Are Short Term Rentals Harming The Hamptons... and I FINALLY got toTopping Rose!!

So the Hamptons are more crowded this year than last.  But yet, everyone from shop keepers and especially real estate agents (talking rentals) are saying that business is off.   One thing I always do when I take my stroll around town trying to look better dressed than the next guy, I always ask shop owners "how was your season?"   The response I keep hearing "not great."    But it's so crowded, which leaves me wondering what gives!?     Well some folks are blaming the increasing popularity of those short term rental websites for the problem.       For example, you can rent a house in Southampton from a website called Marquis for a nightly rate of $1,100 a night even though this is in violation of town code which requires a minimum of 14 days.     So, according to some there lies the problem.    You have a house which advertises an occupancy of 12 people each essentially paying $100 per person, they're not the types who are going to be spending money about town in the shops and restaurants.     By the way, I like that the Hamptons are becoming more accessible to folks who wouldn't normally be able to visit but by allowing overcrowding in houses it's more like a spring break location than quiet escape from city living.    What do you think?

Finally,  I got the chance to visit the new Topping Rose by Jean Georges last night and I can say is it was worth the wait.  Although the reservation lines need some fixing... about 45 minutes of holds, hang ups and transfers... the total experience was great.   The menu is unpretentious with everything from an amazing mini pizza to a terrific kale salad and a really solid cheese burger.    Service was solid and entrees arrived within a half hour of ordering.  I had the penne with meatballs and thought they were over the top awesome.   My dinner guests ordered the burger and the salmon, each earning a thumbs up from each.   I also recommend the heirloom tomato salad which right now is on the tail of being in season so go try it now.    This is a huge step up from last year's outing by Tom Coli
cchio.   

SOMETHING BREWING IN SOUTHAMPTON... AND PLEASE DON'T TELL ME WHAT ZILLOW SAYS ABOUT YOUR HOUSE!

Something Brewing.. time to change the label!

I can barley stand it!   It has some folks hops-ing mad!   Apparently the spuds will no longer be flowing on Bowden Square.   In spite of an announcement back in October that the Southampton Publick House would be staying put at the current location, word has gotten out that folks will soon have to fasten their beer goggles in a new location.    Since 1996 the brewery and restaurant have been a staple around town but it seems the new building owners have other plans.    According to some local insiders, the location will soon be home to a "high end Mexican Restaurant."     Now if you've ever read this blog before... that's a huge deal for me yet I hate to see an old favorite move to somewhere new.     While the Publick house will go on... like Celine Dion's heart.... it will according to insiders have to be in a new location.   Sometimes a little change will do you good.

Oh is that the blood rushing to your head?

Now for a little advice.   If you want to send any real estate agent's boiling blood further to their head just say the following sentence, "BUT Zillow said my house is worth X!"   It's the bane of many a real estate agent and brokers existence.   In fact, The Los Angles Times  recently tackled the issue of "Zestimantes" (Zillow's estimate) and how many claim they're wildly inaccurate.    In fact, I have to say part of the big problem with Zillow's "formula" is that it can't really take into account factors like condition and location (waterfront, south of the highway, village).    So how inaccurate are these "Zestimates?"  Well the CEO of Zillow was recently quoted as saying they're "a good starting point" and have a "median error rate of about 8%."   Obviously this error rate varies in different markets and Zillow even says so at the bottom of the Zestimates page.     While I couldn't locate the margin in our area, I can tell you that my own personal home fluctuated by about $5,000,000 in a period of 6 months.    Now, I know you think Hamptons Chatter just rakes in the money but the initial high estimate they gave my home
was crazy.   I'd move out in hours if I could get that number tomorrow!    Yep, I would guess their error rate in the Hamptons is a heck of a lot more than a 8%.   It's a big miss in the Hamptons... like an Ishtar big miss!  A "Missestimate" if you will.     So the take away from all of this... talk to an agent or do your homework (Zillow.com is a great source for closed prices) and don't try let some silicon valley geek tell you what your home is worth.   Besides,  how could you put a price on that "Sistine Chapel" painting on your master bedroom ceiling?

