Top foodies spots in East Hampton, New York
Of course! As your local East Hampton guide, I'm absolutely thrilled to take you on a culinary tour of our beautiful town. From sun-drenched Mediterranean terraces to cozy, hidden taverns, we have a flavor for every mood and moment. So, loosen your belt a notch and let's explore the plates that make this place so deliciously unforgettable.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of East Hampton, One Plate at a Time**
East Hampton. The name alone conjures images of pristine beaches, historic windmills, and a glamorous, star-studded summer scene. But for those of us who call this place home—and for the savvy visitors who venture beyond the main drag—the true magic of the Hamptons is found on the plate. It’s a landscape where fresh, local bounty meets global culinary artistry, creating a dining scene that is as vibrant and varied as the community itself.
Forget the velvet ropes; the real VIP treatment here is a perfectly blistered pizza crust, a impeccably fresh oyster, or a pasta dish that tastes like it was flown in directly from Nonna’s kitchen in Calabria. Let me be your guide to the heart of it all.
#### **1. Sí Sí Mediterranean Restaurant: A Sunset Dream on the Harbor**
**Location:** 295 Three Mile Harbor Hog Creek Rd
Let’s begin where the evening does: with a golden sunset over the water. Tucked away at the EHP Resort and Marina, Sí Sí isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination. The vibe is pure, unadulterated Riviera chic—think whitewashed walls, billowing linen curtains, and a terrace that places you right on the edge of the glistening harbor. It’s the kind of place where you order a crisp rosé and feel instantly transported to the Amalfi Coast.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Come for a late lunch that seamlessly transitions into dinner. As the sun begins its descent, the light turns the entire marina to liquid gold. It’s a spectacle, and the food is a worthy co-star.
**What to Order:**
* **To Start:** The **Mediterranean Spread Sampler**. This is your introduction to the flavors of the region. Creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and vibrant tzatziki arrive with warm, pillowy pita bread. It’s a communal, hands-on start to the meal that awakens the palate.
* **The Main Event:** You simply cannot leave without trying their **Grilled Whole Branzino**. It’s a masterpiece of simplicity. The fish, skin crisped to perfection over the flame, is deboned tableside and drizzled with nothing more than extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon, and herbs. The flesh is雪白, flaky, and tastes of the sea and the fire—nothing more, nothing less. It is sublime.
* **For the Table:** Don’t overlook the **Seafood Paella**. It’s a generous, saffron-scented feast packed with plump mussels, clams, shrimp, and chorizo. It’s designed for sharing, for laughter, and for sopping up every last bit of sauce.
#### **2. Citarella Gourmet Market: The Epicurean’s Wonderland**
**Location:** 2 Pantigo Rd
Now, let’s step into an institution. Citarella is not merely a market; it’s a temple to gastronomy. The moment you walk in, the air changes. It’s cool and carries the clean, briny scent of the Atlantic, mingled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and aged prosciutto. This is where the top chefs in the Hamptons shop, and where you can craft a picnic or a gourmet meal at home that rivals any five-star restaurant.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Building the ultimate Hamptons picnic. Grab a basket and prepare to be dazzled.
**What to Order:**
* **From the Raw Bar:** Their **East Coast Oysters**—especially the local favorites like Blue Points—are shucked to order and are the very essence of the Long Island coast. Grab a half-dozen with a container of mignonette for instant luxury.
* **The Sandwich of Legends:** The **Lobster Roll** from their prepared foods counter is a thing of beauty. It’s classic and perfect: generous chunks of sweet, fresh lobster meat lightly dressed in a lemon-herb aioli, nestled in a perfectly toasted, buttered split-top bun. It’s a benchmark.
* **For Your Charcuterie Board:** Head to the cheese counter and ask for a recommendation. Pair a sharp, aged English Cheddar with a creamy, funky French Brie. Then, go to the deli for paper-thin slices of **San Daniele Prosciutto**. Add some marinated olives and a baguette, and you have a feast fit for the beach or your deck.
