5 Best Mother's Day Activities in NYC and the Hamptons

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, and it's time to start thinking about how you want to celebrate the special woman in your life. If you're a resident of Manhattan or The Hamptons, you're in luck as we are rounding up some ideas at the best spots in each locale. There are plenty of activities to indulge in and gifts to give that will make this Mother's Day unforgettable. Here are the top 5 things to do for Mother's Day in NYC and The Hamptons, along with gift ideas that your mom is sure to love.

Top 5 Things to Do for Mother's Day in NYC and The Hamptons

Indulge in a Mother's Day Brunch

Brunch is. a great option to enjoy the many fabulous restaurants in New York and The Hamptons and ease into the day

Treat your mom to a delicious brunch in one of NYC or The Hamptons' most luxurious spots. A few noteworthy options include The Plaza Hotel's Palm Court, Lindens, and Balthazar in SoHo.

In The Hamptons, check out Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House for a brunch experience she'll never forget. Additionally, the annual Mother’s Day brunch at Claude’s at the Southampton Inn is not to be missed! We’ve also curated a list of new Hamptons restaurants that opened last summer that come highly recommended as well.

Pamper Her with a Spa Day

If your mom loves to be pampered, book her a day at one of NYC or The Hamptons' most renowned spas. Some top-notch options include The Four Seasons Spa in Downtown Manhattan, The Mandarin Oriental Spa in Columbus Circle, and Naturopathica in East Hampton. There, she can enjoy treatments like massages, facials, and more.

Gift Her a Bouquet of Flowers

No Mother's Day is complete without a bouquet of flowers. If you're in NYC, head to Ode à la Rose in the West Village for a stunning arrangement. In The Hamptons, check out Sag Harbor Florist or The Garden at Water Mill for some of the most beautiful bouquets on the East End.

Treat Her to a Special Dinner

Give your mom a night off from cooking and take her out for a fancy dinner. Some of options in NYC include Le Bernardin in Midtown, Eleven Madison Park in Flatiron, and Carbone in Greenwich Village. In The Hamptons, don't miss out on Tutto il Giorno or The 1770 House.

Take a Mother's Day Getaway

If you really want to make Mother's Day special, plan a weekend getaway to The Hamptons or upstate New York. Rent a luxurious Airbnb or book a room at one of The Hamptons' most luxurious hotels, like The Maidstone or The Baker House 1650. There, you can spend the weekend enjoying the beach, hiking, or simply relaxing.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

If you and your Mom are unable to spend quality time together - the ultimate gift - below are some elegant gift ideas centered around the Home and Lifestyle that she will love.

Shop the gallery below:

Inside the 2018 Hamptons Designer Showhouse

The 2018 Hamptons Designer Showhouse is underway, and we got an exclusive first look inside during the opening night Gala at the Bridgehampton home. Each year, the Showhouse allows designers to exhibit the latest in design trends all while benefiting the Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. This year’s home is presented by Traditional Home and was built by Barsalin Building and Design.

The home is located just past Channing Daughters Winery and nearby to Bridgehampton and Sag Harbor Villages. The 8,000 square foot home is finished on 3 levels and comprised of 7 beds and 7.5 baths. The home is situated on 2 acres with a gunite pool and tennis on the exterior. The design features signature Barsalin touches. From the moment you enter, you are greeted with magnificent scale thanks to the double-height foyer that extends fully to the Great Room where a 25’ wall of glass overlooks the backyard and pool. An Open floorplan is at the core of the home’s design with a grand kitchen that flows to a 3-sided glass breakfast room, to a Butler’s Pantry/Bar, as well as an oversized outdoor Dining Porch.

The home features beautiful materials throughout such as gray rift oak cabinetry in the kitchen and the most up-to-date electronic plumbing systems from Kohler in the Master Baths. The Showhouse designers have used this extraordinary canvas to exhibit the latest interior design trends from modern to nautical.

We’ve highlighted some of our favorite spaces throughout the home, but with so must to see and all the inspiration that can be found, we highly recommend a visit to the house!

