Key Points:
Quick Hits:
Booking.com
The Hamptons, a summer haven for New York's elite, is known for its beaches, celebrities, and, of course, its high-end dining scene. If you've ever wondered what half a grand can fetch you at the most sought-after Hamptons restaurants, this guide offers a tantalizing peek into these culinary havens.
Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House
At the historic Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton, Jean-Georges Vongerichten offers an impeccable blend of American and French cuisines. For $500:
Moby’s
Located in East Hampton, Moby’s offers a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. With $500 in hand:
Booking.com
Sant Ambroeus Southampton
This Milanese import is an elegant spot perfect for those looking to experience Italian luxury. $500 will get you:
Booking.com
Pierre’s in Bridgehampton
This French bistro offers a blend of casual dining with an upscale touch. A $500 visit might look like:
1770 House
This historic inn and restaurant in East Hampton is known for its traditional American fare with a modern twist. For your $500:
Nick & Toni’s
A fixture in the Hamptons dining scene, Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes using local ingredients. With your $500:
Scarpetta Beach at Gurney’s Montauk
This beachfront haven offers Italian-inspired dishes with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. A $500 evening here might entail:
The American Hotel
Located in Sag Harbor, this historic hotel has a restaurant that has been delighting patrons for years. For $500:
Clam Bar at Napeague
A more laid-back option, Clam Bar offers seafood in a relaxed setting. Your $500 will allow a full experience:
Duryea's Lobster Deck
This iconic spot in Montauk offers seafood with a stunning view. Here’s what $500 can fetch:
Bostwick's Chowder House
Located in East Hampton, Bostwick's offers an unpretentious and beachy vibe while serving some of the freshest seafood around. Your $500 spread could look like:
Booking.com
The Palm at the Huntting Inn
An outpost of the famous steakhouse, The Palm in East Hampton is the go-to for meat enthusiasts. Here’s a suggested splurge with your $500:
East Hampton Grill
Renowned for its relaxed elegance and American classics, East Hampton Grill offers a cozy dining experience. For $500:
Crow's Nest
This Montauk gem is more than just a restaurant. With its panoramic views of Lake Montauk, Crow's Nest offers a romantic ambiance like no other. A culinary journey with $500 here might look like:
Almond Bridgehampton
A blend of French bistro charm and modern comforts, Almond is a must-visit when in the Hamptons. A lavish $500 evening could entail:
Lulu Kitchen & Bar
This downtown Sag Harbor spot is known for its wood-fired dishes, giving them a unique, smoky flavor. With your $500:
The Beacon
Perched above Sag Harbor, The Beacon offers diners sweeping sunset views, making it perfect for a romantic evening. Your $500 could look something like:
EMP Summer House
A summer pop-up by the famed Eleven Madison Park team, EMP Summer House in East Hampton is the epitome of refined dining. For a luxe $500 meal:
The Lobster Roll aka LUNCH
A classic and iconic spot, The Lobster Roll in Amagansett is known for its nostalgic charm and hearty seafood dishes. Dive into:
Booking.com
Wolffer Kitchen Amagansett
Operated by the same team behind Wolffer Estate Vineyard, this spot showcases wine country-inspired cuisine. Here's a peek into what $500 might fetch:
Barons Cove
Nestled in Sag Harbor, Barons Cove boasts of harborside views complementing its classic American fare. Let's chart out a luxurious $500 dining journey here:
Sotto Sopra
This Northern Italian-inspired restaurant in Amagansett combines rustic charm with upscale dining. Here's a taste of what $500 could get you:
Le Bilboquet Sag Harbor
A Parisian import, Le Bilboquet offers French flair with its waterfront views. Dive into luxury with:
Booking.com
Bridgehampton Inn & Restaurant
A quaint spot with old-world charm, the Bridgehampton Inn offers a seasonal menu crafted with local produce. Here's a sample of a $500 feast:
Montauk's Gosman’s Dock
With stunning views of the Montauk Harbor, Gosman’s Dock is the quintessential seafood dining spot. For $500:
Tutto Il Giorno
With its stylish interiors and laid-back vibe, Tutto Il Giorno in Southampton provides an Italian-inspired culinary retreat. A sumptuous $500 would offer:
Booking.com
Shuko Beach
A summer pop-up in East Hampton, Shuko Beach offers exquisite Japanese cuisine. For a luxurious $500 dining experience:
Estia’s Little Kitchen
This cozy Sag Harbor eatery is a local favorite, known for its farm-to-table approach. With $500 in hand:
Silver’s Restaurant
A historic luncheonette in Southampton, Silver’s is renowned for its gourmet sandwiches and salads. Here's a glimpse of a lavish $500 day:
As we venture deeper into the Hamptons’ culinary sphere, it becomes clear that this enclave of luxury is also a hotspot of culinary innovation and tradition. The landscape is dotted with eateries that range from timeless classics to modern gems, each narrating its own flavor story.