#### **3. The Blend At Three Mile Harbor: Casual Vibes & Waterfront Bites**
**Location:** 367 County Rd 40
If Sí Sí is the glamorous sister, The Blend is the cool, relaxed brother you can hang out with all day. With a massive outdoor patio, Adirondack chairs, and a bustling bar, this is the quintessential post-beach, post-boat, or just-because spot. The energy is infectious, the cocktails are strong, and the views of Three Mile Harbor are unbeatable for a casual bite.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A lively weekend afternoon. The place is buzzing with locals and visitors alike, all soaking up the sun and the good times.
**What to Order:**
* **The Shareable Star:** The **Blend Burger Sliders**. These are not an afterthought; they are a main event. Perfectly grilled mini burgers with melted cheese, served with a pile of crispy, seasoned fries. Order a platter for the table—they disappear fast.
* **For the Seafood Lover:** The **Fish Tacos** are a revelation. Beer-battered local cod, crunchy cabbage slaw, a chipotle crema, and a squeeze of lime, all held together by a soft tortilla. They are messy, refreshing, and absolutely delicious.
* **The Sip:** You have to have a **Frozen Drinks** here. Whether it’s a painkiller or a frozen margarita, it’s the quintessential Blend beverage for a hot summer day.
#### **4. Highway: The Diner, Reimagined**
**Location:** 290 Montauk Hwy
Don’t let the name fool you. Highway is a diner in the same way a Porsche is a car—it takes a classic concept and elevates it to an art form. With its sleek, retro-futuristic design, it’s a favorite for a killer breakfast, a business lunch, or a surprisingly cool dinner. It’s where comfort food gets a sophisticated twist.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A boozy, indulgent brunch that cures all ills.
**What to Order:**
* **The Brunch Hero:** The **Highway Breakfast Sandwich** is legendary. A soft brioche bun cradles a juicy burger patty, melted American cheese, a perfect fried egg, and crispy hash browns. It’s a towering, glorious mess that requires two hands and total commitment.
* **Lunch/Dinner Must-Have:** Their **Highway Cheeseburger** is consistently voted one of the best on the East End. It’s a masterclass in simplicity: high-quality beef, perfectly seasoned and grilled, with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and their special sauce on a squishy bun. It’s burger perfection.
* **Don't Skip:** The **Truffle Fries**. These are not your average fries. Crispy, shoestring fries tossed generously with truffle oil and parmesan—they are addictive.
#### **5. Moby's: The Neighborhood Hangout, Perfected**
**Location:** 341 Pantigo Rd
Moby’s is the living room of East Hampton. It’s cozy, unpretentious, and always buzzing with a warm, local energy. With dark wood, a long inviting bar, and friendly staff, it feels like it’s been here forever. This is where you come for a reliable, delicious meal, a great beer, and the comforting feeling of being a regular, even if it's your first time.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A hearty dinner on a crisp autumn evening or a satisfying lunch after a morning of errands.
**What to Order:**
* **The Appetizer King:** The **Crispy Calamari**. Lightly battered, fried to a golden brown, and served with both a marinara and a spicy mayo for dipping. It’s a classic done exceptionally well.
* **The Comfort Food Crown:** You must try the **Shepherd's Pie**. This is soul-warming, stick-to-your-ribs goodness. Savory ground beef and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with a cloud of creamy mashed potatoes and baked until bubbly. It’s the definition of comfort.
* **For the Burger Aficionado:** The **Moby Burger** is a formidable contender in the Hamptons burger scene. A hefty, juicy patty with all the fixings, it’s a no-nonsense, profoundly satisfying plate.
#### **6. Springs Pizza: A Slice of Local Life**
**Location:** 841 Springs Fireplace Rd
Venture a little off the beaten path to the artistic enclave of Springs, and you’ll find a pizza joint that is worth the pilgrimage. Springs Pizza is unassuming, no-frills, and focused on one thing: making incredible pies. The vibe is pure neighborhood charm, with families, artists, and fishermen all lining up for their fix.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Calling in a take-out order for a movie night or grabbing a quick, perfect slice after a day at nearby Accabonac Harbor.