Dining Room:

Design by Lisa Friedman Design who specializes in high-end residential interiors. She has transformed the space into a serene setting for any Hamptons Dining party with a neutral palette of greys.

Power Room:

Jackie Young for Baltimore Design Group

Jackie Young, lead designer and project manager for the last seven years, brings great energy and curiosity to her designs which is evident in the stunning powder room which features bright color and whimsical touches such as the lip art installation.

Butler’s Pantry:

Mark Addison

Author, designer, and entertaining expert Mark Addison designed the Butler’s Pantry with inspiration from his book Cocktail Chameleon. We think he succeeded! The space is a lively area to get any party started with is bright colors and luxurious details including Baccarat Glassware and luxe libations from Armand de Brignac and Louis XII. Need cocktail inspiration? Check out the art installation for some ideas!

Kitchen:

Designs by Fernando

The kitchen of this year’s showhouse is really a stunner, and is at the center of the first floor given its flow into many of the living areas of the home. Designs by Fernando prides themselves on the use of custom finishes including stains, cerused textures, white washing, bleaching, and high-gloss finishes to name a few. Their trademark design is evident in this beautiful kitchen with a prominence of white and unique finishes such as carbon fiber faucets.

Mother-in-law Suite:

IBB Design for CR Laine

The home offers a second, junior master, on the first floor where no attention to detail was spared. Shay Geyer has designed this space to be inviting with Hamptons touches like the color palette of blues and whites. The bath has a deep soaking tub, designer tiles, and a state-of-the-art electronic shower system from Kohler.

Additional Spaces:

Great Room by Lisa Mende Design for Wesley Hall

The Reading Lounge by Mart T Miller Interior Design

Pool Surround by Kim E Courtney Interiors & Design for Lloyd Flanders

General Information:

Open Daily Monday-Sunday until September 3rd

11am-5pm

Admission is $40

2148 Scuttle Hole Road, Bridgehampton

Guide: Celebrate Father's Day in NYC & The Hamptons

Father's Day is just around the corner on Sunday, June 17th so its time to start thinking about planning a special day for him, or, perhaps, a special gift. Father's Day does not have to mean another tie to add to his collection of hundreds. The Victoria Shtainer Team has curated a list of places to take Dad on his special day in the city and The Hamptons from a boat ride to a baseball game, we have rounded up some ideas to make his day special. 

via

Ride the Beast – Operated by Circle Line Cruises,  The Beast is a jet powered thrill-ride on the water. The Speedboat can cruise at up to 45mph – it is powered by twin jet engines after all. The Beast cruises down the Hudson River from Pier 83 to the Statue of Liberty.

Boat Departs Pier 83 at West 42nd Street every hour on the hour from 10AM-6PM. Tickets available online.

via

US Open – The 118th US Open is taking place through June 17th at the Shinnecock Golf Club in Southampton.  Ticket options range from a Gallery Ticket which provides grounds access to Shinnecock Hills to 1895 Club which gives ticket holders the ability to access the exclusive 1895 Club of Shinnecock Hills.

Tickets can be purchased online 

via

A Day in Coney Island – Head to one of the city’s most popular attractions in the Summer and enjoy a day at the beach, on the boardwalk, or at Luna Amusement Park. Be sure to make a stop at Nathan’s Famous Hot dogs – no trip to Coney Island is complete without it! Rides operate daily during the Summer season. Getting there is easy – simply hop on the D/Q/N or F train to Stillwell Avenue.

Yankees Game – The Yankees are playing at home on June 17th against the Tampa Bay Rays. What says Father’s Day like watching one of America’s favorite sports with him? It is a 12:05pm game.

via

Flashback Art Exhibition- The Hamptons is filled with art galleries, and checking out exhibitions is a great way to pass the afternoon. The White Room Gallery has the "Flashback" exhibition on through June 17th. This exhibition features iconic Portraits and Pop art from artists like Joss Parker, Seek One, David Morico, and Strosberg Mandel.

