Fall Weekend Guide: What to Do in the Hamptons

Once Labor Day has passed — and white jeans are officially a faux pas — most New Yorkers delete the Jitney app and get ready to ski. A summer destination of unparalleled popularity, the Hamptons are often overlooked in the fall. But as an increasing number of restaurants, stores, and hotels push back their close date, the Hamptons have begun to compete with their neighbors upstate. So Haute Living spent the long weekend on the scene. Here, our guide on what to do in the Hamptons this season.

Photo Credit: Vulgaire
 

Where to Stay

The Mill House Inn, East Hampton
We visited three different hotels over the weekend, but this place was the clear winner. Located just one block from downtown East Hampton, the inn is upscale without pretension. It’s worth staying there for the breakfast alone — we indulged in gluten free, blueberry pancakes and a lobster frittata. The helpful staff is also glad to help with any reservations or arrangements outside the establishment. We found Carolyn to be extraordinarily helpful. Rooms start at $225 during the off season.

Photo Credit: Mill House Inn

Where to Eat for Dinner

1770 House, East Hampton
This place is a favorite among celebrities. If you can get past the standoffish attitude and exceptionally high prices, the place is worth a visit. Is it undoubtedly the “homiest” dinner spot in East Hampton. We started with a locally-sourced pumpkin soup that knocked the cold right out of us. For your main course, we recommend either the handmade truffle fettuccini or the veal T-bone. When it’s time to choose the wine, ask for Michael. He’s the friendliest sommelier around.

Bill Murray spotted at Hamptons inn before ‘St. Vincent’ premiere http://t.co/bk0uuLIys4

— The 1770 House (@The1770House) October 11, 2014

The American Hotel, Sag Harbor
More famous for its place on the local brunch scene, dinner at the American Hotel was a pleasant surprise. The restaurant radiates with the warmth of a dozen candles and fireplaces and the wine cellar would impress even Robert Parker. Order the lobster bisque, sweatbreads and sea scallop risotto, but skip the lobster. They also make a killer mojito.

Where to Eat for Lunch

Silver’s, Southampton
Less of a foodie destination than the other towns, Silver’s is the saving grace of Southampton. The portions were so big that we were stuffed after the starters, the best of which were the lobster bisque and the Anjou salad. Keep in mind that this place is closed in the evenings, so you’ll have to visit at lunch.

Rowdy Hall, East Hampton
We asked our friends at the Mill House Inn for a cozy, pub atmosphere — and this is where they sent us. It felt like a scene out of every Christmas movie we’ve ever seen: stained glass windows, dark, wood furniture and a painted black exterior. We would have eaten here every day if it weren’t for the need to review other restaurants! Get the chili, which comes beneath a heap of buttery cornbread. The fries are also not to be missed.

Photo Credit: Rowdy Hall

What to Do

The Milk Pail, Water Mill
With staggering orchards and pumpkin fields, this place is most famous for the corn maze. Unlike other spots on Long Island, The Milk Pail is open through the month of October. Go with children or friends — but prepare to stuff yourself with cider donuts.

Wölffer Estate, Bridgehampton
While this vineyard already has plenty of hype, most people don’t know that their events continue year round. Between harvest parties and Christmas tree lightings, there’s something to do almost every weekend. Their mulled wine can also cure any cold.

Photo Credit: Sag Harbor OnlineAnd lastly…

Foliage, Everywhere
It’s all around you! Visit in the month of October, and you won’t miss the beach at all.