North Fork, Long Island, has quietly but steadily earned its reputation as a burgeoning food destination, captivating the hearts and palates of discerning diners and food enthusiasts alike. Nestled amidst picturesque vineyards, serene farmlands, and breathtaking coastal vistas, North Fork offers a culinary journey.
Discovering the Best Places to Eat in North Fork, Long Island
In this gastronomic guide, we will explore the incredible variety of dining options this charming region offers. From world-class restaurants that celebrate locally sourced ingredients to quaint cafes serving artisanal pastries, North Fork caters to every imaginable taste bud and culinary craving.
Whether you’re a seafood aficionado seeking the freshest catches, a wine lover eager to pair exquisite vintages with delectable dishes, or an adventurous eater ready to embark on a global gastronomic journey, North Fork has something special in store for you.
So, fasten your seatbelts and embark on a culinary adventure through North Fork, where the flavors are as diverse as the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, you have a place at North Fork’s table. Join us as we savor the essence of this unique food destination, one delicious bite at a time.
Top North Fork Dining Destinations
When exploring the culinary landscape of North Fork, you’ll find an impressive array of top dining spots that beckon with their unique flavors and inviting atmospheres. These are the best restaurants in the region, each offering a distinctive culinary journey.
- The North Fork Table & Inn
- Cuisine: Modern American
- Located at 57225 Main Rd, Southold, NY 11971
- The North Fork Table & Inn is a pioneer of farm-to-table dining in North Fork. Don’t miss their renowned Roast Chicken for Two. For reservations, call (631) 765-0177.
- Famous Dishes: Roast Chicken for Two, Peconic Bay Scallops
- Hours: Dinner served Thursday through Monday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Sunday Brunch, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
- A Lure Chowder House & Oysteria
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Situated at 62300 Main Rd, Southold, NY 11971
- A Lure boasts a stunning waterfront setting and an exceptional raw bar. Try their Grand Shellfish Platter for a seafood feast. For reservations, call (631) 876-5300.
- Famous Dishes: Grand Shellfish Platter, Lobster Bisque
- Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Caci North Fork
- Cuisine: Italian
- Found at 56125 Main Rd, Southold, NY 11971
- Caci North Fork offers a taste of Italy in the heart of North Fork. The Ossobuco Milanese is a must-try. For reservations, call (631) 765-4383.
- Popular Dishes: Ossobuco Milanese, Pappardelle al Tartufo
- Hours: Open Wednesday through Monday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
- Love Lane Kitchen
- Cuisine: American, Breakfast, Brunch
- Located at 240 Love Ln, Mattituck, NY 11952
- Love Lane Kitchen is the go-to spot for a cozy breakfast or brunch. The Love Lane Omelette is a crowd-pleaser. For inquiries, call (631) 298-8989.
- Famous Dishes: Love Lane Omelette, French Toast
- Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
- The Halyard at Sound View Greenport
- Cuisine: New American
- Situated at 58775 County Rd 48, Greenport, NY 11944
- The Halyard offers picturesque views of Long Island Sound. Try their Sound View Burger with a side of truffle fries. For reservations, call (631) 477-0666.
- Famous Dishes: Sound View Burger, Truffle Fries
- Hours: Dinner served Wednesday through Sunday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
These top dining destinations in North Fork provide exceptional cuisine and memorable dining experiences. Be sure to make reservations, especially during peak dining hours, and consider visiting during sunset for a truly picturesque meal by the water.
Savoring Local Flavors – Farm-to-Table Dining
Farm-to-table dining in North Fork, Long Island, isn’t just a culinary trend; it’s a way of life. This region’s rich agricultural heritage and commitment to sustainable practices have created a vibrant farm-to-table dining scene that celebrates local flavors and supports the community. Here, we explore the restaurants that stand out for their dedication to locally sourced ingredients and sustainable cuisine.
- The Good Farm Delivery Café
- Cuisine: Farm-to-Table
- Located at 2245 Wickham Ave, Mattituck, NY 11952
- This charming café embodies the essence of farm-to-table dining. They source their ingredients directly from local farms, ensuring freshness and sustainability. Don’t miss their Farmhouse Salad and seasonal vegetable dishes. For inquiries, call (631) 901-5119.
