An Insider’s Guide to Summer on the East End
By Kristen Oliveri
As the ultra-wealthy descend upon the Eastern End of Long Island for yet another summer, we’ve rounded up some of the best spots on the North Fork and in the Hamptons to dine, drink, and soak in the coastal breeze. From refreshed menus and revamped food trucks to exclusive private clubs, this list highlights the must-visit destinations of the season.
The Shoals Suites & Slips
Set along the water in Southold on the North Fork, The Shoals is redefining “boatel living.” This hybrid hotel and marina features 20 stylish suites and 20 boat slips, treating guests to breakfast with waterfront views each morning. Each suite has a kitchenette, perfect for families or longer stays.
Guests love The Shoals for its seamless dock-and-stay access, whether you arrive on your own boat or step directly from your suite onto a chartered vessel. This summer, The Shoals has partnered with Ride Shore to offer tailored charter trips on a classic Chris-Craft or graceful sailboat. Guests can book sunset cruises or private water taxis to beloved spots like Sunset Beach and Duryea’s Orient Point, as well as iconic Hamptons staples such as Baron’s Cove and Le Bilboquet.
MaizEat is the on-site food truck by acclaimed Chef Cheo Avila, serving vibrant Asian and Latin bites like crispy yuca fries and zesty tropical ceviches, alongside a bright, fruit-forward cocktail lineup.
Amalfi Coastal Kitchen & Cocktails
Searching for the best aperitivo in town? Head to Amalfi in Hampton Bays for Amalfi Mondays through Fridays from 4–6 p.m., and Sundays for its signature sunset soirée. This waterfront favorite offers half-priced appetizers, including $2 oysters, mezze platters, and mussels in white wine and garlic.
The cocktail menu features classic Italian aperitivo picks like the Aperol spritz, plus a limoncello spritz, freezer door negroni with Aviator Gin, and a classic margarita. If you’re staying for dinner, don’t miss standouts like the chicken parm pizza for two, linguine vongole, and the hearty Amalfi moussaka.
The Prive at Southold Social
For a truly memorable evening on the North Fork, visit Southold Social on Thursdays from 6:30–9:30 p.m. for an oyster shuck night, complete with wine and local brews. Fridays feature handcrafted cocktails, limited-edition bites, and live jazz under the stars from 6:30–9:30 p.m. On Saturdays, the lounge comes alive with creative cocktails, the “city girl delights” menu, and a DJ spinning from 8–11 p.m.
The Lobster Roll AKA Lunch
“Iconic” barely does it justice. “Institution” is more like it. No matter where you’re heading on the East End, there’s nothing more comforting than a lobster roll from this classic spot. With two outposts (the original in Amagansett and another in Southampton), it’s the ultimate place to dig in when the sun is high and the breeze is warm.
This year, they’re adding a special twist: a summer soirée at the Southampton location on July 18–19 at 7 p.m., featuring the American Cut dinner party. For $215 per ticket, guests can enjoy a family-style spread of premium American cuts, sides, desserts, plus a beer and wine open bar.