An acoustic guitar leisurely rests in the window overlooking the cozy patio that doubles as prime seating for people watching and celebrity spotting. During quieter times between meals, a subtle hum of thin, silver laptops blaze under the glow of the large screen continuously running surf films. Carefree guests integral to the atmosphere at 668 as the dynamic Gardell Family themselves, take in the daily specials etched in chalk while pedestrians stroll in to pick up a meal, fresh fruit smoothie or creamy gelato to take away. 668 is Montauk’s coolest resident.
Back at the Shack: Offering a gourmet trio of breakfast, lunch and dinner, the buzz generated three seasons ago when 668 first opened its doors has taken hold. The bistro has earned its culinary stripes and loyal following in the process, thanks to the energy and imagination of husband and wife team Tracey and Lewis and their three sons Arden, Gray and Skylar. A hybrid of International Surf Cuisine, Bohemian Barbeque and emphasis on fresh, local seafood, 668 literally stops you in your tracks as you are drawn into this beehive of delightful, gastronomic surprises.
The Global Gourmet: Chilled soups of ginger, melon mint and Spicy Asian tomato infused with a jolt of sesame oil teased out our sleepy taste buds, a welcome opening to a meal outdoors on a hot summer afternoon. South and Latin American empanadas of grilled mushroom and Monterey Jack cheese, along with shaved steak with Chimichuri sauce, an Argentinean marmalade, were warm and crispy pockets of bliss.
Bite-sized, spiced lamb sliders affectionately known as Lamburginis paid homage to Greece, served on rich cheddar cheese buns enlivened by garlic aioli to playfully awaken the five senses, followed. Thai-inspired Papaya Salad with rock shrimp was a dreamy blend of sweet and salty with peanuts and Miso vinaigrette, a tasty glimpse of the distinct commitment to fresh, creative ingredients native to 668’s menu.
668 actively champions vegetarian-friendly offerings like the homemade Black Bean and Corn Burger, a heartier cousin to the traditional “veggie burger.” Chef Terri, an alumnus of the Culinary Institute of America with experience at the helm in kitchens across the Boston area, The Berkshires and Martha’s Vineyard, is meticulous in preparation, and presentation. Soaking dried black beans in-house before they are mashed, formed and grilled, the Black Bean Burger along with all sandwiches are served on a toasted Brioche Bun with thick wedges of juicy watermelon and golden pineapple.
The Barbeque at 668 is a short pilgrimage to the land of comfort food, in the form of Hawaiian style Ribs and Jerk Chicken that melt off the bone, kept company by a mound of house cut French fries. The myriad of tastes and influences were a bold prelude that lured us into ordering desserts.
The (Hemp) Milky Way Proudly boasting new additions this season of fresh-fruit smoothies and rich milk shakes made exclusively from 668’s own Gelato list, creations include dark chocolate, Tahitian vanilla, espresso and peanut butter hemp. The choice of milk including the Uber-hip Hemp Milk, a nutritional, nutty tasting alternative to soy and dairy is tantamount to the natural, original vibe you will find at 668. This small bistro with a big heart has conquered the challenge of expanding Montauk’s palate while remaining rooted in the concept of savoring the traditions that make this town unique.
The Last Mango in Montauk: After such a decadent meal, we nibbled on Tracey’s renowned Red Velvet Cake painted in creamy frosting and coated in chopped pecans. The buttery vanilla layer cake with homemade chocolate Ganache frosting is a long standing family recipe. Our gelatos of mascarpone caramel pistachio and blueberry with shortbread cookies were perfection. The Gig Shack is also the inspiration for Lewis’s upcoming novel, The Last Mango in Montauk, a tale about opening a restaurant in the Hamptons. Chronicling the stories of the journey taken to create Main Street’s mainstay, Lewis describes family ties, the local community and insights of life along the way. Just another facet of what makes the talented Gardells remarkable.
668 (The Gig Shack)
4 South Elmwood Avenue, Montauk, New York 11954.
631 668-2727 | http://668thegigshack.com/
