NASSAU
Rare 650
(516) 496-8000, Syosset
rare650.com
This upscale spot from Anthony Scotto Restaurants offers a lively bar scene and unique dining experience. As the humidity starts to settle, take it upon yourself to enjoy a table outdoors. Relax with a candlelit evening outside while sipping from Rare’s exclusive wine list (displayed on a savvy iPad) or indulging in a stiff cocktail. The attentive staff takes it upon themselves to provide for your every need.
Live music fills the venue Wednesday and Friday nights and a DJ spins on Thursdays. Although it costs a pretty penny, the cuisine is well worth it. Make sure to sample exquisite sushi concoctions, like the Rare Kobe—a combination of Kobe beef, avocado, spicy tuna, king crab and spicy eel sauce. Prime dry-aged steaks are cooked to perfection but leave room for the various delectable side dishes. Linger for a late night drink at this oasis in the heart of Syosset and enjoy the Good Life at Rare (Hint: Ask about it before you leave).
SUFFOLK
Hamptons Players Club
(631) 324-1663, East Hampton
hamptonsplayersclub.com
Dine, dance and play beer pong. This East Hampton spot is calling everyone’s name. A unique polo and equestrian theme prevails throughout the bright restaurant, laying down the pitch for a quaint modern American dining experience. Drink options maintain the theme, including the American Beauty with cucumber vodka, fresh strawberry and lemon, or the Hamptons Classic, a fabulous mixture of Prosecco, Cedilla AÇai and pineapple juice. Looking for a more laid back vibe? Head outside to the beer garden with high tables, a wide range of brews and the essential ping pong tables.
Executive Chef Hector Diaz pulls together a menu pleasing all taste buds. Tasty apps are perfect for sharing, including the unique lobster avocado bruschetta with a refreshing cilantro, tangerine oil twist. Pizza may not seem to fit the equine vibe, but these multigrain thin-crust pizzas are far from standard. The inspired prosciutto and goat cheese with arugula, diced figs and thick balsamic syrup drizzled on top is just one of many irresistible selections. Savor your last bites with entrée and side options ranging from fish and pasta to grilled steaks. Between whole-wheat mac and cheese, sweet soy green beans and the garlic chili broccoli rabe, Hamptons Players Club has a worthy accompaniment for any meal.
NYC
Death & Co
(212) 388-0882, NYC
deathandcompany.com
Leave your name and number at the door for this one. Death & Co is one of the coolest LES speakeasies—the wait may seem steep, but for good reason. Mixologists effortlessly take your drink pros and cons and whip up a masterpiece. Shaken or stirred, well-crafted cocktails are organized by liquor type on the menu for easy decision making. Delic example: The Black Magic is a deathly brandy mix stirred with Hine H cognac, Angostura 5-year rum, white crème de menthe, Fernet Branca and absinthe.
This cozy spot may seem pretentious, but is far from it. Enjoy all that this swanky hidden gem has to offer, especially their small bites including the goat cheese profiteroles with spiced walnuts, red pepper and Mexican honey. A perfected classic, the fries are served with blue cheese, black truffle and scallions. Death & Co does not accept reservations, so arrive early. It’s strictly first come, first served.
Photo courtesy of Hamptons Players Club