White Room Gallery: 2415 Main Street, Bridgehampton

via

Belgian Pretzels and Beer Class – Le Pain Quotidien is hosting a fun class that would make a great gift for Dad. During the Belgian Pretzel and Beer Class, he will learn how to roll, shape, and bake pretzels with a crispy exterior and doughy interior. After they are done baking, participants will enjoy the creations alongside a glass of Belgian Beer.

via

The Tasting House at Sparkling Pointe – Sparkling Pointe Vineyard is celebrating Father’s Day at their Tasting House in conjunction with The North Fork Shack. The Father’s Day event features a tasting of 3 sparkling wines paired with pulled pork sandwiches, pickled watermelon and shallot fries.

Booking can be made online - Sparkling Pointe Vineyard 39750 County Road 48, Southold, NY

Wishing a Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there!

-The Victoria Shtainer Team

Where to Dine in The Hamptons this Summer

The Summer 2018 season is officially here which means New Yorkers will be flocking to the East End to escape the city heat on the weekends. The restaurant scene in The Hamptons is similar to the city in that some stay season after season, some move to new locations, and others no longer make the cut of the discerning crowds. We have gathered up some of the best places to eat in the East End from classics to new spots, from Southampton to Montauk. 

Southampton

Maison Vivienne

via

Maison Vivienne is the newest opening in Southampton that is serving up French Provence cuisine by Michelin Star Chef Wolfgana Ban. The venue is comprised of indoor and outdoor seating, herb and vegetable gardens, a bar and lounge, and a small Inn that is comprised of 9 rooms with 2 suites. The Inn, situated in a 17th century Dutch Colonial building offers all the modern amenities guests would expect including access to room service from the restaurant.

Chef Ban is serving up fare that is a modern take on classic southern French cuisine included cote de bouef and roasted heritage chicken for two as well as a salad nicoise. The inside is not go unnoticed with its 20-foot high cathedral ceilings and wine cellar which holds over 2,000 bottles.

Tutto Il Giorno  

via

This Southampton restaurant (also located in TriBeCa in the city) is run by Gabby Karan, daughter of designer Donna Karan. She brings her chic décor to the interior and serves up southern Italian dishes including lamb loin carpaccio and rigatoni with sweet and hot sausage. The back patio, filled with umbrellas, is a great place to hang out and becomes a social hub in the summer. The restaurant has been drawing celebrity clientele season after season. 

Sant Ambroeus

via

The city favorite is also a favorite on the East End offering both indoor and outdooring seating in the heart of Southampton. Sant Ambroeus serves northern Italian cuisine thanks to its Milanese roots. In addition to lunch and dinner, it is a great spot to grab a proper coffee and conversation.

East Hampton

 Moby’s

via

The popular East Hampton scene, which lost its space to EMP Summer House last season, has found a new space to call home. The partners have signed a 2-year lease at the East Hampton Point space at 295 Three Mile Harbor Hog Creek Road. Diners can expect a menu similar to the old Moby’s which served everything from brick oven pizzas to seafood dishes with a few additions. Given the new waterfront spot, we expect an elevated take on the cuisine. The new location is sure to offer great sunsets and views and will also allow guests to arrive via boat.

EMP Summer House

via

Last year, the EMP crew took over the longstanding Moby’s space and created quite the buzz with its beachy pop-up. Reservations were only made available to American Express Platinum card holders and some card members even received access to the restaurants brand new BMW 7 series sedans.

The EMP crew will be returning for a second year, serving up the likes of flatbreads, bouillabaisse, and family style dinners such as DIY Tacos or a Lobster Boil. The backyard with games such as corn hole and ping pong remains.

Sag Harbor

Beacon

via

This summertime only restaurant located on the water offers the perfect combination – good food and great views. Guests enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere with the deck being the perfect place to grab a cocktail. Beacon is famous for its fish dishes with this season’s menu including items such as halibut baked in parchment paper with sun dried tomatoes, lobster rigatoni, and oven roasted chicken. 

Le Bilboquet

via

The Sag Harbor outpost of the Upper East Side gathering spot will be back for another season. The Sag Harbor location is larger than the one in the city you may be familiar with, but be warned that they run a strict door policy. The menu includes all the crowd favorites including the Cajun Chicken. We also recommend grabbing a drink at the bar to enjoy the scene.