**What to Order:**
* **The Signature Slice:** You can’t go wrong with the **Margherita**. The hallmark of a great pizzeria is its simplest pizza. Here, the San Marzano tomato sauce is bright and tangy, the fresh mozzarella is creamy, and the basil is fragrant. The crust—oh, the crust!—is the star: chewy, with a slight char, and a beautiful airy structure.
* **The Local Favorite:** The **Springs Special** is typically loaded with toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and peppers. It’s a hearty, New York-style pie that satisfies every craving.
* **Don't Forget:** The **Garlic Knots**. These little pillows of dough, slathered in garlic butter and parmesan, are a must-have side.
#### **7. Springs Tavern and Grill: The Quintessential American Tavern**
**Location:** 15 Fort Pond Blvd
Just down the road, the Springs Tavern and Grill is the other half of Springs' culinary soul. Where the pizza place is for grabbing and going, the Tavern is for settling in. It’s a classic wood-paneled pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, a great jukebox, and a menu of American staples executed with care and quality.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A casual Friday night dinner with friends, where the beers are cold and the conversation flows as easily as the ketchup.
**What to Order:**
* **The Ultimate Bar Food:** The **Wings**. Choose your sauce—the Buffalo is classic and spicy, the BBQ is sweet and smoky—but know that they are some of the best in the area. Crispy, juicy, and served with chunky blue cheese and celery.
* **The Main Event:** The **Tavern Burger** is a formidable, no-nonsense burger. It’s big, juicy, and comes with all the standard toppings. Paired with a basket of their solid, skin-on fries, it’s the perfect tavern meal.
* **A Solid Salad:** For something a bit lighter, the **Grilled Chicken Salad** is fresh and satisfying, proving that even a classic tavern pays attention to its greens.
#### **8. Luigi's Italian Specialties: A Taste of Old-World Italy**
**Location:** 199 Pantigo Rd
Walking into Luigi’s is like stepping into a bustling salumeria in Little Italy. The air is thick with the scent of garlic, simmering tomatoes, and cured meats. This is a deli and market, but it’s also a portal to authentic, soul-satisfying Italian food. The folks behind the counter know their stuff and aren’t afraid to share an opinion—trust them.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Ordering a hero for the beach or grabbing a tray of their incredible prepared foods for an easy, spectacular dinner at home.
**What to Order:**
* **The Sandwich of Dreams:** The **Godfather** or the **Italian Combo**. Stacked high with a mix of finest Italian cold cuts—capicola, salami, prosciutto, and provolone—then topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, hot peppers, and a drizzle of oil and vinegar. The roll is crusty on the outside, soft within, and designed to hold up to the glorious contents. It’s a masterpiece.
* **The Prepared Food Gem:** Their **Eggplant Parmigiana** is legendary. Layers of tender, breaded eggplant, rich marinara, and melted mozzarella that will make you question every other version you’ve ever had. Buy it by the pound.
* **The Pasta:** Grab a container of their freshly made **Sunday Gravy** (meat sauce) and a pound of rigatoni. Dinner is solved, and it’s a dinner you’ll dream about.
#### **9. John Papas Cafe: The Heart of the Village**
**Location:** 18 Park Pl
Situated right in the heart of East Hampton village, John Papas Cafe is a classic. It’s part old-school coffee shop, part modern Mediterranean cafe. It’s the spot for a power breakfast meeting, a leisurely read of the newspaper with a cup of coffee, or a light and healthy lunch. The service is swift and friendly, and the people-watching is top-tier.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A sunny morning breakfast at one of their outdoor tables, watching the village come to life.
**What to Order:**
* **The Breakfast Standard:** The **Greek Omelet**. Fluffy eggs packed with fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and sweet tomatoes. It’s a flavor-packed start to the day that feels both indulgent and virtuous.
