:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ina-Gartens-Guide-to-the-Hamptons-FT-BLOG0824-ea1d61e32ca5497abc1911dea12eceb6.jpg "Ina Garten’s travel guide to the Hamptons")
For visitors, there are two versions of the Hamptons: There’s the party version you see on reality shows and TikTok feeds, and then there’s Ina Garten’s Hamptons, where the South Fork of Long Island is an oasis of fruits and vegetables, seafood, vineyards, and dozens of restaurants that make the most of the local bounty. And of course, Ina’s version is the best. The Barefoot Contessa has her own private home and estate in East Hampton (one of several New York towns, including Southampton, Bridgehampton, and Sag Harbor, that make up “The Hamptons”) and is known for shopping and dining out on the east end. From time to time, Ina shares a tip or two on social media about her favorite culinary and hospitality hangouts in her neighborhood.
Here’s your Ina-inspired itinerary for a delicious trip to the Hamptons.
Loaves and fishes
A haven of ready-to-eat picnic foods (don’t miss the cold fried chicken) and delis, Loaves and Fishes Foodstore is a must-visit for any foodie in the Hamptons. The little roadside cottage full of goodies is as close to Ina’s original East Hampton shop, Barefoot Contessa, as you can get these days. In fact, one of her employees, Anna Pump, opened this shop, which is now owned by her daughter and granddaughter. “If you’re coming to the Hamptons, treat yourself to a slice of pie at Loaves & Fishes,” Ina suggested on Instagram. If you insist, Ina! Cakes in a range of flavours are sold by the slice or whole every day, as well as plenty of pastries, ready-made fridge meals to heat up, cheese and much more. A few picnic benches outside are available for visitors to enjoy a bite to eat on site.
Round Swamp Farm
Before influencers stocked up on oversized blueberry muffins, bean salads, and locally-sourced fish sticks, Ina was a loyal follower of Round Swamp. “Round Swamp Farm in East Hampton has the best produce, prepared foods, and baked goods,” she posted. The homemade jams make great gifts, and the wide selection of pre-packaged prepared foods, which range from curried chicken salad to heartier dishes like mushroom lasagna, are perfect for a picnic on the beach or stocking up a rented fridge for fresh meals while on vacation. Round Swamp’s three locations are also a go-to for fresh produce. Prices are high, but the quality is excellent.
Photo: Cavaniola’s Gourmet
This legendary cheese shop has two locations and both are worth a visit for specialty imported cheeses and select sides. Cavaniola’s ages the cheeses in-house, so you can get seasonal specialties and sample samples as you choose the perfect cheese board. Grab a panini at the counter for a quick meal and stock up on local beer to make it a whole party. Ina opts for the “Pecorino with Truffles,” so ask for a slice of that before you leave the small shop.
Carissa is the bakery
This bakery appears on Ina’s Instagram more than any other in the Hamptons, so we’d say it’s definitely one of her favorites. She’s a devotee of the croissants that feature on her brunch tables, and she’s posted about the “perfect” gazpacho from Carissa’s. The Pantigo Road branch is the only Carissa’s with seating, so if you want to see Ina for yourself, it’s most likely at this Carissa’s. Come early before the famous jambon beurre sandwich with cornichons sells out, or opt for a luxurious lobster roll on a house-made brioche bun.
The house from 1770
This charming restaurant, tavern and inn actually dates back to 1770 and is a unique historic dining experience in East Hampton Village. “The meatloaf at the 1770 House in East Hampton is the best classic dish I’ve ever had. It’s always perfect,” Ina told Food Network The best thing I’ve ever eatenThe famous meatloaf is served by the slice with spinach, mashed potatoes and garlic sauce and is only available in the tavern (as opposed to the upstairs restaurant, which has a more formal menu). When the weather is nice, guests can also enjoy seasonal comfort food outside.
Sag Harbor Flower Shop
Fans of Ina know that the eternal hostess loves her flowers. And back east, she’s an avid fan of this single-store florist in the heart of Sag Harbor. Sag Harbor Florist hosts group classes and private workshops where anyone can learn how to arrange flowers, including Ina herself.
Vine Street Cafe
Another “best dish” Ina Garten has ever had is the pasta with homemade Bolognese sauce at Vine Street Café, a Shelter Island restaurant that favors local produce and seafood. A $40 prix fixe menu, also known as an early bird deal, offers a two-course meal on weekdays from 5 to 6 p.m. A sister restaurant, Cove Hollow Tavern in East Hampton, is another favorite of Ina’s and is a bit easier to get to than the Shelter Island restaurant, which can only be reached by ferry.
Pike farms
Selling what Ina calls “the best corn in the world,” this chic farm stand owned by Jim and Jennifer Pike is a must-stop for all of summer’s best ingredients. Ina raves about the seasonal farm stand (open June through October) in her cookbook. Barefoot Contessa at homeand called Pike Farms a source of the “most wonderful vegetables,” including tomatoes, basil, melons and more.
Amber waves
One of the many farm stands and specialty shops on Ina’s top list, Amber Waves is a highlight for those seeking excellent produce and specialty items like homemade salsas and sauces, locally made pastas, pre-made lunches and more. A cafe inside the shop offers drinks and small snacks, and there are plenty of benches outside for lounging, snacking and chatting about recipes. The shop also sells stylish merchandise for visitors looking for a souvenir.
