Wine & Dining · 6 min read

Best Winery Restaurants on Long Island (Book on OpenTable)

Elevate your wine tasting experience by booking a meal at one of Long Island's premier winery restaurants. Explore our top picks for farm-to-table dining among the vines.

Best Winery Restaurants on Long Island (Book on OpenTable)

When you visit the picturesque vineyards of the North Fork or the luxury estates of the Hamptons, a glass of crisp Chardonnay is often only half the story. To truly experience the terroir of Long Island, you need to taste the local harvest. Fortunately, the region has evolved from simple tasting rooms into a world-class culinary destination. Finding the best winery restaurants on Long Island allows you to move beyond the cracker plate and into the realm of chef-driven, seasonal cuisine.

Whether you are looking for a multi-course tasting menu or a wood-fired pizza overlooking the vines, booking ahead is essential. Many of these top-tier spots leverage the convenience of OpenTable to manage their busy weekend crowds, ensuring you have a seat waiting for you after your flight of Merlot.

The Evolution of Wine Country Dining

For years, the options for food at wineries were limited by strict agricultural zoning laws. Most guests were restricted to bringing their own picnics or purchasing small pre-packaged cheeses. However, a select group of pioneers fought for the right to serve full meals, creating the vibrant gastro-winery scene we enjoy today.

Today, these establishments focus on "Long Island Gold"—the incredible abundance of local seafood, North Fork produce, and artisanal cheeses. By dining at a winery, you aren't just eating; you are participating in a complete ecosystem of local flavor.

Explore more options in our curated list of wineries with food.

Wölffer Estate Vineyard: The Hamptons Icon

If there is one name that defines the intersection of luxury and viticulture in the Hamptons, it is Wölffer Estate. While their main tasting room offers small bites, it is the Wölffer Kitchen locations that truly shine as full-service dining experiences. Located in nearby Sag Harbor and Amagansett, these restaurants are designed to pair perfectly with their famous Summer in a Bottle Rosé.

At Wölffer, the menu focuses on fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Imagine local striped bass, vibrant salads, and grass-fed meats that complement the bright acidity of their estate-grown wines.

Book a table at Wölffer Kitchen via OpenTable to ensure you don't miss out during the busy summer season.

Jamesport Vineyards: Little Creek Oyster Bar & Wood Fired Kitchen

Jamesport Vineyards has long been a favorite for those who want a lively atmosphere paired with high-quality sustenance. Their Wood Fired Kitchen is a North Fork staple, specializing in sourdough pizzas that are blistered to perfection in a high-heat oven.

What sets Jamesport apart is their collaboration with local baymen. You can often find fresh-shucked oysters from the Peconic Bay, providing the ultimate pairing for their refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. The outdoor seating area is expansive, making it one of the most comfortable spots for a long afternoon lunch.

Reserve your lunch at Jamesport Vineyards through OpenTable.

Bistro 72 at Hotel Indigo: The Unofficial Winery Dining Room

While not physically located inside a vineyard, Bistro 72 serves as the culinary gateway to the North Fork. Located in Riverhead, this restaurant features an extensive list of local wines and a menu that highlights the best of the East End. It is the perfect place to start your weekend or enjoy a sophisticated dinner after a day of touring.

Their commitment to the farm-to-table movement is evident in their seasonally rotating menu. From local duck breast to handmade pastas, the quality rivals any white-tablecloth establishment in Manhattan.

Book your dinner at Bistro 72 via OpenTable.

Paumanok Vineyards & Seasonal Pop-ups

Paumanok is widely considered one of the most prestigious wineries on Long Island. While they do not have a full-service year-round restaurant, they are famous for their seasonal food programs. During the warmer months, they frequently host oyster pop-ups and high-end catering partners on their massive deck overlooking the vines.

Their focus is on purity and quality, mirroring the approach they take with their award-winning Petit Verdot and Chenin Blanc. Always check their schedule for special wine pairing dinners, which often sell out weeks in advance.

Macari Vineyards: The Bergen Road Bungalows

Macari has reimagined the winery dining experience with their exclusive “Bungalows.” These private, heated tents offer a luxurious way to enjoy gourmet lunches during the colder months. Partnering with localized high-end chefs, Macari provides a curated multi-course meal that focuses on elevated comfort food.

For a more casual experience, their tasting room offers excellent local cheese and charcuterie boards that are a cut above the standard fare.

Book your private dining experience directly with Macari Vineyards.

RG|NY: Mexican Heritage Meets North Fork Soil

RG|NY brings a unique perspective to the North Fork, blending the Entwistle family’s Mexican winemaking heritage with Long Island terroir. Their food program is equally innovative, often featuring small plates that incorporate Mexican flavors and spices.

Their "Winemaker’s Lunch" is an educational and culinary journey that guides you through the process of wine production while serving dishes specifically designed to highlight the nuances of the glass. It is a must-visit for anyone who considers themselves a true wine enthusiast.

Important Considerations: Winery Restaurants & Picnic Rules

Before you pack a basket, it is vital to understand the local regulations. Over the last decade, most Long Island wineries have moved away from a "bring your own food" policy.

Outside Food: The majority of wineries with full-service restaurants or kitchens prohibit outside coolers and picnic baskets. This is often due to liquor license restrictions. Reservations: Especially during September and October (harvest season), do not expect to walk in and get a table. Always use platforms like OpenTable or the winery’s direct booking site. * Group Sizes: Many winery restaurants have a cap on group sizes (usually 6-8 people) to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for all guests.

For a more casual outing, check our guide to wineries that still allow picnics.

Planning Your Culinary Wine Tour

To make the most of your trip, we recommend booking a professional transport service so you can enjoy the wine pairings without worry. A guided tour can help you navigate the best spots without the stress of driving.

Book a guided winery tour with Viator.

If you are planning to stay overnight to hit multiple winery restaurants on Long Island, there are several boutique hotels nestled right in the heart of the vineyards.

Find a hotel in the North Fork on Booking.com.

Why We Love Winery Dining

There is something visceral about eating food that was grown in the same soil as the grapes in your glass. The best winery restaurants on Long Island aren't just about convenience; they are about storytelling. When a chef uses salt harvested from the nearby Atlantic or duck from a farm just three miles down the road, it creates a sense of place that is impossible to replicate in a city restaurant.

Next time you head out to the East End, don't just stop for a tasting. Book a table, settle in, and let the flavors of the North Fork and the Hamptons show you why this is the premier wine country of the East Coast.

Browse more dining options and book on OpenTable.