* **The Healthy & Hearty Lunch:** The **Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Platter**. Perfectly seasoned, grilled chicken served over a bed of fragrant rice with a classic Greek salad on the side. The tzatziki is cool, garlicky, and perfect for dipping.
* **The Quick Bite:** Their **Baklava** is sweet, sticky, and nutty—the perfect little shot of sweetness with your afternoon espresso.
#### **10. BUTTERO: Rustic Italian Elegance**
**Location:** 31 Race Ln
We end our tour on the highest of notes. BUTTERO (formerly Dopo La Spiaggia) is sophisticated, intimate, and effortlessly chic. The name means cowboy in Italian, and the vibe is a stylish interpretation of rustic, Tuscan farmhouse elegance. This is your spot for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or when you simply want to experience Italian cuisine at its most refined and heartfelt.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A long, wine-soaked, multi-course dinner where you savor every moment and every bite.
**What to Order:**
* **The Perfect Start:** The **Burrata**. This is not just any burrata. It’s a cloud of the freshest cheese, served with seasonal accompaniments that might include heirloom tomatoes, grilled peaches, or a vibrant pesto. It’s creamy, delicate, and sublime.
* **The Pasta Primo:** The **Cacio e Pepe** or the **Tagliatelle al Ragu**. The former is a stunningly simple Roman classic, relying on the quality of the pepper, pecorino, and pasta. The latter is a slow-cooked, deeply flavorful meat sauce that clings to every strand of fresh pasta. Both are benchmarks of the genre.
* **The Grand Finale:** For your main, the **Bistecca alla Fiorentina**. A massive, shareable, dry-aged T-bone steak, grilled over wood fire, seasoned with little more than salt, olive oil, and rosemary. It’s a theatrical, primal, and unbelievably delicious centerpiece for a meal you won't soon forget.
***
So there you have it—a culinary map to the true East Hampton, from the bustling harbor to the quiet village lanes. Each of these spots offers more than just a meal; they offer a memory. So come with an appetite, explore with curiosity, and savor every single bite. The plate is waiting
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage: Savoring the Soul of East Hampton, One Plate at a Time**
East Hampton. The name alone conjures images of pristine beaches, historic windmills, and a glamorous, star-studded summer scene. But for those of us who call this place home—and for the savvy visitors who venture beyond the main drag—the true magic of the Hamptons is found on the plate. It’s a landscape where fresh, local bounty meets global culinary artistry, creating a dining scene that is as vibrant and varied as the community itself.
Forget the velvet ropes; the real VIP treatment here is a perfectly blistered pizza crust, a impeccably fresh oyster, or a pasta dish that tastes like it was flown in directly from Nonna’s kitchen in Calabria. Let me be your guide to the heart of it all.
#### **1. Sí Sí Mediterranean Restaurant: A Sunset Dream on the Harbor**
**Location:** 295 Three Mile Harbor Hog Creek Rd
Let’s begin where the evening does: with a golden sunset over the water. Tucked away at the EHP Resort and Marina, Sí Sí isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination. The vibe is pure, unadulterated Riviera chic—think whitewashed walls, billowing linen curtains, and a terrace that places you right on the edge of the glistening harbor. It’s the kind of place where you order a crisp rosé and feel instantly transported to the Amalfi Coast.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Come for a late lunch that seamlessly transitions into dinner. As the sun begins its descent, the light turns the entire marina to liquid gold. It’s a spectacle, and the food is a worthy co-star.
**What to Order:**
* **To Start:** The **Mediterranean Spread Sampler**. This is your introduction to the flavors of the region. Creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and vibrant tzatziki arrive with warm, pillowy pita bread. It’s a communal, hands-on start to the meal that awakens the palate.
* **The Main Event:** You simply cannot leave without trying their **Grilled Whole Branzino**. It’s a masterpiece of simplicity. The fish, skin crisped to perfection over the flame, is deboned tableside and drizzled with nothing more than extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon, and herbs. The flesh is雪白, flaky, and tastes of the sea and the fire—nothing more, nothing less. It is sublime.
