Young Partygoers Opt for a Sober Fourth of July in the Hamptons
Predictions indicate that this Fourth of July will be dry for many young revelers in the Hamptons.
Across New York City and beyond, younger crowds are increasingly turning away from bottle service, leaving local business owners to rethink their food and drink offerings.
Aymeric Clemente, the CEO of Bagatelle Restaurant Group, has witnessed this shift firsthand.
“In the past, it was all about hitting as many bars as possible and drinking until you couldn’t anymore. Those days are fading,” he mentioned in a conversation. “We’re still interested in going out, but the vibe feels different now.”
At LDV, located in East Hampton, and Barroom Beach in Montauk—two venues run by LDV Hospitality—table prices this weekend range from $3,000 to $20,000.
“I can’t remember the last time I saw someone really partying in the Hamptons. The whole scene has changed compared to when I was a kid, which was about 25 years ago,” John Meadow, founder of LDV Hospitality, remarked.
In a bid to attract drinkers, Carissa at Watermill has slashed alcohol prices. Restaurateur James Marios noted that the average cost of a bottle has dropped from around $700 to $1,000 down to approximately $650 to $850. Bottle service for groups of six to ten can still range between $1,500 and $2,500, depending on the night.
Mocktails are on the menu too, although Marios avoids highlighting them. “I’m not against them, but my livelihood is tied to selling food and drinks,” he explained, expressing some skepticism about the trend of cutting back on alcohol.
Looking ahead, Marios is also interested in cannabis-infused beverages and has applied for a license, already managing a pharmacy called Charlie Fox in Southampton.
Jayma Cardoso, who owns Montauk’s Surf Lodge, has noted the reluctance of Gen Z to indulge. “Sure, they might order a bottle of champagne, but many just opt for fresh juice or zero-proof beer,” she said.
The cost for a table at Surf Lodge can rise to $1,000 per person.
“People are spending money regardless, so I want to ensure they have a good time,” Cardoso remarked.
To enhance the experience, she has introduced unique offerings like Caviar Caspia’s caviar cans, priced at up to $595 for 125 oz. There’s also a quirky twist with Popeye’s chicken tenders served in towers for $150 each.
The Surf Lodge’s new supper club features drinks such as Elixir, a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage intended as a Champagne substitute, inspired by Waris Ahluwalia, known for his roles in Wes Anderson films.
When it comes to dining, Cardoso stated that the minimum cost for food and drinks at their “deck table” is set between $500 and $1,000 per person.
This evolving landscape seems to show that older generations might be outpacing younger ones in terms of nightlife enjoyment. “While younger folks are drinking less, older individuals are still indulging in fine wines and spirits,” Meadow noted, pointing out that diners often prioritize the overall experience over just the drinks themselves.
“What we’re really selling is space for an experience, and that naturally comes with a price,” Meadow added.
Kobi Levy from Prince Street Hospitality, who launched Alba Spiaggia at the Montauk Yacht Club this season, shared similar insights. “It’s evident that young people are not drinking as much, but that’s not my concern. People come here for the experience, not specifically for wine pairings.”
Alidoro Celebrates 40 Years with New Locations
In other news, Alidoro, the beloved Italian sandwich shop that started in Soho in 1986, is marking its 40th anniversary by opening a new 1,000-square-foot store at One Madison Avenue on July 9, with plans for additional locations later this year.
CEO John Streep explained that the brand’s growth is bolstered by both its real estate strategy and its appealing menu. The offerings include 21 Italian sandwiches, along with breakfast options and catering services, featuring high-quality ingredients.
In partnership with the New York City Tourism Board’s “Kick It in New York” campaign, Alidoro is also presenting a limited-time special, the “Il Calcio” sandwich, during the World Cup viewing event.
Sushi Akira Introduces Seasonal Menu
On the Upper East Side, Sushi Akira has rolled out a new seasonal menu, garnering praise from the Michelin Guide. This intimate omakase restaurant, led by chef Nikki Jen, focuses on high-quality seasonal ingredients, presenting dishes that are becoming increasingly popular in the area.