Dopo La Spiaggia

via

After splitting with Gabby Karan 2 years ago, Chef Maurizio Marfoglia kept the original space of Tutto Il Giorno in Sag Harbor and rebranded it as Doppo La Spiaggia which means “After the Beach.” His restaurant remains a go-to spot and still serves of favorites such as Chicken Under the Brick and homemade pastas including squid ink tagliotini. Menu items include a northern Italian influence such as the seafood stew as Marfoglia hails from Lake Como.

Montauk

Duryea’s

via

Duryea’s Lobster Deck has been a Montauk staple for years, however, the restaurant received a facelift in 2016 when billionaire Marc Rowan took over. The waterside location affords it some of the most picturesque views and scenery in perhaps all of The Hamptons. Most dishes are served family-style including the full clambake, lobster cobb salad, and market fish. Of course, the Duryea’s lobster roll is a must try!

Why You Should Start Looking for your Summer Rental in The Hamptons Now

Thinking about renting a house in The Hamptons this summer? Now may be a good time to begin your search, especially for the 2018 Summer Season. It may seem early, however, it is never too early to start scouting out properties and negotiating with owners to ensure you get the house you want for the summer. Remember, you will have the house for the summer so spend the time and effort to ensure you get what you want!

The Summer 2018 Hamptons Rental season is already off to a quick start thanks to the U.S. Open Golf tournament coming to the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in June. This event is expected to draw a sizeable crowd and has already resulted in inquiries for rentals on the East End. Additionally, because some owners are now listing properties that they might not have otherwise given the opportunity, now is the optimal time as it relates to inventory selection.

We are expecting the number of transactions to be higher for the 2018 season as compared to 2017 because of a change to the Rental Permit Law enacted by the Town of Southampton. The law was revised to allow rentals shorter than the previous 2-week minimum. There is now a waiver for special occasions and large events which can put a squeeze on the limited hotel inventory in the area. With that said, wealthy individuals may turn to renting a home for their stay during something like that U.S. Open rather then turning to a hotel.

Additionally, we have talked a lot about the changes to the tax code and how it could impact real estate markets. We believe that the tax changes will impact the Hamptons Rental Market by increasing the size of prospective renters looking for property. Most people have now had an opportunity to see how the changes impacted their paychecks and have worked with their tax advisors to forecast their 2018 tax lability under the new guidelines. People are feeling wealthier and, generally, increased wealth leads to people being more likely to and willing to spend money.

Get ahead of the curve and begin your search for a summer rental in the East End now. Inventory is better earlier in the season as compared to later in the season (May/June).

Things to Consider When Looking for a Summer Rental:

• Allow yourself time to find a rental and carefully review all the stipulations, etc. put in place by the land lord

• Questions to consider: do they allow pets? are utilities included? are you, as the tenant, responsible for paying for pool maintenance, gardener, etc.? what is the security deposit? 

• Owner may be more likely to negotiate the rate for the summer if you commit to locking in early (now).

• A good summer rental can make or break the summer, so be sure to do your research before committing

• Read the description thoroughly as well as the amenities. Try using services like GoogleEarth to scope out the property to see if it is located near any 'annoyances' (remember you will be spending the summer there!)

Opportunity to Rent in Southampton

82 Pheasant Close North, Southampton

First time offered on the rental market, this brand new magnificent home with 22' ceilings boasts 9 bedrooms, 8.5 baths and has all one could wish for in a summer retreat. The lower level has a 15 seat movie theatre, wine cellar, arcade, full gym, sauna and steam rooms and 2 bedrooms with 3 baths. Sited behind electric gates with a heated edgeless infinity saltwater pool, asphalt surface tennis court and hot tub, this location is prime as it is close to village shops and ocean beaches. Call for details as they are too numerous to mention. This will not last - contact us below for your private showing today!