* **For the Table:** Don’t overlook the **Seafood Paella**. It’s a generous, saffron-scented feast packed with plump mussels, clams, shrimp, and chorizo. It’s designed for sharing, for laughter, and for sopping up every last bit of sauce.
#### **2. Citarella Gourmet Market: The Epicurean’s Wonderland**
**Location:** 2 Pantigo Rd
Now, let’s step into an institution. Citarella is not merely a market; it’s a temple to gastronomy. The moment you walk in, the air changes. It’s cool and carries the clean, briny scent of the Atlantic, mingled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and aged prosciutto. This is where the top chefs in the Hamptons shop, and where you can craft a picnic or a gourmet meal at home that rivals any five-star restaurant.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Building the ultimate Hamptons picnic. Grab a basket and prepare to be dazzled.
**What to Order:**
* **From the Raw Bar:** Their **East Coast Oysters**—especially the local favorites like Blue Points—are shucked to order and are the very essence of the Long Island coast. Grab a half-dozen with a container of mignonette for instant luxury.
* **The Sandwich of Legends:** The **Lobster Roll** from their prepared foods counter is a thing of beauty. It’s classic and perfect: generous chunks of sweet, fresh lobster meat lightly dressed in a lemon-herb aioli, nestled in a perfectly toasted, buttered split-top bun. It’s a benchmark.
* **For Your Charcuterie Board:** Head to the cheese counter and ask for a recommendation. Pair a sharp, aged English Cheddar with a creamy, funky French Brie. Then, go to the deli for paper-thin slices of **San Daniele Prosciutto**. Add some marinated olives and a baguette, and you have a feast fit for the beach or your deck.
#### **3. The Blend At Three Mile Harbor: Casual Vibes & Waterfront Bites**
**Location:** 367 County Rd 40
If Sí Sí is the glamorous sister, The Blend is the cool, relaxed brother you can hang out with all day. With a massive outdoor patio, Adirondack chairs, and a bustling bar, this is the quintessential post-beach, post-boat, or just-because spot. The energy is infectious, the cocktails are strong, and the views of Three Mile Harbor are unbeatable for a casual bite.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A lively weekend afternoon. The place is buzzing with locals and visitors alike, all soaking up the sun and the good times.
**What to Order:**
* **The Shareable Star:** The **Blend Burger Sliders**. These are not an afterthought; they are a main event. Perfectly grilled mini burgers with melted cheese, served with a pile of crispy, seasoned fries. Order a platter for the table—they disappear fast.
* **For the Seafood Lover:** The **Fish Tacos** are a revelation. Beer-battered local cod, crunchy cabbage slaw, a chipotle crema, and a squeeze of lime, all held together by a soft tortilla. They are messy, refreshing, and absolutely delicious.
* **The Sip:** You have to have a **Frozen Drinks** here. Whether it’s a painkiller or a frozen margarita, it’s the quintessential Blend beverage for a hot summer day.
#### **4. Highway: The Diner, Reimagined**
**Location:** 290 Montauk Hwy
Don’t let the name fool you. Highway is a diner in the same way a Porsche is a car—it takes a classic concept and elevates it to an art form. With its sleek, retro-futuristic design, it’s a favorite for a killer breakfast, a business lunch, or a surprisingly cool dinner. It’s where comfort food gets a sophisticated twist.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A boozy, indulgent brunch that cures all ills.
**What to Order:**
* **The Brunch Hero:** The **Highway Breakfast Sandwich** is legendary. A soft brioche bun cradles a juicy burger patty, melted American cheese, a perfect fried egg, and crispy hash browns. It’s a towering, glorious mess that requires two hands and total commitment.
* **Lunch/Dinner Must-Have:** Their **Highway Cheeseburger** is consistently voted one of the best on the East End. It’s a masterclass in simplicity: high-quality beef, perfectly seasoned and grilled, with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and their special sauce on a squishy bun. It’s burger perfection.
