The Hamptons, a collection of affluent villages on Long Island’s South Fork, are renowned for being elite, but the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten, uncovers their reality in specialty stores and farm stands along the neighborhood. Her love for authentic, family-run restaurants inspired my quest to learn about her favorite restaurants, where I was enjoying a $20 tomato-and-mozzarella sandwich that headed the menu. This round-the-town, eight-food-landmark culinary tour illuminates why Ina’s recommendations are a passport to memorable meals.
Ina’s credo is one of respecting the uncomplicated yet excellent—clean fruits and vegetables, homemade goods, and neighborhood friendship. Her praise of the Hamptons’ markets as the heartbeat of the region was the prelude to my visit, guiding me to institutions like Round Swamp Farm and Amber Waves. These old standbys, though, are a means of providing more than nourishment; they provide a sense of the earth and its people.
From East Hampton to Montauk, each of the stops on this tour is a testament to Ina’s skill at finding quality and authenticity. Whether it’s a beautifully put-together sandwich or truffle-spiced cheese, all these stops are the Hamptons’ gastronomic soul. Take the tour with me of eight of Ina’s favorite places, each a reflection of good taste and storied history of the region.
1. Round Swamp Farm: A Sandwich Sensation
Round Swamp Farm, a cherished East Hampton gem lauded by Ina Garten since 2021, bursts with rustic charm and vibrant, farm-fresh produce. Its family legacy, spanning over five decades, infuses every handpicked item with care and tradition. The lively market hums with community spirit, embodying the Hamptons’ pastoral heart. Visitors leave with not just goods, but a taste of authentic local heritage.
- Exquisite quality: Fresh-picked produce and artisanal items sparkle.
- Family tradition: Snyder family devotion promises the best.
- Atmosphere: A bustling but inviting atmosphere greets locals and visitors alike.
The tomato-and-mozzarella sandwich, now $20, is a revelation, pairing soft, herb-brushed bread with succulent, farm-fresh tomatoes and opulent mozzarella. Arugula, balsamic vinegar, basil, Parmesan, lemon, olive oil, and an enigmatic herb mayo create a symphony of flavors. Each bite is like a summer-season party, meticulously designed. The Bridgehampton store, though smaller, duplicates this commitment with its focus on baked items and assembled salads. Cinnamon roll and chicken finger delights tempt visitors, while prices of $44.19 for lobster salad in half a pound suggest the area’s high-end market. This farm stand demonstrates that excellent ingredients can make an average meal into a breathtaking piece of art.
2. Amber Waves Farm: A Community Gem
Amber Waves Farm in Amagansett, celebrated by Ina Garten in a 2022 Food Network feature, pulses with vibrant energy as a food and community cornerstone. Its market, adorned with twinkling string lights and rustic beams, brims with organic produce and artisanal offerings like fresh guacamole and hummus. The bustling patio outside buzzes with locals and visitors, cementing its role as a lively Hamptons gathering spot. Farm-to-table excellence shines through every carefully crafted product.
- Community orientation: CSA programs and food donations support locals.
- Immersive experience: Flower-picking areas and petting zoos are a delight for visitors.
- Local pride: Branded merchandise and Long Island wines pay tribute to the area.
Prices, such as $9 for blueberries or $18 for a chicken Caesar wrap, reflect the cost of organic farming and fair labor in the Hamptons. The $4 chocolate chip cookie I ate was testament to their baking ability. Amber Waves’ commitment to quality and community makes every visit memorable. The large grounds of the farm, with play areas and a reading nook, make a shopping trip an experience. Their mission to combat hunger and educate children on farming lends meaning to their product. This is where people are united through food, fulfilling Ina’s ideal of the Hamptons.
3. Green Thumb Organic Farm: Rustic Simplicity
Green Thumb Organic Farm in Water Mill, showcased in Ina Garten’s “Barefoot Contessa” episodes, exudes cozy charm with its barn-like decor and vintage posters. Its locally grown produce, sourced just up the road, delivers an authentic farm-to-table experience. The serene, uncluttered ambiance provides a peaceful retreat from busier Hamptons markets. Every item reflects the farm’s commitment to organic, sustainable quality.
- Fresh focus: Much produce is fresh from the farm’s fields.
- Seafood standout: Clams and lobster meat satisfy beachside cravings.
- Transparent pricing: Open-label signs guarantee no surprises.
Blueberries for $8 a pint and lobster flesh at $40 a half-pound are appropriately priced for the Hamptons, with a weekly poke truck bringing local flavor. The 300-year tradition of the Halsey family is reflected in their commitment to quality and reasonable pay. Green Thumb is a return to the region’s agricultural roots. The farm’s CSA scheme, which stretches as far as Brooklyn, continues to spread its reach, and its worker-friendly ethos sets it apart. Straightforward and honest, Green Thumb deals out fresh, good-tasting vegetables with an aura of tradition. It’s a business that captures the essence of Ina’s passion for straightforward quality.
4. Loaves and Fishes Foodstore: Gourmet Ease
Loaves and Fishes Foodstore in East Hampton, praised by Ina Garten as a top specialty store, is a haven for gourmet picnic delights. Established by Anna Pump, once Ina’s employee, it’s now lovingly operated by her family, blending tradition with sophisticated flair. The store’s curated selection simplifies elegant entertaining, echoing Ina’s signature style. Each item reflects a commitment to quality and culinary excellence.
- Ina’s connection: Personal connection enhances its attractiveness.
- Picnic perfection: Ready-to-eat foods are ideal for the Hamptons lifestyle.
- Sweet things: Fresh pastries and cakes entice all visitors every day.
