With a new year just around the bend, it's time to look back at the year was 2009. First up, a check of the latest and greatest eateries to find a home in the Hamptons, and manage to stay open. May they live long and prosper for many seasons to come.
5) Blue Sky - Taking over the beloved Spinnaker's space, Blue Sky's Mediterranean fare was strong enough to keep it in the Sag Harbor game. Add in winter offerings like belly dancing and Yankees-themed cocktails and you have yourself a fun offseason time.
4) The Living Room - Introducing Swedish food to the East End, James Carpenter's menu at The Living Room continues to impress. Set for renovations this winter, the c/o the Maidstone resto promises to back in action next spring.
3) Rugosa - Taking on the former Almoncello Wainscott location, New American Rugosa has managed to quietly navigate its first year on the East End. The latest of many restaurants to tackle a space with a tank in the parking lot, it appears Rugosa is well on its way to season number two.
2) Fishbar on the Lake - This Montauk newcomer got down to business last spring serving up the freshest of fish on the East End. Flying under the radar early on, this rather adorable video of chef Jennifer Meadows solidified her place in the restaurant scene, and in the hearts of fishermen everywhere.
1) Blue Parrot: - Duh. Making its triumphant return to East Hampton, the Blue Parrot's killer mexican came home with the help of Renée Zellweger, Jon Bon Jovi and Ron Perelman. Strange bedfellows for a restaurant resurrection, but effective nonetheless. A Letterman promo never hurt anyone.