Neighborly Advice: Jean-Georges’ Hamptons

If you’re a seasoned foodie and plan on being in the Hamptons this summer (in other words, if you live in New York), you really won’t want to miss the second annual Taste of Two Forks food and wine festival, sponsored by Dan’s Papers, on July 14.

This year’s event, hosted by Jean-Georges Vongerichten and designer Nicole Miller, will celebrate the best eats on both the North and South Forks. Head chefs from each participating restaurant will serve favorites from their menus, and local wineries will supply the beverages.

To get a jump on the scene, we talked to Vongerichten about some of his personal favorite places to eat in the Hamptons—all of which, naturally, will join the host at the festival.

Best place to go if you just want snacks and drinks
Fresno, in East Hampton, has a large starter selection, which is great for sharing, and a wonderful wine list that has a good mix of European and American wines.
8 Fresno Place, East Hampton, 631.324.8700

Best lobster roll on the island
The Lobster Roll, in Amagansett, has this famous dish as its namesake for a reason—it’s simply the best. Also, try their shrimp roll!
1980 Montauk Highway, Amagansett, 631.267.3740

Go-to place for great seafood
Southfork Kitchen has great seafood done right, but I also love the ceviches at Navy Beach, in Montauk.
Southfork Kitchen: 203 Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, 631.537.4700
Navy Beach: 16 Navy Road, Montauk, 631.668.6868

Best low-key dining after a long day at the beach
Rumba Rum Bar, in Hampton Bays, has wonderful, relaxed BBQ and island cuisine. And if you’re looking for a good burger, Banzai Burger.
Rumba Rum Bar: 43 Canoe Place Road, Hampton Bays, 631.594.3544
Banzai Burger: 2095 Montauk Highway, Amagansett, 631.267.3175

Upscale night on the town
The North Fork has some very quiet, more formal options for an intimate dinner, like Luce & Hawkins or North Fork Table & Inn. It’s definitely worth venturing north of the Hamptons for these gems.
Luce & Hawkins: 400 South Jamesport Avenue, Jamesport, 631.722.2900
North Fork Table & Inn: 57225 New York State Route 25, Southold, 631.765.0177

Taste of Two Forks: July 14 at Sayre Park, 154 Snake Hollow Road, Bridgehampton, 631.227.0188; tickets start at $150.

View Taste of Two Forks in a larger map