Without a doubt 1770 is one of the most romantic restaurants in the Hamptons. The small elegant and intimate dining room has beamed ceilings and fans and thick crown moldings above walls half painted beige and half covered with a subtle grass cloth. Wall sconces and antiques clocks adorn the walls and the dark hardwood floors are covered with Oriental rugs. Antique dining tables are surrounded by brown wicker chairs with comfortable cushions. When the fire is going, there is no more romantic room around. The menu is limited in number of choices, but long on innovation and flavor. Some highlights: Montauk Sea Scallops with yellowfoot mushrooms, sweet peas, spring onions and ham hock jus, Braised Veal Osso Bucco with saffron and escarole risotto and Heritage Pork Ragu with cavatelli, Calabrian cilis, leeks and local carrot.

Not much of a dessert eater, I usually like the cheese course (of which 1770 has an excellent one), but ricotta cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is quite amazing.

This is a well crafted wine list by someone who really knows their wine. Not too many people know the Gruet Brut Blanc de Noirs from New Mexico (an excellent sparkling). The list is excellent with California, Long Island, France, Italy, Australia and Spain well represented. Prices range from reasonable to very expensive, but there are plenty of selections under $75.

Tables #5 and #6 are the most intimate at the front of the room, overlooking the tree lined street and near the fireplace.

A cozy, but more casual Tavern, also with a fireplace, offers burgers, meatloaf and other comfort foods.

ROMANTIC QUOTIENT: High

WHAT OTHERS SAY…

Wine Spectator Award Winning List

“Charming, elegant environs whisk diners away to an earlier time at this East Hampton standout an intimate inn set in a 1663 home dishing out fabulous American fare with a local leaning; the very special surrounds and gracious service fetch expensive tabs, but a cozy, fireplace-warmed tavern downstairs offers a more casual escape from the typical buzz.” ZAGAT