- Famous Dishes: Farmhouse Salad, Vegetable Quiche
- Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
- The Farmhouse Kitchen
- Cuisine: Farm-to-Table
- Situated at 1445 Franklinville Rd, Laurel, NY 11948,
- The Farmhouse Kitchen prides itself on serving dishes made with ingredients from its own organic farm and neighboring producers. Try their Farmhouse Burger and experience the essence of local cuisine. For reservations, call (631) 298-0029.
- Famous Dishes: Farmhouse Burger, Seasonal Vegetable Plate
- Hours: Open Thursday through Monday, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
- The Square Knot
- Cuisine: New American
- Found at 32 Lumber Ln, Bridgehampton, NY 11932
- The Square Knot is committed to sourcing ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Their ever-changing menu features seasonal delights like North Fork Corn Soup. For reservations, call (631) 537-5700.
- Famous Dishes: North Fork Corn Soup, Pan-Seared Sea Bass
- Hours: Open daily from 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM.
These farm-to-table dining destinations in North Fork offer a culinary journey that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nurtures a deep connection to the region’s agriculture. For the freshest and most sustainable dining experience, consider visiting during the late spring to early fall when local harvests are in full swing. Savor the local flavors of North Fork with every bite.
Wine and Dine in Style – Wineries and Vineyard Dining
North Fork, Long Island, is celebrated for its picturesque vineyards and exceptional wines; it’s also a haven for those seeking a perfect marriage of wine and culinary delights. Let’s explore the enchanting winery and vineyard dining experiences that set North Fork apart as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.
- Bedell Cellars
- Cuisine: New American, Mediterranean
- Located at 36225 Main Rd, Cutchogue, NY 11935
- Bedell Cellars is renowned for its elegant tasting room and seasonal food offerings. Their Mediterranean-inspired cuisine complements their award-winning wines, creating a harmonious dining experience. Don’t miss their Farmhouse Board and Bedell Cabernet Franc. For reservations, call (631) 734-7537.
- Famous Dishes: Farmhouse Board, Mediterranean Flatbread
- Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Wölffer Estate Vineyard
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Situated at 139 Sagg Rd, Sagaponack, NY 11962
- Wölffer Estate Vineyard offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu amid breathtaking vineyard views. Their Rosé is an iconic sip, and the wine pairings with dishes like Grilled Octopus are exquisite. For reservations, call (631) 537-5106.
- Popular Dishes: Grilled Octopus, Lavender-Glazed Duck Breast
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Macari Vineyards
- Cuisine: New American
- Found at 150 Bergen Ave, Mattituck, NY 11952
- Macari Vineyards offers a farm-to-table dining experience set against the backdrop of their vineyards. Their commitment to biodynamic farming is reflected in dishes like the Biodynamic Greens Salad. For reservations, call (631) 298-0100.
- Popular Dishes: Biodynamic Greens Salad, Pan-Seared Scallops
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
These wineries and vineyard dining destinations in North Fork offer a unique opportunity to savor exceptional wines alongside culinary creations that are carefully crafted to complement the terroir. To make the most of your visit, consider going during the wine harvest season in late summer or early fall when the vineyards are at their most picturesque. Wine and dine in style while enjoying the beauty of North Fork’s wine country.
Here are four smaller wineries in North Fork, Long Island, that offer unique wine and dining experiences:
- Sherwood House Vineyards
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
- Located at 1291 Main Rd, Jamesport, NY 11947
- Sherwood House Vineyards offers a cozy and intimate setting. Their wines are paired with Mediterranean-inspired dishes like the Mediterranean Plate in a charming tasting room. For reservations, call (631) 779-2817.
- Popular Dishes: Mediterranean Plate, Charcuterie Board
- Hours: Open Thursday through Monday, 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
- Harbes Vineyard
- Cuisine: American
- Situated at 715 Sound Ave, Mattituck, NY 11952, Harbes Vineyard provides a family-friendly atmosphere and a casual dining experience. Enjoy their wines with classic American fare, including their Harvest Burger. For inquiries, call (631) 298-0700.
- Famous Dishes: Harvest Burger, Lobster Roll
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Lenz Winery
- Cuisine: American
- Found at 38355 Main Rd, Peconic, NY 11958, Lenz Winery offers a relaxed environment and a menu featuring American classics with a local twist. Their Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon pair perfectly with dishes like the Grilled Flat Iron Steak. For reservations, call (631) 734-6010.