THEY HAD US AT MERLOT! WOLFFER KITCHEN AND GREY GARDENS AT BAY STREET!

So, it's been one of those mornings but here I am anyway.  Without going into details, I went to brush my teeth this morning and instead I ended up well lets just say, I doubt I'll have inflammation on my gums today.   But before I digress, I'm ready to recap the glorious life of the glamorous and irritated on the East End.

So, last night I had the chance to visit the highly anticipated Wolffer Kitchen in Sag Harbor.   So here's the good news and the bad news.  The good news is it's pretty good.   The bad news is it should have been better.    Since it's the first foray into food for the local vineyard, I'll give them time to let this potentially fine dine breath.   Located at 29 Main Street in the village, the restaurant opens with a series of folding doors that open up and make it a great place to dine and watch the world go by.    The menu on the other hand is a little more closed with a smaller selection of options.  The wine menu on the other hand is rather extensive and features of course Wolffer wines, numerous imports and this in addition to a few local vineyards including Bedell.

The service as I sat for dinner last night was on their game from start to finish.   I started my dinner with a small Greek salad which was absolutely fantastic, a perfect size with a delicate blend of feta, olives and greens.   Oh my god, do I now sound like a food critic? I have to stop!  Anyway, for an entree I had fresh tuna grilled over pasta which was nice and light but a little too light on flavor.    My dining companion (who you can figure out) had a vegetable platter with I believe some fava beans and he thought it was awesome.   Perhaps the comment that I'm more "suited for heavier flavors", i.e. bolognese is my favorite should be taken into account.   So what I'm saying is I liked Wolffer Kitchen, I just wasnt' crazy about it.   Perhaps I'll hit it up again once they get more time under their belt but I have no doubt it's going to get better!  Wolffer Kitchen is open daily at 5:30pm and takes reservations on their facebook page or by calling 631-725-0101.

Betty Buckley and Rachel York... The Edies.

I also had a chance to head over to Bay Street Theater last night and catch a performance of the musical "Grey Gardens."   If you don't already know the story, shame on you and go directly to Fire Island.  You should know the story!   But anyway, it stars Broadway veterans Betty Buckley and Rachael York as the highly entertaining and dysfunctional society duo.   This is the show that Bay Street was born to perform!    I know tickets are going fast so if you're thinking of going to see it, get your tickets now! It's a great show with great performers and a really enjoyable way to spend your evening in Sag Harbor.  It would be an even better night if you call me first and make an offer on the actual Grey Gardens... not that it's currently for sale but it's the Hamptons and you never know!


I'm sorry today's blog was like a review section from Junior Highlights,,, but hey, it's mine and I write what I want to write!

YOU CANOLI IMAGINE THE CHANGE IN WAINSCOTT.... TAKE A PEEK! PLUS A TALE SO STUPID IT HAS TO BE TRUE!

Makeover Mangia!

If you've been through Wainscott lately,  you've probably noticed there's a whole lot of something going on at the former location of Georgica and Saracen restaurants.   The location is now the home of Osteria Salina and the inside has been given face lift that would make Cher green with envy!  Its been a much needed change for the 130 year old building that was more recently the home of ruckus night clubs catering to the hard partying "bottle and banquette" crowd.    Instead neighbors now have a traditional Sicilian restaurant in one of the most charming locations around.   In fact, if you ask me it looks like they spent a pretty penne to make it look good!  Sorry for the pun.

The Georgica Room with a view!   

The restaurant which was formally located on School Street in Bridgehampton has now been expanded by purveyor Tim Gaglio and his wife Cinzia (the chef) into a larger 225 seat venue overlooking Georgica Pond.   The menu will remain the same and feature old favorites like Charred Octopus, Polpette (amazing italian meatballs), Mezzi Rigitoni alla Siciliana, fresh seafood specials but with the addition of pizzas cooked in the brick oven that was a staple back when the restaurant was "Sapore di Mare."     If you don't remember back that far then you certainly don't know the reason Route 27 is so close to the site!?  Well I'll tell you, it's owed to two feuding brothers, one who designed highways for the state and the other who owned a house in Wainscott!

