Ina Garten’s Favorite Local Spots in the Hamptons
One of Hampton’s most famous residents, Ina Garten, shares her go-to spots in this idyllic enclave. Formerly a nuclear energy budget analyst at the White House in the ’70s, Ina sought a more creative life and moved to East Hampton with her husband, Jeffrey. Ina has since written 13 cookbooks and appeared as a top-rated Food Network star for over 22 years. While much has changed over that time, what has remained constant is her love for eating and shopping in the Hamptons.
“Everyone thinks of ‘The Hamptons’ as being very fancy, but the places I love most are the local markets and farmstands that have been here forever,” Ina wrote on Instagram. She highlights spots like Iacono Farm in East Hampton, Amber Waves Farm & Market in Amagansett, and Lisa & Bill’s Farmstand in Wainscott. These places, she says, make living and cooking in the Hamptons memorable.
Besides the beloved farm stands, Ina recommends Round Swamp Farm, which has locations in East Hampton and Bridgehampton and a new beachside market in Montauk. Even Gwyneth Paltrow is a fan. She praises their chicken salad, which some call “the most expensive chicken salad in the Hamptons,” at $16 a pint.
Pike Farms in Sagaponack is another favorite. “Jim Pike grew up in New York’s Westchester County, moved to Bridgehampton, and started growing the most wonderful vegetables,” Ina wrote in her cookbook “Barefoot Contessa at Home.” Pike Farms is best known for its corn, tomatoes, and basil. However, their vegetables and melons are also exceptional.
The Green Thumb in Watermill, a family-owned and certified organic CSA/farmstand, also gets Ina’s approval. It offers wildflowers, potted herbs, garden-grown veggies, homemade hot sauce, and fresh fish caught by Red Truck Seafood every Thursday.
From Farmstands to Fine Dining: Ina’s Top Recommendations
When not cooking for Jeffrey, Ina enjoys dining at Duryea’s in Montauk, a dockside seafood restaurant and market. Known for its lobster cobb salad and laid-back vibe, Duryea’s has a cult following. “Everything is absolutely delicious,” Ina told Food Network. “Their grilled fish has incredibly flavorful seasoning. You go out by the water and feel like you’re in Greece,” she added, noting that Jeffrey insists on visiting once a week.
Ina also loves 1770 House, a cozy tavern and fine-dining restaurant in East Hampton, where she enjoys the roast chicken. She frequents The Palm, a high-end steakhouse in East Hampton, and Vine Street Cafe in Shelter Island, which she says is worth the ferry trip for its Mushroom Bolognese.
Given that she lives in East Hampton, Ina often dines at local favorites like East Hampton Grill, famous for its rosemary buttermilk biscuits, house-ground chuck and brisket cheeseburger, prime rib French dip, and acclaimed coleslaw.
The world-famous Tate’s Bake Shop in Southampton is a favorite sweet shop on her list. Known for crispy, paper-thin cookies, Tate’s has lines out the door during peak summer months. Ina particularly loves their chocolate chip cookies.
For other treats in the baked goods category, Ina recommends Carissa’s Bakery. Carissa’s Bakery offers beautiful cakes, galettes, and pastries from locally sourced ingredients. “It feels like what I used to do,” Ina said in an interview with 60 Minutes, reminiscing about her first Barefoot Contessa specialty food store. “It feels like coming home.”
From savory to sweet and cozy to fine dining, if it’s on Ina’s list, you can feel confident that any of these go-to spots are worth a visit.
Ina Garten’s curated list of local favorites truly reflects the essence of the Hamptons’ charm. From farmstands and market gems to fine dining establishments, her recommendations reveal a deep appreciation for both the culinary and cultural richness of the region. Whether you’re in search of fresh, locally-grown produce or a delightful dining experience, following Ina’s lead promises to enhance your Hamptons adventure. Her enduring love for these spots underscores the authentic and timeless appeal that continues to make the Hamptons a beloved destination.
