New Paradise Cafe   (Photo: Gordon Grant)

New Paradise Cafe (Sag Harbor; 631-725-6080) Robert Durkin of Robert’s in Water Mill has jettisoned the Asian accents, added the word New to the name, and introduced a New American menu.

Jean-Luc (East Hampton; 631-324-1100) What was Peconic Coast is now Jean-Luc, he of the eponymous restaurant on West 84th. “A little less French, a little more American,” he murmurs diplomatically.

Jimmy Farrell’s (Westhampton; 631-288-5700) If you can’t stand the wait at the Palm on Sundays, you can still break up your trip home by stopping at this new steakhouse. And ask for the oxtail marmalade.

Witch's Rock   (Photo: Gordon Grant)

Witch’s Rock (Southampton; 631-259-8999) The Hamptons’ first Costa Rican spot! Named—and why not?—after a Central American surfer’s break. Sirloin with rice and beans just $16—vaya, por fin!

Gianni’s (Montauk; 631-668-0303) Farewell, Caswell’s; hello, Gianni’s, a well-priced southern Italian place a mere gnoccho from the ocean. Look for Far East Enders Peter Beard and Ralph Lauren.

Napeague Stretch (Amagansett; 631-267-6980) Langan’s John Mahon and Gunnar Myers of the Tenth Street Lounge (wait, it’s still going?!?) have made the Inn at Napeague into a beach lounge.

Related:

• Archive: “Gotham”
• Articles by Beth Landman
• Table of Contents: May 26, 2003 issue of New York | Subscribe!