As the holiday season approaches, the North Fork transforms into a festive paradise, ideal for those looking to escape the usual shopping chaos and find unique gifts in a more serene setting. From charming boutiques and local craft markets to exceptional vineyards, the North Fork offers a holiday weekend experience filled with personal touches and memorable moments.
Friday Evening: Arrival and a Seaside Dinner
Begin your weekend getaway by checking into one of the cozy inns or B&Bs scattered along the North Fork. The Sound View in Greenport, with its stunning vistas of the Long Island Sound, provides a peaceful base for your adventures. After settling in, enjoy a hearty, farm-to-table dinner at The Halyard located right on the property. The restaurant’s menu is classic and modern, drawn from local farmers and fisherman. A cozy bar features thoughtfully crafted seasonal cocktails by expert mixologists.
Photo: Read McKendree
Saturday Morning: Boutique Hopping & Dining in Greenport
Start your day in this vibrant maritime village, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations during the holiday season, creating a magical backdrop for your shopping and dining experiences. Begin at The Weathered Barn, a beautifully curated concept store opened in 2008. They feature an eclectic mix of artisanal goods and home accessories, scented candles, delicate jewelry and unique stocking stuffers.
Next, visit Beall & Bell, an antique store that offers a wide variety of vintage furniture, art, and collectibles. Each piece tells a story, making it an ideal gift for those who cherish history and craftsmanship.
As brunch approaches, grab a bite at Bruce & Son on Main Street and savor their progressive and locally inspired menu. Be sure to make a stop at Aldo’s on Front Street for a cappuccino. This artisanal coffee roastery has been handcrafting exceptional coffee daily in small batches since 1987.
Afterward, stroll over to Goldsmith’s Toys and Electronics, a delight for both young and old. This old-fashioned toy store is a treasure trove of puzzles, books, and toys that spark nostalgia and joy. On Front Street, be sure to stop into Salt + Sea boutique, a village favorite, featuring a collection of apparel, accessories and seasonal must-haves for men and women.
Saturday Afternoon:
Farm Stands and Local Artisans
After lunch, drive out to the rural parts of the North Fork to explore the numerous farm stands that adorn the roadsides. Don’t miss Lavender By the Bay in East Marion, which offers delightful lavender gifts, from sachets and essential oils to honey and soaps, all harvested from their local lavender fields.
For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to the North Fork Chocolate Company on the Main Road in Mattituck is essential. This gourmet chocolatier offers handcrafted “small batch” artisanal chocolates, and an array of confections made from locally sourced ingredients. Their holiday-themed chocolates and gift baskets make perfect presents for friends and family, or simply a decadent treat for yourself.
Sunday Morning:
Vineyards and Specialty Shops
On your final day, visit a few of the North Fork’s world famous vineyards. Places like Bedell Cellars, Pindar Vineyards, Osprey’s Dominion, and over 50 others offer wine tastings and beautifully packaged gift sets that make for elegant presents.
In Jamesport, don’t miss the iconic Jamesport Country Store Located on the Main Road for over 50 years. The red brick building with an old pick-up truck parked out front is full of vintage antique signs, a great assortment of retro Christmas decorations, old fashioned candy and many other unique gifts you surely won’t find anywhere else.
No holiday visit to the North Fork would be complete without a stop at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Famous for its pies that utilize fruit grown on their own land, Briermere’s festive selection, including their coveted apple and pumpkin pies, are the essence of holiday comfort. These pies are a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and artisanal craftsmanship, making them a highlight of any holiday table.
A weekend of holiday shopping on the North Fork offers not just gifts but an experience; the calmness, the scenic coastline, and the warmth of small-town charm make every purchase feel a little more special. Whether it’s the taste of a fine wine or the scent of lavender, the gifts you bring home carry the essence of the North Fork, making them all the more precious.