Part 1
The first time I went to the Hamptons, it was the summer of the late 80's like 1986 or so. I recall arriving to the most amazing house in South Hampton, right on the beach. This house was called The Arc, it belonged to the Beegee's then to Woody Allen then to Mr and Mrs S, an Amazing couple that welcomed me into their home. My friend David, their chef took me there to cook for a few weeks. I returned many times again over a span of 8 years or so. His specialty was Japanese cuisine. His food was delicious. He later moved to Japan, I miss him .
It was poetry in the kitchen... Everything in the house inspired me! The large white rooms over looking the deep blue ocean, and the bright sand. The sun was so bright and beautiful. I remember the caretaker of the property Ellen, a German woman, head strong at first but once she knew you, it was great. Mary who did a lot of work in the house as well. Mary, a mother of thirteen, remained to be my friend for at least another 30 years. I had many laughs with Mary and adventures. David and I remained friends as well until he moved away then it was difficult to keep contact. Still, back then the Hamptons were simple not too flashy and very spars compare to today. I still love to go there today! It is one of my favorite places in the world!!!
David and I use to go eat at the Old Stove Top, a Greek restaurant that was great. We also use to go hang out in Sagg Harbor, Shelter Island. Naturally when you are cooking in a home in the summer, in the Hamptons, you spend a lot of time in the kitchen and grocery shopping! So going out was occasional.
I really liked staying especially since this house was so beautiful and light. The airiness was etherial, my heart and soul was always so happy in this home. I always had a wonderful room with lovely decor, it was Japanese influence with a beautiful antique cabinet, a very comfortable bed , and some antique kimonos in the room. The prints on the wall were vintage and their was always a bud in a vase from the garden.
The kitchen was very large , it had a large rectangular marble top country table. The stove was a 12 burner beauty. I had two large ovens to work with as well. I have such fond memories of that time of my life! In the back of the kitchen, Mrs S had her dishes from all over : African, Chinese, Japanese, Depression glass, Americana, just to name a few..... I had a blast setting the table for each meal!
I always tried to surprise her with a fun setting that she would not have thought of. It was a fun game we played.
I must say writing about them right now has made me feel so blessed to have had them in my life. I thank them for all their generosity, love and attention they gave me thru the years.
It is one of the most rewarding feelings to cook for a family that trusts you and let's you create. There is no greater feeling!
to be continued.......
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| me and the leeks from the garden! |
