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If you’re a fan of culinary simplicity with a homey feel, you’ve heard of Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa. Her recipes and lifestyles embody the relaxed sophistication that many people associate with Long Island living. Garten, an East Hampton native, has spent much of her life exploring the island’s food scene and her background from the Hamptons deeply influenced her approach to food and entertaining, making her style rustic-chic with an emphasis on easy elegance.
Experience the East End like Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, by following this delightful itinerary inspired by her favorite local spots. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, this guide will help you live like Ina Garten!
Day 1: A Taste of the Hamptons
1770 House, East Hampton
Morning: Breakfast, Shop, and Stroll Start your day with a visit to Tate’s Bake Shop in Southampton. Pick up some fresh pastries for breakfast and some cookies for later. Afterward enjoy a leisurely stroll around Southampton before hopping in the car headed east. Make your way to Sagaponack to visit Loaves & Fishes Food Store. This gourmet shop is a treasure trove of high-quality ingredients. Channel your inner Ina as you browse their selection, and maybe pick up some special treats to take home. Don’t miss the chance to drive past Ina Garten’s East Hampton home, at 23 Buell Ln, East Hampton.
Midday: Scenic Exploration and Lunch Spend the midday exploring East Hampton’s scenic beauty. Visit local shops or take a relaxing beach walk.
Afternoon: Relax and Refresh After lunch, continue to explore East Hampton, unwind at a nearby café or park, or walk along the shore at Main Beach.
Evening: Dinner with Elegance Takeout or dine in the downstairs tavern of The 1770 House (as pictured). Ina Garten opts for the Tavern Meatloaf, a comforting and hearty choice that reflects the restaurant's renowned dinner offerings in this more casual setting in addition to the fine dining room. Another example of the casual yet refined dining that Garten loves can be found at The Palm at the Huntting Inn. Reservations are recommended to fully enjoy this elegant experience and be sure to try their crab cakes!
Day 2: Montauk and Beyond
Duryea's, Montauk
Morning: Seaside Brunch Drive out to Montauk and visit Duryea’s for a seaside brunch. Enjoy the Grilled Fish, a fresh and simple choice that embodies Garten’s philosophy of using local, high-quality ingredients and simple methods.
Midday: Explore Montauk Spend the rest of your morning exploring Montauk’s stunning coastal scenery. Visit the Montauk Lighthouse or sit on the beach and watch the waves at Long Island’s easternmost point.
Afternoon: A Culinary Experience Head back into the Hamptons for a late lunch or early dinner at the Bridgehampton Inn Restaurant. Try the Veal Ossobuco Ragu sided with mushrooms, a dish that reflects Garten’s love for hearty, comforting meals. On your drive in from Montauk, fulfil your Ina Garten farm stand dreams by checking out Amber Waves Farm in Amagansett, the perfect spot to pick up some fresh fruit, produce, or flowers. Speaking of flowers, once in Bridgehampton, the Bridgehampton Florist is a must-visit. If you are familiar with the Barefoot Contessa, you know this is a frequent stop for Ina when it comes to the perfect floral arrangement!
Evening: Unwind Conclude your East End adventure with a quiet evening and a glass of wine and maybe some of those Tate’s Bake Shop cookies, because remember, “from time to time, store-bought is just fine” – Ina Garten.
Whether you’re an LI local or a visitor, the Barefoot Contessa’s favorite spots and activities are sure to give you a taste of relaxed sophistication in the Hamptons and Montauk.
