The Top 10 Hamptons Restaurants to Go to in the Off-Season
Pizza… Pasta… the best Bloody Mary… Plus, the most chill place to go for Meatloaf and Mac & Cheese…
One of my favorite weekends of the year is coming up.
Columbus Day weekend.
It marks the opening of the Hamptons International Film Festival, now in its 30th year (more on that next week).
I get to see incredible films, run into friends and — if I’m being honest — I also get to dine at some of the restaurants I don’t go to in the summer because, well, they’re typically too packed.
Here’s the thing.
In the off-season, not all the restaurants are open in the Hamptons.
(Duryea’s and The Crow’s Nest, both in Montauk, are already closed).
But there are plenty of places that stay open year-round.
And I compiled a short list of the ones you should try.
Here are the TOP 10 HAMPTONS RESTAURANTS YOU SHOULD GO TO OFF-SEASON:
1. Nick & Toni’s: Nick & Toni’s is one of the toughest tables in the Hamptons in the summertime. It’s much easier to score a reservation after Labor Day. And it’s worth the trip. Amazing Italian fare. Start with the Zucchini Fritto. And get any of the pastas for your main course.
Source: Mill House Inn
2. Highway: What I love about Highway is that the menu has a little something for everyone. You can start with the Shrimp & Chicken Wonton Soup, get a Highway Hummus for the table and the Spit Roasted Organic Chicken with stuffing for your main course. If you’re lucky, they’ll give you a bag of homemade chocolate chip cookies on your way out.
Source: Highway
3. Sag Pizza: If you couldn’t tell by the name, Sag Pizza is located in Sag Harbor. Unlike many of the other pizza joints in the Hamptons, Sag Pizza serves Neapolitan-style pizza that’s as good as anything you’ll find in Italy. I always order the Soppressata Picante, and I can eat the whole pie by myself. Watch me.
Source: Sag Pizza
4. Bridgehampton Inn & Restaurant: If you’re looking for food made with love and service that’s second to none, look no further that the Bridgehampton Inn & Restaurant. From Captain Glenn Laughton, to John, the head waiter, to Kyle at the bar, walking into this restaurant feels like coming home. Best dish — burger and fries. It’s not always on the menu, but if you ask nicely, the chef may make it for you.
Source: Open Table
5. Il Buco Al Mare: If you live in New York, you’re probably already familiar with Il Buco. It’s one of the most beloved restaurants in the city. Now, there’s Il Buco Al Mare (get it?) in Amagansett. The decor is more modern and the menu slightly different but equally delicious. Start with the Margherita focaccia and ask the chef if he’ll make you a Cacio e Pepe for your main course. (They took it off the menu this summer).
Source: La Cucina Italiana
6. The Palm: If you’re looking for a great steak, creamed spinach and mashed potatoes — the best winter meal, in my opinion — then, The Palm is it. End of story. It’s cozy and great for kids, too.
Source: Mill House Inn
7. Rowdy Hall: If you’re looking for a casual, no-fuss dinner at a place where you can walk in and get a table, Rowdy Hall is the ticket. Some of the menu items include Clams Casino, French Onion Soup, Fish and Chips, Meatloaf, and Mac & Cheese. Comfort food at its best. And easy on the wallet.
Source: Mill House Inn
8. Sam’s Pizza: If you’re going to a Sunday night movie in East Hampton, then stopping at Sam’s Pizza for dinner is a must. Here you’ll see a mix of starlets and locals. And the pizza is incredible. I get the Sam’s Special (sausage, onions, garlic, peppers & mushrooms) — always.
Source: Sam's Pizza Facebook
9. East Hampton Grill: Nothing says cozy winter dinner quite like East Hampton Grill. Classic fare that’s always yummy. I love the Ding’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich and — while you’re at it — order a side of Deviled Eggs with Grandma Ding’s Pickle Relish.
Source: Goop
10. The American Hotel: The American Hotel in Sag Harbor has always felt a little like a special occasion place for me — Easter, birthday, etc. — but the truth is, why wait for that special occasion to go and sit by the fireplace? Or sit outside for brunch on a sunny day? I always get the Crab Cakes (for dinner) and the Lobster B.L.T. (for brunch). And don’t miss the outstanding Bloody Mary.
Source: The American Hotel