of all the classic apps you love. Seriously, sometimes your whole meal is made with the appetizers alone! Whether you’re out for a quick drink with a friend or looking for a full on meal with your family, Applebee’s is always a reliable choice.
2021: Long Islanders Voted Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen & Caterers – Carle Place Best Appetizer!
Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen Restaurant & Caterers – Carle Place
59 Old Country Rd, Carle Place
(516) 742-3354 – bensdeli.net
Nothing starts a meal quite like a great appetizer. Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen & Caterers in Carle Place has a huge list of appetizers that will surely please any guest. Two of Ben’s OG appetizers are the “Unique Chicken Fricassee,” mini meatballs served in brown gravy, and “Stuffed Cabbage Hongroise,” a cabbage roll filled with lean ground beef, a little rice and its special seasonings, in a sauce that cries out for rye. Ben’s also cooks up hush puppies, fried kreplach, beef tongue polonaise (if you’re feeling adventurous) and homemade stuffed derma, just to name a few of its delicious offerings. And of course, the eatery also serves up scrumptious chicken tenders for those who want to play it safe with a classic dish!
2020: Long Islanders Voted Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen & Caterers – Carle Place Best Appetizer on Long Island!
Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen & Caterers – Carle Place
59 Old Country Rd, Carle Place
(516) 742-3354 – bensdeli.net
Nothing starts a meal quite like a great appetizer. At Ben’s Kosher Delicatessen & Caterers in Carle Place, they have a huge list of appetizers that will surely please any guest. Two of Ben’s OG appetizers are the “Unique Chicken Fricassee,” mini meatballs served in brown gravy, and “Stuffed Cabbage Hongroise,” a cabbage roll filled with lean ground beef, a little rice and their special seasonings, in a sauce that cries out for rye. Ben’s also has hush puppies, fried kreplach, beef tongue polonaise (if you’re feeling adventurous) and homemade stuffed derma, just to name a few of their delicious offerings. They also have chicken tenders for those who want to play it safe with a classic dish!
2019: Long Islanders Voted Ben’s Kosher Deli Best Appetizer on Long Island!
Ben’s Kosher Deli
59 Old Country Road, Carle Place
(516) 742-3354 – www.bensdeli.net
Long-time kosher deli serving entrees, sandwiches, delicious soups and sides, Ben’s Kosher Deli is a family-owned and operated restaurant and delicatessen that serves the finest authentic New York-style Kosher delicatessen and eastern European comfort foods on Long Island. Their success has spread like a schmear on a bagel, Ben’s now has locations on Long Island, Midtown Manhattan, Queens and Boca Raton, Florida. Ben’s offers amazing appetizers including, chicken fingers, fried kreplach, potted mini meatballs, and chopped liver. Ben’s is also the perfect spot for a full-roster of deli favorites like pastrami, corned beef, sour pickles, potato latkes, and other highlights of kosher cooking.
2018: Long Islanders Voted Ben’s Kosher Deli Best Appetizer on Long Island!
Ben’s Kosher Deli
www.bensdeli.net
Long-time kosher deli serving entrees, sandwiches, delicious soups and sides, Ben’s Kosher Deli is a family-owned and operated restaurant and delicatessen that serves the finest authentic New York-style Kosher delicatessen and eastern European comfort foods on Long Island. Their success has spread like a schmear on a bagel, Ben’s now has locations on Long Island, Midtown Manhattan, Queens and Boca Raton, Florida. Ben’s offers amazing appetizers including, chicken fingers, fried kreplach, potted mini meatballs, and chopped liver. Ben’s is also the perfect spot for a full-roster of deli favorites like pastrami, corned beef, sour pickles, potato latkes, and other highlights of kosher cooking.
2017: Long Islanders Voted Spiro’s Restaurant & Lounge Best Appetizer on Long Island
Spiro’s Restaurant & Lounge 4 Patchogue Dr., Rocky Point. 631-744-4100. spiroslounge.com From their famous baked clams to their tuna tartar, fried calamari fritters, and fresh mozzarella and Portobello mushroom, Spiro’s Restaurant & Lounge offers mouthwatering appetizers that will make you forget all about the following courses. This Rocky Point restaurant is the perfect spot to wind down after a long work week. Not only are the appetizers to-die-for, but the drinks are delicious, the entrees are exquisite, and the atmosphere is absolutely amazing! National Winner: Applebee’s, Spinach Artichoke Dip Multiple Locations. applebees.com Who doesn’t have memories of going to Applebee’s as a kid with their family and then as a teenager with their friends? Remember how great the appetizers were? Boneless wings, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, chips with spinach and artichoke dip—yum, yum, yum, yum! Well, some things never change. Long Island has spoken and Applebee’s continues to offer the best appetizers on Long Island. So, take a break from cooking tonight and head over to Applebee’s for some amazing appetizers—you may not even get to your entrée!
