About Us
a message from joseph decandia,jr. - owner
Opened in 1974, Lenny's Clam Bar and Restaurant continues with its second generation of family hospitality.
My father, Joseph DeCandia, was born in Bari, Italy and came to America in 1956 at the age of 18. He took odd jobs as a dishwasher, a baker and a butcher.
In 1958 he took a job at “Lenny’s Pizza” in Brooklyn on 86th Street where he began to learn the pizza business.
A year later he went to work at “Lenny’s Pizza” on Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn, which he later purchased in 1960.
In 1969 my father decided to expand and opened “Lenny’s Pizza” on Cross Bay Blvd and 160th Avenue. Still wanting to grow in 1973, he purchased Ernie’s Bar on a handshake, located at 161-03 Cross Bay Blvd. He took this small bar and developed it into “Lenny’s Clam Bar” which opened on January 11, 1974.
His original menu (which is posted on the entrance wall) consisted of only a few items, including his now popular medium-hot sauce.
Business started off slower than expected so my father decided to try TV commercials featuring himself and some then famous celebrities. I realized while working alongside my father that together with hard work, great food, good service and his personal attention what truly can be attributed to Lenny’s popularity and fame was him inviting people into his restaurant by saying “Ask for Joe and get a free glass of wine on the house.” Fresh, high quality ingredients and a warm welcoming atmosphere await you and your friends.
Special Events and Catering
Our restaurant is available for private events: weddings, business lunches, dinners, cocktail receptions, and more. We would love to discuss how to be a part of your next event.
our promise
We refuse to compromise on quality in our restaurant. We continue to use all the finest ingredients and highest quality products with the same recipes, traditions and values that Lenny’s was built on.