From cold fried chicken to shrimp curry, the menu caters to discerning palates, topped by Ina’s favorites for pieces of cake. The store’s focus on quality ingredients creates a special meal out of each dish. It’s one where sophistication and simplicity blend in perfect beachside fare. Loaves and Fishes embodies the Hamptons’ blend of elitism and approachability. Its family atmosphere and Ina association ensure it is an exceptional haven. Stopping by for a speedy indulgence or stocking up for a picnic, this store delivers gourmet paradise with every morsel.
5. Cavaniola’s Gourmet: Cheese Perfection
Cavaniola’s Gourmet in Sag Harbor and Amagansett, Ina Garten’s go-to for specialty cheese, delivers an upscale yet welcoming vibe. Its on-site aging process and thoughtfully chosen accouterments elevate simple ingredients into culinary treasures. Ina’s obsession with their truffle pecorino draws cheese enthusiasts from far and wide. The shop’s curated selection embodies artisanal excellence and warm hospitality.
- Cheese expertise: On-site aging ensures unique flavors.
- Flexible options: Paninis and craft beers go along with cheeses.
- Ina’s touch: Her choice of truffle pecorino is a must-have.
Paninis and seasonal specials render Cavaniola’s the ideal location to craft a gourmet picnic. The attention the shop takes in everything from aging to pairing is a sensory delight. Every purchase is an adventure, conducted by Ina’s impeccable eye. Cavaniola’s blends sophistication with accessibility, making it a cornerstone of the Hamptons’ culinary scene. Whether you’re a cheese aficionado or seeking a quick meal, this spot delivers indulgence with warmth. It’s a testament to Ina’s ability to uncover exceptional quality in everyday ingredients.
6. Carissa’s the Bakery: A Pastry Haven
Carissa’s The Bakery in East Hampton, frequently showcased on Ina Garten’s Instagram, is a dessert lover’s haven. Renowned for its exquisite gazpacho and flaky croissants, it’s a staple in Ina’s party menus. The cozy seating at the Pantigo Road location invites guests to savor Barefoot Contessa-inspired treats. Each bite reflects the bakery’s dedication to indulgent, high-quality craftsmanship.
- Ina’s go-to: Croissants and gazpacho are her first picks.
- Limited seating: The Pantigo Road shop is ideal for lingering.
- Hot choices: Jambon beurre sandwiches sell out fast.
The bakery’s lobster roll on house-made brioche is an over-the-top treat, and the chocolate chip cookies are as good as at Tate’s Bake Shop. Arrive early because good things vanish rapidly. Artisanal art in a welcoming setting makes Carissa’s a destination visit. Its frequent mention on Ina’s show highlights its occurrence on the Hamptons’ culinary scene. The bakery’s focus on fresh, high-grade ingredients means that every bite is unforgettable. It’s a place where unassuming pastries become magical with Ina’s seal of approval.
7. Tate’s Bake Shop: Cookie Classic
Tate’s Bake Shop in Southampton, a beloved stop for Ina Garten’s favorite chocolate chip cookies, is a cherished Hamptons tradition. Freshly baked treats, crafted daily, attract throngs of eager visitors. The shop’s commitment to time-honored recipes and uncompromising quality cements its status as a local institution. Each cookie embodies classic comfort and artisanal excellence.
- Signature cookies: Chocolate chip varieties are a special delight.
- Daily baking: Freshness with every batch run is guaranteed.
- Tourist draw: Its popularity is evidence of Ina’s popularity.
Other than cookies, Tate’s has a variety of cakes and pastries, all lovingly prepared. The humble and friendly design of the store allows it to be easy to grab a quick bite and go. Its popularity, funded by the seal of approval of Ina, brings the devotees in flocks. Tate’s captures the Hamptons’ blend of sophistication and nostalgia. Have a cookie or their full menu, the atmosphere is like being wrapped in a warm hug. It’s a spot that shows small plates can be huge.
8. Duryea’s: Seafood Splendor
Duryea’s in Montauk, a weekend favorite of Ina Garten’s husband Jeffrey, is a seafood haven with star-studded allure. Ina raves about its impeccably seasoned grilled fish and stunning waterfront setting, reminiscent of Greece. The vibrant atmosphere captures the essence of the Hamptons’ seaside charm. Every dish showcases fresh, coastal flavors and timeless elegance.
- Seafood perfection: Grilled fish and lobster are highlights.
- Scenic views: The waterfront atmosphere makes each meal.
- Ina’s seal of approval: Her rave brings food enthusiasts to Montauk.
The menu, which includes dishes such as a $97 lobster Cobb salad, mirrors the region’s high pricing but produces quality that cannot be surpassed. The ambiance, where elegance and relaxation converge, makes each experience special. Duryea’s is a dining getaway that justifies Ina’s fanfare. Its reputation as a celebrity hotspot only makes it more desirable, but the food is still the highlight. From fresh fish to pungent spice, Duryea’s captures the essence of beach dining. A deserving conclusion to a tour planned by Ina’s impeccable eye for taste.
Traveling through the Hamptons according to the itinerary of Ina Garten is a tour of the quintessence of culinary excellence. From the transformative sandwich at Round Swamp Farm to the community spirit of Amber Waves, the rustic charm of Green Thumb, the gourmet ease of Loaves and Fishes, the cheese perfection of Cavaniola’s, the pastries of Carissa’s, the cookies of Tate’s, and the seafood splendor of Duryea’s, each stop celebrates quality and tradition. These little family-owned shops, typically offering good salaries in a pricey district, show that great things cost their weight in gold, which makes Ina’s counsel a map to the heart of the Hamptons.
