Last weekend, a girlfriend and I headed out to the Hamptons for a quick getaway from the city. With a list of restaurants to try in hand, we hit the road with excitement. After a couple hours of traffic and Spotify sing-a-longs, we arrived in South Hampton. As always, the arrival priorities included a supply run (wine and water), followed by a welcome rose’ toast. After clinking glasses and vowing not to lounge around during this first jaunt out East, we came to peace with the notion that we would be returning to the city in need of a good night’s rest.
Below are the deets on our first adventure out east this summer:
Philippe by Philippe Chow (East Hampton)
Photo credit: @philippechownyc
As a big fan of East Hampton, checking out this new pop-up was a must. Upon entry, the scene is what one would expect of a trendy restaurant/club combination – dim lighting, sleek decor, and a fabulous mix of both young and older Hamptonites. It was Saturday at 9:45pm and the dining room was in full swing.
To start our food journey, we ordered the Salt & Pepper Eggplant appetizer, which was over breaded and in need of a dipping sauce. Opting for a traditional Chinese restaurant experience, we ordered the Kung Pao Chicken and Filet Mignon w/Broccoli for two people to share. Both hit the spot, as did the perfectly prepared martinis. Service was on-point, and each dish came out fairly quickly. By dessert time, the bar area had filled up with early club-goers and the average age had dropped significantly. Note: dessert is not their specialty and can be skipped without regret.
After our meal and before hitting up the club located to the right of the dining room, we waited in a ridiculously long line to use one of the two unisex restrooms that service both the restaurant and club. The club was packed, and tables were sold out. We grabbed a couple of Kettle and sodas, danced for a few songs, and then bounced to a more chill location. If you’re looking for a trendy dining experience and dance club, you’ll find it at Philippe East. 44 Three Mile Harbor Road; 631.324.3332; www.philippechow.com/restaurants-ny-east-hampton
Beautique at The Capri Hotel (Southampton)
Photo credit: @beautiquedining
We missed their Saturday “Day and Night” brunch party earlier that afternoon, so we decided to stop in for a night-cap after leaving Philippe Chow (we used Uber). We arrived around 12:45am to find a good sized (and good looking) crowd still huddled around at both the inside and outside bar. It could have been the hip-hop playing in the background or the friendly vibes from the staff, but before we knew it, we had stayed past closing time. The scene is posh, so we will be returning to check out their brunch and dinner this summer. 281 County Road 39A; 631- 353-3400; www.beautiquedining.com/v2
Harlow East (Sag Harbor)
Photo credit: Jane A. featured @harloweast
On Sunday around 12:30pm, we headed over to Sag Harbor for a marina view and seafood brunch. Having enjoyed the food at Harlow in the city, we decided to check out their new outpost on the water. The chic decor gave a promising vibe. However, as we walked through the restaurant to the outside deck, we noticed an abundance of empty tables. We quickly found out why, as every dish we ordered came out lacking fresh ingredients and with a mistake in preparation. Since it can take a while to get these outposts firing on all cylinders, we gave them a hall pass, but will most likely not return until late summer. If you’re looking for a marina view and are an understanding person, give them a try. Note: we have gone back for dinner since this first review and there was a major improvement. Woohoo! 1 Long Wharf; 631-725-5858; www.sagharbor.harlownyc.com
668 The Gig Shack (Montauk)
Photo credit: Obsessions Now
Our food journey across the Hamptons was finally back on track as we sat down at a casual picnic table and inhaled fish tacos, mussels, fries and rose’. This casual joint was an excellent change of pace and the live music made for a perfect Sunday Funday. I recommend The Gig Shack to those looking for a casual bite, and/or drinks with a side of top 80’s and 90’s music. 782 Main Street; 631- 668-2727; www.668thegigshack.com
La Brisa de Tacombi (Montauk)
Photo credit: @nobread, featured @tacombi
Because the ride back from Montauk would be long and boring without snacks, we had to grab grub from our favorite casual Mexican spot before heading back to the city. The corn esquires, guacamole and queso quesadillas are dreamy and made for an excellent food roadie. Tacombi is fit for anyone that enjoys a good taco. 752 Montauk Hwy.; 631-668-8338; www. tacombi.com/locations/la-brisa