Why I’m Glad Amagansett’s Rosie’s Stayed True to Itself this Summer

In a world of change, Rosie’s remains my sea of calm. Well, maybe not calm as in quiet, but consistently excellent. I’ve never been there without running into a friend or making a new one. The bar and restaurant are approachable, inviting regulars and visitors. Rosie’s has its own energy and atmosphere that defy simple categories, doesn’t rely on hype, and caters to anyone who loves good food and a good time.

Nobody knows the Hamptons like year-rounders (what it sounds like) and locals, so it’s not surprising that Rosie’s represents and celebrates the diversity and energy of the Hamptons community (Hint: it’s more than Quiet Luxury and influencers). It’s easy to fit in at Rosie’s because you can be yourself.

When I last wrote about Rosie’s, I called it a Goldilocks bar—not too fancy, not too dive-y, just right. I still stand by that and am glad to know that the team appreciated that assessment. It’s not just me. Rosie’s has built a reputation any restaurant would envy, hard-earned by staying open late in August and in January. 

Last Summer they hosted a staggering number and range of guest chefs. It was awesome, but even from outside of the kitchen, it felt like a large undertaking. Cameo chefs and pop-up kitchens aside, what Rosie’s did in Summer 2023 was impressive. Still, I’m glad that they are sticking to what they do best, what brings me back to Rosie’s – the Rosie’s team, kitchen, and menu.

I would put their Chicken Milanese up against anything at New York’s most popular restaurants. Don’t @ Me (please do, tho, @bydavidandrews) I love knowing that I can get something I love without being distracted by a flashy guest menu. 

If you’re smart, stick around after dinner. Rosie’s has an Amagansett atmosphere in the best ways: casually chic, easy to love, and impossible to forget. The mood is always good, with laughter and one of the best sound systems in the Hamptons accompanying. 

Bartenders know their bar better than anyone, and I would argue they are a Bar’s Main Character. So, what does the bartender, Carly Drew think of Rosie’s? (You know Carly as the super cute, super friendly blonde whose calm energy conceals how chaotic it can be to make drinks at one of the Hamptons’ hottest late-night spots.)

“Rosie’s is such a unique place to both work and visit in the Hamptons. Our staff is like family to each other, and I think that that really translates to our customers when they’re in-house. They recognize that genuine caring vibe, and it makes everybody feel right at home,” Carly says. 

Clearly it’s not just the customers that get the good aura, Carly continues, “It’s such a complex place with something for everyone, but the best part about it for me is that I know I get to walk into work every day and instantly have my mood elevated. That is what Rosie’s and our staff do for people and it’s pretty special.”

But, if you are not into that kind of thing – feel free to stay home! Good vibes only.