Somewhere along the way, I went from a small Instagrammer sharing my North Fork adventures to the girl in the know about all things NOFO! I make it my personal mission to discover all the best spots. I’m excited to share with you my insider tips of what’s hot on the North Fork this summer. Follow along at @nofo_endless_summer.
DINE
Claudio’s Restaurant, Greenport
The iconic restaurant, which first opened its doors in 1870, has a long and storied history as a waterfront destination for locals and tourists alike. Over the years, Claudio’s has undergone several renovations and expansions, but its most recent rebranding seeks to recapture the charm and character of its early days as a cozy tavern. The lobster crispy rice, a culinary masterpiece, combined succulent chunks of lobster with perfectly crisp rice, creating a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The local oysters, fresh from North Fork Oysters, were expertly shucked and served, allowing us to savor the briny essence of the North Fork. You can sit at the spacious bar to enjoy classic cocktails expertly crafted with the finest spirits. Claudio’s reputation for quality with a twist is evident around every corner.
The Minnow at Galley Ho, New Suffolk
One of my favorite North Fork chefs, Cheo Avila (formerly of Kontiki, Greenport) is bringing his talents to a new restaurant. Located on the water, The Minnow at Galley Ho has a totally unique concept, complete sustainability. The efforts for complete sustainability don’t end at locally line caught seafood and locally grown produce but extend to everything from décor to silverware being reclaimed and refurbished. With Chef Cheo in the kitchen, I know we will be wowed by innovation and quality. I look forward to being one of the first to try The Minnow at Galley Ho early summer 2023!
DRINK
Meadowlark, Cutchogue
Meadowlark is a new concept vineyard developed by Macari Vineyards. Meadowlark is an extension of Macari which is known for its quality wines and commitment to celebrating the bounty of the North Fork and embracing the spirit of living life to the fullest. Meadowlark’s wine bar is focused on limited wines, and innovative winemaking techniques available only at the Meadowlark property. The property itself is sprawling and is perfect for city dwellers who want to spend the day outdoors sipping wine and enjoying the ideal North Fork weather. Meadowlark will be offering an impressive array of events throughout the season so keep and eye out for their full schedule.
Alpina, Greenport
If you are a fan of unique, European inspired cocktails you are going to want to sample every libation on the cocktail list at Alpina in Greenport. Alpina curates an impressive list of Amaros which pair perfectly with their Swiss / Italian brunch or are perfect for a night cap with friends. Amaros are typically made by infusing a base spirit, such as neutral grain alcohol or grape brandy, with a mixture of herbs, spices, roots, barks, and other botanical ingredients. The flavors range from deep and earthy to citrus and floral. My personal favorite cocktail, “Somewhere Only You Are,” made with Rosa Luna mezcal, locally made Matchbook Distilling Co., Elsewhere blood orange aperitif, valencia, lime and soda.
SHOP
North Fork Apothecary, Cutchogue
North Fork Apothecary is owned by the incredibly stylish Stephanie Sack who has an amazing eye for fashion and curates a collection of everything from men’s and women’s clothing to housewares, clean beauty products, cool art pieces, and custom surf boards. She carries amazing brands like Bembien, Caddis Eye Appliances, Zadig and Voltaire, and Birkenstock to name drop a few. She also created a collection of scents inspired by North Fork living. Photography by the legendary Deborah Feingold is available for purchase. (Deborah is even rumored to visit the store on occasion!) Like every good apothecary you can find locally made products like textiles and honey. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast seeking the latest trends or someone looking for unique pieces that reflect your personal style, North Fork Apothecary is the go-to destination. With its combination of renowned designer brands and representation of the best of the North Fork, you are sure to find the perfect something to take home.
J. McLaughlin, Southold
Southold welcomes J. McLaughlin this summer. The brand embodies classic American style with a modern twist. Founded in 1977 by brothers Jay and Kevin McLaughlin, the brand has become synonymous with quality craftsmanship, vibrant prints, and timeless designs. At the core of J. McLaughlin’s identity is a commitment to creating clothing that effortlessly blends comfort, style, and versatility. The brand offers a wide range of apparel for both men and women, including dresses, tops, sweaters, pants, skirts, jackets, and accessories. Having an amazing shop, with fantastic wardrobe staples, in the heart of Southold will be welcomed by locals and visitors alike!
PLAY
Layla Sailing, Greenport
Layla Sailing is an inspiring all-women sailing crew based in the charming town of Greenport. With Captain Liz at the helm, the classically crafted Fastnet 45 was built to the highest standards — a gorgeous yacht that boasts beautiful classic lines. You can charter a sail with Layla and the crew for morning, afternoon, or sunset. The yacht has a capacity of six guests who will enjoy all refreshments brought aboard. Plan to bring wine from your favorite North Fork vineyard and a picnic from somewhere local like Lombardi’s Love Lane Market.
The Dimon Estate, Jamesport
North Fork meets South Fork in the orchard at The Dimon Estate this summer. Chef Chris Kar has partnered with wine maker Roman Roth of Wölffer Estate to bring an exclusive wine pairing dinner to the estate on Friday, July 21. The dinner will feature five Wölffer Estate rosés paired with a locally sourced menu. So local in fact, you are bound to experience some of Chef Chris’s famed tomatoes which he nurtures seed to plate, the care truly evident in every dish. If the food and wine weren’t enticing enough, picture dining and sipping rosé amongst the trees in the quaint apple orchard of the estate, café lights aglow as the sun sets on the North Fork. Truly magical!
Southold Bay Oysters, Southold
Take a tour of a real working oyster farm and learn how we get those delicious North Fork oysters we all love. On the tour you’ll learn the process of farming delicious local oysters at a working aquaculture farm. The tour takes you through the life of an oyster from spawning process through the grow-out phase. You’ll get to see the gear used to farm oysters. And my favorite part of the tour, the shucking lesson! I can thank Ben and Dave for my awesome oyster shucking skills! Your experience at the farm concludes with an oyster shucking lesson and a waterfront sample of Southold Shindig Oysters. This is a summer experience you will not want to miss.
