Sole East
Last week I was out to dinner at a stereotypical Montauk “tourist hot spot”. I never go, but we had family in from France so we thought it would be apropos. After one look at the menu, I asked our waitress (who was not from this country) if there was anything “UN-fried” on the menu (about 85% of menu was fried food). Her reply, “That is what American’s eat, fried food!” I was beside myself. Sadly, that is the way we American’s are seen—fried food lovin’ freaks!
I am happy to say that this week I am writing about a restaurant that is the farthest thing from stereotypical Montauk “tourist hot spot”. Welcome to Solé East and all it has to offer. I have to say that when I walked through the hotel (by the way an incredible sanctuary) to get to the Backyard Restaurant, life downshifted a couple of gears. How nice!
So on Sunday evening, Heather and I and our respective brews dined “family style”. I have to say that I have eaten here before and loved it, but never with the kids—a totally different experience. Dave and Cindy Ceva, Sole’s down to earth owners, have three small kids of their own. And, as a result, this amazing sanctuary was created with kids in mind. There’s an indoor playroom, a sandbox, a huge enclosed yard for lots of safe running around, a volleyball net and shuffleboard. When we arrived the kids took off. On either side of the fenced pool (safety in mind) just beyond the restaurant there are rows of these incredibly large lounge beds (not lounge chairs but lounge beds!). The kids threw their shoes off and began a night of play. We sat down in the outdoor lounge area—my favorite dining spot. But, if you don’t fancy the location of the tables (whether in or out), the staff is happy to move one wherever you would like on the property. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Have you ever heard of Drop and Dine? Novel idea! Dave and Cindy have it down to a science. On weekends, Solé offers on-site eat and play babysitting while you dine. A relaxing dinner when out with your kids? Yup, it is true! At $20 per kid who can beat that! Important to know, reservations are required.
Among the many things that I love about Solé is that there is NO KIDS MENU! You can order off the regular menu or ask for what you would like and the chef will oblige (grilled chicken, pasta, etc). Quite honestly, that is the way it should be—real food for real little people. Not all that fried funk!
A final thought. Having an infant can definitely cramp your dining style when along for the ride. My tactic is that I bring Hunter bathed and in pajamas with a bottle ready to go. And, I keep my stroller handy. So, once the clock hit 6:30 I knew it was time. I went into the hotel’s lounge (that is very zen mind you) to give him his bottle and stroll him to bed. Now, where can you get quiet like that at a restaurant?
Atmosphere
Totally easy going and relaxed with a sophisticated yet uncomplicated atmosphere. Feels like home to me!
Menu Favorites (really everything!)
Everything is worth a shot. All food is wholesome, fresh and delicious. Local and seasonal ingredients are used whenever possible. Conscious cuisine! Just what I love!!!
Cool Kids Add-Ons
Where to begin!
• Indoor playroom
• Sandbox
• Shuffle Board
• Volleyball
• Plenty of closed-in yard to run around in
• On site babysitters for Drop and Dine
Other Amazing Stuff
• Drop and Dine Service (weekends)
On-site eat and play babysitting while you dine
$20 per kid
Reservation required
• Sunday Brunch with the Ice Jazzies (live music)
11am-3pm
Unlimited Mimosas and Solé Mary’s included with brunch
$30 per person
• Sunday Movie Night for older kids
8:30pm
Barbeque
• Tom’s Shoes pop-up store (www.TOMSshoes.com)
For every pair you purchase Tom’s will give a pair of shoes to a child in need
Solé East
90 Second House Road
Montauk, NY 11954
631.668.2105
