Life moves outdoors in the summer — we don’t have to tell you. On the North Fork, that means waterfront and vineyard views and the warm weather you dreamt of during winter hibernation. And so, the happiest hours are best spent outside.
In these parts, some restaurants agree, offering food and drink specials that can be sipped and savored al fresco. Think deals on lobsters and the cocktails that’ll get you from hump day to Thursday. In short, shut the laptop, grab a friend or colleague and raise a glass during these al fresco happy hours on the North Fork.
Bistro 72, 1830 W Main St, Riverhead, 631-369-3325
Happy hour at Hotel Indigo’s chic farm-to-table restaurant has an appropriately locavore feel. Tacos are on the menu, including one with grilled shrimp and roasted corn that hits differently this time of year. Other pub classics like loaded nachos with the gooiest cheese and flatbread pizzas are also available. The menu is available from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Sundays through Fridays, except for holidays. But for an authentic al fresco feel, mark your calendar for the annually anticipated Patio Series, which brings specials, live tunes and aesthetics to the hotel’s outdoor space. Thursday, July 18, is a backyard party with brews and a side of local legend Jeff LeBlanc. A sure-to-be-stylish Rose Garden Party follows on Thursday, Aug. 26, with fall-forward events (BBQ and Whiskey on Thursday, Sept. 26, and All Things Apple Cider on Thursday, Oct. 24th) helping us transition back to cooler but cozier times.
On The Docks Waterfront Bar & Grill, 177 Meeting House Creek Road, Aquebogue, 631-886-1160
An ample al fresco bar overlooking Meeting House Creek isn’t short on sprawling views — you could say it literally epitomizes a “local watering hole.” Figuratively, it’s a favorite spot for post-work cocktails with a happy hour on weeknights from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Drink specials and apps are what’s shaking, with some changing weekly to keep fans (and there are plenty) guessing. But expect brews, well drinks, house wine by the glass and quintessential grub like fries, wings and mozzarella sticks.
PORT Waterfront Bar & Grill, 104 3rd St, Greenport, 631-333-2501
This laidback waterfront bar and eatery generally drifts from happy hour specials. But this year, the team saw an opportunity to partner with Greenport Farmers Market that was too delicious to resist. Come for chef-curated specials on local dishes, like Chef Terance Jenkins’ mushroom and polenta. It’s creamy, fresh and made with mushrooms sourced from Mattituck Mushrooms. Stay for approachable BOGO local red and white vinos from winemaker Tom Spotteck of Lenz Winery. The catch? It’s not just the fish. Diners must present a receipt from a Greenport Farmers Market purchase to get the specials, making it a truly local affair.
Billy’s by the Bay, 2530 Manhanset Ave., Greenport, 631-477-8300
Calling all zero-proofers and foodies. This chill spot on the water boasts a covered terrace and tiki bar. It’s hopping on most weeknights from 5–6 p.m. when the live music begins and food-centric happy hour specials — technically available all day — continue. Tuesdays have crab specials. Wednesday is for shrimp lovers, while Thursday is full of lobster deals. Consider cutting out of work early to beat the 5 p.m. rush (we won’t tell) — Billy’s by the Bay doesn’t take reservations.
Claudio’s Waterfront, 111 Main St., Greenport, 631-477-0627
Claudio’s Waterfront is rolling out happy hour specials this July, and Wednesdays are better for it. Order $5 Miller Lite and Peroni drafts at the historic dockside bar loved for its live music, marina views and menu full of quintessential summer pub fare like oysters, clams and burgers. Speaking of menus, there’s a new friend on it: The Captain Claudio’s. The new signature Bloody Mary, which is also available at the tavern during brunch, comes in a pitch and includes a steamed 1 1/4-pound lobster, ¼ pound of bacon, eight shrimp, all the requisite produce fixings and an Old Bay rim ($89.99).
Crabby Jerry’s, 111 Main St., Greenport, 631-477-0627
Imbibers can find a south-of-the-border happy hour offering all day on Wednesdays, a stone’s skip from Claudio’s. This harborfront spot with a generously shaded outdoor deck is slashing 50% off margaritas to celebrate making it over the hump. The cocktail is refreshing on its own on a summer evening by the water but pairs perfectly with quick-serve, fresh-as-they-come seafood dishes like fish and chips and oysters. The salt rim is also *chef’s kiss* with the warm pretzel sticks served with beer cheese and brown mustard.
