The Coach Grill Tavern - OYSTER BAY

We were in Oyster Bay Sunday morning, walking the the Shu Swamp. We checked their web site and it showed that they opened every day at noon. We arrived at 12:30 to be greeted by a locked door. They might want to look at their web site, this listing and the sign out front that reads Open 7 days a week. We will be back eventually. What 's different is that we will call ahead.

My friends and I came here for dinner after checking out nearby Coe Hall and Planting Fields Arboretum. It was such a nice day out, so we opted to do outdoor dining in front of the restaurant. Upon being seated, we were served complimentary bread, including sesame seeds roll and mini baguettes. Both types of bread was warm and fresh, and was so tasty with butter. There were a couple of menu items I was eyeing, but finally decided to order the Roast Long Island Duck $34). The duck came topped with Bing cherry brandy sauce and was served with rice pilaf and assorted vegetables. The duck had decently crispy skin though it could've been more crunchy), along with tender, succulent meat, which was soaked in the aromatic, slightly sweet cherry sauce with a delightful hint of brandy taste. There were also actual soured bing cherries on top of the duck, which was a lovely touch. The rice pilaf was cooked perfectly and a great accompaniment. The medley of vegetables included broccoli, carrots, zucchini, and yellow squash. This was simply prepared, but made just right and pretty good. I got to try the lobster mac and cheese, which was absolutely delicious! Incredibly cheesy, with plenty of wonderfully well seasoned lobster filling. Service was decent. Our waiter was friendly and was on top of it. I just found the food to be a bit too expensive. I'm not sure the duck was worth the $34 it cost. If I am back in the area, I would probably look for a more reasonably priced place to eat.

We've been regular visitors to Oyster Bay for decades, and one thing we noticed recently was that there are precious few appropriate restaurants in the area take out pizza (which we don't eat) and eateries are quite rare. I noticed on Google Maps this place just south of downtown, and decided to give it a try. Upon entering, the place gives off a warm and welcoming vibe, and we were immediately spotted by our server (Also the bartender) and settled in a table near the window. We were given menus, and had little trouble picking out nice things to eat Donna got a grilled vegetable sandwich and I got the fried shrimp basket. Also, I started with a raw oyster appetizer. The oysters were simply perfect I had to settle for 2, but I could have happily eaten 10. The shrimp came with hand cut french fries plenty for the two of us. Lots of sharing going on and it was all delicious. I was so happy that I momentarily toyed with dessert, but the $12 cost convinced me otherwise (My parents were raised in the depression, and they made me serious about money). There were a few minor missteps, and a few too many things on the menu that were unavailable that day, but this was still an hour well spent. More importantly, we now have a go to place in Oyster Bay.

Thoughtful menu. Deftly cooked steaks and burgers are the main draw here. Could use some better seafood choices. Service is efficient and pleasant. For an upscale bar-restaurant I 'd like to see a better selection of beer.

Had a great night with my friends! Highly recommend.