Summer is upon us, which means it’s time to head to Montauk for some relaxation and sun-filled celebration. Sea, sand, surf and chill vibes—Montauk has everything you need for the ultimate beach day. And when your stomach begins to growl, The End offers a wealth of superb dining that solidifies its spot as New York’s summer destination. Grab some fresh seafood and cocktails at these five favorite Montauk restaurants.
South Edison
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This casual yet elegant seafood restaurant is the perfect mix of regional dining and elevated cuisine. Many of the dishes at South Edison are prepared with produce straight from Balsam Farms, and they are rich and savory. There is also a selection of fine wine, local brews and house mixes to write home about. Just south of town, South Edison matches fun décor with impressive cooking and is worthy of your attention. Return after midnight for the disco fries. Go.
Harvest on Fort Pond
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You get what you pay for at Harvest on Fort Pond: excellent service, generous portions and exquisite Italian fare. The family-sized portions make this perennial favorite the perfect group-dining spot, so come with friends or family. Dine outdoors within a scenic vegetable and herb garden, but prepare for a long wait—the secret is most certainly out on this place. The creative cocktails alone are worth the visit, but it’s the dessert that will make you come back. Go.
The Hideaway
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The Hideaway earned its spot on this list by offering more than 40 different kinds of tequila (checkmate), and it’s a plus that the food is great too. The barbecue choices are top-notch, but don’t pass up the fish tacos. No unnecessary fanciness here either—your meal is served on paper plates. This Mexican joint is the laid-back dining experience that you crave when you come to Montauk. Relaxed and colorful, The Hideaway has a real authentic East End vibe that feels quite warm, or maybe that’s the tequila. Go.
The Dock
Put your phone away! No seriously, that’s one of the rules at this hard-nosed bar and grill near the fish market. If you want no-nonsense pub fare, then head to The Dock for affordably priced sandwiches—the soft-shell crab sandwich being the recommended choice—and a strong list of craft beer. The atmosphere in here is decidedly old school, but the food definitely doesn’t lack in modern quality. The Dock is worth checking out and becoming a regular. Go.
The Inlet Seafood Restaurant
image: inlet seafood restaurant
If you can only dine at a single Montauk restaurant, this is the one. Founded and owned by six commercial fishermen from Montauk, The Inlet offers the freshest fish outside the ocean along with exquisite specialty drinks. The dining room is located on the second deck and provides astounding views of the water. And the sushi is legit. Peering out at the Long Island Sound over a sunset roll, you’ll feel there’s nothing more in the world you could possibly need or want, although you could use another saketini. Go.