With each establishment, whether it's a seaside shack or a posh restaurant, there's an inherent promise of quality, ambiance, and a gastronomic adventure. The $500 ticket isn't just about filling one's stomach, but satiating the soul with memories of beautiful sunsets, gentle sea breezes, and the art of dining at its finest.
The Hamptons, with its unique blend of the rustic and the refined, promises a culinary escapade that transcends the ordinary. Whether you're a seafood lover, a connoisseur of fine wines, or just someone looking to make a special memory, this is a place where every meal tells a story. So, raise your glasses to more such stories, to more flavors, and to the indomitable spirit of the Hamptons that makes every meal a celebration.
Booking.com
The Hamptons is truly a culinary wonderland, where upscale dining meets casual beachside fare, making it a unique gastronomic destination. While some establishments are steeped in history and tradition, others bring contemporary flavors and innovations to the table. Regardless of the choice, each restaurant presents its own flavor, ensuring that every meal is a delightful experience.
What's evident through this exploration is the sheer versatility and range of options available in the Hamptons. $500 not only gets you mouth-watering dishes but also memories of beautiful settings, pleasant conversations, and the simple joy of good food. So, the next time you're in the Hamptons, relish the opportunity to discover and indulge in its diverse culinary offerings. After all, good food is not just about the taste; it's an experience, a journey, one that the Hamptons promise to make unforgettable.
- Exquisite and Rare Ingredients: At such a price point, diners can anticipate dishes that include rare and high-end ingredients, such as truffles, caviar, foie gras, and wagyu beef. These ingredients not only elevate the taste but also contribute to the luxurious feel of the meal.
- Personalized Dining Experience: Luxury often translates to personalization. For $500, diners might expect a more bespoke experience. This could be in the form of a tasting menu specifically curated by the chef, wine pairings chosen to complement each dish, or even having the chef come to your table to discuss the dishes and answer questions.
- Opulent Ambience & Exceptional Service: The surroundings and service at high-end Hamptons eateries would match the quality of the food. Expect well-curated interior designs, panoramic views, tableside preparations, and impeccable service where every detail is anticipated and every need is met without having to ask.
Quick Hits:
Booking.com
The Hamptons, a summer haven for New York's elite, is known for its beaches, celebrities, and, of course, its high-end dining scene. If you've ever wondered what half a grand can fetch you at the most sought-after Hamptons restaurants, this guide offers a tantalizing peek into these culinary havens.
Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House
At the historic Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton, Jean-Georges Vongerichten offers an impeccable blend of American and French cuisines. For $500:
- Appetizer: Black truffle and Fontina cheese pizza.
- Main: Grilled lamb chops with smoked chili glaze.
- Dessert: Salted caramel sundae with candied popcorn and fudge.
Moby’s
Located in East Hampton, Moby’s offers a sophisticated yet casual atmosphere, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. With $500 in hand:
- Appetizer: Fresh burrata with heirloom tomatoes and basil pesto.
- Main: Wood-fired pizza topped with prosciutto, arugula, and truffle oil.
- Dessert: Lemon sorbet with blueberry compote.
Sant Ambroeus Southampton
This Milanese import is an elegant spot perfect for those looking to experience Italian luxury. $500 will get you:
- Appetizer: Vitello tonnato - thin slices of veal with creamy tuna sauce.
- Main: Lobster tagliolini with cherry tomatoes and basil.
- Dessert: The famed Sant Ambroeus tiramisu.
Pierre’s in Bridgehampton
This French bistro offers a blend of casual dining with an upscale touch. A $500 visit might look like:
- Appetizer: Foie gras terrine with fig chutney.
- Main: Bouillabaisse with a selection of fresh fish, shellfish, and saffron-infused broth.
- Dessert: Crème brûlée.
1770 House
This historic inn and restaurant in East Hampton is known for its traditional American fare with a modern twist. For your $500:
- Appetizer: Lobster salad with avocado, mango, and a yuzu vinaigrette.
- Main: Grilled prime aged beef with summer truffle butter.
- Dessert: Warm berry crumble with homemade vanilla ice cream.
Nick & Toni’s
A fixture in the Hamptons dining scene, Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes using local ingredients. With your $500:
- Appetizer: Grilled octopus with fennel, orange, and mint.
- Main: Wood-roasted chicken with lemon and rosemary.
- Dessert: Ricotta cheesecake with raspberry coulis.
Scarpetta Beach at Gurney’s Montauk
This beachfront haven offers Italian-inspired dishes with a view of the Atlantic Ocean. A $500 evening here might entail:
- Appetizer: Raw yellowtail with olio di zenzero and pickled red onion.