Classic design meets chic renovation!

Well enough about the location, the food which comes with a Sicilian pedigree (Cinzia comes from a long line of Italian restauranteurs) that goes all the way back to Sorra Italy has been earning raves from local celebs like Billy Joel, Alan Alda and Howard Stern to name a few.   In fact, I bet next door neighbor Ron Perlman will soon swing by for some Bucatini con Sarde ... the smells will get 'em and I heard he loves to walk everywhere!   There's no doubt it will be attracting the same crowd plus a few new ones with the expanded dining room.   Osteria Salina will open it's doors quietly this Thursday (5/21) night at 5pm and be open for business year round.   It's a great addition to the area and if you have any doubt they're aiming for a different crowd than the last establishment, stop by on Sunday's from 1 to 9pm when they'll be serving traditional Sophia Loren sized "family style" dinners.    If you want a reservation and my guess is your going to need them... check out the restaurant on OPENTABLE.COM  

As any real estate on the east end will tell you, dealing with Summer rentals is never easy.    This Friday will no doubt too be another hair raising experience for agents all over as tenants start to move into their seasonal rentals.  Yes, I'll soon be getting calls about defective toasters, noisy neighbors and even the occasional call asking for an address (write it down before you go out drinking).     Well it's a few
years later and now enough time has passed to tell a tale I from a few years ago when one tenant called me complaining about the wireless Internet.   I explained I wasn't an expert but I would swing by and take a look.    Apparently the code for the wifi wasn't working and I thought I'd give it a shot.    When I arrived I input the code and bing!  It worked!   What was the problem?   Well, when I gave them the code in the e mail I wrote "the password is case sensitive xyz."  Yes, you got it... they wrote "CASE SENSITIVE" when inputting the code.  By the way, English was their first language and it was a $200k+ seasonal rental!    Only in the Hamptons!

RECON FROM THE NEW HOME GOODS... SAG GYM IS OPEN AGAIN!

Lighting the Hamptons one lamp at a time!

Wainscott, the land of quarries and Speedway Stations has two new things to actually brag about.     The opening of the new Home Goods and the arrival of Osteria Salina at the former site of Georgica Restaurant and night club.  I'll have more on the restaurant tomorrow!

After lots of moaning and complaining, Home Goods has finally arrived at it's new location at 368 Montauk Highway. The newly constructed building drew some fire from local officials and some residents for it's hulking size and close proximity to the road.   But after all the fears and wolf crying, the Hamptons have survived the opening and from the reaction of the crowds it's a big improvement over what was an abandoned car dealership.   The cedar shake building which is lushly landscaped opened it's doors Sunday and it was packed to the rafters.

See I'm not kidding!

So why was it so crowded?   Well the discounted purveyor of all things domestic featured everything from Pratesi sheets to Baccrat and Waterford wine glasses at around 50% off of normal retail prices. They also have a good collection of linens and even some furniture and rugs.   Yes, the Hamptons may be considered a land of excess but that doesn't mean they don't like a good bargain here on the east end.     I really believe this will be good for all the business owners in the area since it will attract folks who normally wouldn't travel to Wainscott to shop.   The more the merrier and the more cash for everyone who buys lunch, doesn't find the right sofa, needs a new bed or has been wanting to get some new blinds!  

Meanwhile, after about a month the gym in Sag Harbor is open once again.   It's cleaner, lighter and has a slew of fancy new lockers.    While much of the old equipment has returned, the fresh coat of paint and what I guess was a really good cleaning has actually made a difference.    The gym has never looked better and the towels are new too!    If you don't believe me... see for yourselves!   By the way, don't get confused, the entrance has moved to the center of the building and there's a fancy new reception desk as well.

Sag Harbor Shuffles..... Plus Memorial Day - Benefit Update!

He former home of The Cuddy!

