Montauk's Relaunched Ruschmeyers Is Summer Camp Done Right

Forbes

4 days ago

Montauk has never been a more popular summer destination with some of the chicest hotels, dining options and, of course, day parties around. In this little beach town located at the end of the Long Island Sound, it's all about location and some of the most iconic and well-regarded properties are all owned and operated by boutique hotelier Bridgeton. Both Marram Montauk and Journey East Hampton excell in highlighting the understated yet chic beachy aspects of the properties while still celebrating the history of the forming fishing town. The newest addition to the offerings is recently relaunched Ruschmeyers, the idyllic 19-cabin retreat tucked into a quiet corner of Montauk yet still walking distance to town and the bay. The challenge in refurbishing the former summer camp was to retain the charm of the property while incorporating modern comforts like en suite rain showers, locally sourced and stocked mini-fridges, evening fire pits with s'mores and late night bottle service courtesy of a partnership with the team from GOSPËL. Yet above all, the heart of the remodel is the farm-to-table restaurant that specializes in locally sourced and seasonal foods.
Grilled whole fish, cheeseburger and local veggies from the dinner menu Ruschmeyers
The new culinary program, helmed by executive chef Jordan Heissenberger, isn't just about putting food onto plates. It's about community. Known from his former roles at Buvette, Walter's, Rucola and Apollonia his vision is to highlight the local communities and offer a space for people to slow down, gather and reconnect through food. 'At the Grill at Ruschmeyers, we create a convivial space where dishes are meant to be shared. Rooted in the rhythm of the seasons, our menu draws from the richness of local flora and fauna, deeply influenced by the sea and our stewardship of the land.'
This means big coastal flavors and all of the grilled goodies from seafood towers to charred lamb ribs, homemade lobster pasta and the freshest seasonal vegetables available. The wine, beer and cocktail list follow suit with a few more bonuses like complimentary s'mores and chill evenings by the fire pits to unwind.
The updated dining room Ruschmeyers
However, not every guest is looking to chill and on weekend evenings the restaurant turns into the Lounge at Ruschmeyers with performances by the NYC-based collective social club Gospël. After 9PM on Friday, Saturday and some Sundays through Labor Day Weekend, the Lounge hosts Gospël's innovative and immersive performances as a supper club experience with bottle service, dancing and more. Expect DJ sets, music and NYC energy with summery Hamptons vibes with the occasional surprise set.
The brunch spread Ruschmeyers
The partnership with Gospël seems natural given their shared philosophy for creating community rooted in connection. The collective has built a devoted following for just about a decade in Manhattan. With a focus on celebrating connection through art, music and creativity Ruschmeyers and Gospel aim to highlight that creative expression is one of the most powerful forces for uniting and uplifting people.
The renovated rooms Ruschmeyers
Bridgeton Studio headed the team in charge of refreshing the property by workibng with colleagues from former collaboration like Brian Smith who worked on Scribner's Catskill Lodge and Whitney Clark who was involved with Marram and Dawn Ranch. Other thoughtful touches include rooms outfitted with Parachute linens, amenities by Byredo amenities, Noguchi lanterns and Bauhaus-style loungers. The rooms retain the heart and aesthetic of the old summer camp with the little touches of five star treatment. The goal, after all, is to create a space that soothes the mind, body and soul while at the end of the day still being fun just like summer camp.