Residents in the Hamptons are expressing their sadness over the closure of Estia’s Little Kitchen, a cherished local eatery. This humble Mexican diner is set to be replaced by a branch of a smoothie chain known for its pricey acai bowls, marking another loss of local charm to larger corporate entities.
For nearly three decades, Estia’s has been a fixture along the Sag Harbor and Bridgehampton Turnpike. Last November, the owner, Colin Ambrose, listed it for sale at $3.75 million. Over the weekend, Sunlife Organics, a California-based smoothie chain with a presence in 20 states, finalized the purchase.
Sunlife’s “Billion Dollar Smoothies,” often promoted on social media, come with a hefty price tag of $33—more than most entrees at Estia’s, where meals typically cost under $20. The high prices have taken many by surprise, especially those who frequented Estia’s several times a week.
Matthew Amiratti, owner of Bridgehampton Motoring Club, shared his shock with New York Next, saying he received numerous calls from friends about the closure. “It was more than just a restaurant. It was a place where locals and weekenders gathered. Everyone had their favorites; I loved the Crispy Chicken BLT. Nothing compares to it here.” His emotions reflect the shared disappointment felt by many in the community.
The farewell was tumultuous, with some staff, some of whom had spent 15 years at Estia’s, walking out in protest on what was meant to be the last day of service.
Founded in Malibu in 2011, Sunlife Organics has garnered a dedicated following, similar to that of high-end grocery store Erewhon. Celebrities like Kate Hudson and Kendall Jenner have been spotted at their stores, and even Bella Hadid started her career at one of their locations. Their menu features a range of expensive enhancements, including goji berries and probiotic additives.
While Sunlife hasn’t announced an opening date yet, the investment they made in the property suggests they will likely aim to begin operations soon. Attempts to reach them for comments were not successful.
This situation reflects a broader trend of increasing commercialization in the East End. Long-standing local businesses are being replaced by chains, changing the character of the villages.
Sag Harbor, known for its stringent regulations on new stores, has recently approved businesses like Rag & Bone, Madewell, and Steve Madden, signaling a shift in local business dynamics. There are whispers that Nobu might also set up shop in Sag Harbor.
“Businesses are coming to Sag Harbor,” remarked Shane Dykeman, who runs the well-loved Sagtown coffee shop. “With the rent prices, it’s almost unavoidable.” Estia’s, known for its commitment to being open year-round, was one of the last traditional local institutions. More restaurants are closing during the winter months, focusing on areas with higher traffic and profit.
“It takes guts to keep a business running all year,” Dykeman said.
For many longtime residents, the closing of Estia’s signals more than just the end of a dining experience; it’s about losing a shared community space. Celebrities like Drew Barrymore and Jerry Seinfeld, along with local figures such as Jon Gray, frequented the diner, adding to its charm.
Now, locals are on the lookout for new dining options. Amiratti humorously noted, “I’ll take my friends to the farm; I’ll just wrap up sandwiches in brown paper bags for a picnic.”
