Fish Out Of Water And On The Run
By Luann & Rich./ foodie@longislandernews.com

Fast-food fish would be an unfair label to give to the fare at Nader’s Fish on the Run. You do get your fish fast, but there is much more thought that goes into it than the phrase “fast food” communicates.

Nader Gebrin, owner of Bravo! Nader in Huntington village, has made his way to New York Avenue where he is taking his expertise in fish to the world of quick fry-ups, speedy service and take-out. He certainly brings a unique idea to the table, as who among us hasn’t wanted a light lunch or dinner of salmon, shrimp or tilapia but just didn’t feel like waiting for it or taking out time to sit in a restaurant?

The menu boasts an array of dishes, from soups (including red Huntington Clam Chowder), salads, small plates (under the heading “Kinda Hungry” on the menu) and sandwiches to heartier meals (“Officially Hungry!!!”) like grilled Chilean Sea Bass. Overall, the dishes are delicately flavored, light and fresh.

The sign outside declares the restaurant the king of fish and chips, and when it comes to fish on the go we have to agree. The Fried Flounder Sandwich ($7.95) and Fish & Chips ($8.95) are crisp, tasty and tummy-warming with all the goodness that comes with fried fare. It left us hopeful for dishes like the Fisherman’s Fried Platter ($12.95) of scallops, shrimp, calamari and white fish, and the Sweet, Crispy Fried Clam Strips ($8.95). We loved the Baked Clams (6 for $7.95), made with whole clams and well seasoned breading (and not too much of it).

The fresh Tuna Burger ($9.95) brings something different to your typical lunch sandwich, and we’re curious about Nader’s PO BOY Fried Oyster Sandwich ($8.95) and Lobster Roll Croissant ($13.95). Cooked shrimp swim in a flavorful garlic sauce, served with steamed brown rice or whole wheat pasta, in the light Shrimp and Broccoli ($13.95) dish. The Stuffed Sole ($13.95, sole with crab meat and herbs) also caught our eye. Salt & Pepper Fried Calamari ($6.95) with onions, green peppers and marinara left us wanting for something more, but we took it to go and suspect it’s a dish that should be eaten in-house.

What’s even more intriguing about this place is that, despite the name, it’s not all about fish. Also gracing the menu are chicken quesadillas, slow-cooked BBQ pork ribs, veggie burgers, skirt steak Ceasar wraps, chicken sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, fried chicken, and even chicken parmesan.

And don’t worry about the kids. The children’s menu features chicken fingers, macaroni and cheese, hot dogs and burgers, and even a tank of live fish for the kids to watch.

We will tell you this, however: If you can spare the time to order and eat there (and with their quick service, we promise it won’t take that long), it’s worth doing. Your meal will probably be better, as is the case with most food intended to be cooked and served quickly.