* **Don't Skip:** The **Truffle Fries**. These are not your average fries. Crispy, shoestring fries tossed generously with truffle oil and parmesan—they are addictive.
#### **5. Moby's: The Neighborhood Hangout, Perfected**
**Location:** 341 Pantigo Rd
Moby’s is the living room of East Hampton. It’s cozy, unpretentious, and always buzzing with a warm, local energy. With dark wood, a long inviting bar, and friendly staff, it feels like it’s been here forever. This is where you come for a reliable, delicious meal, a great beer, and the comforting feeling of being a regular, even if it's your first time.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A hearty dinner on a crisp autumn evening or a satisfying lunch after a morning of errands.
**What to Order:**
* **The Appetizer King:** The **Crispy Calamari**. Lightly battered, fried to a golden brown, and served with both a marinara and a spicy mayo for dipping. It’s a classic done exceptionally well.
* **The Comfort Food Crown:** You must try the **Shepherd's Pie**. This is soul-warming, stick-to-your-ribs goodness. Savory ground beef and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with a cloud of creamy mashed potatoes and baked until bubbly. It’s the definition of comfort.
* **For the Burger Aficionado:** The **Moby Burger** is a formidable contender in the Hamptons burger scene. A hefty, juicy patty with all the fixings, it’s a no-nonsense, profoundly satisfying plate.
#### **6. Springs Pizza: A Slice of Local Life**
**Location:** 841 Springs Fireplace Rd
Venture a little off the beaten path to the artistic enclave of Springs, and you’ll find a pizza joint that is worth the pilgrimage. Springs Pizza is unassuming, no-frills, and focused on one thing: making incredible pies. The vibe is pure neighborhood charm, with families, artists, and fishermen all lining up for their fix.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Calling in a take-out order for a movie night or grabbing a quick, perfect slice after a day at nearby Accabonac Harbor.
**What to Order:**
* **The Signature Slice:** You can’t go wrong with the **Margherita**. The hallmark of a great pizzeria is its simplest pizza. Here, the San Marzano tomato sauce is bright and tangy, the fresh mozzarella is creamy, and the basil is fragrant. The crust—oh, the crust!—is the star: chewy, with a slight char, and a beautiful airy structure.
* **The Local Favorite:** The **Springs Special** is typically loaded with toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and peppers. It’s a hearty, New York-style pie that satisfies every craving.
* **Don't Forget:** The **Garlic Knots**. These little pillows of dough, slathered in garlic butter and parmesan, are a must-have side.
#### **7. Springs Tavern and Grill: The Quintessential American Tavern**
**Location:** 15 Fort Pond Blvd
Just down the road, the Springs Tavern and Grill is the other half of Springs' culinary soul. Where the pizza place is for grabbing and going, the Tavern is for settling in. It’s a classic wood-paneled pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, a great jukebox, and a menu of American staples executed with care and quality.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A casual Friday night dinner with friends, where the beers are cold and the conversation flows as easily as the ketchup.
**What to Order:**
* **The Ultimate Bar Food:** The **Wings**. Choose your sauce—the Buffalo is classic and spicy, the BBQ is sweet and smoky—but know that they are some of the best in the area. Crispy, juicy, and served with chunky blue cheese and celery.
* **The Main Event:** The **Tavern Burger** is a formidable, no-nonsense burger. It’s big, juicy, and comes with all the standard toppings. Paired with a basket of their solid, skin-on fries, it’s the perfect tavern meal.
* **A Solid Salad:** For something a bit lighter, the **Grilled Chicken Salad** is fresh and satisfying, proving that even a classic tavern pays attention to its greens.