Big news in Sag Harbor, the site of the former Phao... The Cuddy... and whatever else... well it is now becoming a branded restaurant for Wolffer Wines.    Yes, I will miss The Cuddy's burgers! Early reports had the property opening soon as a tasting room but I've heard it's actually going to have a full blown menu and be a real restaurant.   It will have a "high profile" chef that has already signed on to get behind the grill... or the stove... or the deep fryer... whatever they'll have!    No word on weather they'll have a steady reserve of Wolffer Rose to last through the summer.   Remember last year, our rose cups runnith dry!  

Meanwhile, don't cry for Espresso Argentina... they're coming back to town.   Yes, the home of the best turkey focaccia sandwiches ever..anywhere... will be going into the space formerly occupied by Cigar Bar.... hopefully they'll get rid of stale beer and stale cigarette smell. The property was vacant for the past few seasons and is already undergoing renovations! So now, you can get your sandwich and have your Yummylicious too (you know the place that looks like a "Hello Kitty" brothel).  

Finally, one of the big benefits for years in the Hamptons was The Miracle House Memorial Day Kickoff at Bridgehampton Surf and Tennis Club.   It was wall to wall people every year and guests mingled with celebrities like Taylor Dane, Andy Cohen and Cheyenne Jackson.   Well the organization which housed severely ill adults in NYC sadly shuttered last year.   It was a loss for the community in NYC and created a hole in the all important Hamptons benefit schedule.   Well now comes word that the date and the location have been reserved by the  LGBT Network of Long Island.   Tickets will start at a affordable $250 for the cocktail party and are already available with additional information on the organizations website!

HIGHWAY DINER.... NEW LOOK... NEW OWNERS.... NEW ATTITUDE!

The best pot pie ever!

Ginormous salads!

So, a quick blog post is better than no blog post at all (at least according to me).   After being a sushi restaurant with financing by Wells Fargo, SHUKU the Highway Diner has reopened.   In the first restaurant opening of the season, they did it quietly but carried a big culinary stick!     While I don't have many of the details on the chefs and owners etc., I can tell you the staff seemed to be experienced and ready to take on the task of breaking the curse of the tank!     So what did we have?  A chicken pot pie which is quite possibly the best one I ever tasted!!!!   My of my dinner companions had freshly made pasta where they said they can "actually taste the difference."  I started with a Caesar salad that could have been a meal itself.    Also gone is the sterile cold interior that had diners sitting on edge as every new customer walked in the door.  Now, the old diner's food wasn't bad but I think the management and staff were in over their heads.  My favorite or least favorite experince I should say was when they ran out of bagels for breakfast at $10 a pop.  HELLO, THERE IS A BAGEL STORE TWO DOORS DOWN!    Anyway, for a first night the Highway Diner was a hit with me and everyone else at the table!   I think it has what it takes... good food ... good service....a full bar and good prices!

Home made pastas!

It's about time to have some good restaurants in the Hamptons.  Meanwhile, Nichol's is really shuttered for renovations and who knows if it will ever return.  Meanwhile, I'm doing a death watch on about 3 different restaurants on the east end.  More on that coming soon, I promise!

Mysterious Moves on 27 in East Hampton!

   According to their Facebook page, Highway diner in East Hampton has indeed changed hands and the lease was sold to an "very talented group."      There was a lot of speculation about what was to become of the most cursed location in the Hamptons since the Water Mill

The end of the Highway! 

shopping center!   By the way, any news on how West Elm is actually doing?    A few weeks ago, some eagle eyed readers noticed there was an ad for waiters and waitresses needed at the diner but nothing much happened.  The "Reopening in March" sign came and went and now it's gone and so is much of the restaurants interior.    Construction crews have been there morning till night and it looks like there are some training sessions going on for staff inside.    But here's where the news gets a little more depressing, apparently they are going to open as a new Japanese restaurant.... yes another Asian Restaurant!    This I think may be a nail in the coffin of Zokkon which was being operated by the former chef Suki Zuki, which in spite of some really good food, the place appears to be struggling.    I just hope for their sake Highway Diner isn't becoming a Nobu.
I drove by and asked one of the employees in the lot what's going on and they indeed confirmed a Japanese restaurant.   If you got the real inside scoop, please let me know.  Here's the posting on the Facebook page. 