Rental Terms:

June: $150,000

July: $350,000

42nd Year of The Hampton Classic Coming This Sunday

via

End your summer on a high note with the 42nd Hampton Classic Horseshow returning to Bridgehampton this Sunday. The Hampton Classic is one of the "it" events on the Hamptons circuit. The show, well into its third decade, is well respected from locals and equestrian-lovers alike. This year's show will be help from August 27 - September 3.

The Classic is often regarded as one of the most prestigious outdoor equestrian events held in the country. This year's show marks the 42nd edition of the Classic. The show features competition from every level, from young children in leadline classes to Olympic, World, and World Cup Champions.

via

The Classic became highly distinguished in 2009 when it became only the second horse show ever to receive the designation of Heritage Competition by the United States Equestrian Federation. Only those competitions that have been around for 25 or more years are eligible to receive this designation.

While the competition in the show can certainly be stiff as some of the best in the world come to compete, there is fun to be had on the grounds as well. The 60-acre Hampton Classic show grounds is also a destination for dining and shopping as the event is known for its celebrity sightings and high-end boutiques that host pop-up shops on the lawn. This year’s Boutique Garden is expected to have more than 80 vendors.

via

Also returning for the second year will be "Jump for Charity" where 10 rider captains will be paired with 10 selected charities. Custom hats have been generated for each charity. If all hats sell, $30,000 will be raised which will be allocated to the top three charities in terms of performance of their captains!

Opening Day, August 27th, will feature competition in six rings beginning at 8am. The highlight of the day will be the $30,000 Boar’s Head Jumper Challenge in the famed arena. This will be an arena of 1.40 meter jumps against the clock.

If you are in the East End this weekend, attending the Hampton Classic is a must! Limited tables for purchase were available under the tent at last check. Additionally, General Admission is $10/person with children under 6 free.

Your Memorial Day Weekend Guide

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us, and we are going to be kicking off the unofficial start to the summer season. Whether you stay in the city or spend your summers out east, The Victoria Shtainer Team has curated a list of a few of our favorite happenings in NYC and the Hamptons. From art festivals to the must-try new restaurants in The Hamptons, this list will keep you busy during the long weekend.  

While we cannot wait to kick off the summer season, we also must take a moment to pause and remember the meaning of the Memorial Day Holiday. We would like to thank all of those that serve in the US Armed Forces and continue to protect our country every day. Salute our troops and celebrate the start to summer!

 

New York

 Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit:

The bi-annual art fair is returning to the streets of Greenwich village. Browse artwork on display by original artists from New York, the nation, and globally. The fair includes paintings, sculpture, and eco-friendly art and unique pieces that are available for purchase at substantially less than gallery prices.

The exhibit is free admission and will be running May 27-39 as well as June 3-4, 12pm-6pm. University Place beginning at East 13th down the east side of Washington Square Park to West 3rd Street.

 Brooklyn’s King County Memorial Day Parade:

via

There are quite a few different Memorial Day parades throughout the city, however, the Kings County Memorial Day Parade in Bay Ridge is the most iconic. 2017 marks the 150th year of the parade. Following the ceremony there will be a 21-gun salute by the U.S. Army at Fort Hamilton. The NYPD and FDNY participate in the march, and antique fire trucks and autos are on display. 

The parade kicks off at 11am on Monday, May 30th at 78th St and Third Avenue in Bay Ridge. Take the R train to 77th St Bay Ridge Avenue or 86th St.

Arlo Hotel Weekend BBQ:

A post shared by Arlo Hotels (@arlohotels) on Mar 1, 2017 at 2:06pm PST

A great option if you are staying in the city for the weekend. Head to Arlo SoHo for one of the best open bar BBQ parties around town. The rooftop event will have traditional MDW fare such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and tacos complimented by panoramic city views. A DJ and entertainment will round out the event.

Saturday May 27th, 2-5pm. Tickets purchased in advance for $65. 231 Hudson Street

 Lower East Side Festival of the Arts:

 The Lower East Side is known to be a culturally diverse and vibrant neighborhood of the city, making it a great setting to celebrate performing art. Over 100 performers from poets, puppeteers, and filmmakers will take over the Theater for the New City for the long weekend. Saturday’s event also features a streetfair with food and art vendors.

