It’s no doubt that the North Fork is a destination for travelers seeking luxury. Whether it’s the abundance of fresh and complex wines, the talent-packed kitchens at top-notch restaurants or the coastal vistas, the area hits marks in many categories.
The Menhaden in Greenport recently established itself — for the second year in a row — as key in providing a nearly perfect stay for visitors and staycationers alike.
The Michelin Guide, an acclaimed food and travel resource, awarded The Menhaden with a Michelin Key recognizing its excellence in architecture, design, service, character, value and contribution to its surrounding setting.
Hotels of all types across the globe are audited for this prestigious honor, and only 317 in the United States were recognized in 2025.
Of the 7,000 hotels in the Michelin Guide, select properties can earn one, two or three keys — one denoting “a very special stay,” two indicating “an extraordinary stay” and three acknowledging “an extraordinary stay.”
The Menhaden, which was recognized with one key in 2024, the award’s inaugural year, and in 2025, is the only hotel to receive any keys on Long Island.
When Mario Corrado Jr., general manager at The Menhaden, learned of the opportunity to be recognized from a Michelin Guide press release in 2024, he was thrilled.
“I just remember reading it and being like, ‘Wow, I would do anything to be on this list,’” says Corrado. The next morning, he was informed that the hotel had received its first Michelin Key.
This October, Corrado was told the property was being recognized for the second year, thanks to what the anonymous auditor described as a stand-out stay in the experience and service categories.
“I feel like it’s in our DNA to be hospitable,” says Corrado. “And I don’t think we were out there looking for any awards. I think it comes organically.”
The Menhaden, a boutique hotel situated in the heart of Greenport, sports a neutral look in its rooms and suites with spa-like bathrooms, rainfall showers and plush bedding.
Amenities include a rooftop deck with a view of the harbor, fire pits, a stocked general store with exceptional coffee and complementary perks like bikes for exploring the area.
According to Corrado, the unique stay at The Menhaden starts at the time of booking, enlightening guests on all points of contact at the property, the plentiful offerings and developing a customized itinerary for each party.
Each employee’s role is crucial in providing the sensory experience, Corrado says. The staff at The Menhaden goes through a 10-page document depicting the ideal trip, with each person highlighting where they can be most impactful.
“It doesn’t matter, you could be a porter who’s cleaning the dishes, you could be a chef, you could be a front office supervisor,” say Corrado. “Everyone is imperative to that cog in the wheel.”
To keep things fresh, The Menhaden boasts enhancements quarterly, like in-room water stations or enhanced espresso machines.
But there are certain beloved details that the hotel will never abandon, like the 4-ounce double chunk chocolate cookies set out at 7 p.m., or the hot lavender towels provided at check-in.
Celebrate the achievement by booking the Michelin package for your next stay at The Menhaden featuring a Disset Chocolate key, a local sparkling wine and late checkout.
And see the hotel’s plaque right outside the hotel’s front door. “We want you to enjoy this with us,” says Corrado.
