Foodstuffs: Sushi At The Old Stove Pub And Beach Bungalows In Montauk

Last June, Southampton native Joe DeCristofaro reopened the legendary Old Stove Pub in Sagaponack, which has been a veritable culinary fixture on the East End since 1967, and even in the midst of the pandemic, found a following that he expects will continue this season.

“We are very pleased to welcome everyone back as we look forward to a brighter, more social, and busy 2021,” said DeCristofaro. “The Old Stove Pub continues to make updates that we believe will please our families, friends and small groups who are seeking a relaxed, enjoyable, and upscale culinary experience.”

Inside, the updates to the landmark building include a renovated interior space, and to continue its support of local musicians, Old Stove Pub will feature special groups throughout the season. Also returning this month will be a heated outdoor tent for up to 75 guests, which will be available for weekend dinners and for rent for private parties, dinners, weddings and other events. A new takeout menu will also be available for those who prefer to dine at home.

But perhaps the biggest and most recent addition to the Old Stove Pub this year is its new dedicated sushi bar, which is overseen by Chef Brian Hartman.

Hartman, a native of San Francisco, has a passion for both learning and being creative and has been working his way up the restaurant ladder since the age 14. In recent years, he has worked as a chef at restaurants on Block Island, Rhode Island, and in Telluride, Colorado, and throughout his career has been soaking up knowledge of a range of cuisines in the many eateries where he has worked.

While working in upper management and being a private chef, he also has developed a passion for sushi, Japanese culture, and the desire to learn from the best. Chef “B-Love,” as he is known, has trained under two master sushi chefs from different regions of Japan to help make that dream come true.

The outcome is a very diverse sushi menu derived from traditional styles adapted to American culture. After opening four different sushi bars and restaurants, two as executive chef, he now finds himself at the Old Stove Pub in a crossover concept of a prime steakhouse and sushi bar. In the months ahead, keep an eye out for rotating menus and exciting Omakase offerings inspired by Hartman’s culinary experiences traveling in 36 countries.

Old Stove Pub is at 3516 Montauk Highway in Sagaponack. For more information, visit oldstovepub.com or call 631-537-3300.

Gurney’s Montauk recently unveiled its Bungalows by the Sea, partnering with Jung Lee, acclaimed event designer and founder of Fête, to create a one-of-a-kind experience.

Lee has curated the outdoor dining area to present a beautiful and calming ambiance with views of the ocean. Each private bungalow, for up to six people, is complete with a seasonal menu, created by Lee and Robert Hamburg, the new executive chef of Gurney’s Montauk, curated cocktails and an open air firepit.

The new bungalows debuted this past weekend and will be live through Labor Day. With the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the socially distant outdoor aperitif and dining experience has a chic and lush ambiance, using bamboo as a focal point. As part of the partnership, Lee will be making appearances at Gurney’s Montauk to teach Fête floral arrangement classes to guests over the weekends of May 8 and May 15. She will also assist Gurney’s Montauk for future weddings and events.

For more information, visit gurneysresorts.com or call 631-668-2345. Gurney’s Montauk is at 290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk.