The coastal town of Greenport has become a draw for travelers exploring the North Fork of Long Island and a respite for those in the Hamptons looking for a more laid-back experience. On the corner of its downtown lies The Menhaden — a boutique hotel known for its understated luxury.
The 16-room property, part of the Meyer Jabara Hotels Portfolio, comprises rooms and suites that boast views of the harbor and Shelter Island in the distance, making it an oasis for those seeking a coastal retreat. The décor plays on the theme of the nautical elements — consisting of whites, blacks and neutrals, complete with Restoration Hardware furnishings and high-thread-count linens.
The Menhaden’s rooftop is another thoughtfully created space where guests can enjoy the views with a cocktail from the hotel’s “roving bartender” — a feature curated by the digital concierge that allows guests to text their drink order. Before you know it, drinks will be delivered to whichever space on the property the guest chooses. Depending on the season, cocktails by a fire pit accompanied by a s’mores kit may be in order, or perhaps a glass of rosé coupled with some local oysters.
The easy access to amenities such as fresh morning pastries and complimentary snacks in the galley 24/7 is another plus for guests. The galleys are on each floor and fully stocked throughout the day with water, coffee and tea, yogurt and specialty items — most notably the warm chocolate chip cookies served in the evenings.
While The Menhaden attracts many luxury travelers throughout New York City and New England, it is also a perfect spot for the business traveler. The hotel has transformed the bar to allow guests to work and play, with access to strong Wi-Fi and cozy tables — perfect for writing, taking phone calls or pouring over a good book.
The Menhaden puts the guest experience front and center throughout all its unique touches. The property prides itself on its connection to the historic Greenport district and local purveyors and business owners. It can curate food, beverage and wellness experiences to suit its guests’ tastes.
One prime example is the gin experience in partnership with Matchbook Distilling Co. Groups can tour Matchbook’s distillery during what’s knowns as its “midweek maker.” This privately led experience begins in the distillery to see how spirits are made, followed by a visit to the apothecary to smell and taste different types of gins. After working with your senses and speaking with experts like COO Paul Monahan about the subtleties of such spirits, guests curate which three or four gins they prefer and create a hand-crafted spirit all their own.
Matchbook, tucked away on Corwin Street in Greenport and only a 10-minute walk from The Menhaden, also creates its own signature liquors available for purchase, along with seasonal cocktails to enjoy post-tour and gin creation.
Beyond gin, The Menhaden can organize a day of wine tastings at vineyards such as Macari Vineyards or McCall Wines, wellness activities and private yoga or even an oyster experience.
What the hotel prides itself on is its hospitality and responsiveness to guests’ needs, allowing them to choose their own luxurious adventure, whatever that may be.