Free Admission. May 26-28 with Saturday’s festivities held outdoos

 Rooftop Cocktails at 1 Hotel:

via

Enjoy the long weekend with a relaxing cocktail while taking in wonderful views of the Manhattan skyline. The chic 1 Hotel at Brooklyn Bridge rooftop offers a great vantage point to view the city. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, a plunge pool, or fire pits on a chilly evening.

60 Furman Street, Brooklyn

The Hamptons

 Montauk Show on the Green:

The 9th Annual Memorial Day Weekend on the Montauk Green is coming to Montauk Village Green. Artisans from throughout New York and the country will be showcasing original creations including paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and ceramics. Admission to the show is free and it will be running Friday 12-6pm and Saturday and Sunday 10-6pm.

Free Admission. 742 Montauk Highway, Montauk

Wolffer Estate Vineyards:

The annual summer events return to the Sagaponack vineyard starting the Friday of Memorial Day weekend.  You will not want to miss summer 2017's first installment of Sunset Fridays and Saturdays at the wine stand with music by Clinton Curtis Friday evening and Mamalee Rose Saturday evening. Enjoy wine by the glass or bottle as well as cheese and charcuterie plates. 

Yoga in the vines will be returning to Wolffer beginning Thursday, May 25th. Some of the Hamptons' best yoga instructors will be conducting classes right in the vineyard. Drop in classes are $25 with packages available for purchase as well.

139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack

Le Bilboquet Sag Harbor:

The popular French eatery on East 60th Street in Manhattan is heading out East. The restaurant, of which Ronald Perelman is a partner, is taking over a prime spot on the docks in Sag Harbor. If the crowd at the Manhattan location is any indication, we expect this is going to be a popular spot! The restaurant is slated to have a crudo bar and feature its signature Cajun chicken dish.

1 Long Wharf, Sag Harbor

Eleven Madison Park Summer House:

The former Moby’s space in East Hampton will be transformed into the renowned 11 Madison Park pop-up for the summer. The restaurant is closing its Manhattan location for the summer to renovate and moving operations out East.

The opening has been the talk of the town as the 3-star Michelin restaurant is making reservations exclusively for American Express cardmembers. The East Hampton location is expected to be more casual than its city counterpart and feature an a la carte menu, indoor dining room, tented area, and picnic tables and games in the backyard. Note: the tent and backyard will be on walk-in basis only.

341 Pantigo Road, East Hampton

Calissa:

via

A taste of Mykonos is coming to Water Mill starting Memorial Day weekend. The team of Il Cantinori in partnership with executive chef Dominic Rice (formerly at Narcissa and Jean-George) will be leading Calissa. Rice will be using Long Island seafood to serve up dishes salt-baked striped bass and lobster bucatini.

1020 Montauk Highway, Water Mill

What to do for Labor Day in New York & The Hamptons

If you are like us, you are probably in disbelief that summer is almost over and it is time to think about what to do for Labor Day to send summer out with a bang. It seems like only moments ago we were planning to kick off summer with Memorial Day celebrations. 

Check out top picks of what to do in New York City and The Hamptons for Labor Day. From art shows to opera screening, The Victoria Shtainer Team has curated a selection that is sure to keep you busy before you fire up your barbecue for the last time and say farewell to Summer 2016. 

U.S. Open: 

via

The U.S. Open is one of the most, if not the most, popular sporting events in New York. The event draws a celebrity crowd so do not be surprised if you spot one. Enjoy food trucks and live music on the grounds, as well as shops including Ralph Lauren who offers their special U.S. Open collection. There is a Heineken Café and Moet & Chandon Bar onsite for enjoyment. 

The tournament will run through September 11th with Ticketmaster being the best bet to snatch up tickets. Prices starting around $68.

