<div class="tldr">Outdoor seafood shacks in Red Hook and Long Island City began offering expanded menus with chilled dishes on August 6. Vendors cite the August heatwave as the reason for the changes.</div>

<ul class="key-facts">

<li>New menu items were added on August 6, 2024.</li>

<li>Red Hook Lobster Pound and Brooklyn Crab are among the participating shacks.</li>

<li>Forecasts predict record temperatures through mid-August.</li>

</ul>

Red Hook Lobster Pound and Brooklyn Crab in Brooklyn, along with The Clam Bar LIC in Queens, have updated their menus this week to include more salads and cold seafood preparations. The adjustments come as National Weather Service warnings predict daytime highs above 95 degrees in New York City through August 15.

Owners at these seafood shacks report increased demand for lighter and quicker meals. Patricia Siano, owner of Red Hook Lobster Pound, said the new menu includes a chilled lobster gazpacho and a raw bar sampler. Brooklyn Crab added watermelon-cucumber ceviche and additional oyster varieties.

Operators point to outdoor seating as a factor in the menu changes. John Lee, manager at The Clam Bar LIC, said the covered patio helps, but customers are still avoiding hot dishes during heat advisories. Vendors expect to keep the new items at least through Labor Day, depending on customer response and weather conditions.

<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>

<h2>Which seafood shacks have expanded their menus?</h2>

<p>Red Hook Lobster Pound and Brooklyn Crab in Brooklyn, and The Clam Bar LIC in Long Island City, Queens, have all expanded their menus to include lighter, cold seafood options starting August 6, 2024.</p>

<h2>What new dishes are being offered during the heatwave?</h2>

<p>Offerings include chilled lobster gazpacho, watermelon-cucumber ceviche, raw bar samplers, and additional oyster varieties. These items are available alongside the shacks' regular menus for the duration of the heatwave.</p>

<h2>How long will these menu changes be available?</h2>

<p>Operators expect to maintain the expanded menus at least through Labor Day. The duration may extend if high temperatures persist or if customer demand remains strong.</p>