KidMontauk

This week Heather and I, solo with the little ones (ahhhh!) went to 668 The Gigshack, a downtown Montauk eatery. The food and atmosphere were fabulous, but before I get there I have to share a great story with you all about its owners.

In the aftermath of 9/11, Lewis and Tracey Gardell, residents of downtown Manhattan, made the move to Montauk with their three boys in tow. Making the move from NYC to Montauk can surely be culture shock for many but knowing that, Lewis and Tracey committed themselves to making sure that their new kids on the block (and the local youth they befriended) had something more than this amazing one-horse town could offer. Soon after their arrival, the Gardell home became the local hang out for the teenagers and their friends. Tracey, a talented culinarian, cooked her way through cultures while the kids enjoyed and commented on her cuisine. What an amazing way for kids to learn about the world around them!

The Gardell home quickly became a place where 12 local kids, including the Gardell boys, began to identify themselves with different cultures and cuisine. It was then that Tracey and Lewis agreed to buy 782 Main Street and embark on what they called a community project helping to give these kids and the many to follow a sense of being part of something, a sense of responsibility and a real sense of self. The kids literally handmade what is now 668 The Gigshack, laying tile, painting, creating menus, etc. And to this day, they continue to work together to create menus, run the shop and give it the personality that it carries. All with the continued love and support of Lewis and Tracey.

Now in their fourth season, The Gigshack, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner has become a Montauk mainstay. The unique global surf cuisine, all prepared to order by 19-year old head chef, Gray Gardell is fresh and delicious. Portions are huge so come with an appetite. They truly cover the cultures with tapas, sushi (Wednesdays and Fridays at 6pm), bohemian BBQ, 35 kinds of well-researched beer (no hard-stuff offered), homemade baked goods and LavAzza coffee.
(more…)