Riis Park Beach Bazaar:

via

The Riis Park Beach Bazaar has been going on all summer long, and has brought food, drinks, shopping, and entertainment to one of New York's best beaches. Catch the final series of of the Get Summered DJ Series on September 5th.  Food and drinks are available at concession stand Bay 9 East as well as pop-up food trucks like Coney Shack, Lizzmonade, and Trop Pops. What better way to wave goodbye to summer than a day on the beach?

16702 Rockaway Beach Boulevard, Queens

Met Opera Summer HD Series:

via

The summer series at the Met Opera will be returning for its eighth season this year. Spectators can enjoy performances presented from the acclaimed "Live in HD" series outdoor on Lincoln Center Plaza. Showings begin at 8pm, but plan on getting there much earlier if you want to grab a seat for the screening. Screenings will run in the evening through September 5th. 

Looking for a bite pre-screening? Try Bar Boulud directly across from the plaza for a relaxing glass of wine and charcuterie. 

Lincoln Center Plaza. Admission: Free

Hampton Classic Horse Show:

via

The Hampton Classic is one of the "it" events on the Hamptons circuit. The show, well into its third decade, is well respected from locals and equestrian-lovers alike. Because of its stature, the Hampton Classic has recevied the status of "Heritage Competition" by the United States Equestrian Federation, making it only the second horse show ever to receive this designation. The event will be running through September 4th.

240 Snake Hollow Road, Bridgehampton. General Admission: $10/person. Under 6, free.

Westhampton Beach Festival of The Arts:

The Great Lawn of Westhampton Beach will once again be transformed into an outdoor arts and crafts gallery. The event, in its 8th year, will have an array of handmade pieces including paintings, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and mixed-media on display. Pieces will be available for purchase, so you might just find that perfect piece you have been looking for to fill a blank space on your wall! The festival will be held September 3-4th. 

After browsing through the art, try Dockers located right along the water for a relaxing meal.

Great Lawn- 35 Main Street, Westhampton Beach. Free admission and parking.

Holiday House Hamptons by Hamptons Cottages & Gardens:

The Hamptons is known for its beautiful homes and estates, and this year's holiday house is a must-see. More than 20 designers transformed the 13,000 square-foot home into a showcase of the latest interior design trends and lifestyle concepts. It serves as a great source of inspiration! If you visit on a sunny day, revel in the rays by the stunning outdoor pool that features water views. Ticket sales benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The home will be open Thursday-Sunday until September 4th.

100 Crescent Avenue, Watermill. Admission: $35.

The Best Lobster Rolls in NYC & The Hamptons

Does the summer season have you craving a delicious lobster roll, but you aren't sure where to look? With each bite, the quintessentially New England summer staple has become a means to escape from the hot and steamy city to the calm and serene water's edge of Maine. The delectable sandwich is now quite popular outside of New England, with many places in the city and The Hamptons vying for the "Best Lobster Roll" title. 

The Victoria Shtainer Team has curated a list of spots both in New York and The Hamptons that often top the lists of best lobsters. In no particular order, we present you some of our favorites. 

We would love to hear- what is your favorite spot to grab a lobster roll? Share with us in the comments below!

Lobster Roll in New York City

Luke's Lobster:

via Luke's Lobster

Luke Holden, Maine native and former investment banker, started his business in 2009 with the first outpost of Luke's Lobster in the East Village. They now have a presence in 8 states. Mr. Holden controls every aspect of the supply chain, resulting in fresh seafood that is sustainably sourced.

The roll is made with knuckle and claw meat only, taking 3.2 lobsters per roll.  Meat is mixed with a little mayo, proprietary seasoning with hints of celery and oregano, and lemon butter on a classic, New England-style roll.  

PeaRLS OYSTER BAR:

via Bite of the Best

Pearl Oyster Bar opened in 1997 with Rebecca Charles making the first Manhattan lobster roll here, rendering her eatery one of the first places to really be inspired by New England summers and fresh seafood in the city. 

The roll is simple, consisting of lobster salad with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chive atop a grilled bun with butter..

grand banks:

photo: our own

On Pier 25, situated on the historic schooner, Sherman Zwicker, Grand Banks offers a setting that feels as if you are transported away from the city. The floating vessel is the perfect spot to enjoy the summer indulgence of lobster roll. 

