People from around the world travel to the Hamptons to experience warm summers filled with beach days, designer boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. What’s also world-class — and perhaps an understated secret — is the area’s exceptional dining. From casual and laid-back to upscale and date-night-worthy, there are plenty of excellent beachfront restaurants to visit in the Hamptons.

Shelter Island residents gather at SALT to share delectable fares, libations, and laughs. Stop by this beloved hub to experience the local eats and convivial atmosphere that owners Ali and Keith Bavaro have crafted at this come-as-you-are restaurant.

Bring your family to savor some pork belly bao buns and Maryland lump crab cakes. Try their individual cocktail selection or order by the pitcher for the table. Oysters on the half shell are a favorite treat while embracing salty ocean breezes, as is their traditional shrimp cocktail. Your “lil’ pirates” can nosh on a classic cheeseburger or pasta n’ butter while you opt for a chilled lobster roll or organic pan-roasted chicken. While your child happily eats their chocolate ice cream, share the carrot cake for two with your partner. SALT is an excellent dining option for both date night or a family dinner.

Common Questions
Is SALT family-friendly?
Yes, SALT is very family-friendly with a kids’ menu and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available with water views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

Key Takeaways

• Family-friendly with a relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe.

• Offers both indoor and outdoor seating with water views.

• Features a diverse menu with options for kids and adults.

• Known for its cocktails and desserts like carrot cake.

Let the salty breeze wash over you as you relish a fantastic seafood-laden meal at Oakland's Restaurant. This family-owned summer staple has provided Hampton Bays with exceptional, fresh fares from land and sea for 30 years. Stop by to sample the seasonal dishes created by executive chef Corrie Dietrich and her culinary team.

Choose between a half-dozen cherrystone or littleneck clams to rev up your appetite before enjoying some short rib sliders prepared with braised short rib, pickled vegetables, micro arugula, and cracked pepper truffle aioli. Don’t skip the daily selection of assorted oysters before ordering one of Oakland’s excellent entrees. Local fluke is an excellent light option, while Oakland’s seafood pasta is a more filling plate. Finish with a flourless chocolate torte or toasted almond creme brulee and cherish in a delightful dining experience at Oakland’s Restaurant.

Common Questions
Is Oakland’s family-friendly?
Yes, Oakland’s is family-friendly and welcomes guests of all ages.

Is outdoor seating available?
Yes, outdoor seating is available.

What are the best desserts?
The flourless chocolate torte and toasted almond creme brulee are popular choices.

Key Takeaways

• Family-owned with a focus on fresh, seasonal dishes.

• Offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

• Known for signature desserts like the flourless chocolate torte.

• Outdoor seating is available.

On The Docks Waterfront Bar & Grill

On the Docks has beautiful marina views, prime steaks, fresh seafood, and specialty cocktails. The aim is simple here: serve delicious fares in a unique setting. Be sure to stop by for happy hour and delight in the breathtaking views of the Lighthouse Marina and Meetinghouse Creek from On the Docks’ outdoor deck.

Start dinner with a few shareable dishes, like shrimp skewers and potato skins, or opt for the sampler, which bundles wings, baked clams, mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, and mushrooms. If you’re not in the mood for fish, order the waterfront burger, which is served with asiago cheese, portobello mushroom, arugula, and sriracha mayo atop ciabatta bread. The fried seafood platter is a worthy indulgence, while the shrimp arrabbiata makes for a filling pasta dish. Seafood, drinks, and good company – what more could you desire in a Hamptons waterfront restaurant?

Common Questions
Is On The Docks good for groups?
Yes, the restaurant is well-suited for groups and offers a lively atmosphere.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available with marina views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended for larger groups and during peak times.

Key Takeaways

• Offers stunning marina views with a casual and fun atmosphere.

• Features a variety of shareable dishes and a popular happy hour.

• The sampler platter and waterfront burger are popular choices.

• Outdoor seating is available with beautiful views.

The Beacon has brought upscale-casual cuisine to Sag Harbor locals and visitors since 1999. Perched atop the Sag Harbor Cove Yacht Club, The Beacon offers a panoramic waterfront view spanning Sag Harbor Bay to neighboring Shelter Island. Luxurious wine, exceptional food, and sensational sunsets will keep you coming back for more.

The restaurant offers a set, $75 two-course menu – additional beverages, desserts, and courses cost extra. Reservations are recommended as tables fill up quickly, and you’ll want plenty of time to relax and appreciate your meal. The two-course Sunset Dinner allows you to choose from over 20 appetizers, salads, and entrees. Pick the luscious tuna tartar, “Beacon Style” steamed mussels, or summer watermelon salad to start, and order the salmon rillette with capers, red onion, pickled jalapeño, and grilled baguette for your second course.

Some exceptional pre-fixe menu entrees include the vegan no-pasta lasagna, which features a myriad of vegetables, cashew ricotta, and basil. On the opposite end of the spectrum is The Beacon’s juicy grilled flatiron steak, which is served with baby arugula salad, pomme frites, and Boursin bacon butter.

The Beacon’s wine list is teeming with options from Spain, France, Italy, and America, along with several delightful blends. After an evening savoring a bottle of French red wine with pork belly pretzel buns and a 14 oz prime NY strip, you’ll be sure to be planning your next visit.

