Gurney’s Guide: Montauk In The Summertime

EAT

Our favorite Montauk restaurants and more.

 

Bluestone Lane 

786 Montauk Highway, Montauk

Australians know a thing or two about coffee, and this Melbourne-meets-Montauk café does not disappoint. Bluestone Lane’s East End outpost sits right along the town’s main drag, making it an easy excuse to pick up a Flat White, signature BL Nitro Cold Brew, or fresh smoothie as you explore the area. While you’re there, be sure to browse the swag at Frankies Bikinis, a summer pop-up shop that’s open at the café through Labor Day. 

Open daily, 7am - 4pm

Ditch Witch

18 Ditch Plains Road, Montauk

It’s no secret that Montauk loves Ditch Witch, a clutch food truck that has served breakfast and lunch at the famous Ditch Plains beach since 1994. Surfers and sunbathers alike refuel with refreshing items like poke bowls and wraps served right on the beach.

Open daily, 8am - 4pm

 

Duryea’s Lobster Dock 

65 Tuthill Road, Montauk

A crowd-pleaser for families, friends, groups, and couples, head to Duryea’s Lobster Dock for a chic and casual seaside experience. You can’t score a reservation here—the joint only allows walk-ins—which adds to the laid-back charm, complete with a classic menu that features lobster cobb salad, tuna tartar, and fresh crudité all summer long. Not in the mood to take a seat? Duryea’s Market is right next door, the perfect spot to pick up fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and groceries (trust us: you won’t regret their Housemade Lobster Roll Chips). Spending the day on the water? Dock your boat at Duryea’s new Orient Point location, where slips are available daily on a first come, first served basis. 

Open daily, 12pm - 10pm 

Lobster Roll aka LUNCH 

As any seasoned visitor will tell you, “this is where summer begins.” And they mean that literally, because you can’t miss this famous East End joint: it’s located on a beachy stretch of Montauk Highway as you roll into town. Once a tiny seafood shack that opened 50 years ago, Lobster Roll has expanded to serve lunch, dinner, and no-frills drinks, but it’s their namesake lobster roll—served cold, and overflowing with a mayo-heavy local lobster salad—that has earned its place in every Montauk lover’s heart. 

Open 12pm - 9pm, Wednesday through Monday

 

Showfish 

32 Star Island Road, at Gurney’s Star Island

Showfish is a seaside venue featuring stunning marina views, award-winning cocktails and one-of-a-kind dishes, right at Gurney's Star Island. The menu features the best of east-end dining with favorites like Lobster Kimchi Fried Rice, Angry Lobster and Dayboat Seared Scallops.

Open daily, Lunch: 12pm - 3:30pm; Dinner: 5:30pm - 10pm

La Fin Kitchen 

474 West Lake Drive, Montauk

New this year, La Fin has already racked up plenty of fans. The French farm-to-table restaurant channels the Riviera, inspired by St. Barths and St. Tropez with its prime spot on the docks of Montauk Harbor. Located in the space once occupied by Swallow East, the restaurant’s ownership remains the same while the atmosphere has totally transformed with art installations by Destination Haus and Summer Stauch, and a menu that spotlights ingredients from local farms and fishermen. 

Open daily, 11am - 10pm

 

 

PLAY

Things to do in Montauk and the East End all summer long. 

 

Shopping in Montauk

Montauk is home to a variety of coveted boutiques and seasonal outposts—hop on Gurney’s shuttle and catch a ride to the center of town for an afternoon of top-notch shopping. Browse the shops along Montauk Highway, snag a souvenir sweatshirt at the aptly named Montauk T-shirts, and make sure to stop by some of our favorite boutiques along the way. At The 8th Drifter, find sustainably-focused home goods from local and global makers, or stop by Wyld Blue and Wyld Black for a mix of vintage and trendy fashions. For womenswear, Nibi a women’s boutique. While Cynthia Rowley’s summer outpost stocks beautifully patterned surf suits and swimwear. Looking for something for everyone? Air + Speed will do the trick. 

 

Amber Waves Farm

367 Main Street, Amagansett

Perfect for families and curious humans of all ages, the non-profit Amber Waves Farm, a sweet spot in Amagansett, is a great stop for food lovers. The ocean-side farm provides educational opportunities in agriculture for aspiring growers, conscious cooks, and thoughtful eaters—not to mention a perfectly charming market and café. Be sure to check out their farm events calendar ahead of your visit to see what’s happening at the farm. 

Open daily, 8am - 6pm

 

Peconic Water Sports

32 Star Island Road at Gurney’s Star Island, Montauk

Think of Peconic Water Sports as your one-stop shop for spending the day on the water. From wakeboarding, waterskiing, and tubing excursions to half-day or full-day boating experiences (for newbies and advanced riders alike), this is your go-to source for water sports adventures. But even if sports aren’t your thing, you’re still in good hands: the outfitter offers private charters for those looking to relax or explore the scenic waters around Montauk. 

 

The Ranch

8 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk

Making its official debut this summer, The Ranch is perhaps Montauk’s most unique art venue. Here, you’ll find indoor and outdoor exhibitions on a working horse ranch—the oldest continuously operating ranch in the country. It’s the primary exhibition space for art dealer Max Levai, formerly of Marlborough Gallery, who’s turned the 26-acre property into an immersive art pilgrimage.