Highway Diner and Bar

June 4

Highway Diner & Bar has been sold. Thanks to all of the guests who made the Highway a special place in our community. We will leave it to the new owners to announce their future plans but we can reveal they are a very talented group so you can expect great food in a beautiful space. Have a wonderful Summer.

UPDATE:  Someone pointed out that the know-it-alls at Curbed.com already got the inside scoop on this one!  Here's the LINK!

Now for the other mystery in East Hampton.   Why has there been an East Hampton Town Police car sitting there for the past 2 weeks.   There doesn't appear to be anybody in the car and it sits there empty day after day keeping a very watching eye on the Highway Diner and the green tank!   I'm only waiting for someone who is texting and driving to side swipe or hit it.   Is it me or is does this seem like an accident waiting to happen?  Does anyone know why it's there?

Advice for city folk buying in the Hamptons. Plus, the cheesiest prix fixe meal on the East End!

Now that it's summer, agents and brokers in the Hamptons are being inundated with folks who are being charmed by our little slice of heaven and want to buy before interest rates go too much higher.    Since most of our buyers are coming here from the city, much of our time is being spent educating them to the differences between, co-ops, condos and owning a home.     One of my bits of advice for those buying in the Hamptons is to use a local attorney.    It's very different out here.   In fact, I've had deals with city attorneys (not all) who really were at a loss for how things get done.   Recently I sat down with Bridgehampton attorney Adam Miller who has also experienced doing deals on both sides of the East River.    Take a look...

While I'm excited for the summer, I get the feeling there are some Hamptons establishments that just don't want my business anymore.  While I can't consider myself a local ( I was born in NJ and I have a heart felt appreciation for Superfund sites) I am definitely a year rounder.   That means I've been here for more than 5 years and yes this is my primary residence.   I'm here on Tuesday nights in January.     You know the time of year and kind of night when if there are more than 5 tables at a restaurant, it's a busy night.    It's a time when we all get along!

One of the things the local restaurants offer to get us out of the house as opposed to doing binge viewing on Netflix is to offer a nice reduced price menu when things are a little slower.     In the winter, this keeps waiters busy and cob webs off the chairs by offering good meals at a reasonable price.   I know it's the Hamptons, the season is short and the rents are high.   I get it, I really do.   So I'm never going to pay TGIFriday's prices anywhere on the east end at any time of year.    But when you offer a prix fixe please don't insult us by giving us a dish that even Kate Moss would say is a joke!   

Case in point the photo here!!   This meal was $35 dollars and included a small Caesar salad, this dish and a small desert.     Yes that is an actual full portion of chicken next to my fork with 2.. yes two whole roasted new potatoes.   It looks like a french cut throw away from a Swanson's TV dinner.   Now,  I'm not going to say the restaurant name, you can figure it out.    The choices out here are limited and I'm afraid to burn a bridge.   I only wished they liked me as much as I like them!    

One of the Biggest Health Threats to Hamptons Dogs... and a New Threat to My Waistline... SIENNA East Hampton!

In my book there are a few sayings or truth's that I believe to actually be true.   A few of the ones I believe are:  1: Let sleeping dogs lie especially if they're a Jack Russell/Beagle mix (my dog Russell).  2:  In real estate, every home owner thinks their house is "unique and special."  (Yes, I know the cherub grotto in the foyer was custom made!) 3: Never go to a restaurant on an opening night.   Well now, I can say I'm reexamining things now that rule number 3 has actually been proven wrong for a second time.  The first time was when the East Hampton Grill opened a few years ago.  They hit the ground running and are still going strong.  The more recent was last Saturday when friends of mine took me to the opening night of Sienna.    Located at the site of the former Lilly Pond/Phillipe's.  The new restaurant is run by the folks behind the successful "T Bar" on Manhattan's upper east side.

