There is a charming, well-stocked little store now open in the Gin Beach area. Situated at the end of East Lake Drive, it is conveniently located for visitors at the beach, camping nearby, or who live in the area. I recently stopped by to peek inside and was amazed about how much could be packed into this diminutive shop! Actually, it is a grocery market and whole food co-op that proudly boasts it is “a community sensitive endeavor, serving East Lake and Mother Earth”. Proprietor, Susan Vitale, has worked hard to think of everything a camper, beachgoer, visitor or Montauk homeowner might need in the way of daily staples. Hundreds of well-planned, thought out items are there for sale.

Besides the necessary daily food supplies, the store is packed with camping items, snack items, fresh, locally grown produce, organic foods, paper supplies, cookware, gift items, original pottery works, postcards, baby food, pet foods and more! When you enter the shop, the aroma of fresh brewed coffee attracts your senses and the platters of fresh pastries and plump bagels are a welcome sight on a warm and misty Montauk morning. The day I dropped by, the shop was abuzz getting ready for a wedding breakfast on the beach. Gin Beach is available for sunset picnics, continental breakfasts and a variety of catering events. When you are driving down Rt. 27, make a turn on East Lake Drive, and continue all the way to the end. Come visit and see for yourself all that they offer in this abundant store. It is the little cottage on your left, right before the beach parking lot. Pick up your daily newspaper, have a cup of hot coffee and browse in-between the aisles. I am sure there will be something there you need!