EMP Summer House Heats Up East Hampton

As if East Hampton didn’t already have major summertime appeal for city-weary residents, the beachy Long Island enclave scored big-time this season.  That’s because none other than Daniel Humm and Will Guidara have launched the EMP Summer House while in the midst of revamping their “Number One Restaurant in the World”-winning flagship.

Located in the former Moby’s space, the team tapped Brad Cloepfil (behind the Museum of Arts and Design at Columbus Circle) to redo the Amagansett-adjacent cottage.  Comprised of an indoor dining room, a tented backyard, and a game area with ping-pong, cornhole and pentaque, the high-end hangout strictly adheres to a pristine, an all-white theme, from the paneled bar, benches made of pallets and window banquettes, to the linen tablecloths, painted picnic tables and Adirondack chairs.

The a la carte menu (Humm elected to forgo fussy tasting progressions) is equally beachy and staunchly seasonal; with snacks including Wood-Fired Baby Corn smeared with bonito butter and Crispy Zucchini with garlic yogurt, and starters such as Tomato marinated with strawberries and almonds, Snow Pea Chiffonade with pecorino and mint, and Prawn Salad over an assortment of sorrel and lettuces.

Flatbreads also make use of a wood-stoked grill (try the Clam with smoked bacon and corn), while Mains take full advantage of the Atlantic’s underwater bounty; think Seared Stripe Bass, Poached Lobster and Bouillabaisse for two (beachcombers will dig the ability to purchase picnic baskets with full fried chicken dinners, or the makings of a lobster boil).

Since East Hampton is known for exclusivity, we doubt diners will blanche at this caveat; AMEX holders have the sole power to make reservations, or rack up bills on their card (American Express is a partner in the pop-up).  So a word before you attempt to go slumming at EMP House; If you can’t wrangle a resy, you’l have to try your luck as a walk-in, and prepare to pay for your lobster with cash.

EMP Summer House
341 Pantigo Rd.
www.empsummerhouse.com