Sienna... a great first night.. and it can only get better!

Well it's apparent these guys know what they're doing.  Some of the reviews in Zagat's have said about T Bar that the food is "delicious," with a "pleasant and gracious crew."  Well it's pretty much the same thing here in the Hamptons at Sienna.  My table mates pretty much gave thumbs up to every dish including the shrimp cocktail, the Caesar salad (creamy but not too heavy), chopped salad, a perfectly done tuna (rare but not still swimming and delicious) and steak.    Not only that, the service was on the ball, while not perfect it was a solid B+ and better than most restaurants that have been open in the Hamptons for years.   It was the first night and the food came out on time, hot and with a smile!  It was the first night!!!  So you know me, I'm not like other publications that say nice things about everyone because they're hoping they advertise (Blue Parrot is good!?!? Really???? Rugosa??!  Enough said).   Although if they want to advertise  I'll do another good review.  I can be bought and cheaply.    Anyway, take my advice and go check out Sienna at 44 Three Mile Harbor Rd, East Hampton  631-604-6060.  I promise you won't be disappointed.  

Meantime, what is one of the biggest problems for dogs on the east end?   The answer may surprise you.   Recently I sat down with Dr. Barry Browning from Sag Harbor Veterinary Clinic (yes, I had to spell check veterinary because when I was a tv producer I got into trouble with veteran's groups once... enough said) and he filled me in.  

An Ode to Spring and some Food Fodder for the East End!

Well some good news for those who love a good steak or a great juicy burger.  Sag Harbor's venerable favorite Cromer's Meat Market is setting up shop in the Hamptons Market on Race Lane.   In case you're not aware, they also provide meats to more than a dozen restaurants on the East End.  So you know they're pretty good.   Signs in the market indicate it will be opening today (March 21st).     If you remember, there hasn't been a butcher there since before the market suffered from a fire and forced renovation about a year ago.   A nice ode to spring unless of course you're a cow!

Meanwhile, sometimes a name change is just a name change   The former Agave in Bridgehampton... which is not to be confused with the old Agave in Sag Harbor or the current Agave in Westhampton... has changed its name to Mercado.  According to their website, this is due to the constant confusion with the other said restaurants.  Now, I know and I have heard the criticism that this place is the worst thing to happen to Mexican food since The Blue Parrot but I disagree.   The food is actually pretty good.   I've gone in a few times and tried the fajitas, burritos, chips, guacamole, salads, margaritas and more.  All were pretty standard and actually better than any other Mexican restaurant (other than LaFondita) in the Hamptons.   The only thing that drove me to drink after my dinner was the fact the service was the equivalent of being water boarded.    But hey it's the most edible Mexican menu with eat in service in town.    I have a few friends who actually like La Superica in Sag Harbor, but I'll to reserve judgment for now and try again when they open for the season.


If you're a person who loves new places and things, you've more than likely visited Trip Advisor.  You know the place where every day folks let you know what they think of this hotel or that restaurant.   For example, if you want a good chuckle read the reviews on Blue Parrot.    Well I recently logged onto the site and I noticed something a little odd.  The "East End Eating Disorder Center" is apparently seeking reviews on the site. While, I'm not so sure if this is a good idea, I can assure you there will be no middle ground.  My guess is most of the reviews are either the portions are too large or in fact too small.  Now, I'm not making fun of eating disorders but you have to admit, this is weird.  Besides if people are eating too much it's just as easy to take them to Blue Parrot.

Speaking of weird, do you remember that WALK OF SHAME kit that Svedka Vodka produced a few summers ago?  Well with out going into detail, you can click here.  I'm sure the folks at this summer rental had these kits in abundance.    And you thought your summer renters were bad!

UPDATE: It looks like the Cromer's move is a few days off.   Look for the opening this weekend.

Something to chew on for Sag Harbor and East Hampton Rugby is in overtime

Bella!

