Behind the Bar: Springs Tavern and Grill

There’s “a little bit of something for everyone” at Springs Tavern and Grill, says veteran bartender Sarah Focarino. Rooted in the history of the East End, ST&G has always been a local hangout, even for big names like Jackson Pollock, who lived less than a mile from their Fort Pond Boulevard location and frequented the tavern during his years on the east end. The history is in the walls, and its vibe is just as fascinating. So if you’ve been needing a spot where everyone knows your name, order, and smile, there’s no doubt Springs Tavern and Grill is the spot for you.

Sarah Focarino, Springs local and a 20-year bartending veteran, holds it down behind the bar. Taking good care of her customers comes easy to Focarino, who is well-versed in the Hamptons’ restaurant and bar scene. Over the years, she’s worked behind the bar at many local legendary spots like The Stephen Talkhouse and Indian Wells Tavern. When describing ST&G for those who have never been, she said, ‘Springs Tavern and Grill has almost a “Cheers”-like vibe, as many of the patrons know each other. It’s nice to have an environment not just for the customer, but the employees, where you know everyone’s name, and can easily engage in conversations. When someone walks in the door and you can know what their drink of choice is and their name, it makes it very, very homey.’ When I think of Springs Tavern and Grill, I think of all the best parts of the east end in one place: great food and great energy in one of the best towns on Long Island. The catchline goes: Summer in a Bottle, but ST&G is more like Summer in a Restaurant. What more could you want?

Fitting in with the coastal aesthetic of an island town, Springs Tavern and Grill often has live music and always encourages a ‘no reservation, just come by’ policy. Their menu ranges from seafood to unique takes on classic American grill. Focarino shared, ‘There are great vegetarian and vegan options, as well as wonderful seafood, comfort food, and steaks. It is at a reasonable price point and can appeal to both year-round and seasonal residents. The quality of food Fabian and the kitchen provides is on par with many of the more exclusive restaurants out here.’ With so many delicious options and a daily happy hour & specials menu, you can be sure that everyone in the family will leave with a happy belly. I truly believe that you can separate a good bartender from a great bartender by the conversations you have with them. While Sarah is well-versed behind the bar, she is also an artist and mother. When not behind the bar at ST&G, you can find her painting in her in-home studio and spending time with her thirteen-year-old son, Wyatt.

I think you can learn a lot about a bartender by what drink they enjoy making the most, and Sarah is one after my own heart. She told me, ‘My favorite drink to make, in general, is probably any version of a margarita. They are classic and can be fun to put different spins on.’ You can never go wrong with a classic, quality Margarita, and those two traits perfectly describe Sarah and Springs Tavern & Grill.

Craving some summer energy to get you through these frigid temperatures? Go hang out with Sarah at 15 Fort Pond Boulevard!