Where is the best lunch in the Hamptons? I’m so glad you asked! It’s Estia’s Little Kitchen in Sag Harbor.* How do I know? I’ve eaten a bunch of lunches in the Hamptons, like a lot (it’s called doing the work), and I’ve decided that Estia’s is my favorite. Don’t @ Me (actually, I’m open to suggestions! @bydavidandrews).
*This statement reflects the opinion of one hungry guy who works in Bridgehampton and writes for Hamptons.com
Their food is so consistently amazing that we have become accustomed to it, and it is crazy to me that I haven’t written about Estia’s Little Kitchen, my favorite lunch spot in the Hamptons. They aren’t doing any gimmicks or buzzy press releases because Estia’s style is substance.
For me, it’s the pozole. But keep in mind that I’m a strong believer in having multiple favorites. It’s a beautiful soup. If soup can be beautiful, Estia’s pozole is.
Not in the mood for soup? Don’t sleep on the turtle rolls, better than they have any business being. Looking for breakfast for lunch? Great choice, amigo! Also, this is a hot take, but sometimes I go to Estia’s just for a coffee – they won’t give me the secret, but Estia’s really does have amazing coffee.
“What about a work lunch?” I’ve been doing the research (i.e., I’ve eaten lunch at Estia’s and gotten back to work without getting in any trouble). You can 100% grab a quick, healthy (not as a negative) lunch in less than an hour. For our C-Suite readers, bring your whole team sometime! If you’re planning to bring your laptop or talk on the phone, Estia’s has takeout.
I didn’t realize that the love of brunch was a Millennial thing. Doesn’t everybody love a hybrid meal where you can have coffee and a mimosa? Anyways, call it what you want, but Estia’s has had a truly dominant run as a brunch suggestion. Even Especially after a night at the Talkhouse, I’ll drive from Clearwater (that’s a long way if you’re new to the Hamptons).
They are open for dinner sometimes, and it’s a treat! The space has such a unique vibe in the evening, like you’re getting an exclusive or special treat.
Listen, I never badmouth the service, but I have to say the team at Estia’s Kitchen absolutely crushes. They’re quick with a coffee refill (such a nice touch) and friendly, but their friendly team are a consistent pleasure. The owner, Colin Ambrose is a great example of local entrepreneurship – he leads from the front and is almost always floating around checking on guests and catching up with longtime regulars. Ask him about cycling!
You already know they’re open year-round, which is no small feat. In the winter, Estia’s Little Kitchen is so cute and cozy—the essence of a restaurant—a vibe you’ll feel when you go.
As it gets warmer, you’ll want to hang out in their gardens. There are plenty of places to sit and have a cup of their (honestly delicious) coffee. They’ve done a great job cultivating the space, and it just gets more lush each Summer. It’s great for kids and dogs, with plenty of space to run around.