DiningPublished: Nov. 22, 2025, 7:00 a.m.
On the Staten Island Ferry, the views are worth savoring. If you’re really hungry, grab a quick bite or coffee — but the ride is the real treat.Pamela Silvestri
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Before you board the Staten Island Ferry — or after you dock from a breezy ride across the harbor — consider this: the St. George Terminal isn’t just a transit hub. It’s a snack-packed, meal-ready mini food court with grab-and-go options. Whether you’re craving a harbor view from a bar, a slice of pizza with ‘tude, or a 2 a.m. hot dog-and-smoothie combo (for real), your yacht’s pulled up to the curb.
Dunkin’ is on the boat for doughnuts, coffee and fast food.Pamela Silvestri
Let’s be honest—most tourists stick to the carb-heavy options at the terminal. That’s a missed opportunity. Staten Island’s food scene goes far beyond Dunkin’ on the ferry, serving everything from casual bites to hearty plates. All the more reason to step off the boat and explore.
Ferris Wheel fare gets its name from The Wheel which never materialized. But it’s a food option with smoothies and other noshes. Pamela SilvestriFerris Wheel Yogurt & Smoothie Café – Smoothies, frozen yogurt, ice cream, fresh juices, wraps, panini, Jamaican patties, hot dogs, nachos.
The Ferris Wheel cafe can be accessed from the terminal proper. Pamela SilvestriThis to-go only place feeds two sides of the terminal — the place where people gather and the place where people traffic to get to and from the terminal. Coffee, donuts, tchotchkes and breakfast 24 hours.
Subway offers a few seats to diners. Pamela SilvestriSubway — Classic sandwiches and salads made to order, with a few tables for those who want to sit and savor before catching the ferry. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Here is the current menu at the Statue of Liberty stall.(Advance/SILive.com | Pamela Silvestri)Statue of Liberty Deli — chicken tenders, chicken nuggets, cheeseburger, hot dog, hot wings, fried chicken and “fish” include a free can of 12 ounce soda and fries ranging from $7.99 to $10.99. Open 24 hours a day.
River Dock offers sit-down fare, a bar and a range of eats from pizza to seafood entrees. Pamela SilvestriRiver Dock Bar and Grill — This sit-down spot serves seafood and casual American fare, including burgers, wings, sandwiches, pasta, and pizza.
If the ferry ride inspires a craving for seafood, River Dock might fit the bill with its heartier dishes. It features a full bar and outdoor seating with harbor views when weather permits. Hours are generally noon to 9 p.m.
In the terminal itself, the walk-up window of this grab-and-go cafe includes beer from around the world.Pamela Silvestri“Window” Café — The unmarked stall shines bright with 24-hour service and a walk-up window serving beer, breakfast, cupcakes, nachos, and brews. A true grab-and-go spot where convenience meets beer — and yes, the operative word is beer.
Pizza at ZZ’s includes a few spots to sit and dine on a slice. Beer is served as well.Pamela SilvestriZZ’s Pizza and Bar – Quick pizza slices and a full bar for a fast bite before boarding. “I’m gonna make you a pizza you can’t refuse,” says the sign. Open generally from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a few tables at which to sit.
Since COVID, the ferry terminal in St. George offers fewer options for tourists and commuters. Pamela Silvestri
Native Staten Islander Pamela Silvestri is the Advance/SILive.com food editor. A Bryn Mawr College grad, Pamela’s background is rooted in the restaurant industry. She sold her Michelin/Zagat-rated American… more
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