I’m impressed by how many friends committed to Dry January this year. While their dedication was admirable, my own January was more on the damp side, with a cocktail or two enjoyed along the way. Now that February has arrived and love is in the air, it feels like the right moment to highlight two of my favorite Hamptons restaurants that remain open year-round. Lulu Kitchen & Bar in Sag Harbor and Nick & Toni’s in East Hampton continue to be reliable gathering spots long after the summer crowds fade.
The bar seats at both restaurants are always in demand, even in the middle of winter. I made a point to sample both cocktails and mocktails at each location to narrow down my top picks. It is a tough assignment, but one I was happy to take on. Both menus offer thoughtful, well-crafted options that feel just as special without alcohol. Whether you are planning a date or simply looking for a reason to get out of the house, Lulu’s and Nick & Toni’s are worth the visit. Supporting local businesses is always top of mind. This February, make it a point to sip and celebrate the restaurants that keep the Hamptons vibrant year-round.
Nick & Toni’s
Signature cocktail: “The Lychee Spritz has quickly become one of the most popular drinks at Nick & Toni’s. Light, fragrant, and elegantly structured, it reflects the restaurant’s long-standing connection to fresh ingredients and the natural beauty of East Hampton. Made with jasmine-bud–infused Soho lychee liqueur, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, prosecco, and fresh lavender from our garden, The Lychee Spritz is floral and bright without becoming overly sweet. Its balance mirrors the style Nick & Toni’s has embraced since 1988: ingredient-driven, clean, and expressive. The cocktail draws its inspiration from the property itself, surrounded by flowers and fruiting plants.”
Popular mocktail: “The Paloma Pirata is our standout non-alcoholic option at Nick & Toni’s, showing how a classic cocktail can be reimagined without losing its character. Made with Seedlip Notas de Agave, fresh grapefruit, and Q Grapefruit Soda, it lands all the bright, clean notes you expect from a Paloma. Our goal is to offer non-alcoholic drinks that hold their own on the menu, and The Paloma Pirata does exactly that, simple, refreshing, and true to form.”
Winter months: “We are a great restaurant to visit year-round. Our wood-burning oven creates a warm, cozy ambience during the off-season, and locals love coming in for our Pizza & Pasta two-course prix fixe menu. It’s the perfect time to try us if you haven’t already! We will be offering à la carte specials for Valentine’s Day.”
— Christian Millwood, Beverage Director, Honest Man Hospitality
Lulu Kitchen & Bar
Signature cocktail: “The You Are Lulu is by far the most popular of our signature cocktails. Created by Lulu’s first bartender almost a decade ago, so time-tested and proven. It is simplicity and balance that is hard to match. Equal parts vodka, Aperol, elderflower liquor, and lemon juice, it serves up a cocktail that is rich, zesty, beautiful, and quite addictive.”
Popular mocktail: “Who doesn’t love ginger? Our Ginger & Co. is the go-to mocktail for all seasons. A perfect blend of muddled cucumber, mint, and ginger, lime juice, agave nectar, Seedlip ‘Spice No. 94,’ and topped with ginger beer and club soda.”
Winter months: “The first thing one notices upon approaching Lulu from the street is the smoky aroma emitted from our wood-burning grill and oven. Our booth seating, in front of the open kitchen with full view of the live fire, is always in high demand. We recommend sharing the chef’s 14-day dry-aged whole duck and a bottle of Barolo with some friends and family, and your cold February days just got a little warmer.”
Valentine’s Day: “The chef always prepares a few romantic specials for those lucky couples. Also, some nice shared dishes from the menu are our foie gras torchon, served with toasted house brioche, truffled honey, figs, and smoked sea salt. And woodfire grilled rack of lamb with our harissa yogurt sauce and Israeli Salad.”
— David Brown, Lulu’s General Manager