Always a popular summer destination, the Hamptons promise a beautiful warm weather getaway for city dwellers and tri-state residents alike looking to get away from the grind without the necessity of hopping on a plane. Located on the South Fork of Long Island, New York, there are gorgeous beaches to choose from, fabulous shopping opportunities and a bevy of food and drink options to cater to every crowd of any preference. While there are a plethora of wineries located on the North Fork, and some situated on the South Fork (like Wölffer, Channing Daughters and Duckwalk), my most recent trip out to the Island focused on trying new restaurants across the Hamptons to recommend. Here’s what I came up with:

Southampton – The first town to hit making your way out on 27 East is Southampton. Now in its fourth season, OSO at Southampton Inn is a spot that’s been gathering buzz among locals and tourists over the past couple of years. The addition of Executive Chef Bryan Naylor in 2008 helped add notoriety and cred to this spot given his 15 year culinary history throughout Long Island including a stint as Executive Sous Chef at Gurney’s Inn Resort in Montauk, NY. The location is stunning, with the modern American fare served your choice of poolside, al fresco in the courtyard or inside in the clean but warmly decorated dining room.

The menu is impressive and reasonably priced, with a variety of unique dishes offering subtle complexity and finesse. Chef Naylor’s style seems to be a fine balancing act of contrasting flavors and textures, with all of the elements popping individually without any one item being overwhelmed; peppered jumbo shrimp partnered with a fresh corn succotash and spiced grilled lamb chops garnished with watermelon cubes and small feta crumbles illustrate this approach perfectly. Try sharing the lobster tacos and duet of Long Island duck, and pair with a local wine like the Wölffer Rosé or Macari Merlot.

For those looking for a bit more casual fare, the Southampton Publick House is always a guaranteed good time. There’s little better than drinking a beer straight from the source, and a flight of all the brews Southampton currently has on tap is a surefire way to make you smile. For those looking for a little something special, they also have a selection of their limited edition 750 ml cork and crown offerings like their Saison and Grand Cru. Add to that some of their house specialties (like applewood bacon wrapped shrimp, lager dipped fish & chips and PEI mussels steamed in shallot beer broth) and a few good friends, and you’re off the radar for hours in beervana.

East Hampton – As you continue making your way east through the South Fork, your next destination is East Hampton, where shopaholics can do some serious damage on the strip and celebrity sightings are the norm. While there, make sure to check out Philippe East Hampton, the newest addition to the culinary empire created by Executive Chef Philippe Chow. Now in its second season, Philippe offers all of the classic signature dishes Chef Chow is known for in a modern but inviting dining space with indoor and outdoor seating available among a backdrop of black and white with splashes of red.

Signature favorites not to be missed include the chicken or beef satay (with a sauce that’s out of this world and beyond addictive), peking duck and chicken, green prawns and the most decadent crispy beef you’ll ever experience. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly and very attentive, making sure that you are not left needing anything for a moment (including more lettuce for your wraps). The bar also offers up some killer house cocktails and a well-rounded wine list to complement your selections. My favorite choices would be the Jermann Pinot Grigio, Domaines Ott Château de Selle Rosé and Neil Ellis Cabernet Sauvignon from Stellenbosh.

Montauk – By the time you’ve hit the end of the road you’re in Montauk, the most easterly town on the South Fork. Of all the places out east, Montauk holds my heart like none other with the quaint shopping village, beautiful harbor and beaches, fisherman feel and seriously fun but not overly trendy nightlife. While there’s a bevy of dining options here, especially those promoting the fresh fish and local catches of the day, there’s a new face to an old staple that shouldn’t be missed: Second House Tavern at the Ruschmeyer’s Estate, the reincarnation of one of Montauk’s oldest restaurants, has been a hit since its overhaul in 2008 with locals and tourists alike. You have your choice of dining options within the one restaurant as well; either chow down on some black angus burgers and drafts in the Grill Room or sit down for a luxurious three-course dinner in the Tavern.

But don’t let the name “Tavern” fool you – this is some serious eats! Their philosophy to use all natural and hormone-free meats as well as fresh herbs from the garden, market produce and fish from the docks down the street pays off in every dish. The oysters on the half shell were fresh and vibrant, the artichoke & baby arugula salad with white asparagus and preserved lemons was divine, the clams casino were some of the best I’ve ever had and the halibut topped with lump crab, heirloom tomato and ricotta salata was flavorful and filling. With the amazing food and tap line devoted to Southampton’s Montauk Light, I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in town.

Here’s to the Hamptons and the beautiful culinary spots it has to offer. These were my new discoveries, but I’m sure there’s so much more I should try. I’d love to hear some of your favorite places, or maybe a new spot that you’re dying to check out.

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