Revitalized Italian Luxury: Maidstone Inn to Reopen Under New Leadership

Maidstone (Inn) Hotel and restaurant in East Hampton was reportedly sold for more than $12M last year and is scheduled to open on June 17 this Summer. When it reopens this season, it shall be under the new vision of John Meadow and his team from LDV Hospitality. They vow to bring “a touch of Italian luxury to the area with its signature culinary excellence.” Thus, the more-than-150-year-old boutique hotel will be re-energized, and it will continue to be a long-time favorite in the heart of the East Hampton Village historic area.

The previous owners, Jenny and Jonathan Baker, first purchased the hotel in 2008, but now LDV Hospitality, in partnership with Irwin Simon and Mayank Dwivedi of ISMD, just can’t wait to present “an entirely rejuvenated experience, boasting exquisite food and beverage program.” In fact, Chef Jorge Espinoza is reportedly on record for presenting a menu that will inspire the fantasy of the essence of an “Italian Summer in the Hamptons.” Chef Espinoza, renowned for his tenure at Scarpetta, at The James Hotel on Madison Ave in NYC, promises to be mindful of the coastal delights of Italy when creating the menu choices.

The great news is that all guests can enjoy cocktails with new special wine and spirits selections from 3pm to 6 pm in the wonderful garden that the Maidstone (Inn) Hotel is famous for. The hotel lobby will also be renovated and include board games and “transportive elements.”

Iconic local photographer/neo-pop artist Roger Sichel said that he is very comfortable and impressed with the new changes after talking with the new owner, Mayank Dwivedi. Sichel, whose photography has been displayed at the Maidstone Hotel since 2021, loves the Maidstone Inn because of its unique light and its location in the village. Sishel should know since his work has recently appeared at Coachella and at the Dallas Santana, BitBasel, Lunarprise Moon Museum, part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services.

Sitting on a hill on the North side of (207) Main Street in East Hampton, the property has a legacy. It was originally constructed just after the Civil War by the Osborne Family. It has been noted that it was originally used as a tannery and lodge. In 2008, the property was procured by Jenny Ljungberg, who reopened the Hotel with Scandinavian influences. 

For over a decade, it was the headquarters and home to the Hamptons International Film Festival and a favorite location for Alec Baldwin to host friends and guests after Guild Hall events he attended or hosted. John Meadow, CEO of LDV Hospitality, said this about the Inn, “It has always been a dream of mine to transition into the hotel space. I’ve witnessed firsthand the allure and charm of The Maidstone Hotel, as it has been a beacon in the community for many years. In partnership with ISMD, we look forward to bringing new memories to this idyllic retreat. We partner with some of the most prestigious hotels around the world and are excited to evolve into this next phase as a company.”

Meanwhile, Irwin Simon, managing director of ISMD, added, “As a long-time admirer of the Hamptons’ unique blend of elegance and tranquility, acquiring The Maidstone Hotel has been a deeply personal endeavor for me. My family’s ties to this cherished community run deep, and it’s an honor to play a part in preserving its rich heritage in partnership with LDV Hospitality. Together, we aim to create a haven where guests can immerse themselves in the timeless charm.”

The new leadership issued a statement saying designer Poonam Khanna of The Unionworks will lead a cosmetic refresh of the entire hotel that aims to pay homage to the storied building and its iconic history and, “Refreshed guest room interiors are rooted in a natural palette, reflecting the timeless beauty of the Hamptons — earthy sand tones, warm amber and soft peaches that call to mind varying hues from the coastline. Updated public spaces complement the earthy tones of guest rooms with shades of greens and blues inspired by the ocean and sky. Luxury touches such as Frette Linens, Santa Maria Novella amenities, as well as small details to the upholstery and furnishings add subtle variations to each room that set this boutique hotel apart.”

Poonam Khanna went on record saying, “We want to honor its spirit and soul while adding a more contemporary and luxurious hospitality experience for East Hampton’s most discerning guests.”