Business & Tech

Holiday Guide 2011: 10 Places to Take an Old Friend for Drinks

The holidays are time to reunite with old friends — why not take them out for a few at the following North Fork bars.

Have long-lost friends coming out to see you and the North Fork for the holidays? We know about the tucked-away spots — ideal to scoop them up and have a talk over a beer or cocktail:

This tavern is “way” off the beaten path in South Jamesport. Take a left at the main (and only) light in the hamlet and take a right on Third Street. You will not be disappointed in the friendly staff and low lights of this historic spot that was once a brothel — yep!

Talk about intimate — and if you like great food, this little hideaway is unbeatable. Cliff’s Too is the Laurel version of the in Jamesport, with signature steaks, seafood, all sorts of drinks, and affordable prices just off Route 25.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

Somehow, the “V” is still standing after nearly 100 years in existence across the street to the LIRR train station on Pike Street in Mattituck. Beer, shots, drafts, wine, and plenty of mixed alcoholic joy are available in this famous local haunt served up by some kind of friendly and occasionally surly staff.

Just down from the Broken Down in Mattituck lies the former Apple Tree, nowadays known as Four Doors Down. This is one of the few taverns in town with a real fireplace, old-school jukebox and plenty of dartboards.

Interested in local real estate?Subscribe to Patch's new newsletter to be the first to know about open houses, new listings and more.

Located in the Mattiuck Shopping Plaza, DoLittle’s doubles as a place for some fine sit-down dining and a great place to hang at the bar. Watch some games and catch up on some college-day stories of yore with your friends in front of an incredible jumbo screen TV.

You think Southold has no nightlife? Think again. Founders Tavern on Route 25 is one of the best places on the North Fork for some great lunch, dinner or drinks and laughs in either the dining room or bar area. Catch up with your buddy over the holiday in this small but cozy North Fork tavern.

Yes, Legends is legendary — and now that they’ve the legend will live on. The only bar / restaurant located so close to the pristine New Suffolk waterfront, Legends offers an extensive array of tap beer, top-shelf liquor, renowned food, and an unbeatable waterfront ambiance.

Have an old friend who prefers a little upscale feel at the bar? Try taking him or her to the new Touch of Venice in Cutchogue. The former Fisherman’s Rest horseshoe bar is the same in structure but completely different in feel, with warm beige and terra cottas covering the walls and a classy bar staff serving you the best in cocktails.

If you’re feeling Greenporty this holiday season, nothing speaks to portside charm like the Whiskey Wind Tavern on Front Street. Belly up at the bar like so many have before, and enjoy the company of friendly locals from all walks of life at this longstanding village watering hole.

If you feel like heading about as east as you can for a drink or two this holiday season on the North Fork, Skippers is pretty much the last stop before nothing more doing. Stop in early to impress your old friends with some delicious local seafood and a few laughs with the locals. The stories never stop at Skippers.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here