Harpoon Eddie’s 2025
Tucked along the golden sands of Sylvan Beach, where the sunlight dances across the sparkling waters of Oneida Lake, lies a true summertime sanctuary, Harpoon Eddie’s. 
With its unbeatable lakeside location and electric seasonal energy, this restaurant is more than a place to eat because it’s a place to feel summer. Whether you’re sun-soaked from a beach day or breezing in from a short and scenic drive (by land or lake!) from Syracuse, Harpoon Eddie’s promises a dining experience that captures the carefree joy of the season in every detail. From the moment you arrive, the vibe is unmistakably festive as you will find families laughing, music drifting through the air, and that irresistible scent of grilled perfection wafting from the kitchen! Open seven days a week and perched right on the shoreline at 901 Main Street in Sylvan Beach, Harpoon Eddie’s offers two stellar seating options: cool off inside the air-conditioned dining room or soak up the golden-hour glow out on their expansive beachside deck. No matter where you sit, you’ll have front-row seats to some of the most stunning beach views in Central New York.
We visited on a bright and sunny evening to celebrate the end of the school year, and from the very first moment, the excitement of summer was in the air. The menu reads like a love letter to the season with every offering being bold, fresh, playful, and absolutely delicious. We kicked things off with Wendy’s Calamari, a unique twist on a classic dish. Perfectly sautéed with banana peppers, olives, and pickled onions, every bite offered a balance of tender calamari and briny, tangy heat. It paired beautifully with the zesty marinara on the side and set the stage for what would become a standout meal. Our kids were thrilled with the Little Shark Menu, a delightful offering that includes a kid’s drink and a generous portion of comfort food classics. Maggie was in mac-and-cheese heaven, devouring their creamy homemade version, while Johnny gave rave reviews to the golden-crisp chicken tenders and fries that vanished in minutes.
Kyle went full flavor with the Three Cheese Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese, a dish that defines indulgence. Twists of cellentani pasta were bathed in a luxurious cheese sauce made from Parmesan, cheddar, and Gruyère, then topped with smoky pulled pork, crispy onion rings, and a generous drizzle of BBQ sauce. It was hearty, soulful, and satisfying down to the last bite. I couldn’t resist trying one of their newest creations: the Sunset Skirt Steak. It arrived perfectly grilled and sliced, the juicy Angus beef complemented by a vibrant, garlicky chimichurri. Paired with the unforgettable maple bacon Brussels sprouts and a side of crispy, garlicky fries, this dish brought bold flavors and finesse together in one perfect plate. To finish, we had to get a slice of the Banana Cream Pie, a nostalgic must when in Sylvan Beach, the original Eddie’s classic reimagined with Harpoon’s playful twist. Smooth vanilla custard cradled fresh banana slices, all topped with whipped cream, shaved chocolate, and chunks of Reese’s. It was dreamy, decadent, and a perfect ending to a perfect summer night!
Harpoon Eddie’s has once again added some awesome specials to their menu this season! Try the ‘Poon’s Shrimp & Grits featured Cajun-kissed shrimp atop luscious smoked gouda grits, every bite a balance of spice and creamy comfort. You can’t go wrong with the Grouper Sandwich. It transported us to Florida’s Gulf Coast with its lightly breaded fillet, cool slaw, and tangy tartar – simple but expertly executed. Don’t skip the Italiano Special, which lives up to its nickname, “vacation in a volcano.” A spicy, savory mix of slow-braised beef and pork in Eddie’s famous meat sauce, this sandwich is layered with cherry and banana peppers, garlic, provolone, and long hots. It’s not for the faint of heart, but absolutely worth the fire. Pizza lovers, rejoice. The Arugulicious Pizza is a flavor bomb: basil pesto, melty mozzarella, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and wisps of prosciutto, all topped with fresh arugula and a kiss of balsamic glaze. Every bite is bright, fresh, and utterly addictive. And you will certainly want to finish your meal with the Cha Cha Churros, crisp, golden mini churros kissed with cinnamon sugar and paired with silky Nutella and a tart raspberry sauce. They were warm, fun, and seriously addictive! Eddies also offers an amazing bar menu featuring tantalizing signature cocktails like the Harpoon Hurricane, Harpoon Fish Bowl, ‘Poon’s Punch and the Mermaid Tail!
Harpoon Eddie’s is a must-visit summer hotspot, a celebration of food, family, and sunshine all rolled into one lakeside gem. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the deck, catching a live band, or digging into one of their inventive, flavor-packed dishes, every visit here feels like a little slice of vacation. Their kitchen is bold, their service is warm, and the memories are guaranteed to linger long after the sun sets over the lake. Open daily and offering takeout, catering, and a full calendar of live music and events, Harpoon Eddie’s is everything great about summer in Central New York. Call them at 315.762.5238, follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates, music schedules, and drool-worthy photos. Get there this summer and you’ll be glad you did.
