Four Oaks Café has become one of the best spots in the Hamptons for organic and clean eating, and they never skip out on the flavor! Located at 42 Jagger Lane in Southampton, this small café is a hidden gem in town with a full menu that includes natural smoothies and juices, coffee, bowls, wraps, sandwiches, and much more. Many of their menu items are vegan, catering to a crowd that sometimes has difficulty finding appealing options when it comes to dining or takeout.
Four Oaks opened in Southampton back in 2017. And this year at the start of the 2023 summer season, they opened a second pop-up location in Montauk—Four Oaks by the Beach at 696 Montauk Highway. They are always looking to improve and grow and offer the Hamptons crowd the most delicious, wholesome food in town. Owner and Operator, Pilar Quichimbo spoke more about the mission of Four Oaks Café, what customers can expect, and what the future holds.
How would you describe Four Oaks?
PQ: Our cafe is cozy, people come in to grab food on the way to work, they come in with laptops to work on site.
What are some of the must-try menu items? Do you have any favorites?
PQ: Our Buddha burger is our number one, the hippy matcha follows closely, and the hot chicken panini is sure to hook anyone! My personal favorite is the blue hini smoothie, it has everything I need to start my day—protein, collagen, necessary fats, just the right amount of sugar, and it’s delicious!
Would you talk a bit about the plant-based focus of your menu?
PQ: When it came to the menu, I wanted to create something I loved. I was vegan and found it hard to find food that was both nourishing and delicious. That’s when I started to experiment with different foods and spices. In cooking for myself and my friends, I found what foods worked and what spices elevated their flavor.
When and why did you decide to open Four Oaks?
PQ: Back in 2016 you couldn’t find a juice or smoothie in Southampton, no one was making açaís or veggie bowls. That’s when the current Four Oaks was born, we became official in 2017 and while it took a while people began to come looking for us and our new offerings.
Would you say Four Oaks fills a gap in the dining scene in the Hamptons?
PQ: There’s so much delicious food out here, that’s what makes the Hamptons so great. We will continue to experiment with food and flavors to keep our menu exciting and nourishing.
What do you love most about the East End customers?
PQ: Their support! During Covid times we survived because of them. Many bought gift cards and would come every day to get their juices and let us know that we’ll be ok. I’m so grateful for my customers, they’ve welcomed Four Oaks with open arms, and that just fills my heart.
Do you have a favorite pastime or favorite part about being located on the East End?
PQ: I love running and enjoying nature, I walk my dog every morning. The clean air, walking in the sand, and hearing the ocean waves is something that I wouldn’t change for anything.
Would you tell us about your new Montauk location?
PQ: I manifested it for a long time and seeing it come true has been a blessing. I mean, we don’t have a full menu, but I feel that what we have now fits just perfectly with the Montauk location.
When did each location open and when did you decide to open the new one in Montauk? Do you have plans for more locations in the future?
PQ: Southampton opened in 2017, Montauk is new this summer. As for the future, we are always on the lookout for the perfect space. East Hampton would be great, we have customers asking us for a location in Westhampton and Hampton Bays. We’ll see.
What is unique about Four Oaks that can’t be found or replicated anywhere else?
PQ: Our menu is inclusive and tasty, made with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. I stand behind every item, I would not have anything on the menu that I wouldn’t eat myself. So whether it’s a Surfers Bowl or a Supreme Veggie Wrap, a Chicken BLT or a TB.LT.A, we have you covered!
What else would you like to share about Four Oaks?
PQ: The Montauk location is such a vibe! And since it’s a pop-up don’t miss the chance to come visit us.
