Travel: New York City & The Hamptons (Part 2)

Part 1 of my post about my very first trip to NYC was long, it's true. But there's a lot more to tell. So, if you're game, I'll continue down memory lane and you can come along for the ride.

I left off at the morning after our night out in the city and a raucous time at McSorley's. While we were all ~~feeling like death~~ dragging a little the next day, we had to get up bright and early in order to catch the Hamptons Jitney for our impromptu visit to the Hamptons.

I really wanted to spend another day {or 5} in the city, but I also knew it was a fun opportunity to get to check out the Hamptons {on Labor Day weekend, no less} and stay in our friend's summer house rental. I had no idea what to expect.

We arrived at a beautiful {albeit slightly neglected}, classic shingle style home, which I was told had belonged to an artist at some point. After taking a look around at some of the unique details in and around the home, I was convinced it had to be true. I think it takes an artist to find beauty in this:

This was prominently displayed in the back yard.

My favorite detail was this piece of furniture for wine storage. It reminded me of something out of Alice in Wonderland. Or a Salvador Dali painting. So cool. {I'm not sure if it was made by this company, but the pieces look similar, don't they?}

We spent the day lounging poolside recovering from the day before {well, ok, I was recovering... everyone else wasn't as concerned with liver failure, apparently}. Someone grabbed lunch from a nearby deli and for the first time I was introduced to the concept of adding crisp, sweet slices of apple to a savory sandwich. {I told you this was pre-blogging days... I guess my taste buds weren't as adventurous back then!}

It was so good that for weeks after our trip I would make a wrap with the same ingredients and take it to work with me. Before we knew it, the day was over and it was time to check out Hamptons nightlife.

Our friends had planned to take us to a place called The Surf Lodge, a popular Montauk spot that I've since then seen on The Travel Channel and mentioned in several places. I was a little worried that I was under dressed for an evening Hamptons outing... after all, when I packed for the trip, I had no idea we'd end up there. But, I was pleasantly surprised to find that unlike what I had envisioned in my head {Ahem Ina. Pearls. Cable knit sweaters. Popped collars, etc., etc.} it was actually a super laid back atmosphere.

Image Source

The Surf Lodge is an interesting spot. It's a bar, restaurant, and hotel all in one. It has a surfer-chic aesthetic mixed with a pinch of modern and a dash of posh. I loved the decor -- lots of white, neutrals, and natural woods & wickers mixed with bright, beachy punches of color. The inside bar and lounge area reminded me of a surf enthusiasts living room, and the outside featured a large wooden deck overlooking Fort Pond Bay and bustling with patrons sidling up to the bar {and each other} for cold libations. We spent some time in each spot, taking in the scenery {and people watching those who wanted to be seen}.

Click links for Image Sources: Left, Top Right, Bottom Right

They also had a beach area littered with adirondack chairs and logs to sit on, with a bonfire going that was perfect for getting away from the crowd and snuggling up with your guy or gal. I have to admit that as much fun as I was having, I was exhausted and I thought about curling up by the fire and taking a nap. No one seemed to feel the need to do the same, so I sucked it up and stayed awake for the remainder of our night out.

Click links for Image Sources: Bottom Left, Right

The next day we were heading back to Florida, so we didn't have time to do too much other than enjoy the bus ride back and relax.

My first trip to New York City {and beyond} was over, but it was just the beginning of my budding love affair with The Big Apple. It took over a year for me to return, but when I did, I came ready to take on the town -- fork, knife and all. I'll be sharing the highlights of my next {longer} trip in Part 3!

Since I was so inspired by the sandwich I had during my stay in the Hamptons, I thought I'd share a "recipe" for this simple, yet delightful combo. Smokey turkey, sharp cheddar, and tart Granny Smith apple come together to create a light, fresh sandwich reminiscent of the feel of the Hamptons. Add bacon for extra crunch and saltiness, or enjoy as is... but either way, savor every bite!

"Hamptons Club" Sandwich

Inspired by The Hamptons

1 crusty baguette, ciabatta, or favorite roll {I made my own using this recipe}

Dijon mustard

2-3 slices smoked turkey breast {I like the Boar's Head Mesquite}

1-2 slices sharp white cheddar cheese

3-4 slices Granny Smith Apple, thinly sliced

A few leaves spring mix lettuce

2 slices tomato

{Optional} Your favorite jelly, bacon {cooked crisp}, etc.

1. Lightly toast your sandwich roll if desired. Spread the top with Dijon mustard. {I like to spread a little jam on my sandwich, too. It makes for a nice sweet touch. You can also use honey mustard which will have a similar effect.}

2. Place cheese and apple slices over the mustard/jam.

3. Pile some turkey onto the bottom part of the roll. Top with lettuce, tomato, and bacon if using.

4. Combine top & bottom of sandwich... and enjoy!

*This is obviously just a suggestion. Everyone makes their sandwich differently. You can certainly leave out any ingredients you aren't fond of or "build" your sandwich how you like it! But you should definitely try the apple/cheddar/turkey together... so tasty! 🙂

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