My husband and I were looking for a special place to celebrate our 6th wedding anniversary, so we Googled "Best Restaurant Near Cutchogue." The Old Mill Inn came up. We tried it and were very happy that we did. The linguini with clams and the seafood stew were delicious and the service, excellent. Needless to say, we'll be returning for our 7th anniversary!
We have been dining at Old Mill Inn for over 20 years and have witnessed a transformation resulting from an ownership change a few years ago. Specifically, the number of menu choices shrunk while the prices increased. Service is not what it used to be; it's not as family friendly (the previous owners would let kids feed the ducks). The limited menu selections, however, remain delicious. It's still worth a trip, even if slightly less so.
How do you forget to put fennel in the fennel salad? How do you have the nerve to serve a third of a halibut filet over a half cup of lentils and a single quarter inch slice of sausage for $28 and call it en entree? Lovely view while sitting outside (they can't control the bugs at sunset biting you up) but they can train the service to actually serve you, rather than ignore you. And the burger was good.
One dreary Sunday, my family and I were spending a leisurely day visiting some wineries and chose the Old Mill Inn for a late lunch. We were all pleasantly surprised with delicious, fresh food, a very nice bottle (or two) of a local white wine, and gorgeous waterfront scenery. Our waitress was top-notch and told us some interesting stories of some of the eerie happenings around the place.
The only complaint about this restaurant is the early close in autumn and the wait for the re-opening in spring. A perfect North Fork setting and food to match.
Oct. 2011