In the spring of 2001, co-owners Jason Weiner and Eric Lemonides opened Almond Restaurant in Bridgehampton offering reasonable prices, bold bistro fare, friendly service and an attractive dining room reminiscent of a Parisian bistro.
“Almond has brought the French bistro to the Hamptons,” says Joanne Starkey of The New York Times. Adam Bar & Bistro, 1970 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton, NY (631) 537-8885
Chef Jason Weiner’s menu is comprised of many French bistro favorites. Traditional Escargot with a divine sauce of garlic and Pernod; Red Wine Braised Short Ribs with roasted beets in a horseradish crème fraiche; and a spirited salad of endive, pear and Roquefort candied walnuts are a few sample starters that win praise.
Sample entrees that please the palate include tasty Steak Frites with roasted shallots; Montauk Flounder with preserved lemon, garlic chips and bread crumbs; the slow-cooked fall off the bone Braised Shank of Lamb with roasted onions and fingerling potatoes; and Roasted Chicken with crushed potatoes and natural sauce.
Side dishes are also a standout menu item at Almond such as haricots vert, French fries, sautéed greens, chive crusted potatoes and homemade macaroni and cheese. And of course there is a delicious hamburger, a croque monsieur and a croque madame.
All these appetizing dishes at “bistro-moderate prices,” as Starkey describes, makes everything taste even better.
Friendliness is a hallmark of Almond, co-owner Eric Lemonides greets every diner at the door. Warm golden walls, pressed tin ceiling, votive candlelight, hardwood floors, antique mirrors and a long copper planter box dividing the bar from the dining room serve to create a soothing atmosphere.
In the spirit of liberté, egalité and fraternité, Almond seems to attract just about everyone – families, couples, celebrities, locals and everyone in between. It is chic and stylish, but utterly without attitude. Newsday food critic Joan Reminick sums up Almond in three simple words, “French, friendly, fun.”
ALMOND BAR & RESTAURANT
1970 Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton, NY (631) 537-8885
Almond Restaurant
Hours: Dinner served daily in season, from 6 p.m. – 12 midnight