Even in the quaint streets of East Hampton, miles away from the nearest college, March Madness was alive and well. If not, maybe as “mad” as in college towns, Bonackers still honor the spirit of the games. I started catching early evening games during March Madness and Citta continues to be my favorite spot for the NBA Playoffs in East Hampton.
As an adoptive Knicks fan (some say fair weather) Cittanuova in East Hampton has, somewhat surprisingly, become my go-to spot to catch a pre-dinner game—without the usual sports bar chaos. If you haven’t been following, the Knicks are playing great basketball and projected for a deep playoff run this year!
As I ventured into Cittanuova to catch a game, the air of sophistication was palpable, yet there was a subtle undercurrent of excitement. East Hampton may be miles away from Madison Square Garden, but the spirit of sports lives here too.
Cittanuova’s restaurant offers a perfect blend of enjoyment for both the sports enthusiast and the casual observer. The atmosphere before dinner is exactly what you want in a late afternoon game: engaging yet restrained, allowing for both celebration and conversation.
The NBA Playoffs can be a gauntlet, with weekend games sometimes starting at 1pm and going all day. I don’t love going to a traditional sports bar during the day, it’s always so dark and feels like going to a matinee movie: somewhat disorienting. Instead, check out Citta over the weekend for a bright, casual place to enjoy the game with a nice bottle of red instead of a warm bud lite.
Unlike the typical sports bar experience—often dominated by the din of cheers and the occasional spill of beer—Cittanuova maintains its elegance. There’s a mutual understanding among patrons; a cheer for a spectacular basket is welcomed, but there’s no room for overzealous fandom that precludes pleasant dialogue. It’s a testament to the establishment’s ability to cater to a diverse clientele.
And for those who find their heart lies more with tennis than basketball—this is East Hampton, after all—the friendly bartenders have you covered, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy.
Citta’s appeal is more than atmosphere; it’s also alcohol! The restaurant boasts a selection of local, fresh beers—perfect for toasting to your team’s victory. As a personal favorite, the Montauk Brewing IPA is great after a long day writing articles.
You already know that the food is great for a sit-down dinner, but Citta’s cheeseburger is as good as you’ll get in the Hamptons. Not a smash burger; this is a real-deal big-boy burger. You’ll be glad you ordered it.
Cittanuova gets the balance just right, where the joy of the NBA Playoffs can be embraced without sacrificing the comfort and elegance the Hamptons are renowned for. Whether you’re a die-hard fan eager to catch every dribble and dunk or simply looking for a sophisticated spot to enjoy the longer days, Cittanuova has you covered.
So, as the games continue and the excitement builds, consider Cittanuova. Here, amidst the upscale charm and fare, you’ll find a unique way to enjoy the NBA Playoffs, East Hampton style.