Hi everyone, it feels good to be back.    I took a few months off (as I often do from this blog) and I promise I'll be more consistent this time (I promised that before too).  So much has been going on but if I seem a bit blurry eyed, it's mostly due to my puppy Bella.  Yes, I have a new dog since the passing of Boo.  But I have to say, that while she does look a lot like her older sister, she's her own girl.  She's full of spunk and quite the terror on my other dog poor Russell.  In fact, when we asked Russell what we should name her, he suggested Bu-jo (think Boo with Cujo).   So, if I'm a bit rambling here it's because of my need for sleep.   I've been doing too many 2 am bathroom breaks.  Here she is!  Yeah, it's actually easier when they're cute!

A new tenant!

Well you might have already heard but the "Paradise Cafe" in Sag Harbor shuttered it's doors a few months ago.   Apparently, negotiations to renew the lease went nowhere.    Luckily,  you can still enjoy Chef and owner Robert Durkin's cuisine at "Robert's"in Water Mill.   Well last night I ran into restaurateur Michael Gluckman who told me he's going into the space that was Paradise right in the heart of Sag Harbor.    While I'm disappointed to see Paradise go, I'm happy to know  there will be something good going in it's place.   Michael has always had solid restaurants that were reasonably priced with a great menu and good food.   I found his "Lodge" to be one East Hampton's best watering holes with a diverse and satisfying menu, he tells me he's hoping to do something similar here.     

In the meantime, I'm hoping Paradise returns to Sag Harbor soon, I miss the Bolognese pasta, the best I've ever had and the Roast Chicken with Rosemary was sublime... wait I can't say sublime, that sounds pretentious... It was AWESOME.   Better.   Anyway, maybe Paradise can go into the spot that was Phao in Sag Harbor,  because apparently twice wasn't the charm and according to sources, they're going the way of the 8-track tape.    

Soon to be a collectors item!

OK, enough talking about food.  I'm getting hungry and I have to work out first.   If I don't I won't be able to fit into my Ralph Lauren Rugby shirts, which will soon be collectors items.    Yep, it's true the Rugby brand will soon be no more.   I'm not sure why because the store in downtown Manhattan and the one in East Hampton were always packed.  But fear not lovers of the Earl of East Hampton (Ralph Lauren-he virtually owns EH  retail) my poorly placed sources have hinted that it will soon be a RL Home store.   I guess we'll have to wait and see. 

Finally, I hope I made up for a long, long, long absence from the blogosphere.   If I haven't here's one last bit of good advice, at STAPLES they're selling cases of Pelligrino water for $4 a case!  Yes, $4 a case.  It's an amazing deal.  

   

A fancy term for "garage sale" and Southampton landlords beware!!!

Google went to something called CHROME and my blog looked like garbage for over a month.  It was hard to read and I didn't have any enthusiasm for posting on something that looked like Coogi sweater.    So much has and is happening on the Hamptons so I'll try to get on top of it asap.

A new fancy term for getting rid of junk?

First issue I think we need to tackle in the Hamptons is what do we call it when you're unloading junk in front of your house?! We all see those signs all over the place advertising "estate sale" or "garage sale."    Well in East Hampton they have something entirely new and unconventional and it's apparently called a "YERD SALE."    I guess that's a fancy Hamptons way of announcing a "yard sale."  

Meanwhile, in Southampton town landlords beware!!  A few years ago they decided to require that landlord get a permit to rent their home.  Local Law No. 40 went into effect in the areas of the Town of Southampton back in 2008.    Well now some homeowners are being challenged in court by their tenants for partial or full rent refunds for various complaints from the pool heater doesn't get hot enough to the back yard had too much shade.   But guess what, the tenants are winning because the landlord didn't get a permit.  So if you're thinking about renting your house this summer in Southampton, make sure to get a permit and don't say we didn't warn you!     And if you think I'm kidding about tenants complaining about things like shade guess again, it's a true one!

