BYLINES BY SCOTT
MARC MURPHY REVEALS HIS PICKS FOR BEST CLAMS & LOBSTERS OUT EAST
Chopped judge and Landmarc restaurateur Marc Murphy shares his East End inspiration.
You live in Bridgehampton—what led you to that area?
[My family and I] landed in Bridgehampton because to us it feels the most centrally located, and apart from Montauk or the Dunes, which are both a little too far east for us, our area feels super beachy and relaxed, which we love.
You are known to entertain a bit during the summer. What is your advice for using the house as a place to entertain?
We love to host huge lunches out here. The trick is to keep it simple, keep the menu light and easy, and keep the rosé flowing. We also have a huge picnic table on our deck, which keeps things feeling casual. And after lunch, everyone can pass out on the beach or by the pool!
If you had a chance to be anywhere else out East, where would it be?
I would probably choose the Dunes in Amagansett. My wife grew up out there, and that area is all about the beach, which is what I love the most.
What is your top summer activity if not cooking?
Boogie boarding with my kids and any other adults willing to go out in the ocean with me!
What is your favorite summer ingredient?
Tomatoes. I grow them at home, and there’s always a great selection from the farmstands.
Where are the best clams and lobster out East?
Clam Bar is casual and cool. It’s no frills but good service, and the lobster roll and clams are great. Don’t miss the steamers!
What was the most fun about writing Season with Authority?
It’s my first cookbook, so getting some of my favorite recipes down on paper and sharing them with the world was something that was really special. I love seeing how people try them at home and share them through social media. That’s a fun thing where you can see the dish through their eyes.
What is the scariest thing you have ever done?
I’d have to say opening my first restaurant. That was a big risk, but it’s been so rewarding.
Why did you become a chef?
School was always really hard for me because I’m dyslexic, so I needed to find something that would allow me to succeed. My brother happened to be enrolled at a cooking school, and I decided to try it out. Once I was there, I was hooked, and the kitchen was the first place I really found that made me feel like I belonged.
What is your favorite tool of the trade?
Right now, I’m really loving the cleaver from the Chopped collection on HSN. I might be slightly biased, but it is a great tool!
Who in your life inspired you and made the biggest impact on you?
My grandfather was an engineer and had an amazing work ethic, which I translated into my cooking career. I always remembered how hard he worked, and that stuck with me.
What is the Hamptons for you?
It’s quality time with family and friends.
Your favorite summer cocktail?
A Negroni.
Favorite spot in the Hamptons?
The bocce court in my backyard.
Read the Article at Hamptons-Magazine.com HERE.