2016: Long Islanders Voted Ruvo Restaurants, Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp Best Appetizer on Long Island
Ruvo Restaurants, Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp Multiple Locations. ruvorestaurant.com With DeNicola Brothers Concepts’ Ruvo Restaurant & Bars located in Port Jefferson and Greenlawn, Del Fuegos in St. James, Babylon and Patchogue, and La Tavola in Sayville, this family owned and operated team is known throughout Long Island for their high-quality dishes, impressive presentations and commitment to excellence. Exploding with flavor and always the perfect warm-up for the main entree, no matter what it may be, this phenomenal creation is simply unforgettable! National Winner: Applebee’s, Spinach Artichoke Dip Multiple Locations. applebees.com Long Islanders love their spinach and artichoke dip. They just do. For the second year in a row, voters have chosen Applebee’s to be The Best at this appetizer wonder, and for great reasons. Not too soggy, not too dense, but just right, this delectable pairing makes a delicious warm-up for your main course and elevates your entire meal to a whole new level!
2015: Long Islanders Voted Novi Restaurant, Eggplant Quesadilla Best Appetizer on Long Island!
Novi Restaurant, Eggplant Quesadilla 99 Merrick Rd. Baldwin. 516-442-4500. novibaldwin.com The perfect appetizer wows. It satisfies yet does not overfill. It sets the mood while also hinting at the sublime possibilities still to come. Novi Restaurant’s Eggplant Quesadilla does all this and so much more. Imagine the freshest, tenderest eggplant showered in shaved mozzarella and slathered with tasty, flavorful sauce smothered between a warm, welcoming tortilla. Can you say “Yum. Yum. Yum!” Long Island voters sure can! National. Applebee’s, Spinach Artichoke Dip Multiple Locations. applebees.com When spinach and artichokes collide, something amazing happens. Sparks fly. Flavors meld. The world becomes a much better place. Nowhere else on Long Island does this cataclysmic mixture of fresh, delicious goodness blend in quite the same way, inspire so much sensation upon the taste buds, incite exactly the same level of euphoric excitement among hungry patrons. Applebee’s does it right, sure. But this title means its expert kitchen and myriad smiling, exuberant waitstaff do it better than good. They do it spectacularly, and that’s why they’ve been crowned such a gloriously prestigious and coveted honor!
2014: Long Islanders Voted Grey House – Little Necks au gratin in Bayport Best Appetizer on Long Island!
1. Grey Horse Tavern – Little Necks au gratin 291 Bayport Ave., Bayport. 631-472-1868. greyhorsetavern.com 2. The Good Life – Mashed Potato Wontons 1039 Park Blvd., Massapequa Park. 516-798-4663. thegoodlifeny.com 3. Rachel’s Waterside Grill – Tuna Nachos 281 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport.
2013: Long Islanders Voted Rachel’s Waterside Grill’s Tuna Nachos in Freeport Best Appetizer on Long Island!
1. Rachel’s Waterside Grill — Tuna Nachos 28 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport. 516-546-0050. www.rachelswatersidegrill.com 2. Grey Horse Tavern — Little Necks au Gratin 291 Bayport Ave., Bayport. 631-472-1868. www.greyhorsetavern.com 3. King Umberto’s — Fried Capellini 1343 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. 516-352-3232. www.kingumberto.com NATIONAL Cheesecake Factory — Avocado Rolls
2012: Long Islanders Voted Shandon Court in East Islip Best Appetizer on Long Island
1. Shandon Court—Baked Seafood 115 E. Main St., East Islip. 631-581-5678. www.shandoncourt.com 2. Rachel’s Waterside Grill—Tuna Nachos 281 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport. 516-546-0050. rachelswatersidegrill.com 3. King Umberto Pizzeria & Restaurant – Fried Capellini 1343 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. 516-352-8391. www.kingumberto.com NATIONAL Cheesecake Factory—Avocado Rolls Multiple Locations. www.thecheesecakefactory.com
2011: Long Islanders Voted King Umberto’s/Fried Cappellini in Elmont Best Appetizer on Long Island!
1. King Umberto’s/Fried Cappellini 1343 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. 516-352-8391. www.kingumberto.com 2. Rachel’s Waterside Grill/Tuna Nachos 281 Woodcleft Ave., Freeport. 516-546-0050. www.rachelswatersidegrill.com 3. The Stone Turtle/Screaming Oysters 4160 Austin Blvd., Island Park. 516-431-6570. www.thestoneturtlerestaurant.com
