The Hamptons

New this season to The Hamptons is Union Cantina at Bowden Square. Teaming up together, the owners of the Southampton Social Club – Ian Duke and David Hilty – have collaborated with the club’s award-winning Executive Chef, Scott Kampf, to create an innovative Mexican eatery at the former Publick House. Designed just for Southampton, the style is a clean, new space with a retro feel to it in par with a lot of international boutique hotels but more rustic. The entrance though has a full blown Mexican flavor with brightly colored red accents for the outdoor bar and patio dining for summertime.

Chef Kampf, who has been featured on the legendary television show Iron Chefs of America, shows his devotion to classic “farm to table” cooking style and created a new menu with that in mind for Union Cantina. Choices were full range such as Castilla de Res Mole, “Deconstructed” Enchiladas in five variations or fresh striped bass, spicy shrimp for seafood lovers. Their signature cocktail Cinnamon Sol is a refreshing concoction boasting Don Julio Resposada, fresh pineapple + lime juice with a dash of cinnamon {of course}!

We tried the Mexican Pizza appetizer – and for the entree I ordered the Langosta Taco (3 soft lobster tacos) and my friend chose the Marinated Aracherras (skirt steak) version of the Deconstructed Enchilada – promised by the waitstaff to be a fresh but delicious twist on the popular enchilada. We couldn’t help ourselves after hearing the waitress rattle off their irresistable list of desserts! Lured in by Churros with Nutella for dipping and Tres Leche Cake which turned out to be so very moist and light (and a very pleasant surprise) – we left fully satisfied and filled to the gills. Next time I think we’d share the pizza appetizer as it was a healthy portion and then some.

The restaurant will be open year round for lunch and dinner and features a Bottomless Brunch on both Saturdays and Sundays. The former prohibition speakeasy – the yet to be reopened section – will be reopening as Rabbits Tequila Bar and carry more than 100 types of tequila. Situated in a prime location, Union Cantina and its counterpart, Rabbits Tequila Bar, will surely attract a lot of attention – especially since Bowden Square is celebrating its 80th year! The upcoming Hamptons International Film Festival might just be the right time to try this cozy, new hot spot.

We love Kahil Gibran’s take On Eating & Drinking

You can find handy links to both restaurants & lodging from Westhampton to Montauk on “The Hamptons”.com