Housed in a 19th Century house of a civil war hero, this Shelter Island eatery offers an epicurean and historic pedigree unrivaled in the area. The structure was originally used as a post office and general store, before evolving into a series of inns and eateries that lead to its current incarnation. Today, leaded windows line a wrap-around terrace with outdoor dining in warmer months. Inside, a one-room dining area features minimal decor with white-clothed tables and convivial local service fully dedicated to the farm-to-table movement.
The Food
18 Bay offers a weekly four-course chef's menu derived from local farmers markets and purveyors. Open for dinner only, a series of signature cocktails using organic syrups leads to choice of appetizers like soft-shell crab with lemon jam, beef short rib with braised radishes and potato grana pizette. Pasta course ensues with homemade garganelli followed by choice of entrees like seafood stew with black sea bass, Hudson Valley duck with chicory or vegetarian option.
Last Word
Farm-to-table Shelter Island eatery in former-post office offer foodie pedigree and hometown feel.