My Perfect Day: Greenport

I would start my perfect day in the lovely town of Greenport with the ferry ride over from Shelter Island. It may seem like an inconsequential part of the day, but I’m like a little kid who really loves riding the ferry. It’s a high point in the day for me.

I’d stop at D’Latte, a cozy coffee shop with delicious gelato and a spirited staff. I would order a latte and sit at an outdoor table. Gelato would have to wait until at least the afternoon, but it’s worth going back for.

Greenport is a perfect town for strolling. I would make sure to walk along the water, taking in the scene and the boats. This would include a ride on the carousel, perfect for kids and kids at heart like myself. The historic merry-go-round is over 100 years old and at $2 a ride, it’s one of the finest attractions on the East End.

While walking the seaside town, stops along the way would include The Times Vintage (because I love all things vintage), Kate’s Cheese Co. (because I love all things wine and cheese), and Vines & Branches (because olive oil is everything).

The North Fork Art Collective would also be one of my stops. The collective has a storefront on Front Street that showcases the works of its members. Collective members include founder Kara Hoblin, along with Jeremy Garretson, Kelly Franké, Peter Treiber, Madison Fender, Emma Ballou, and Scott Bluedorn.

The original Greenport Harbor Brewery and Tasting Room, which opened in 2009, is located in Greenport in what was once a firehouse, directly next to the old 1910 Greenport Jailhouse. The brewery is definitely a stop along the way in my perfect Greenport day. Not only does it offer great beer selections like the Summer Ale and the Tidal Lager, it also exhibits art.

Currently on view is “Subanimalia,” an exhibit of work by the brewing company’s label artist Scott Bluedorn, through August 20. On the first Friday of every month the brewery stays open until 9 PM for Greenport Gallery Walks.

In the spirit of giving back, Greenport Harbor also has what is called “The Giving Tank,” a tank at the brewery that is set aside for good to support local charities and organizations.

Next, I would make sure to stop by noah’s for happy hour. The menu, created by Chef Noah Schwartz, offers a wonderful selection of happy hour items, and it’s also a fantastic deal. The cheese plate, which costs just $12, is substantial and of grade-A quality. It includes a selection of three cheeses like Summer Cloud from Catapano in Peconic, candied walnuts, truffle honey, and green apple. Another highlight is the crispy teriyaki tofu. Other bites include a Crescent Farm duck BBQ or Tasmanian red crab tacos. Try a specialty cocktail like the noah’s north side or a cucumber margarita for just $10.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Greenport, book The Lin Beach House. The recently opened inn offers five oversized guest rooms — think private balcony, king-sized bed, and a Victorian clawfoot tub. Downstairs you can find the Matchbook Distilling Co.’s bar, Days Like These, which is open Tuesday through Saturday.

The “My Perfect Day” series features a different East End village each week.

jessica@indyeastend.com