#### **8. Luigi's Italian Specialties: A Taste of Old-World Italy**
**Location:** 199 Pantigo Rd
Walking into Luigi’s is like stepping into a bustling salumeria in Little Italy. The air is thick with the scent of garlic, simmering tomatoes, and cured meats. This is a deli and market, but it’s also a portal to authentic, soul-satisfying Italian food. The folks behind the counter know their stuff and aren’t afraid to share an opinion—trust them.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** Ordering a hero for the beach or grabbing a tray of their incredible prepared foods for an easy, spectacular dinner at home.
**What to Order:**
* **The Sandwich of Dreams:** The **Godfather** or the **Italian Combo**. Stacked high with a mix of finest Italian cold cuts—capicola, salami, prosciutto, and provolone—then topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, hot peppers, and a drizzle of oil and vinegar. The roll is crusty on the outside, soft within, and designed to hold up to the glorious contents. It’s a masterpiece.
* **The Prepared Food Gem:** Their **Eggplant Parmigiana** is legendary. Layers of tender, breaded eggplant, rich marinara, and melted mozzarella that will make you question every other version you’ve ever had. Buy it by the pound.
* **The Pasta:** Grab a container of their freshly made **Sunday Gravy** (meat sauce) and a pound of rigatoni. Dinner is solved, and it’s a dinner you’ll dream about.
#### **9. John Papas Cafe: The Heart of the Village**
**Location:** 18 Park Pl
Situated right in the heart of East Hampton village, John Papas Cafe is a classic. It’s part old-school coffee shop, part modern Mediterranean cafe. It’s the spot for a power breakfast meeting, a leisurely read of the newspaper with a cup of coffee, or a light and healthy lunch. The service is swift and friendly, and the people-watching is top-tier.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A sunny morning breakfast at one of their outdoor tables, watching the village come to life.
**What to Order:**
* **The Breakfast Standard:** The **Greek Omelet**. Fluffy eggs packed with fresh spinach, tangy feta cheese, and sweet tomatoes. It’s a flavor-packed start to the day that feels both indulgent and virtuous.
* **The Healthy & Hearty Lunch:** The **Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Platter**. Perfectly seasoned, grilled chicken served over a bed of fragrant rice with a classic Greek salad on the side. The tzatziki is cool, garlicky, and perfect for dipping.
* **The Quick Bite:** Their **Baklava** is sweet, sticky, and nutty—the perfect little shot of sweetness with your afternoon espresso.
#### **10. BUTTERO: Rustic Italian Elegance**
**Location:** 31 Race Ln
We end our tour on the highest of notes. BUTTERO (formerly Dopo La Spiaggia) is sophisticated, intimate, and effortlessly chic. The name means cowboy in Italian, and the vibe is a stylish interpretation of rustic, Tuscan farmhouse elegance. This is your spot for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or when you simply want to experience Italian cuisine at its most refined and heartfelt.
**The Can't-Miss Experience:** A long, wine-soaked, multi-course dinner where you savor every moment and every bite.
**What to Order:**
* **The Perfect Start:** The **Burrata**. This is not just any burrata. It’s a cloud of the freshest cheese, served with seasonal accompaniments that might include heirloom tomatoes, grilled peaches, or a vibrant pesto. It’s creamy, delicate, and sublime.
* **The Pasta Primo:** The **Cacio e Pepe** or the **Tagliatelle al Ragu**. The former is a stunningly simple Roman classic, relying on the quality of the pepper, pecorino, and pasta. The latter is a slow-cooked, deeply flavorful meat sauce that clings to every strand of fresh pasta. Both are benchmarks of the genre.
* **The Grand Finale:** For your main, the **Bistecca alla Fiorentina**. A massive, shareable, dry-aged T-bone steak, grilled over wood fire, seasoned with little more than salt, olive oil, and rosemary. It’s a theatrical, primal, and unbelievably delicious centerpiece for a meal you won't soon forget.
***
So there you have it—a culinary map to the true East Hampton, from the bustling harbor to the quiet village lanes. Each of these spots offers more than just a meal; they offer a memory. So come with an appetite, explore with curiosity, and savor every single bite. The plate is waiting
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