A place where renowned chefs, farm-fresh produce and local seafood converge, the North Fork has much to offer when it comes to food. From creative workshops to local tastings, we’ve curated a day full of experiences that go beyond traditional dining.
7:30 AM
Start the day early with breakfast at Southold General, a charming cafe and gourmet market located in the heart of Southold. The eatery opened in 2021 under the direction of Michelin-starred chef John Fraser and features a wide selection of breakfast foods, from egg sandwiches and quiches to avocado toast and French toast brioche. The most popular offerings at the cafe are the pastries — created by famed French pastry chef François Payard. We’d recommend enjoying an egg, gruyere and chive pretzel croissant while sitting outside at one of the cafe’s tables in Einstein Square.
9 AM
Explore the bounty of the North Fork at the East End Food Market in Riverhead, open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Peruse your way through vendors selling local food, wine and other craft goods and provisions.
11 AM
Channel your inner artist and paint an edible masterpiece at Atelier Disset, an artisanal chocolate company in Cutchogue. This unique experience puts an interesting twist on the popular paint-and-sip workshops. Under the guidance of skilled chocolatier Ursula XVII, you’ll receive a “chocolate canvas” and learn the art of painting using a colorful set of edible chocolate paints. These workshops are only available on select Saturdays, so be sure to visit dissetchocolate.com and check the store’s calendar for more information.
1 PM
The only thing better than drinking wine is having bites or sweets to go along with it. Make your way to Sparkling Pointe in Southold for a classic chocolate and sparkling wine pairing. Alternatively, venture to Sannino Vineyard in Cutchogue for a wine flight accompanied by four distinct flavors of popcorn. For a more formal tasting experience, RGNY offers a two-hour session featuring five wines expertly paired with specially curated food items.
3 PM
Treat yourself to a scenic lunch at Minnow at the Galley Ho. Overlooking the historic New Suffolk Waterfront, the new seafood restaurant prioritizes sustainability above all with a menu featuring line-and trap-caught fish dishes like wild fennel porgy ceviche and house-smoked bluefish pate, served with grilled 1610 sourdough bread and herb salad.
4 PM
Learn how to shuck like a pro at Peeko Oysters farm in New Suffolk. On this private 90-minute tour, you’ll learn about the equipment and machinery used in the oyster cultivation process, followed by a hands-on shucking lesson and unlimited oyster tasting. To schedule a tour, simply email [email protected].
8 PM
For dinner, indulge in the ultimate local North Fork dining experience with PAWPAW’s five-course tasting menu. Founded by chefs Taylor and Katelyn Knapp in 2015, this exclusive pop-up restaurant hosts intimate dinners on select Saturdays that highlight the seasonal bounty of the North Fork. Priced at $85 per person, seats for this dinner are typically reserved several weeks in advance. Picky eaters beware — part of the excitement behind PAWPAW’s menu is that it’s always a surprise, though accommodations can be made for most dietary restrictions and allergies.
Staying over?
Hotel Moraine in Greenport not only offers stunning vistas of the Long Island Sound, but a carefully crafted guest experience fit for any foodie. The hotel features with fire pits for roasting s’mores along the bluffs, free daily ice cream at the pool for kids, and spacious hotel rooms stocked with local snacks and beverages like North Fork Potato Chips and beer from Greenport Harbor Brewing Co.