- Main: Spaghetti with tomato and basil, a signature dish.
- Dessert: Coconut panna cotta with caramelized pineapple and guava "sugo."
The American Hotel
Located in Sag Harbor, this historic hotel has a restaurant that has been delighting patrons for years. For $500:
- Appetizer: Maryland crab cake with avocado and mango salsa.
- Main: Pan-roasted halibut with a lemon-caper sauce.
- Dessert: Valrhona chocolate tart with raspberry sorbet.
Clam Bar at Napeague
A more laid-back option, Clam Bar offers seafood in a relaxed setting. Your $500 will allow a full experience:
- Appetizer: A dozen fresh Montauk oysters.
- Main: Lobster roll with butter and garlic sauce.
- Dessert: Key lime pie.
Duryea's Lobster Deck
This iconic spot in Montauk offers seafood with a stunning view. Here’s what $500 can fetch:
- Appetizer: Tuna tartare with avocado and soy-ginger dressing.
- Main: Grilled lobster paired with fresh summer corn.
- Dessert: Fruit sorbet trio.
Bostwick's Chowder House
Located in East Hampton, Bostwick's offers an unpretentious and beachy vibe while serving some of the freshest seafood around. Your $500 spread could look like:
- Appetizer: Local steamers with drawn butter.
- Main: Grilled swordfish steak with lemon herb butter.
- Dessert: Homemade apple pie a la mode.
The Palm at the Huntting Inn
An outpost of the famous steakhouse, The Palm in East Hampton is the go-to for meat enthusiasts. Here’s a suggested splurge with your $500:
- Appetizer: Jumbo lump crab cocktail.
- Main: Bone-in rib-eye steak with brandy peppercorn sauce.
- Dessert: New York cheesecake with raspberry sauce.
East Hampton Grill
Renowned for its relaxed elegance and American classics, East Hampton Grill offers a cozy dining experience. For $500:
- Appetizer: Famous French dip sliders.
- Main: Hawaiian rib-eye with a ginger-soy marinade.
- Dessert: House-made five-nut brownie with vanilla ice cream.
Crow's Nest
This Montauk gem is more than just a restaurant. With its panoramic views of Lake Montauk, Crow's Nest offers a romantic ambiance like no other. A culinary journey with $500 here might look like:
- Appetizer: Beet salad with goat cheese and toasted walnuts.
- Main: Seared diver scallops with brown butter and capers.
- Dessert: Lavender crème brûlée.
Almond Bridgehampton
A blend of French bistro charm and modern comforts, Almond is a must-visit when in the Hamptons. A lavish $500 evening could entail:
- Appetizer: Escargots with garlic and parsley butter.
- Main: Duck confit with brussel sprouts and applewood smoked bacon.
- Dessert: Pear tart tatin with cinnamon ice cream.
Lulu Kitchen & Bar
This downtown Sag Harbor spot is known for its wood-fired dishes, giving them a unique, smoky flavor. With your $500:
- Appetizer: Grilled Spanish octopus with piquillo pepper sauce.
- Main: Wood-fired rotisserie farm chicken served with provençale ratatouille.
- Dessert: Warm chocolate mousse with crème fraîche and hazelnut crumble.
The Beacon
Perched above Sag Harbor, The Beacon offers diners sweeping sunset views, making it perfect for a romantic evening. Your $500 could look something like:
- Appetizer: Steamed mussels in a garlic and white wine broth.
- Main: Pan-seared halibut with roasted fennel and tomato confit.
- Dessert: Raspberry Linzer torte.
EMP Summer House
A summer pop-up by the famed Eleven Madison Park team, EMP Summer House in East Hampton is the epitome of refined dining. For a luxe $500 meal:
- Appetizer: Lobster tempura with aioli and baby herbs.
- Main: Herb-roasted lamb with seasonal vegetables.
- Dessert: Strawberry sorbet with fresh mint and shortbread.
The Lobster Roll aka LUNCH
A classic and iconic spot, The Lobster Roll in Amagansett is known for its nostalgic charm and hearty seafood dishes. Dive into:
- Appetizer: Clam chowder soup.
- Main: The “Classic” Lobster Roll, generously filled with fresh lobster meat.
- Dessert: Homemade blueberry pie.
Wolffer Kitchen Amagansett
Operated by the same team behind Wolffer Estate Vineyard, this spot showcases wine country-inspired cuisine. Here's a peek into what $500 might fetch:
- Appetizer: Seared foie gras on brioche toast.
- Main: Herb-crusted rack of lamb with a side of roasted parsnips.
- Dessert: Wolffer rosé-infused panna cotta.
