Tucked away beyond the bustle of Montauk town, nestled squarely on Fort Pond Bay, Sunset Saloon is so close to the water you can skip a rock across the surface from your table. This unconventional treasure offers dishes of seasonal, fresh ingredients, frozen drinks and dozens of summer cocktails to choose from, surf boards to purchase and most captivating, stunning sunsets every evening.

The walls are peppered with photos of local and exotic surf prints, as a warm sense of community is palpable the minute you enter the restaurant. As large screens play surf films and shiny, awe-inspiring boards cover the ceiling and walls, the décor is as striking as it is charming. Feeling as if you have discovered the local hangout in a town of tourists, Sunset Saloon offers a taste of Montauk culture, beyond a destination to dine for the evening.

The cars in the parking lot with pointy, colorful surfboards and multiple surfboard bags strapped to the roof or gently piled into their SUV’s hints at the nature of Sunset Saloon. Selling surfboards and offering a slice of authentic Montauk surf culture draws a local crowd. Sunset Saloon is built on the foundation of Craig Lieder Sr. and his son, Craig (CL) Lieder’s reputation and long-standing prominence in Montauk. Often spotted at Ditch riding long lefts, Craig (CL) spends the evenings implementing a top-notch menu that is casual in style and paramount in quality.
Sunset Saloon is particular about what is served. The choicest ingredients and most appealing dishes create an instant allure and temptation to order the same meal repeatedly as it becomes a favorite. The tempura tuna sashimi, raw tuna encased in Nori with a crisp, paper-thin tempura crust was coupled with a dollop of whipped Wasabi and fiery dipping sauce. A poised little tower of tomato, basil and fresh mozzarella was drizzled with sharp balsamic vinegar and golden olive oil. The lobster bisque was rich, with plump pieces of lobster meat and hearty flavor.

Entrees included wholesome teriyaki dishes with rice, classic Steak Frites, succulent lobster, thick burgers and fresh, local fish selections. The tender Louisiana Spare Ribs were lathered in a tangy barbeque sauce and encircled by crunchy waffle fries and a steaming ear of corn. Sunset Fish Taco, a signature dish ubiquitous with a surfer’s haven is rolled in a large flour tortilla with hunks of fluke, flanked by firm black beans, buttery white rice and a trio of sour cream, salsa and chunks of avocado in the creamy guacamole.

The Chocolate Lava Cake, highly recommended by our gracious server, Andre, was swathed in fresh whipped cream, a bittersweet chocolate sauce and vanilla bean ice cream. Andre’s affable and attentive service personified the art of welcoming guests into a restaurant as if welcoming them into one’s own home. When we return for dinner, we will definitely ask for Andre. We may buy a new surfboard, and will unquestionably order the Sunset Fish Tacos.
Sunset Saloon is located at 16 Navy Road, Montauk and opens at 12 noon, 7 days a week. Call 631-668-6500 for reservations. www.sunsetsaloon.com