Common Questions
Is The Beacon good for date night?
Yes, The Beacon is a popular choice for date night and special occasions.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available with waterfront views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are highly recommended, as tables fill up quickly.

Key Takeaways

• Offers panoramic waterfront views perfect for romantic dinners.

• Known for its $75 two-course menu with a wide selection of dishes.

• Features an extensive wine list from around the world.

• Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity.

Rumba

Rumba sits on the scenic shores of Shinnecock Bay. This restaurant feels like a little island getaway. With a passionate commitment to offering vibrant Island-inspired cuisine, this dining spot ensures every dish is a masterpiece of flavor, color, and texture. The ambience is infused with the laid-back, joyous rhythms of reggae music, complemented by a selection of premium, handcrafted rum libations that promise a mini-vacation in every sip. Whether you arrive by land or by boat, Rumba invites you to kick back, unwind, and indulge in an island vacation vibe without the hefty price tag or the need for air travel.

Common Questions
Is Rumba good for groups?
Yes, Rumba is a great spot for groups and offers a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available with bay views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

Key Takeaways

• Island-inspired cuisine with a laid-back vibe.

• Features reggae music and handcrafted rum cocktails.

• Guests can arrive by land or boat, adding to the fun experience.

• Suitable for groups, with outdoor seating available.

Cowfish

Cowfish is known for creative food. The chefs blend perfectly spiced meats, hearty fish dishes, and innovative salads into a flavorful menu that delights and surprises. Each dish is crafted with care, ensuring that diners experience unique twists on familiar favorites alongside unexpected specialties. Cowfish is the place where culinary artistry meets comfort, offering a dining experience that's both satisfying and memorable.

Common Questions
Is Cowfish good for groups?
Yes, Cowfish is suitable for groups and offers a relaxed atmosphere.

Is there outdoor seating?
Outdoor seating may be available; it’s best to check with the restaurant.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

Key Takeaways

• Known for creative and flavorful dishes with unique twists.

• Offers a comfortable and welcoming dining experience.

• Suitable for groups, with potential outdoor seating.

• Reservations are recommended to ensure availability.

Harvest on Fort Pond

Harvest on Fort Pond has been part of Montauk’s dining scene for over 25 years. The menu is inspired by the bounty of the sea and the richness of local produce. Executive Chef Jake Williams excels in creating sharable, Italian-inspired dishes that celebrate the local seafood and homegrown ingredients. Diners can enjoy creative cocktails, seasonal garden dining, and stunning sunsets over Fort Pond, making Harvest on Fort Pond a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience.

Common Questions
Is Harvest on Fort Pond good for groups?
Yes, the restaurant is well-suited for groups and offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, seasonal garden dining is available with pond views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during the summer season.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrates local seafood and produce with Italian-inspired dishes.

• Features garden dining with views of Fort Pond.

• Offers a lively atmosphere suitable for groups.

• Reservations are recommended, especially in summer.

Inlet Seafood Restaurant

Inlet Seafood Restaurant is owned and operated by six local fishermen. It offers more than just a meal — it offers an experience. Perched on eight acres of waterfront property in Montauk, the restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Block Island Sound and a promise of the freshest seafood, likely caught the same day. The panoramic views and the taste of just-caught fish make Inlet Seafood a unique spot where freshness meets beauty.

Common Questions
Is Inlet Seafood Restaurant good for groups?
Yes, the restaurant is suitable for groups and offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available with water views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

Key Takeaways

• Offers fresh seafood with stunning views of Block Island Sound.

• Owned by local fishermen, ensuring quality and freshness.

• Suitable for groups and families, with outdoor seating.

• Reservations are suggested to enjoy this unique dining experience.

Edgewater Restaurant

Edgewater Restaurant is located east of the Shinnecock Canal. It offers an inviting blend of fabulous food and soothing views. Whether you choose to dine on the deck overlooking Shinnecock Bay or inside by the expansive windows, the setting is perfect for enjoying the wide array of Italian fare, fresh seafood dishes, sizzling steaks, and gourmet pizzas. The candlelit tables add to the ambience, making every meal at Edgewater an occasion to remember.

Common Questions
Is Edgewater Restaurant good for date night?
Yes, the candlelit tables and soothing views make it a great choice for date night.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, outdoor seating is available with water views.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

Key Takeaways

• Offers Italian cuisine, fresh seafood, and steaks in a romantic setting.

• Candlelit tables enhance the dining experience.

• Features both indoor and outdoor seating with scenic water views.

• Reservations are recommended for a memorable dining experience.

Canal Cafe

Canal Cafe is tucked away inside the Hampton Watercraft Marina. It offers a laid-back vibe with stunning waterfront views of the Shinnecock Canal. Renowned for serving the best lobster roll as voted by Dan's Papers, the cafe is a celebration of fresh seafood, live music, and the best of outdoor dining. Whether you arrive by boat or bike, the Canal Cafe is the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of Hampton Bays while savoring freshly caught seafood specials and engaging in the vibrant local scene.

Common Questions
Is Canal Cafe good for groups?
Yes, the cafe is suitable for groups and offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Is there live music?
Yes, live music is a regular feature.

Do they take reservations?
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.

Key Takeaways

• Known for its award-winning lobster roll and fresh seafood.

• Offers a lively atmosphere with live music and outdoor dining.

• Accessible by boat or bike, adding to the fun experience.

• Reservations are suggested to enjoy a spot at this popular cafe.

 

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