Known for its affluence and quaint character, Southampton also boasts a rich cuisine that is quite appetizing for local residents and visitors. Long Island's diverse demographics have contributed to the introduction of ethnic cuisine in Southampton Restaurants.
Mediterranean cuisine is one of the most popular ethnic food in Southampton. Traditional dishes include Souvlaki platters that are served with steamed rice and vegetables. Charcoal grilled chicken, pork and beef make up Souvlaki dishes. Lamb is another popular option that is on the menu at Greek restaurants in the Southampton area. Fat and flowing with juices when slowly cooked, this particular meat is best prepared on rotisserie equipment. Guests can actually watch the cooks carve off slices of lamb directly off the rotating rotisserie stick. Greek salads are often served with a choice of Kalamatra olives and authentic olive oil. Additionally, Tzatziki dips and feta cheese are usually added to the ingredients of fresh salads. Classic Greek treats such as sweet nut Baklava are also considered menu favorites.
Turkish, Lebanese and Israeli cuisine is part of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food that is served in Southampton Restaurants. Shish Kebob is one of the most popular menu items in such ethnic food. Meat on skewers is combined with grilled vegetables such as pepper and onions. Middle Eastern food also includes dips like Tahini paste and Hummus. Pita bread is often served along with any salads, appetizers and main dishes. Additionally, Falafel is considered a traditional choice in Southampton Restaurants that offer Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. Israeli variations of Greek Souvlaki include Schwarma, which is also slowly cooked on a rotisserie.
Asian food definitely has a strong stand in the ethnic character of Southampton Restaurants. Sushi bars are quite popular with locals who have learned to appreciate Southampton's rich seafood heritage. Sushi chefs often try to use locally caught fish species when making rolls that are supposed to be filled with Tuna or Salmon pieces. Instead, Bass and Porgy from Long Island's coast might be used to make delicious Sushi rolls and other a la carte style servings. Southeastern Asian influences are also quite apparent in Southampton Restaurants. Fried rice and noodles are the main sides served at such restaurants that simply do not offer potatoes or pasta. Deep fried dumplings and spring rolls are considered popular appetizers in Asian restaurants.
Italian flavor definitely has a spot in some of the best Southampton Restaurants. Pasta dishes often include chicken that is broiled, steamed or grilled to perfection. Tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese are gently applied over whole wheat pasta that includes Spaghetti. Italian restaurants in Southampton also offer authentic Roma style pizza pies that are freshly made from scratch and then baked in stone hearths. Pizzas by the slice are not served in casual Southampton Restaurants that offer Italian cuisine.
Classic All-American cuisine also has its place in the Southampton restaurant scene. Original Angus hamburgers and thick potatoes wedges are popular alternatives to fast food burgers and fries. A bit of southern influence is also apparent in small eateries of Southampton that serve All-American food. For example, catfish and red snapper are deep fried in beer batter and served extra crispy along with southern sides such as mashed potatoes, cole slaw, green beans, squash and sweet corn. A bit of Cajun flavor can be found in the southern style kitchens of Long Island. Spicy sauces and dips come with fried fish dishes. Since it is a coastal town, Southampton doesn't seem to have a favorable taste for fried chicken. Instead, residents opt to enjoy locally caught seafood including shrimp that's fried to perfection.