- Famous Dishes: Grilled Flat Iron Steak, Lenz Winery Clam Chowder
- Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
- Kontokosta Winery
- Cuisine: New American
- What Makes it Stand Out: Located at 825 North Rd, Greenport, NY 11944, Kontokosta Winery offers stunning waterfront views and a refined dining experience. Their Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc are excellent choices with dishes like the Shrimp and Grits. For reservations, call (631) 477-6977.
- Famous Dishes: Shrimp and Grits, Duck Confit
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
These smaller wineries in North Fork add to the region’s charm by offering intimate and unique wine and dining experiences. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly atmosphere or a waterfront view, these wineries have something special to offer wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Cozy Cafés and Sweet Treats – Quaint Cafés and Bakeries
In the heart of North Fork, amidst the rolling vineyards and charming villages, you’ll discover a delightful café culture that beckons with its warm ambiance and delectable offerings. Let’s explore these charming cafés and bakeries that provide a comforting retreat for coffee aficionados, pastry enthusiasts, and those in search of a delightful breakfast or brunch.
- The Modern Snack Bar
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Located at 628 Main Rd, Aquebogue, NY 11931
- The Modern Snack Bar is a beloved institution known for its classic American comfort food. The retro diner-style setting is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, with dishes like the Farmer’s Omelette and famous Jumbo Fish Sandwich. For inquiries, call (631) 722-3655.
- Famous Dishes: Farmer’s Omelette, Jumbo Fish Sandwich
- Hours: Open Thursday through Monday, 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM.
- D’Latte Café
- Cuisine: Coffee, Pastries
- Found at 218 Main St, Greenport, NY 11944
- D’Latte Café is a hidden gem for coffee lovers and pastry enthusiasts. Their artisanal coffee and freshly baked pastries are the perfect companions for a leisurely morning or afternoon break. For inquiries, call (631) 477-6738.
- Popular Treats: Espresso, Croissants, Cannoli
- Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Blue Duck Bakery Café
- Cuisine: Bakery, Café
- Situated at 56275 Main Rd, Southold, NY 11971
- The Blue Duck Bakery Café is famous for its artisanal bread, pastries, and sandwiches. Their freshly baked goods, including the Chocolate Babka and Cranberry Walnut Bread, are beloved by locals and visitors alike. For inquiries, call (631) 629-4123.
- Popular Treats: Chocolate Babka, Almond Croissant
- Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
- The North Fork Roasting Co.
- Cuisine: Coffee, Café
- Located at 55795 Main Rd, Southold, NY 11971
- The North Fork Roasting Co. is a haven for coffee connoisseurs. They roast their beans on-site, ensuring the freshest brews. Pair your coffee with a house-made pastry, like the Raspberry Almond Croissant. For inquiries, call (631) 876-5450.
- Popular Treats: Raspberry Almond Croissant, Cold Brew Coffee
- Hours: Open daily from 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
- The Blue Inn Restaurant & Café
- Cuisine: American, Café
- Situated at 7850 Main Rd, East Marion, NY 11939
- The Blue Inn Restaurant & Café offers a cozy and picturesque setting. They serve breakfast and lunch in a relaxed atmosphere. Try their Breakfast Burrito and enjoy the view of Orient Harbor. For inquiries, call (631) 477-0006.
- Popular Dishes: Breakfast Burrito, Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
- Main Road Biscuit Co.
- Cuisine: Breakfast, Biscuits
- Found at 1601 Main Rd, Jamesport, NY 11947
- Main Road Biscuit Co. is a cozy breakfast spot known for its homemade biscuits and inventive breakfast sandwiches. The Jamesport Breakfast Biscuit is a local favorite. For inquiries, call (631) 779-3463.
- Popular Dishes: Jamesport Breakfast Biscuit, Bacon Egg & Cheese Biscuit
- Hours: Open Thursday through Monday, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
These cozy cafés and bakeries in North Fork offer not only delicious fare but also a welcoming atmosphere where you can savor a cup of coffee or indulge in sweet treats. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or simply a moment of relaxation, these spots have you covered.
