The Sophisticated Beach setting complete with natural wood wall covering and chairs with a wood cabin look, the new Salt Box Restaurant and Bar offers fine casual dining right on the circle in town. Jon Krasner and Danny Ye succeeded in presenting the laid-back, nautical character of the East End by bringing local and international tastes to a carefree and friendly setting.
At first look, the menu doesn’t appear extensive, but the reality is that Chef Nadia has created an eclectic menu including a wonderful assortment of delicate fish and shellfish, as well as American pub style choices from the land.
From the complete list of wines, beer and cocktails we tried the Mango Coconut Martini which came highly recommended by the couple dining next to us. Sure enough it was delicious; reminded me of a mango creamsicle. The Ditch Punch, and Montauk 33 with Prosecco and gin were tasty unique drinks as well.
With our cocktails, Kate our waitress presented the Clams a la Piancha, Jeju BBQ Lettuce Wraps, and Crispy Asian Shrimp from the ‘Snacks’, the chili, lime, and cotija cheese topped Grilled Corn, and Salt Box Salad from ‘Vegetables’. These treats were followed by a couple of ‘Mains’ as well as some delectable specials sent out by Chef Nadia.
Each savory dish was freshly prepared with a perfect blend of spice and flavor. As our waiter Sean commented when I complemented the incredible flavors on the Jerk Duck served with warm cabbage slaw and pickled red onions, “That’s why there’s no salt and pepper on the table, each dish is perfectly seasoned and there’s no need for additional.” The Dayboat Scallops pan seared, accompanied perfectly by cous cous, cherry tomatoes, and truffle butter with a micro cilantro dressing were meaty, fork tender, and mouthwatering.
The first Chef Special was a fresh local Tuna Poke. A beautiful combination of tuna tossed with fresh local vegetables and hijiki seaweed salad blended with a light Homemade Ponzu Sauce. Another special was the gently coated and fried shrimp and scallop stuffed Zucchini Blossoms presenting smoky undertones provided by the bacon; what a treat for the taste buds. They were both beautiful to look at and delicious to eat!
While dining we enjoyed viewing the art hanging on the walls which is presented by local artist Allison Seiffer Spacek , an award winning editorial illustrator. She is displaying her newest venture into Vintage inspired travel posters. Among other accomplishments, she designed this year’s poster for the Rell Sunn Surf Contest benefit at Ditch Plains. Allison’s art is available to be purchased; for more information visit her website: mtkposter.com
Whether you stop in for a drink, a snack at the spacious bar while enjoying the inviting atmosphere, or to have a nice relaxing dinner, The Salt Box with Chef Nadia will certainly satisfy your dining needs.
The Saltbox also features Live Music every Friday and Saturday, as well as some weeknights.
