Zimmermann’s Guide to The Hamptons
Since they opened a boutique in East Hampton last year, Sydney fashion designers Nicky and Simone Zimmermann are always looking for a reason to visit the Hamptons. “We try to rent a house for a long weekend each summer,” says Nicky (above left), “and get our Aussie mates there for a regular get-together.” Here, Nicky shares the sisters’ favourite spots in New York’s summer playground for the rich and famous.
Best Hotel
“The Surf Lodge is a beautiful boutique hotel right on Lake Montauk with a ’50s vibe that doesn’t feel done up. It has a gorgeous American beach feel to it. It’s not the place for a quiet weekend but if you’re after fun, it’s perfect. The average age is 25 to 35 and they get amazing bands and cool DJs to play there. If you want an early night, book a room away from the bar area.”
Best Breakfast Spots
Mary’s Marvelous and Joni’s Kitchen
“Head to Mary’s Marvelous for the closest thing to a flat white and Joni’s Kitchen in Montauk for the breakfast wraps. Choose from spinach, wholemeal or brown-rice tortillas with organic eggs and a huge selection of extras including avocado, chèvre, sour cream and fresh chives. I love the Ole Ole. Bit of a warning, it can take a long time to make – but they’re fresh and absolutely delicious.”
Best Bar
The Hideaway
“The Hideaway in Montauk is the place to go for tacos and margaritas. They make a great margarita! The vibe is quite low-key – it’s more of a local crowd. There’s definitely a sense of fun but it’s also a place where you can just chill out and watch the local fishermen pull up to the docks.”
Best Restaurants
Moby’s and The Lobster Roll Restaurant
“Moby’s is great. It has delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas, cooked in wood-burning ovens with house-made mozzarella. Plus, it’s owned by Australians! And make sure you don’t leave without trying one of the lobster rolls from the restaurant locals call Lunch, on the Napeague Stretch in Amagansett. It combines cold lobster meat inside a New England-style roll with a little lettuce and mayonnaise. You’ll leave a happier person.”
Best Boutique
“The Sunset Beach Boutique on Shelter Island always has things you can’t get anywhere else. They have a really well curated selection of brands from around the world, like Aurélie Bidermann and Oliver Peoples. It’s got stuff you want to buy on holiday: great beach cover-ups, a hat, espadrilles – different bits and pieces.”
Best Experience
“The ‘Sunday Bongo’ bonfire clambakes on the beach are great. They’re invitation only, so you’ll need to meet someone who knows the details on your weekend in the Hamptons. You’ll cook clams on the beach, hang out on the sand and sit around the fire. I’ve only ever done it with friends that have been going to the Hamptons for years and it’s kind of different, particularly for Australians. It’s a more intimate, casual local tradition that I find quite American.”
