Ever since I was a little girl, my home away from home as been The Hamptons. My family’s beach bungalow is a shoes-optional sanctuary from the maddening New York City pace. Sometimes I find it difficult to tear myself away from this place to venture out and explore the Hamptons “scene.” But when I do, this is my shortlist of places I religiously visit and a few newbies I’ve had a chance to check out this summer!
Get your farmstand fix:
North Sea Farms (North Sea) – I especially love their white peaches, fresh basil and mozzarella. This farm is owned by the King family, also of Tate’s Bake Shop. Get Tate’s Chocolate Chip pie. It’s to die for.
Sip espresso at the bar and take gelato to go:
Sant Ambroeus (Southampton) – their standing only coffee bar is straight out of Italy. And their nocciola gelato is a perfect afternoon treat after a day at the beach.
Buy fresh fish:
Schmidt’s Seafood (Southampton) – say hi to Sal and ask if he has the ceviche – it’s wonderful!
Drink rose and lose track of time:
Sunset Beach (Shelter Island) – you will burn out if you do Sunset Beach every weekend. It’s always a scene but I love it in small doses.
Get your lobster roll:
The Dockhouse (Sag Harbor) – this spot is literally on a dock. It doesn’t get fresher than that!
Dine harborfront:
Tutto il Giorno (Sag Harbor) – white orchids everywhere, great music and quality ingredients. Over-sized pillows make you feel like it’s home.
Recover from last night:
Juice Press (Southampton & Bridgehampton) – a welcome addition to Main Street Southampton. Is anyone else obsessed with their vegan acai super mix?
Check out:
Surf Lodge Concert Series (Montauk) – Love these sunset sessions. This year it’s a mix of acoustic artists and DJs.
Get around:
Taxis are a disaster. Uber it.
What’s on your Hamptons shortlist?