Where to Eat in the Hamptons (COVID Edition + Family Tested)
This year to celebrate summer, our family along with our close friends, Yeon and Rob, decided to go on a short getaway to the Hamptons. Juwon and I went to Montauk for our Babymoon a few years ago and hadn’t been back in the area since. We found an Airbnb about 30 minutes from the Hamptons that was reasonably priced. So we booked about a month in advance and began the countdown to our only summer getaway.
Since it’s obvious that a good vacation involves lots of good food, especially seafood if you’re heading to the coast, we budgeted to eat our hearts out! We were only gone for three days, but– man did we eat. Here is a list of spots we stopped by and a few thoughts to help you make some food decisions:
I apologize for the lack of actual food pictures, we were wrangling our kids and trying to actually eat… you know how it goes– instead, enjoy the still photos of the locations!
1- Shinnecock Lobster Factory (Southampton)
You can’t go to any coastal area without grabbing a few lobster rolls. This place is a low-key road stop with enormous lobster rolls. Between a Hampton style roll and an Original, I’d stick to the original. The Hampton version had less flavor, too much lobster, and not enough butter if that’s even possible! But we went here TWICE because it was that good! Keep in mind their hours are shorter than what is listed on Yelp. I’d get there early and if you’re too close to closing time, you may get cut off!
2- Morty’s Oyster Stand (Montauk)
We found this gem on the way back from a brief stop in Montauk. We arrived close to 5 PM to an empty restaurant which had us a bit skeptical, and surprisingly the hostess asked if we had a reservation. However, within 30 minutes, the restaurant filled up quickly and we realized she wasn’t joking. The Fish and Chips were good, and the fresh local oysters were to die for. It’s pretty casual although, still nice with its open hipster diner vibe. A huge plus was how open the space was so it was easy to sit with two kids, but the (minor) downside is that the outdoor area has a bed of rocks so if you have a toddler, expect some curiosity from your little one.
3-Tutto Ilgiorno Restaurant (Sag Harbor Location)
This California coast meets Restoration Hardware vibe restaurant was the fanciest stop on our trip. If you’re into fashion, this spot is owned by Donna Karan’s daughter and there’s a chic boutique inside the restaurant as well. Be sure to make a reservation in advance and don’t skip out on it, you need to put your credit card on file. Loved the overall vibe of the establishment, and the Burrata salad was divine. The Roma tomatoes were to die for. I’d get the Chicken Milanese and skip any of the simple Pasta dishes. I had a perfectly sour lavender drink to accompany dinner and probably hands down my favorite cocktail of the trip. Overall, good for the experience possibly would be back.
4-Carissa’s Bakery (East Hampton Location)
If you haven’t heard about this new(ish) bakery/cake on Instagram yet, you probably will. Even Ina Garten posted about this. The setup and patio at this East Hampton spot are lovely. Felt like I was in Malibu or just anywhere sunny, beautiful, and aesthetic. I would base my whole kitchen and dining room on the same muted earth tones as this eatery.
However, the food was just alright. Besides the hot dog, which was surprisingly impressive and bought for Wilder, nothing really stood out. They also have visually attractive pastries, but again, just okay honestly. I would be back to try again, maybe it was the wrong combination of orders the first time. Also, they had no decaf coffee– which felt a little offensive to me, so I settled for the Iced Matcha Latte–which is the only thing I would really recommend. It’s not sweet, just perfectly Matcha with a good splash of milk.
Lastly, I did see a celebrity here who was with her baby and friends! I feel like this spot is frequented by celebrities since ~everyone~ talks about it. That just might be your incentive to stop by.
5- Sag Pizza (Sag Harbor)
I think it might have been my two crazy kids that tainted this visit a little bit so I would be open to trying this again. This is a cute retro-esque pizzeria that totally has a vibe. The clientele was a mix of young students, families, older couples, and a few handsome dogs. If you were on the fence about ordering an appetizer, jump to order the Calamari because it was sophisticated and delicious. We had a Clam Vongole pizza that was so unique, but a little less flavorful than I was hoping for. The pizzas are a pretty penny, and the eatery can get crowded, so I’d say this is a spot to hit when your kids are passed out. Mine were certainly not.
6. Grindstone Coffee & Donuts (Sag Harbor)
OMG. Do not sleep or skip this spot. We stumbled upon this spot in an attempt to re-caffeinate ourselves the first day. Only looking to hydrate, we didn’t even consider ordering the delicious, voluminous donuts that were humbly displayed by the register. On our way out with just our drinks, we overheard a passing few people say this was the best donut spot. We decided to go back next to put the rumor to the test. Juwon, who is strangely really picky about lots of things, loved these donuts. They are the best combination of infused flavor, puffy dough, and just a straight 10/10. He would have ordered a dozen of the Lemon Poppy Seed donut. I had the Chocolate Cake donut which was great and exactly what I was craving but did not have the same makeup as the other donuts in the shop.
7. Bostwick’s Chowder House (East Hampton)
If you pass by this location any time after 6 PM, you know this is the place to try. The first time we drove by the restaurant was bursting at the seams. And since they do not take any reservations, I would definitely try to shoot for an off-time. We waited around 30 minutes for a table for six, around 3:00 PM. The other tables after us were seated pretty quickly after they arrived closer to 4:30 PM. It’s more of your typical Seafood spot with plastic chairs, and gingham table covers, but still packs a punch. Some recommendations are the Lobster Roll, Fish and Chips, and Fish Tacos. A more relaxed spot to be with your kids although, not your most unique eatery option in the area.
8. The Candied Anchor (Montauk)
Not exactly a food stop, but the cutest candy store in Montauk. We also went on our Babymoon a few years ago, and had to stop by again! It’s a bit pricey and because of COVID, the owner scoops the candy for you. However, everything is delicious– I mean, it is candy! I love the sour cherry coke bottles, sour belts, and my ultimate favorite is the strawberry puffs. You can’t find them anymore, so for that alone, it’s worth it!