Pisces I: 271-02 Union Turnpike,
New Hyde Park ; 347-8052

Cuisine: Continental Seafood

Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. ; Friday and Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. ; Sunday, 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. ; Closed Monday

Credit Cards: All major

Parking: Small lot and street  

As soon as my companion and I entered Pisces I Seafood Restaurant in New Hyde Park, we were transported far away from the bustling traffic and busy stores on Union Turnpike to a quaint pier-side café where the fish is fresh, the service is good, and the atmosphere is as soothing as the waves of the ocean.

We sat down in the small, peaceful dining room and began our meal with two glasses of the house red wine ($2.75) and an appetizer of Steamers ($8.95), or clams steamed and served in the shell. We were immediately impressed by the large size of the clams, which were sweet and delicious, and were served healthy-style – with the clam juice and butter on the side. Although other appetizers on the menu, like Clams on the Half Shell ($5.95), sounded tempting, we decided to move on to the wide variety of entrees.

The restaurant’s selection of fish was tremendous, with treats such as Bluefish, Boston Scrod, Swordfish, Salmon, and a host of others available broiled with mild seasoning for between $15.95 and $18.95. The restaurant also serves tender Scallops or succulent Jumbo Shrimp, broiled or friend, and the classic Fried Calamari ($16.95). Pasta specialties such as Linguini and Clam Sauce ($17.95) were also on the menu, as well as Chicken Parmigiana ( $14.95), Steak ($21.95) and a Surf and Turf ($27.95).

We tried the Rainbow Trout, which was tender, fresh and tasty,  and the broiled Jumbo Shrimp, which were huge and sweet. Both entrees came with a soup or salad and potato or rice, and we enjoyed every bit, from the chunky Manhattan Clam Chowder to the zesty Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms.

We also tasted the flavorful Bouillabaisse ($18.95), filled with treats from the sea, the Shrimp Athenian Style ($18.95) with spinach and feta cheese, and the Stuffed Flounder with Crabmeat. All were prepared beautifully, with perfect sized portions and a healthy kick.

Pisces also offers several different sized lobsters for market price, but if you want one bigger than two and a quarter pounds, you have to call ahead.

A children’s menu is available, as well as a full bar and a wide range of desserts. The friendly waiters and hosts get to know the regulars, and provide quick and attentive service. What more could you ask for?

– Angela Montefinise