There are several stereotypes and notions of Long Island: Some true (great bagels), some questionable (bad drivers) and some downright false (Long Island is in the Hamptons). Put this one in the “often true” category: we don’t like straying too far from our Long Island town. But Pulse is pushing locals past their geographical boundaries with its new monthly Town Matchmaker series. First up: St. James and Mattituck. For those who fancy St. James’ culinary and quaint scene, the charming village of Mattituck a bit further east is just as appealing. Here’s why.

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Mattituck

Love Lane Kitchen

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Love Lane Kitchen, with its North Fork country elegance, is simply lovely. The modestly-sized gem adorned in white walls and rustic blue furnishings offers everything from seasonal pancake selections to lobster rolls to double cut lamb chops. All the gourmet meals are prepared from scratch and are nothing short of delicious. Go.

Goodfood.

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Those searching for a taste of exquisiteness coupled with modern and trendy will love this specialty café. Founded by Luchi Masliah, who is originally from Uruguay and a longtime East Hampton resident, and Allison Katz from Brooklyn, Goodfood. delivers flavors from around the globe using fresh, local and organic ingredients. Try the kale salad made with roasted butternut squash, toasted almonds and parmesan in a lemon vinaigrette or the chicken parm sandwich with housemade tomato sauce, mozzarella and parmesan on a warm ciabatta roll. Go.

Breakwater Beach and Park

Located along the Long Island Sound, just west of the Mattituck Inlet, is a park filled with exploration. There’s a serene sandy beach that extends to a jetty (often used for fishing), lavish dunes and volleyball courts built for tournaments. Go.

Roanoke Vineyards Wine Bar

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This folksy wine bar known for its Cabernet Franc is nestled between shops and cafés on Love Lane. Sip and sample in the beautiful tasting room with leather furniture and then maybe even visit the vineyard for a tasting on your way back toward Riverhead. Go.

Saint James

Soul Brew

A newcomer to the dining scene, this specialty coffee hub is building quite the reputation for its brews, teas, organic smoothies and breakfast and lunch delights. But the biggest crowd winner is the weekend brunch specials. On Saturdays and Sundays from 7am-4pm, Soul Brew offers rotating weekly options like Meyer lemon French toast cups, Doritos-infused grilled cheese and “so gouda” burgers that pair perfectly with seasonal lattes like peanut butter fluffanutter, crumb cake or rainbow cookie. Go.

Short Beach

The beachfront is just as beautiful in the spring as it is during the summer, and Short Beach is the place to be to catch a breathtaking sunset. Since it’s located along the Long Island Sound, Islanders can feel at one with the sea and get even better views along the dunes. Go.

The Trattoria Restaurant

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The Trattoria prepares rustic, comfort foods with seasonal twists and an ever-changing menu. Diners are encouraged to bring their favorite bottle of wine to pair with the daily specials. Reservations are highly recommended because the chicken breast toscana with house-made sausage and potatoes and red wine brasato with creamy polenta are known to attract an audience and keep them lingering. Pro tip: Cash or check only. Go.

Harmony Vineyards

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Who said only the Twin Forks have wineries? This 4-acre vineyard, on an impressive 32.5-acre waterfront estate offers outstanding Bordeaux-Style Red Blends, Chablis-Style Chardonnays, Long Island Beers and gourmet plates a bit further West. Another welcome surprise: Sunday brunch. Go.