Dolphin Bookshop: A Staple of Port Washington for 75 Years

Dolphin Bookshop & Cafe has been an important establishment of Port Washington since its opening in 1946, about 75 years ago.

-Photo Credit: Dolphin Bookshop & Cafe

This bookshop and cafe has been a part of the town’s heritage for generations and continues to serve their community through spreading a love of reading and keeping to the personal touch that only a privately owned, small bookshop can offer.

Dolphin Bookshop is now located at Main Street, but has had several locations over the years, withstanding trying changes to the industry. The shop’s owners have also switched around multiple times. However, the shop has always maintained its image as a landmark and cultural center within the bustling North Shore hamlet.

As times have changed, the core of the bookshop has remained the same: to allow people to discover their next reading adventure. Of course, there have also been noticeable changes to the shop throughout the years. A pleasant cafe was introduced to attract more customers and it includes a creative literary-themed menu.

The shop has also been known for book signings, where notably they hosted J.K. Rowling among other authors and celebrities. Its long history has been attractive to those from outside of Long Island and the greater New York area as well, with visitors and patrons popping in from all over.

Dolphin Bookshop & Cafe can be found at 299 Main Street in Port Washington. Their typical hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with some variation on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. You can find out more on their website here.