Hampton Style - June 27, 2008 - TownSpotlight

Widely referred to as "The End" by locals, it turns out that in Montauk, the end is only the beginning. Here, our exhaustive look at the who, what, where and when

From its new location on the Napeague Stretch, Espo's Surf and Sport, 2101 Montauk Hwy., Amagansett, 631-267-SURF, gives off a fresh vibe that's echoed in its beach gear. Sandals, swimsuits and sunglasses are all tucked within its nooks, while surfboards, Nieve bikes, kayaks and beach chairs are displayed in the sunny gravel parking lot out front. Hand-picked clothing and jewelry from around the world can be found at Aimee's Closet and Additions, 725C Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-7022, which resembles an oversized closet, but has secret treasures like a sterling-silver frog bracelet with a large turquoise stone from Mexico. Originally hailing from New York City, Screaming Mimi's, 662 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-1631, brings quirky classics east this summer in its newly opened outpost. The astro-turfed store has high-end vintage dresses, bathing suits, bags, sandals, hats and chunky bangles, though it's best known for its cheeky collection of shades from the '70s and '80s.

Calypso, 99 The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-4999, features Christiane Celle's beach-chic designs inspired by her trips to such exotic locations as India and Morocco, and Tracy Feith outfits the stylish surfer at The Beach Shop, located inside The Surf Lodge 183 Edgemere St., Montauk, 631-238-5190. The Montauk Beach Store, 771 Main St., Montauk, 631-668-4499, is owned by the inventor of Kai-Kai sandals. Their natural rubber soles mold to your feet, making these thongs a summer staple. Snuggle up in a cozy Montauk sweatshirt from the Montauk Clothing Co., 787 Main St., Montauk, 631-668-1281, which offers an extensive collection of souvenir clothing, swimwear and hats for the entire family. Haven Home, 83 South Elmwood Ave., Montauk, 631 668-4844, has women's fashion, fantastic furniture, and gift ideas. Or shop outside the box at Livable Home, 6 South Elmwood Ave., Montauk, 631-238-5556, for unusual finds in this eclectic boutique.

Wearing a piece of shark-tooth jewelry from Wave Wear, 33 The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-3888, is by far the safest way to be near those choppers. Clothing, shoes, jewelry and other accessories for men, women and children are on sale at Next Door, 95 The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-1183. Lined with clothing and authentic surf décor, Sunset Surf Shack, 76 South Elmwood Ave., 631-668-2495, has a wide range of offerings and also provides surf lessons also. Whether you're surfing the sea or the street, Plaza Surf N' Sports, 716 Main Street, Montauk, 631-668-9300, has the equipment, apparel and accessories to guarantee a smooth ride. Get the latest surf update, gear and lessons from Montauk's centrally located Air and Speed Surf Shop, 795 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-0356. Not only does Purl by the Sea, 34 South Erie Ave., Montauk, 631-668-7875, carry knitting supplies, but it also offers lessons to novice hand-knitters and needle-pointers. Willow, 41 The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-0772, is a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted whimsical gifts and collectibles. A wide variety of furnishings, souvenirs and accessories is available at Homeport, Gosman's Dock, West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-3174.

Newly renovated after 100 years, Second House Tavern, 161 Second House Rd., Montauk, 631-668-2877, is one of Montauk's oldest restaurants. Crowds swarm outside Cyril's Fish House, 2167 Montauk Hwy., Amagansett, 631-267-7993, come sundown. The roadside bar offers respite for surfers, tourists and both leather- and lycra-sporting bikers. Be warned: the dark rum floater of their Bailey's Banana Colada, more fondly referred to as the "BBC," will get you hook, line and sinker. Enjoy a fresh lobster roll from Duryea's, 65 Tuthill Rd., Montauk, 631-688-2410, a rustic seaside gem with a BYOB policy and casual outdoor seating. No table service is available, but the bay views are lovely, low-key and charming. Gurney's Inn houses two dynamic restaurants: the casual Caffe Monte, 290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-2345, which offers sandwiches and drinks perfect for a picnic on the beach; and The Sea Grille, perched on the Montauk dunes and overlooking the ocean. Moderately priced international cuisine and a spa menu are also available.

Take in a panoramic view of Fort Pond from the hip dining room of East by Northeast, 51 Edgemere Rd., Montauk, 631-668-2872, where fresh Montauk seafood and shellfish are infused with flavors from the East to create an eclectic Pan-Asian menu. 668 The Gigshack, 782 Main St., Montauk, 631-668-2727, lures in a young and hip surfer crowd with its live music, gelateria, bohemian barbecue and Latin-inspired dishes. Fresh, local and fun, fishbar, 467 East Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-6600, features such local favorites as pan-seared scallops with hoppin' johns and clam pie. Perched on the wooden pilings where Lake Montauk meets the bay, Gosman's Dock Restaurant and Bar, 500 West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-5330, is one of the most popular establishments on the South Fork, serving noteworthy food in a friendly atmosphere. Housed in the same building, Gosman's Topside is a more intimate venue serving casual picnic-style seafood. Gosman's Clam Bar, a kid-friendly, kiosk-style lunch spot is known for the raw bar and bottomless serving of fish and chips. Surfside Restaurant & Inn, 685 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-5958, serves up classic American fare and breath-taking ocean views from a Victorian-style building.