Barons Cove
Nestled in Sag Harbor, Barons Cove boasts of harborside views complementing its classic American fare. Let's chart out a luxurious $500 dining journey here:
- Appetizer: Seared scallops with apple-parsnip puree.
- Main: Surf and Turf: Lobster tail and filet mignon with roasted garlic mash.
- Dessert: Seasonal fruit tart with vanilla bean gelato.
Sotto Sopra
This Northern Italian-inspired restaurant in Amagansett combines rustic charm with upscale dining. Here's a taste of what $500 could get you:
- Appetizer: Beef carpaccio with truffle vinaigrette and arugula.
- Main: Ossobuco alla Milanese, a slow-cooked veal shank with saffron risotto.
- Dessert: Tiramisu layered with mascarpone and espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
Le Bilboquet Sag Harbor
A Parisian import, Le Bilboquet offers French flair with its waterfront views. Dive into luxury with:
- Appetizer: Tartare de Thon: Yellowfin tuna tartare with avocado.
- Main: Cajun Chicken with French fries, their signature dish.
- Dessert: Crêpes Suzette flambéed with Grand Marnier.
Bridgehampton Inn & Restaurant
A quaint spot with old-world charm, the Bridgehampton Inn offers a seasonal menu crafted with local produce. Here's a sample of a $500 feast:
- Appetizer: Duck confit salad with pomegranate and blue cheese.
- Main: Pan-seared Montauk striped bass with citrus beurre blanc.
- Dessert: Molten chocolate cake with raspberry coulis.
Montauk's Gosman’s Dock
With stunning views of the Montauk Harbor, Gosman’s Dock is the quintessential seafood dining spot. For $500:
- Appetizer: Lobster bisque, creamy and rich.
- Main: Grilled seafood platter featuring lobster, scallops, and shrimp.
- Dessert: Key lime pie with a dollop of whipped cream.
Tutto Il Giorno
With its stylish interiors and laid-back vibe, Tutto Il Giorno in Southampton provides an Italian-inspired culinary retreat. A sumptuous $500 would offer:
- Appetizer: Burrata with roasted tomatoes and aged balsamic.
- Main: Pappardelle with slow-cooked lamb ragu.
- Dessert: Panna cotta with berry compote.
Shuko Beach
A summer pop-up in East Hampton, Shuko Beach offers exquisite Japanese cuisine. For a luxurious $500 dining experience:
- Appetizer: Toro tartare with caviar.
- Main: Omakase sushi set featuring the day’s freshest catch.
- Dessert: Matcha cheesecake with red bean paste.
Estia’s Little Kitchen
This cozy Sag Harbor eatery is a local favorite, known for its farm-to-table approach. With $500 in hand:
- Appetizer: Organic beet salad with goat cheese.
- Main: Pan-seared scallops with quinoa and seasonal vegetables.
- Dessert: Homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting.
Silver’s Restaurant
A historic luncheonette in Southampton, Silver’s is renowned for its gourmet sandwiches and salads. Here's a glimpse of a lavish $500 day:
- Appetizer: Lobster bisque garnished with fresh chives.
- Main: Truffle chicken salad sandwich on freshly baked brioche.
- Dessert: Lemon tart with a dollop of whipped cream.
Final Thoughts
As we venture deeper into the Hamptons’ culinary sphere, it becomes clear that this enclave of luxury is also a hotspot of culinary innovation and tradition. The landscape is dotted with eateries that range from timeless classics to modern gems, each narrating its own flavor story.
With each establishment, whether it's a seaside shack or a posh restaurant, there's an inherent promise of quality, ambiance, and a gastronomic adventure. The $500 ticket isn't just about filling one's stomach, but satiating the soul with memories of beautiful sunsets, gentle sea breezes, and the art of dining at its finest.
The Hamptons, with its unique blend of the rustic and the refined, promises a culinary escapade that transcends the ordinary. Whether you're a seafood lover, a connoisseur of fine wines, or just someone looking to make a special memory, this is a place where every meal tells a story. So, raise your glasses to more such stories, to more flavors, and to the indomitable spirit of the Hamptons that makes every meal a celebration.
The Hamptons is truly a culinary wonderland, where upscale dining meets casual beachside fare, making it a unique gastronomic destination. While some establishments are steeped in history and tradition, others bring contemporary flavors and innovations to the table. Regardless of the choice, each restaurant presents its own flavor, ensuring that every meal is a delightful experience.
What's evident through this exploration is the sheer versatility and range of options available in the Hamptons. $500 not only gets you mouth-watering dishes but also memories of beautiful settings, pleasant conversations, and the simple joy of good food. So, the next time you're in the Hamptons, relish the opportunity to discover and indulge in its diverse culinary offerings. After all, good food is not just about the taste; it's an experience, a journey, one that the Hamptons promise to make unforgettable.