The rumors are true! The iconic water-side Montauk bar, for years known as Liars Saloon, has reopened as Marlena’s Pack Out. Purchased by Sam Gershowitz, who obviously recognized how much Montauk needed a place like it. That place is now called Marlena’s Pack Out, but the owners won’t mind if you call them Liars; just make sure you go!
Remember when Indian Wells Tavern became Main Street Tavern, renovating the space so radically that it lost all its identity (and regulars)? This is the exact opposite—Marlena’s Pack Out succeeds resoundingly in restoring this uniquely Montauk watering hole to its original sun-kissed, salt-washed glory.
I would be lying if I didn’t say I had a Liars Saloon-sized hole in my heart (or liver). I would also be lying if I claimed to be “part of the old Montauk guard,” as the New York Times and other articles have described the locally-loved, no-frills bar.
Despite not having a lifetime of hazy memories at Liars to rely on, its absence loomed large last Summer. A specter of dread appeared after abrupt closure and sale; talk around town often turned bleak when considering what Montauk without Liars would look like.
Rumors circulated that the space would become another influencer focused luxury-brand or (maybe worse?) another upscale Italian-influenced American-style upscale-casual dining. When I heard that Liars would open for the Summer, I almost didn’t believe it.
But it’s true! (Do you see the pun here? Honestly, who writes this stuff.)
I went on Memorial Day, during that perfect sweet spot, around 4pm, when the day drinkers are still standing and before the after-dinner drinkers pour in. Perfect weather and friendly faces reminded me why I missed this bar so much.
The space remains mostly the same, albeit much cleaner. But not too clean that you wonder, “Who is this, Marlena? What is a Pack Out, and do they really get it?” The new owner Sam Gershowitz gets it, even admitting to calling their new bar by its old name for months. They expect you’ll do the same.
Gershowitz and his team have revitalized the property turning it into an extraordinary east-end destination in honor of the late Marlena Gershowitz. The family has an excellent reputation in Montauk and manages Sam’s Star Island Yacht Club. Marlena’s Yacht Club features the same level of service in a comfortable, relaxing, and inviting atmosphere. Marlena’s welcomes all boaters, fishermen, and vacationers to enjoy our many amenities.
With a bar identity so full of community love and history, they don’t mind if you call Marlena’s Pack Out as Liars Saloon as long as you check out the new bar!