North Fork Food Festivals
The North Fork of Long Island hosts several annual food festivals and events that showcase the region’s culinary offerings and celebrate its vibrant food and beverage scene. Here are some notable food festivals and events you should know about:
- North Fork Foodie Tour:
- Description: This self-guided tour takes place in September and allows visitors to explore local farms, vineyards, and food producers. Participants get the opportunity to meet the farmers and artisans who make the North Fork’s food scene so special.
- Website: North Fork Foodie Tour
- North Fork Crush Wine & Artisanal Food Festival:
- Description: Held in June, this festival celebrates the North Fork’s wineries and local artisanal food producers. Visitors can sample a wide range of wines and gourmet food products while enjoying live music and picturesque vineyard views.
- Website: North Fork Crush
- Long Island Winterfest – Live on the Vine:
- Description: This annual event takes place from February through March and features live music performances, wine tastings, and food offerings at various wineries and venues across the North Fork. It’s a great way to experience the region’s wine and music culture during the off-season.
- Website: Long Island Winterfest
- The North Fork TV Festival Culinary Arts Showcase:
- Description: As part of the North Fork TV Festival, this culinary showcase features food and beverage tastings from local restaurants, wineries, and breweries. It offers a unique opportunity to enjoy culinary creations while celebrating television content.
- Website: North Fork TV Festival
- Long Island Potato Festival:
- Description: Celebrated in August, this festival pays homage to the region’s agricultural heritage, particularly its potato farming history. Visitors can enjoy a variety of potato-based dishes, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
- Website: Long Island Potato Festival
These annual food festivals on the North Fork provide excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in the local food and beverage culture, sample regional specialties, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this culinary destination. Be sure to check the festival websites or local event listings for specific dates, ticket information, and any updates regarding the festivals.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and FAQs about eating on the North Fork of Long Island, along with their answers:
Q1: What is the North Fork known for in terms of cuisine? A1: North Fork is renowned for its farm-to-table dining scene, seafood, and wineries. You can expect to enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients, particularly from the region’s farms and waters.
Q2: Are there vegetarian and vegan dining options on the North Fork? A2: Yes, many restaurants on the North Fork offer vegetarian and vegan options. Farm-to-table establishments often have menus that cater to dietary preferences and restrictions.
Q3: What is the best time to visit North Fork for a dining experience? A3: The best time to visit North Fork for a dining experience depends on your preferences. Spring to fall is popular for outdoor dining and wine tastings, while winter can be quieter but cozy with many restaurants offering seasonal menus.
Q4: Are there kid-friendly dining options on the North Fork? A4: Yes, many restaurants on the North Fork are family-friendly and offer kid’s menus or adaptable options for children. Some places may also have outdoor seating, which can be enjoyable for families.
Q5: Are reservations necessary for popular restaurants on the North Fork? A5: Reservations are often recommended, especially for popular or upscale restaurants. During peak seasons and weekends, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance to secure your dining spot.
Q6: What is the typical attire for dining on the North Fork? A6: The dress code on the North Fork is generally casual. However, some upscale dining establishments may have a more formal dress code, so it’s a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand.
Q7: Can I bring my own wine to a restaurant in North Fork? A7: Some restaurants on the North Fork may allow you to bring your own wine, but it’s essential to call ahead and inquire about their corkage policy. Many wineries and vineyard restaurants have their own wine lists that complement their cuisine.
Q8: What are the must-try dishes and drinks on the North Fork? A8: Some must-try dishes include local seafood like Peconic Bay scallops and North Fork oysters. Also, don’t miss farm-fresh dishes and wine pairings at the winery restaurants. Try local wines, including Merlot, Chardonnay, and Rosé, as the North Fork is known for its vineyards.
Q9: Are there any food festivals or events on the North Fork? A9: Yes, the North Fork hosts various food and wine festivals throughout the year. The North Fork Foodie Tour, North Fork Crush Wine & Artisanal Food Festival, and the Long Island Potato Festival are a few examples of popular events.
Q10: Can I find gluten-free options at restaurants on the North Fork? A10: Many restaurants on the North Fork offer gluten-free menu items or can accommodate dietary restrictions. It’s advisable to inform the restaurant about your dietary preferences or allergies when making reservations or placing orders.