I've Spent 10 Summers In The Hamptons—These Are The Spots Actually Worth Visiting

I've spent the last 10 summers in the Hamptons, and while I'll never say no to a dinner at Duryea's or a night out at Surf Lodge, there are also tons of hidden gems that deserve traveling out East for. These gems—curated by both myself and some of my most trusted Hamptons locals—have a more laidback feel to them. Some you may be able to walk right in and get a table (gasp!) while others have earned the title of Hamptons Institution since back in the day.

From restaurants that source the best local produce to quaint shops in East Hampton that rival the Prada store, find the places actually worth checking out when you're in the Hamptons.

Trust me when I say there is no cuter farmstand than the Milk Pail. And its aesthetic is just the beginning. They bake the most delicious treats—it's my go-to stop when I'm heading over to a friend's house. The cider donuts are mouth-watering and always impress.

Dr. Barbara Sturm, founder of Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics, calls Shou Sugi Ban House her favorite place to retreat in the Hamptons. "It's a destination where wellness and restoration are approached with intention and grounded in an integrated, truly holistic approach to skin health and overall vitality," she says. 

One of my favorite ways to spend an evening in the Hamptons is with dinner by the water, specifically at Cowfish in Hampton Bays. It feels low-key and fun—the bar can be packed!—with delicious seafood that is so fresh.

Influencer and Hamptons regular Lilly Sisto loves Bostwick's Chowder House in East Hampton. "It's my favorite lobster roll out East—no question," she says.

Natalie Wolff, a fashion and beauty publicist, is a regular at Sagaponack General Store. "It has amazing coffee, great to-go food, and is always a scene," she says. "And the breakfast sandwich is amazing!"

If you're looking for a delicious dinner and a buzzing scene, without having to scramble for a reservation, Sam's Bar and Restaurant will answer your prayers. Founder of TORCHD, Isaac Boots, calls the destination, "an institution!" and ensures that the food is actually "delicious."

If you're looking for a healthy option to bring home for lunch, Charlotte Bickley, Editor-at-Large at Daily Front Row, says Farm & Formage is a must on your list. "Everything is fresh, healthy, and beautifully done," she shares. "If you’re ordering one thing, make it the iced vanilla matcha. I think it’s genuinely one of the best matchas in the Hamptons, and I end up going back for it all summer long."

The beaches in the Hamptons are truly some of the most special. They're quiet, beautiful, and some—like Cupsogue—host events to celebrate each summer weekend. Cupsogue Beach, in particular, has a pavilion where you can grab a cocktail and listen to live music on Fridays. It's such a fun way to watch the sunset with family.

If you're looking for a spot to dine by the water, look no further than Faraway Hotel. "It's one of the prettiest hotels in the Hamptons right now. The entire property feels like you’ve been transported somewhere along the Mediterranean, Bickley shares. "Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s absolutely worth stopping in for a cocktail or dinner because the atmosphere is so special."

Need a quick pick-me-up after a workout? Boots recommends Tutto Caffé for some post-sweat fuel. "The cafe is so chic, small, and has great coffee," he says. "It's my go-to place after a TORCHD workout!"

Bonfire Coffee House in Amagansett is the perfect pit stop on the way to the beach. Its expansive menu has so many delicious choices for the entire day. According to Sisto, an "iced banana latte" is a must. "And don't skip the gelato!" she adds.