Hamptons Hotspots
The Hamptons has always been more than just a getaway to me. I remember spending days in the sun and nights in our old, beachy farmhouse as a child; learning to surf at age 8 in Montauk; getting all our produce at local farmsteads, then feasting with family as the sun went down.
Later, I’d realize that there was way more to that old beachy farmhouse. One of the first houses in Sagaponack, it was originally owned by the famous author John Irving, who even wrote about it in one of his books, The Door In The Floor. This is just one of many ways the Hamptons is far more complex than its reputation allows for. It’s a place for family, memories, and history — both past and in the making.
People get the wrong impression of the Hamptons, but it really is one of the most beautiful and special places to me — a nostalgic side of the Hamptons I want everyone who visits to experience. The smell of summer, suntan lotion, and the ocean breeze still brings me back, and you know what? The local gems do too! Sharing my favorite places to eat, shop, and see out east below!
Where To Eat
Breakfast
Estia’s Little Kitchen Best breakfast burrito around! This is a spot not to miss. Try to go on the earlier side, as the line will be out the door by 11am.
Goldberg’s Famous Bagels: In every town, and definitely the best bagel situation out East. Get the Sagaponack Sandwich on a whole wheat everything flagel - it’s too freaking good!
Candy Kitchen: A classic staple in the Hamptons. 50’s style dinner with the world's best milkshakes
Lunch
The Clam Bar: A Hamptons staple. MUST GET THE LOBSTER
Bostwick’s Chowder House: Go here for the best lobster roll in the Hampton… Trust me I’ve done my research
Duryea’s Lobster Deck: My favorite Sunday activity. Best people watching, and the lobster cobb salad is to die for :)
Dinner
Blue Parrot: My Friday evening spot if you love tex mex.
Pierre’s: Always fab people watching on the weekend. The vibe is very St. Barts
The Crow’s Nest: Tribal Vibes with the cutest beach bar to wait because they don’t take reservations.
Suki Zuki: I don’t like chicken, but when it comes to the Suki Zuki salad, count me in. They don’t take reservations, so expect a bit of a wait
Coffee/Pick Up
Mary’s Marvelous: If you are a scone lover. PS - I see Alec Baldwin here almost every time I go.
Levain Bakery: The OG! My go to dinner party pick up. The chocolate peanut butter cookie is a party in your mouth!
Breadzilla: Beware - you’re entering the danger zone. I can only go here once or twice a summer, as everything is mouth watering goodness.
Hampton Coffee: A must stop when driving out east. Their peach iced tea is unreal.
Where To Party
Wolffer Estate Vineyard: I grew up going here after the beach, before dinner, on a cold rainy day. I love going Friday evening’s when there is music, cheese plates, and kids running around
Stephen’s Talkhouse: I don’t care what you say - Stephen’s Talkhouse is the BEST night time spot. Beware of the lines though, you’ve been thoroughly warned
Montauket: Most underrated bar in Montauk with the BEST sunset views
Farm Stands
Round Swamp Farm: Go early to get a few of the fresh blueberry pies and the best chicken salad
Bhumi Farm: Gorgeous farmstand on the way to Amagansett with the most delicious organic produce. Plus the owner is fineeeee
Pike Farms: BEST peaches and figs I’ve ever tasted
Where To Shop
(I try to only shop at the boutiques that I can’t find in NYC. My absolute MUSTS are below)
Where To Play
Take a boat out to Shelter Island’s Sunset Beach for the day with friends! Stay for lunch and then hang and drink on the beach.
Gibson Lane Beach - My favorite beach in Sagaponack. I grew up biking here every afternoon.
Hiking - Go Hike the Montauk Lighthouse Trail. The views are great, and the workout is perfect.
Where To Stay
Topping Rose - Topping Rose House is ideally situated within walking distance of the Bridge Hampton boutiques, art galleries and cafés. This is the ideal place to stay if you don’t want to go all the way to the Montauk for the weekend.
AirBnB - I always recommend that people check out the houses on AirBnB, because it can be much cheaper than staying in a hotel during high season. It’s also fun to stay in a house, and having a BBQ and friends over.
X kt