The former Turtle Crossing

Finally, if you're depressed about the demise of Turtle Crossing in East Hampton take heart.   There's a a new BBQ place coming to town.   A big thank you to my friend at East Hampton Patch for the details. I was a big fan of the old Turtle Crossing before they got fancy.   My expectations for this new establishment will be high especially since it's being opened by the former executive chef and BBQ expert of the "Crossing"  Arthur Wolf and his wife Michelle.    

How to de-haunt your house... some restaurant obits.. and Bieberfever to hit the Hamptons?

I don't know what to say, I'm so annoyed at myself for neglecting my little blog. At one point I was getting about 300 to 400 hits a day but alas, I took a few weeks off due to a cold, exhaustion and creative drain. You don't think this blog just writes itself do you??! So how can I make it up to you? I'm not sure but here it goes.

Sad news... very sad news....one of East Hamptons favorite spots Turtle Crossing is no more! But more on that in a minute... also sad... La Fondita, the best Mexican food in the Hamptons will soon be closed for the season. What's worse is they won't be selling their amazing tortilla soup and tacos at Town Line BBQ this winter!! Two years ago it was great to go to town line and have your choice from either menu. I'm sad. I will say that Estia in Sag Harbor actually has some pretty good Mexican options on their menu if you're going into withdrawal. The tacos and the home made chips and guacamole could hold their own at any cantina in the city!

Now, Back to restaurants closing, according to their facebook page "Turtle Crossing" in East Hampton has shuttered their doors for good. Sad news! They've entered the zone of restaurants past along with ... here's a shocker... RUGOSA! What there wasn't a demand for "roast pheasant in plumb sauce” in the Hamptons!?" We all knew Rugosa's location there is a little jinxed or at least haunted. And speaking of...

So, this may be a day late and a dollar short but a website called www.creditsesame.com is offering some tips on how to keep your house from being haunted! What are some of their ideas? Nail a horseshoe over the front door! WHAT?!!! HAVE THESE PEOPLE EVER SEEN A ROADRUNNER CARTOON!? Horsehoes are deadly! How about a nice MEZEZUAH instead? Yep, that's one of their suggestions too. Along with painting the porch "Haint" blue, because it resembles water and ghosts are apparently afraid of water. Hmmmm... ok.

Also, make sure your stairs don't have a number that is divisible by 3! This is of course the Filipino tradition of "Oro, Platta, Mata." Of course we knew about that already. Divide by three? I'd be better at calculating 3% or 6% for that matter (realtor humor)! Anyway, if you want to read more... go the website and check it out and click in the blogs section. By the way, I hear Murph's in Sag Harbor is allegedly haunted. I don't think they need to paint the porch blue if they want to get rid of the ghouls in that place, they just need to raise the prices!!!

Finally, is it true or not? A broker friend of mine allegedy got a call from some guy who says he works for Justin

Bieber. Apparently the Biebster is looking to find a house in the Hamptons. Fashon trend alert, tupperware bowl cuts for everyone!!! Oh the humanity!

From the Boat to the Beach, the old JL East gets spruced up and ready for the summer!! Announcing the BEACH HOUSE!

It looks like they're working around the clock to get the former PRIME 103...JL East... Peconic Coast spot into shape for restaurateur Michael Gluckman's latest, "THE BEACH HOUSE." I'm told they're making it similar to their old "The Lodge" with a bit more fish and seafood thrown into

the mix. If you've never been inside the place, it's one of the best locations in the Hamptons. According to some, It's allegedly been mired in litigation and unable to change hands from the man known as Jean Luc (Ed Kleefeld). Don't you love that, I'm changing my name now too... call me Dash Riprock Fromage! It sounds kind of french and dashing!? Right? Anyway, earlier this year Gluckman unloaded the old Bamboo (Shiki) and started putting forth his efforts into the new location.

You might also remember Gluckman along with manager Rory Boothby ran a very successful afternoon tea dance at the Lodge. According to the latter, look for that to continue at the Beach House this summer. With an amazing outdoor patio and expansive bar space, it should be a bigger and more consistent crowd. Look for an opening sometime in the next 3 weeks.