Executive chef Kerry Heffernan crafts his version of the sandwich with Maine lobster with fennel, lemon, dulse emulsion, and boat-made pickles on a toasted bun. The side of
"New Bay" spiced chips is worth noting as well. 

This is one our team's favorite spots!

The Mermaid inn:

via Snack Fixation

The Mermaid Inn is also a long standing veteran in offering up great seafood. Many flock here for oysters, but Mermaid Inn serves up a great lobster roll as well. 

Another simple rendition, their version consists of a New England-style bun with lots of lobster and mayo. (We have heard rumors that they were serving it on a brioche bun at one point). The side of Old Bay fries is also a crowd pleaser. 

Lobster Roll in The Hamptons:

Dock House:

via Food Spotting

Located in Sag Harbor's Long Wharf, Dock House is reminiscent of an old fisherman's shack, but do not let the exterior fool you. The restaurant offers up award-winning dishes and chowders as well as a great lobster roll. 

Their approach to the roll is one of simplicity, served on a toasted bun with the fresh lobster meat standing out. With the picturesque setting on Sag Harbor, what's not to love about lobster roll and views of beautiful yachts?

Seafood Shop:

via Dan's Papers

Started by two local schoolteachers as a summer project, the shop is a great go-to for grab-n-go rolls to take to the beach with its Wainscott location.

The roll is served up on a hot dog bun with celery, red onion, and hints of garlic. 

While you are picking up your lobster rolls, you can grab other meats and produce for an evening grill out, all in one place. 

Lunch:

via Lobster Roll Instagram

Would the list be complete without the restaurant that is named after the dish itself? Started 49 years ago, the highly instagrammed outpost will ask if you want your salad served hot or cold. Lunch is often credited with creating the cold lobster salad as we know it today.

The cold roll is a mayonnaise-based salad with celery on a toasted, buttered bun. The hot roll, on the other hand, consists of steamed, whole pieces of lobster served on the side of a toasted bun. Both variations come with a side of fries.

The relaxed and casual atmosphere make for an easy seaside afternoon.

Clam Bar:

via Pinterest

Clam Bar is located on the Napeague stretch of the highway, on the way to Montauk. They receive their seafood fresh each morning, delivered from local fishermen.

The Clam Bar takes a "sometimes simple is better" approach to their roll. It is crafted from three ingredients: claw & knuckle meat, celery, and Hellmann's mayo on a toasted bun. 

What better way to spend the summer than with some sun and a good lobster roll. Imagine lounging by the pool at our listing at 1155 Noypac Path with your lobster roll in hand! Please contact us if you are interested in viewing the property.

1155 Noyac Path, Water Mill. Currently offered at $4,995,000.

2016 Coastal Living Showhouse Comes to The Hamptons

Every year, Coastal Living presents a beautiful showhouse that is the hallmark of design and architecture in a town of their choosing. This year, and for the first time ever, the Coastal Living showhouse has come to The Hamptons!

The 2016 Coastal Living showhouse is situated in Bridgehampton on Brick Kiln Road. This year's project is the collaboration between Fred Throo architects, Touch of Grey Builders, and interior designer Meg Braff. The team has worked to design the quintessential coastal home with style inspired by the sea and bold colors throughout. The home is comprised of 6,800 square feet with 7 beds and 8.5 baths.

If you are visiting The Hamptons, we highly recommend a visit to the 2016 showhouse. It is a great place for interior design inspiration and ideas. Not only does the showhouse inspire, but it also benefits the Conscience Point Shellfish Hatchery, a non-profit that is dedicated to sustainable aquaculture and ecological stewardship of Southampton town water.

Showhouse Hours:
Thursday-Sunday: 10am-5pm
June 11-September 4th
272 Brick Kiln Road, Bridgehampton

You can purchase tickets online at Coastal Living.

The Victoria Shtainer Team Presents The Hamptons Collection

We are pleased to offer a collection of homes throughout the East End, including new construction. If you are visiting the showhouse and interested in a property, please contact us for an appointment.