DISCOVER THE HAMPTONS: DAY 2
Start the second day of your Hamptons extravaganza at Estia's Little Kitchen in cute Sag Harbor, on the northern side of Long Island. Estia's breakfast dishes are large-portioned affairs, which include massive breakfast platters, tall stacks of chocolate chip pancakes and veggie-crammed omelets.
After breakfast, head to the Springs neighborhood, which is about a twenty-minute drive away from the town where Jackson Pollock — the leader of the Abstract Expressionists movement — and his wife, artist Lee Krasner, lived and worked. A walk through the house, exhibits and their studio is a worthwhile journey through the life and art of Pollock and his wife. Pause around the corner at the Springs General Store, where Pollock used to exchange art for food. But for lunch, either grab something quick to eat at the Round Swamp Farm Stand or drive back to the village and swing by the American Hotel, one of the best restaurants on Long Island.
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Estia's Little Kitchen |
Back in East Hampton, stroll through Newtown Lane for an afternoon of serious shopping. Tory Burch, the classic New York designer, has opened a jewel of a boutique where she sells her elegant flats and timeless tunics. Catherine Malandrino's sexy French dresses and petite blouses will make heads turn on both sides of the Atlantic, and at Mecox Gardens you'll find unique objects and furniture, all of which sport an eye-catching mix of high design and warm colors. At John Varvatos' elegant shop, men will find a mix of bohemian and stylish clothing while Scoop features the epitome of casual European flair. Grab an afternoon snack or a picnic at Citarella, or an old-fashioned Dreesen doughnut at Scoop du Jour, and get ready to browse BookHampton, an independent bookstore where the sales staff can steer you towards some unsung local writers.
Lose yourself in the small lanes behind the boutiques and visit the Vered Gallery's quirky selection of modern and contemporary art. History buffs will enjoy the Clinton Academy (built in 1784) and the modest Mulford Farm, which was built in 1680 and is widely considered to be America's most significant English Colonial farmstead. Check out the featured artists across the street at Guild Hall, which is an important cultural center with indoor and outdoor exhibit space.
If you prefer to spend the afternoon in nature and get a glimpse of some of the most exclusive homes in the area, rent a kayak at Main Beach Surf and Sports — a five-minute drive West on Route 27 — and spend a few hours gliding to Georgica Pond, a tranquil 290-acre body of water by Georgica Beach. Or give your muscles a different kind of workout by arranging a visit from a NYHealing Touch massage therapist for some relaxing bodywork.
At night, stop into Nick & Toni's in East Hampton for great, fresh Mediterranean fare or drive about 10 minutes to the town of Bridgehampton to eat at the Gallic-influenced Pierre's. |