Their fireside bar-a camp-fire for adults-is perfect for making memories. Known for immaculate presentation and gourmet dishes, The Breakwater Café at the Montauk Manor, 236 Edgemere Street, Montauk, 631-668-3949, mixes eclectic American fare with international flavor. Be sure to try the signature cioppino, a combination of fish, lobster, scallops, clams, shrimp, mussels, and calamari poached in a tomato broth from Dave's Grill, 468 West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-9190, and don't skip their chocolate bag (vanilla ice-cream wrapped in a Belgian-chocolate "bag"), either. Stop by Old Harbor House, 240 Fort Pond Rd., 631-668-1515, where they are bringing back the Blue Marlin and serve American cuisine. Manucci's, 440 West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-4455, serves hearty Italian dishes, like lobster ravioli, on their patio dining room. Watch the game on one of the seven TVs and three large flat screens at The Point Bar and Grille, 697 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-1500, where brews, nachos and wings abound.

Overlooking the docks of the Montauk Yacht Club, Lighthouse Grill & Patio, 32 Star Island Road, Montauk 631-668-3100, serves up American cuisine in an upscale yet unpretentious setting. MTK Café, 779 Main St., Montauk, 631-668-6852, is a charming restaurant that serves refreshing salads and grilled paninis on their garden patio. With true Irish country dishes and Guinness on tap, O'Murphy's Pub, 99 The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-5005, brings a taste of the Emerald Isle to Montauk. Al-fresco dining is the name of the game at Star Deck Grill, Star Island Yacht Club, Montauk, 631-668-5052, which doesn't offer indoor seating. Enjoy burgers, steaks and fresh seafood in the presence of one of the largest fish ever caught on a rod and reel: a Great White Shark brought in by Montauk's own Frank Mundus. John Papas II Café, 126 Emerson Ave., Montauk, 631-668-1511, at the Royal Atlantic Beach Resort Hotel, offers picturesque ocean views and mouth-watering fare. Nautical décor comes alive at the Crow's Nest Restaurant, Rte. 27 and Old West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-2077, which boasts a shark tank and 14-foot-long aquarium with tropical fish and living reef. Gin Beach Market, 541 East Lake Drive, Montauk, 631-668-3088, couples a new-age feel with a strong smell of coffee. The cozy little shack supplies healthy food and specialty goods. An old-world bakery with fresh ideas, Montauk Bake Shoppe, The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-2439, features artisan breads, pastries and their signature "jelly croissant." Go to Herb's Montauk Market, 778 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-2335, for prime meats cut to order. Finest Kind Wines and Liquors, 552 West Lake Drive, Montauk, 631-668-WINE, offers more than 650 wines and spirits to choose from and free delivery.

Taxidermy-themed watering hole, The Dock, 1 Town Road, Montauk, 631-668-9778, is a local joint as salty as the sea. Located amidst fishing docks, the saloon's pint glasses reinforce their "no cell phones, no credit cards, take screaming children outside" policy. For prettier people and pricier offerings, The Surf Lodge, 183 Edgemere St., Montauk, 631-238-5190, tempts barefoot hedonism with alarming ease: the blend of high-end Bohemia and authentic surf culture makes it a hot spot. The legendary Memory Motel, 692 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-2702, is guaranteed to live up to its name, and Nick's on the Beach, 148 South Emerson St., Montauk, 631-668-4800, brings the Big Easy to Montauk with its Cajun-style seafood, chicken and steaks. Enjoy live music in the afternoon at their outdoor Boat Bar, or stay out at their after-hours dance club. The antique décor and copper-covered table booths make you feel as comfortable stepping into Shagwong, 774 Main St., Montauk, 631-668-3050, as slipping on your favorite pair of jeans. A casual clam bar by day and chic club by night, the bustling Main Street fixture features fresh, local seafood. A night at The Backyard at Solé East, 90 Second House Road, Montauk, 631-668-2105, is not your typical lawn party. Lounge on an oversized mattress, take a dip in the pool or dine on Latin-Asian fusion cuisine while a DJ spins the night away.

With views of the ocean and a saltwater pool, Gurney's Inn Resort & Spa, 290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-2345, has long been a favorite place to stay. Featuring lobster bakes on the beach, karaoke and an extensive list of spa services, this resort is world-class. Located on the ocean and within walking distance to town, Atlantic Terrace, 21 Surfside Place, Montauk, 631-668-2050, combines ocean breezes and Montauk charm to create a relaxing getaway for family and friends. The invitingly fresh and casually elegant atmosphere of the Montauk Yacht Club Resort & Marina, 32 Star Island Rd., Montauk, 631-668-3100, will have you calling the office to extend your vacation. The Ocean Resort Inn, 95 South Emerson Ave., Montauk, 631-668-2300, puts the ocean at your doorstep and you only a short walk from town. Each of the 15 rooms and 5 guest cottages of the Crow's Nest Inn, 4 Old West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-3700, is equipped with an in-room Jacuzzi and steam room. When the weather takes you outdoors, spend the day on the inn's private beach. The Montauk Manor, 236 Edgemere Rd., Montauk, 631-668-4400, one of the earliest constructed homes still standing in Montauk, offers a full range of amenities, including a fitness center, restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and squash courts, spa, and a recreation area. The sleek and modern bungalow suites at Solé East, 90 Second House Rd., Montauk, 631-668-2105, boast high-threadcount Italian cotton linens and flat-screen H.D. TVs. High-speed wireless internet is available across the property, which houses a sexy swimming pool and a Pétanque court. Every room, suite and beach home at the Panoramic View, 272 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-3000, overlooks 1,000 feet of white ocean beach.

Home to many charter fishing boats, Star Island Yacht Club, Star Island Rd., Montauk, 631-668-5052, has transient dockage up to 125 feet and diesel fuel at every slip. Uihlein's Marina, West Lake Dr. Extension, Montauk, 631-668-3799, is a full-service marina and motel that provides equipment for an array of water sports, such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, water skiing, kayaking, and parasailing. Montauk Marine Basin, 426 West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-5900, is Montauk's first full-service and marine complex. In addition to modern slips with electric, cable TV and WiFi, the marina also offers an extensive selection of big-game fishing gear. Bring your lunch and catch your dinner on Lazybones, West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-5671, a favorite party boat of some of the most knowledgable and respected fishermen around. Westlake Fishing Lodge and Marina, West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-5600, has 99 slips (15 transient), storage, partial repairs, marine store, bait and tackle, and a free charter-booking service.

Aloha Gallery, 649 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-SURF, showcases more than 25 artists and 200 paintings. Housed in the original waiting room of the Montauk Train Station, the Depot Art Gallery, corner of Edgemere and Flamingo Rd., Montauk, 631-668-5336, hosts the annual Artist Association's All Member Show. Unique and fine art takes center stage at Bocca Lupo Gallery, 552 West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-790-4587.

Located right behind Gosman's Restaurant, Captain Kid, Gosman's Dock, West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-4482, is loaded with educational and beachy toys. A petting zoo and trail rides are on offer at Rita's Stables and Petting Zoo, 3 West Lake Dr., Montauk, 631-668-5453. In the country, Deep Hollow Ranch, Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-2744, offers group tours in horse-drawn wagons, beach and trail rides and boarding. In addition to their 18-hole miniature golf course, The Puff N' Putt Family Fun Center, 659 Main St., Montauk, 631-668-4473, also encourages family fun with their sailboat, kayak and pedal-boat rentals. With more than 30 kinds of fudge and an array of sweets to choose from at Fudge N' Stuff, The Plaza, 631-668-4724, dentist, schmentist. Second Star Toys, 725 Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-1690, has loads of puzzles, toys and games perfect for entertaining kids on a rainy day.

Experience the world of Marrakech at Deborah Thompson Day Spa, 37 The Plaza, Montauk, 631-668-4815, an exotic and aromatic oasis offering body treatments, facials and massages designed to meet your specific needs. Body Tech Health and Fitness, 240 Edgemere St., Montauk, 631-238-5311, located in the Montauk Playhouse Community Center, has a full schedule of spinning, yoga, kick-boxing, and transformational breathwork lessons to choose from. For a more personalized workout, opt for a personal trainer in their state-of-the-art gym. A full-service hair salon, The Endz Salon, 8 South Edison, Montauk, 631-668-5880, also provides spa services, such as a tanning salon, facials and body treatments. The Seawater Spa at Gurney's Inn, 290 Old Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-1892, is the only authentic Thalasso Center in the continental US Embracing classical European traditions, the spa's signature therapies include the head-to-toe ocean radiance treatment and Montauk stone therapy, all using the latest innovative products. Montauk Wellness Center, 6 South Elmwood Ave., 631-668-0300, a skin care and wellness boutique, offers gentle and effective facial treatments, massages and waxing, in addition to vintage and one-of-a-kind jewelry. Go green with the help of the Montauk Bike Shop, 725A Montauk Hwy., Montauk, 631-668-8975, which sells and rents bikes. Guided tours and information on bike paths in the area are also available.