By Hailey McGowin, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the fragility of our supply chain for necessities and luxuries was revealed and a larger portion of the population learned what some of us have known for ages: going local tastes, feels, smells, and is all around better. We are incredibly lucky out here; our agricultural history and vital fishery make the Hamptons a place where living off the land is possible. Nature and wide-open spaces don’t just lend themselves to relaxation, but also to production. From fresh food to arts, textiles, crafts, and everything in between, the Hamptons has a huge collection of farmers and creators.
Let’s start with our tables: a tablescape can create an ambiance for your guests to feel cherished and welcomed. Local farm stands, like Green Thumb in Watermill can help with what goes on your plate and what goes in your scape. Local Artist Diana Conklin artfully dries and paints floral arrangements that last all year round. You can find them lining the walls at the farm stand along with preserves, pickles, and a wide variety of gift items that are perfect stocking stuffers. They are open until mid-December, so there’s plenty of time to find all the things to dress your dinner, stuff your stockings, and celebrate light and love!
Peconic Bay Scallops, Clam Bellies, and Oysters are the delicacies courtesy of our beautiful local waterways. So whether you are scratching or dredging for them yourselves or looking for the best and freshest, the Hamptons has it. Cold weather means it’s oyster season, but really, the water is always colder here, so it’s always oyster season. To get your bushel of briney aphrodisiacs, hit up West Robbins Oysters, true Baymen with a salty style. When we aren’t futilely scalloping, we stop by at Cor Js in Hampton Bays, located at the base of Ponquogue bridge for fresh filets, tuna steaks, and wild caught salmon. Try their fish dips and cocktail sauces with local horseradish, and remember to not overcook it.
For home delivery of meats and dairy, I became a huge fan of Goodale Farms in Aquebogue. Just outside of Riverhead, they deliver to all of the Southfork once a week, their own milk, beef, pork, goat cheese, pickles, eggs, chicken, and goats milk. They also add in a good amount of seasonal produce and preserved fruits and veggies. Such great service from a fabulous group of farmers, I cannot speak highly enough of how well supplied we felt without ever having to go to a big chain store. One tip, have freezer space and change your orders regularly so as not to overstock.
For excellent desserts, check out Loaves and Fishes and explore the wonder and talent of Pastry Chef and Cook Book Co-Author Licia Householder. Her homemade ice cream, like pumpkin Praline, and Olive Oil Gelato are showstoppers in their own right. So, if you’re stuck in a slowdown on your way east, it’s a perfect pit stop to arrive at your destination ready to revel in Hamptons flavors. Just don’t forget the ice cream in the car!
One of my favorite stops to shop is Southampton Soap Company’s holiday fair. Deb Lucasik Oshaunessy always gathers the most talented artisans and crafters and opens her home, or porch, rather to shoppers. Her own fragrant soaps and bath bombs, hand woven scarves and sweaters, felt fedoras with flare, and some of my favorite potters, all come together to offer a list checking shopping experience. Keep your eyes peeled for her curated collection events. Make an appointment with her today to get a jump start on holiday cheer.
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