by Sue Giustino
Set in a charming white house along the old highway, the Surfside Inn pairs premium cuisine with effortless coastal charm and spectacular ocean vistas. There is nothing quite like dining here while listening to the peaceful rhythm of the surf and watching the moon rise over the Atlantic. The Surfside Restaurant draws both locals and visitors with its fresh catch, prime cuts, and custom creations by Chef Juan Brufau.
When my dad visited last month, we decided on Surfside for dinner since he and the owner, Tom, served in the NYFD back in the day. Dinner was delicious, yet the banter of the two retired officers was priceless.
After enjoying a few cocktails, we decided to share the Calamari special, which was lightly battered, tender, and crisp, served with sweet chili dipping sauce and marinara.
Seated along the railing of the patio with its breathtaking view, we sipped glasses of a lovely Cabernet and enjoyed our main course. The perfectly crisp Roasted Long Island Duck à l’Orange served with Wild Rice & Seasonal Vegetables is one of my husband’s favorite meals on the menu. Other choices that we’ve both enjoyed are the fall-off-the-bone Mango Chipotle Glazed BBQ Baby Back Ribs accompanied by French fries & corn on the cob, and the 1 1/2 lb. Lobster in the Rough with Grilled Shrimp, Corn on the Cob and Red Bliss Potatoes. This time I couldn’t resist the special salad of the day- beautifully arranged with fresh seasonal vegetables and topped with fresh blackened shrimp. Dad, unable to decide, chose to pass on the Grilled Scottish Salmon and Prime Grilled Filet Mignon and selected the Spaghetti & White Clam Sauce – also available with housemade marinara sauce. An abundance of fresh local clams adorns a bowl of pasta dressed with an aromatic blend of shallots, garlic, fresh parsley, and white wine butter. Good Choice!
Owner/operators Tom and Helene, Chef Juan Brufau, and the friendly, attentive wait staff have maintained a traditional Montauk-friendly environment with top-notch food. Be sure to stop by for dinner and/or cocktails- enjoy the view!
Thanks to Tom and Helene for a wonderful evening – Dad had a lovely time. For hours and further information, go to: https://surfsideinnmontauk.com/