fatfish was founded in 2004 by Chef Brian Valdini based on his vision of a waterfront seafood restaurant that offers a quintessential ocean-to-table experience.

Over the past 20 years, fatfish has become an iconic destination restaurant. Located directly on the Great South Bay with stunning water views, fatfish is known for its ultra fresh and creative Mediterranean-style cuisine featuring locally sourced seafood and farm goods. It is especially popular for its warm coastal ambiance and personalized and attentive service, a place where regulars gather, and out-of-towners are sent to experience Long Island seafood and specialty cuisine at its best.

The ambiance and food at fatfish reflect Brian Valdini’s love of Long Island history and culinary culture, where fishing and farming offer a bounty of fresh ingredients and where people can enjoy outdoor dining at its finest. But part of what makes fatfish unique is the fusion of Mediterranean flavors and spirit, a reflection of Chef Brian’s passion for cuisine that is a shared experience, enjoyed in the moment: fish pulled fresh from the water and expertly prepared, local spring vegetables and handmade pasta, a tempting array of tapas served with an icy pitcher of signature sangria… all enjoyed with lively conversation, laughter, and views of the Sound.

Our Story

Brian Valdini’s vision for fatfish started when he was still a teenager. He entered the kitchen at the age of 14 while working with his family at the community Elk’s Lodge and was immediately hooked. Brian worked his way up in the kitchen as well as in management, training at several Long Island restaurants while attending college, with a goal to someday launch his own establishment. After graduating, Brian spent 10 valuable years as Executive Chef for Marriott Hotels where he honed his culinary style and management skills, motivating a staff of over 40 and executing the menu for diverse events, from exclusive private retreats to conferences of 5,000 guests.

Brian then embarked on nine transformative years in Europe, immersing himself in the foods and flavors of Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal. This high-level professional education and exposure was the catalyst for Brian to develop his personal restaurant vision, ultimately leading him to return to Long Island to launch fatfish in May 2004 on a beautiful beach in Bayshore.

From the start, fatfish thrived. With the support of his close family and friends, Brian Valdini built the restaurant as a gathering place where even the staff has become part of the fatfish experience. He instilled a culture of excellence at the restaurant, from the quality and creativity of the menu offerings and wine selection to service that exceeds expectations. Season after season, guests and staff return to fatfish, drawn by the exceptional food and atmosphere. In 2024, Chef Brian and his team are excited and grateful to share fatfish’s 20^th anniversary with the many friends and family who are at the heart of its success.

Our Logo

The fatfish logo reflects our focus on seafood and our ethos of culinary innovation. Keeping things consistent yet fresh is a key philosophy that is expressed by the logo’s water swirl, a traditional symbol of new beginnings and hope for good things to come. As Chef Valdini continues to welcome guests with new cuisine as well as traditional favorites, the fatfish logo represents a commitment to excellence in food and service that evolves to exceed expectations.