During its 200-year existence, the bright red wood building now known as the Old Mill Inn has transformed from a tidal gristmill to a gin mill frequented by bootleggers to a popular waterfront fine-dining establishment tucked away at the end of West Mill Rd. on the Mattituck Inlet.
The restaurant has changed hands several times since its days as a tavern in the early 1900s. In July 2006, author Bia Lowe, former television executive Barbara Pepe, former Time reporter Elaine Lafferty, and Fox News Channel personality Greta Van Susteren bought the Old Mill Inn with the intention of retaining the building's historical charm while offering inventive dishes made with as much local seafood and produce as possible. Since opening, the owners have also teamed with party-boat captain Bob Ceglowski to provide sunset dinner cruises on the Mattituck Inlet every Wednesday and Sunday night during the warmer months.
The lunch menu features oysters on the half shell, fish-and-chips, a classic burger, and unique salads such as "the Wedge": iceberg lettuce filled with grape tomatoes, fired shallots and bleu cheese with bacon optional. Along with rotating specials, main dinner courses include everything from pub-style staples, such as grilled New York strip, to various seafood delicacies.
Casual is the word for both indoor and outdoor seating areas at the Old Mill. The deck offers clear views of fishing boats, yachts and a variety of birds. With a fireplace roaring during the winter and live bands playing on the weekends, the restaurant's cozy pub is a popular place for locals and tourists to gather. The ghost of former owner Mrs. Richard Holmes is said to haunt the pub area, occasionally spooking patrons by throwing ice scoops and drink trays across the room.
This restaurant is seasonal — call 631-298-8080 for seasonal hours of operation.