Spend a postcard-perfect winter day in this seaside village
By the time the cold weather rolls around, when most beach towns have settled down for a long winter’s nap, the Village of Port Jefferson becomes more enchanting than ever. Dubbed Port Jeff, this harborside village, with its rich shipbuilding history and ferry that cuts across Long Island Sound to Bridgeport, Conn., transforms into a popular winter destination. Its pedestrian-friendly streets — dotted with shops, restaurants, and waterfront views — set the stage for holiday festivals and traditions, attracting hundreds of visitors annually. Whether you’re looking to partake in some year-end fun or wander through local shops, here’s how to make the most of Port Jeff this winter.
EAT & DRINK
With its twinkling string lights and cozy atmosphere, there’s no better place to warm up on a cold winter evening than Joey Z’s (217 Main St., 631-476-7510). Formerly known as Z Pita, this bring-your-own-wine local favorite offers a mix of Italian, American and Mediterranean fare — but the real draw here is the fondue. Choose between melted cheddar or Monterey Jack, milk chocolate or dark chocolate, and dip everything from sweet treats like strawberries and brownie bites to savory soft pretzels and pigs in a blanket. Don’t forget to ask for a refill; the fondue here is bottomless all night long!
For a more upscale dining experience: just a few steps away from the water, The Fifth Season (34 E. Broadway, 631-477-8500), which was born in another port town — Greenport — is a restaurant that takes its farm-to-table mission seriously, with a menu that is ever-changing to reflect what’s in season. With its homey interior and long wooden bar, it’s an ideal spot to tuck into a glass of local wine after a day spent exploring.
Looking for a casual bite or drink? Check out Local’s Cafe (106 E. Main St., 631-807-3949), a snug, minimalist-style spot that serves specialty coffee alongside a health-conscious menu. Enjoy winter latte specials and breakfast items like avocado toast and egg sandwiches, or try their lunch offerings, from veggie burgers to chana masala wraps.
Let your inner child run wild at Kilwins (109-D Main St., 631-509-6555), an old-fashioned sweet shop. Since 1947, Kilwins has been known for its made-in-store treats like handcrafted waffle cones, fudge, caramel apples, brittle, and wrapped Heritage Chocolate bars. Watch through the open kitchen as its chocolatiers work their magic, crafting a variety of sweets right before your eyes from tubs of melted chocolate. There’s also ice cream, floats and shakes for those unafraid to embrace the cold.
Open daily except Christmas, Port Jeff Brewing Company (22 Mill Creek Road, 631-331-2959) is a small, nautical-themed microbrewery known for its rotating small-batch drafts. Step inside the red-brick building for a pint or grab a growler to fill at the wooden boat-shaped bar. There, you’ll catch a glimpse of the giant stainless-steel fermenters used to make PJBC’s beer. If you’re curious about the brewing process, tours are available Saturdays at 4 p.m.
PLAY
For the quintessential winter experience, grab your skates and head to The Rinx at Harborfront Park (101-A E Broadway, 631-403-4357). This outdoor skating rink, open from November to March, is a destination for families and friends looking to enjoy some time on the ice with harbor views. Skate rentals are available and public sessions are held throughout the week, with night skating on weekends.
To kick off the holiday season, from Dec. 1 to Jan. 2 Port Jefferson’s Annual Festival of Trees will showcase uniquely decorated trees by local businesses, organizations and individuals in the community at the Port Jefferson Village Center (101 E. Broadway, 631-802-2160). Residents and visitors can walk around the Center and tour the creative displays that illuminate it.
One of Port Jeff’s most notable winter traditions is coming back to the village for its 28th year—the Charles Dickens Festival. On Dec. 7 and 8, the town will step back in time to the Victorian era and its streets will come alive as characters like Father Christmas, Scrooge and the Town Crier roam about. In past years, the festivities have also included caroling groups, various street performances, parades, and specially themed menus from village restaurants.
Later in the season is Port Jeff’s Sixth Annual Ice Festival, scheduled for Jan. 18 and 19 (rain dates: Jan. 25 and 26). In addition to a stunning display of ice sculptures, the event will feature live ice-carving demonstrations, children’s games and activities, horse and carriage rides, and free hot chocolate. Coinciding with the event is a mac and cheese crawl (advance tickets are required to participate).
SHOP
At The Spice & Tea Exchange (22 Chandler Square, 631-828-4445) you’ll find an impressive selection of spices, teas, sugars, salts and other seasonings perfect for holiday cooking. Their seasonal chai baking blends are a winter favorite and make ideal gifts for the foodie in your life.
Two doors down from The Spice & Tea Exchange is The SoapBox (18 Chandler Square, 631-509-1424) — just look for the tub filled with giant rubber duckies in the window. Inside, you’ll find an array of soaps, scrubs, oils, and bubble baths, including seasonal scents like Fraser Fir, Nutcracker and White Spruce. Don’t miss the personalized blending bar where you can create your own custom scents.
Pick up some cooking-centric holiday gifts at Amazing Olive (213 Main St., 631-509-4596), which carries over 80 varieties of olive oils and vinegars with flavors like dark-cherry balsamic, cranberry pear and even chocolate balsamic.
If you’re shopping for your four-legged friend, you’ll want to check out Fetch Doggy Boutique and Bakery (301 E. Main St., 631-331-0965). This dog-friendly shop carries everything from festive reindeer and snowman plushies for pups to Hanukkah bow ties and Christmas collars.
Lastly, on Sundays, the Winter Farmers Market at Mayor Jeanne Garant Harborfront Park is a great way to support local businesses. Open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 12 to April 27, this indoor community market features a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods and artisanal products like homemade jams.
