Opened in late 2012, with Tom Colicchio at the helm and a 19th century Greek Revival mansion as its setting, Topping Rose had an instant pedigree that made it a shoe-in among the East End’s must-visit destinations. Happily, it has delivered and should continue to as we enter the busy season out on eastern Long Island.
At the restaurant, Chef de Cuisine Ty Kotz and his able team serve up the gold standard in seasonal American cooking, with regularly changing menus that star the finest Long Island produce from nearby ranches, farms and fishermen. Topping Rose actually has its own farm, which grows handpicked varieties of whatever is in season: since it’s summer, look for berries, tomatoes, root vegetables and more. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers diners the choice of a few different seating areas; the 50-seat main dining room, the 25-seat bar area for more casual bites and drinks, and the outdoor wrap-around porch. Décor is contemporary with design touches that speak to the House’s history, like the two original fireplaces. Built in 1842 by Judge Abraham Topping Rose, a prominent member of the Bridgehampton community, the property has been home to a number of popular inns and restaurants since its last regular resident moved out in the 1930s.
I went for brunch a few weeks ago and enjoyed maple glazed brioche doughnuts and the Bridgehampton Town Fry, a chili-dusted plate of scrambled farm eggs piled high with fried oysters. The wines are a mix of local (North Fork and the Hamptons are both represented) and international, the cocktails are smart twists on classics—try the Montauk Mule for an extra ginger-y take on the Moscow Mule or a beet margarita made with antiguo tequila and jalapeno agave nectar. The lunch and dinner menu are, of course, no slouches either, featuring local fare with the freshest ingredients from nearby farms. “The menu, under the guidance of Chef de Cuisine, Ty Kotz, showcases produce from Topping Rose Farm as well as other local farms, ranches and day boat fishermen who share our commitment to great food.”
For those looking for overnight accommodations, the house offers plush rooms featuring Frette linens, Madeline Weinrib rugs and bath products by East Hampton institution Naturopathica. There are a total of 14 rooms, ranging from standalone cottages to suites in the lovingly restored main house on the historic property.
For recreation, guests can take advantage of the complimentary beach shuttles and bikes or opt to organize a day farther afield, enjoying the area’s golf, tennis, wineries or horsebackriding.
For more information or for reservations contact TRH at 631.537.0870 or by email at reservations@toppingrosehouse.com.
Check out www.toppingrosehouse.com for more details.
