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Dune
It’s a maritime rope, not a velvet one, at this new hot spot from the team behind Marquee. Make it past the doorman, part with a $30 cover and enjoy the clubby (as in a country club) interior. Grab a spot on a cushy leather sofa—if you have cash for bottle service (prices start at $325). 1181 North Sea Rd, Southampton (631-283-0808)
Laundry
A favorite for 27 years, it’s clearly not the high-priced, plain-Jane cuisine or the drab, industrial carpet–clad interior (reminiscent of a T.G.I. Friday’s for the well-heeled) that keeps ’em coming back. If you’re out for the scene alone, Laundry delivers. The three dining rooms are packed with blue bloods whose eyes are all trained on the door (yes, Christie Brinkley just walked in). 341 Pantigo Rd, East Hampton (631-324-3199)
27 Authentic Mexican Kitchen
Mario Morales, formerly of Dos Caminos Soho, cranks out nuevo Mexicano eats at this rehabbed lobster shack, including superlative fried fish tacos. Like the Manhattan-based chainlet, 27 draws a rowdy crowd thanks to $2 Coronas before 5pm. 2095 Montauk Hwy, Amagansett (631-267-6980)
Stephen Talkhouse
“We treat everyone the same,” says manager Nick Kraus. Sounds democratic, but read between the lines. It translates to the kind of exclusivity reserved for clubs in the Meatpacking District. Withstand the chill at the door and you’ll be treated to live music from acts like KRS-One and reggae legend Toots and the Maytals—and $8 drinks. Tickets start at $10. 161 Main St, Amagansett (631-267-3117)
Nello Hotel Summertime
Oversize photos of Audrey Hepburn strike just the right chord at this Euro stomping ground. “Everyone is treated princely,” explains Didier Pallanca, a manager. But nobility doesn’t come cheap: A $20 salad and $42 tuna tartare are just some of the financial assaults that await. Swing by late-night when the back room is throbbing with techno and everyone, royalty or otherwise, is welcome to a table. 136 Main St, Southampton (631-287-5500)
Prime 103
Ed “Jean Luc” Kleefield may be the Hamptons’ most charismatic host. He’s generally at the bar, double-kissing the guests that have followed him from Madame Tong’s and JLX. Outshining the sushi/steakhouse hybrid fare is the hidden nightlife scene in the back lounge, where hedonists will find live music, a room draped with harem-style fabrics and an adjoining patio festooned with lilacs. 103 Montauk Hwy, East Hampton (631-324-1100)
Tutto il Giorno
The weathered Hamptons cottage that houses this Italian newcomer has all the rustic charm of a beachside inn. But despite its down-to-earth appearance, Tutto will likely offer the most sought-after tables this season. Backed by former Condé Nast CEO Steve Florio, the restaurant is Sag’s answer to the Waverly Inn. Chef Scott Conant (Alto) consulted on a menu that includes dishes like the creamy truffled polenta that made him a star at L’Impero. 6 Bay St, Sag Harbor (631-725-7009)
Wei Fun
Veteran chef Kevin Penner (formerly of Della Famina) is serving farm-forward Chinese food at this lacquer-box-like spot. While the decor suggests all gloss and little substance, he delivers on choices like garlicky Szechuan shrimp with tree ear mushrooms. When the families clear out, they crank up the volume to welcome guzzlers to the roomy bar. 203 Pantigo Rd, East Hampton (631-329-2600)—Jordana Rothman
