Quick Bites: Everything I Ate on the North Fork in June
When Justin and I moved out to the North Fork in October of 2024, he kept calling it “year zero,” meaning that first year was really just about getting our bearings. And boy, was he right. For starters, we had just purchased a home and were heading into the slowest part of the year for both our business and the North Fork in general. We were broke and clueless.
But this year, heading into our second summer here (or year one, by Justin’s count), I feel like I finally have a decent handle on the area’s restaurants and farm stands. I’m not necessarily an expert yet, but maybe nearing “authority” status? “Enthusiast,” perhaps? I’m certainly someone who can make a solid recommendation while still eagerly hunting for recs myself, if that makes any sense.
All that to say, we enjoyed some phenomenal eats around the area this month. I’m sharing them here a few days early, just in case you’re on your way Out East as you read this!
As always, thank you for reading and supporting Off Script! A special shoutout to my six paid subscribers (yes, one of them is my mom, Wendy, LOL). I’m keeping this North Fork roundup free for everyone to enjoy, but just a friendly heads-up that I’ll be putting more of my content behind a paywall moving forward.
Old Mill Inn (Mattituck)
I’ve been meaning to check this place out ever since Cody Homan over at Braun Seafood recommended it. When I saw their perfect fish and chips come across my IG feed recently, I decided it was time. With Justin headed out of town for a few days and me wrapping up this season of the podcast, Thursday seemed like as good an excuse as any.
What we ordered: The fish and chips is the undeniable star here. At $35 for two pieces, it’s an investment, but you get a very healthy portion of fries. More importantly, it is executed flawlessly. The fish is fresh and flaky, the breading is crispy and well-seasoned, and as a bonus, it’s gluten-free! I was also a big fan of the tartar sauce. We paired it with the broiled oysters with garlic scapes and sausage (a special) and the rosemary focaccia. We will definitely be back!
Little Fish (Southold)
If it feels like Little Fish is constantly on my North Fork lists, it’s because it’s probably our most-frequented spot. Back when we fell in love with the area in July of 2024, Little Fish was the dinner spot that capped off a truly magical day traversing the North Fork. (We toured our future home the very next day!) It holds so much sentimental value for us, plus the food is incredible. We love bringing guests here, so when my Uncle Gary was in town recently, this was where we capped off our U.S. Open Day.
What we ordered: Justin and I cannot come here without getting two staples: the tuna tartare taquitos and the cornbread (which comes in the shape of little fish). Naturally, we got both and added a third taquito to the order for a small upcharge. We also shared the shishito peppers, mussels, fries, sea bass, and a round of margaritas.
Third Culture Club (Orient Beach State Park)
This place has been on my radar for a few weeks now. Last Sunday, Justin and I planned to check out the Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival, but when we saw the line of cars and the packed parking lot at 11:45 a.m., we decided to just keep driving. That’s when I remembered Third Culture Club.
One caveat: Because it is located inside Orient Beach State Park, there is an $8 vehicle use fee on the weekends. (Not a big deal since we were about to pay $10 each at the strawberry festival.) My suggestion? Make a full beach day out of it, and let Third Culture Club serve up lunch whenever hunger strikes. They will soon be adding community events, so keep an eye on their IG!
What we ordered: The Banh Mi, Scallion Pancake ‘Dilla, and an ube milkshake made their way to our picnic table this time, but I was extremely tempted by the gochujang lobster roll. They also boast a fantastic spicy condiment selection and great options in the drink cooler.
Minnow at the Galley Ho (New Suffolk)
This was only our second time here, and I was delighted to discover they are open for lunch. We brought my uncle here after wine tasting at McCall Wines. Sitting outside is definitely the move, especially on a temperate afternoon or evening. The menu heavily features locally caught fish and is displayed on chalkboards.
What we ordered: I’m a sucker for “spicy tuna crispy rice” on pretty much any menu, and I love that here, the type of fish rotates based on what is fresh and local. On this particular day, it was fluke, so we went with that. We also ordered oysters, sardines with 1610 Sourdough bread and empanadas.
Other Local “Yums” This Month
NoFo SoDough (Aquebogue / Local Delivery): I had the delight of interviewing baker Carissa Hope for a story, and she showered me with treats that I shared with friends. You can order from her directly or find her baked goods at Bread & Butter & Bottle or Barrow Food House.
Strawberries: I couldn’t get enough of them this year. We kicked off the season at Golden Acres Organic Farm in Jamesport and had the field to ourselves before the crowds descended. We also had great luck at Schmitt’s Farm Stand on Main in Laurel, which charges just $5.25 per pound.
1760 Honey Luncheons (Riverhead): Thanks to my semi-viral reel about the 1760 Homestead Farm honey luncheons, Larry is just about sold out for the summer. But he’s cooking up some other great events, so make sure to check their Eventbrite page.
Magic Fountain (Mattituck): We frequent this spot year-round, but there’s something about that first soft-serve swirl of the summer that hits differently after a winter and spring of hard ice cream.
McCall Wines (Cutchogue): Unfortunately, we were a day early for burger night, so we settled for the cheese plate. But I am happy to report that they really don’t skimp on the cheese portions here. (I even took home the leftovers!)
Main Road Biscuit Co. (Jamesport): We ended my uncle’s quick visit with a walk to Main Road Biscuit before he headed out to LGA. It was a great reminder that it’s always a filling meal with options for everyone, and the staff is super friendly.