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🐝 Have You Seen An Otter?

🐝 Have You Seen An Otter?

What’s New at Minnow, Otters Are Back, Oysterponds at Rosé Soirée

Thomas Loncar
May 06, 2025

Together With

Good Morning, North Fork! Pretending today’s Friday won’t make it so—but we respect the effort.

In today’s North Fork Buzz:

What’s New at Minnow
Otters Are Back
Oysterponds at Rosé Soirée

Ready, Set, Go!

The Lowdown

From Pound Trap to Plate 🎣

Minnow at the Galley Ho is back. The New Suffolk seafood spot reopened May 1 for its third season of waterfront views and fresh, Mediterranean-inspired plates that are basically sunshine on a dish.

Owner Andrea Tese is serious about sustainability, like, installed-her-own-fishing-trap-in-the-bay serious. She and her partner (and in-house musician) Jon Divello are catching dinner the old-school way: with a traditional pound trap used by Native Americans. No imports, no mystery fish, no shady fishing practices, just whatever’s biting in local waters that day.

On the menu this year: Sicilian lemon risotto with pistachio pesto and coconut basil–poached fish with fennel and leeks. In other words: yes, we’re drooling.

Otterly Adorable Comeback 🦦

River otters are back on Long Island, and they’re not just passing through. These whiskered swimmers, once nearly wiped out in New York, are now thriving in ponds, creeks, and coves from Orient to East Marion. Their comeback story? A wild commute from Connecticut, island-hopping their way here via Fishers Island, Great Gull, Little Gull, Plum Island, and then the North Fork.

According to wildlife biologist Mike Bottini, otters are social little adventurers who can roam 15+ miles in a single outing. (Basically, the ultramarathoners of the marsh.) But their path to success isn’t without speed bumps—literally. Roads near dams pose a danger, though clever hacks like cinder block ladders have helped them stay safe.

The otters' return is more than just cute, it’s a win for conservation and a reminder that a little habitat love goes a long way. Keep your eyes peeled, you just might spot one. ($)

From Bay to Soirée 🦪

Orient-based Oysterponds Shellfish Co. will be serving up their ultra-fresh oysters at Dan’s Rosé Soirée on May 25 at the Southampton Arts Center. The event, part of Dan’s Taste Summer Series, celebrates top-tier rosés from around the world alongside gourmet bites from Long Island’s best chefs. Shellfish farmer Philip Mastrangelo will represent Oysterponds, highlighting the connection between local aquaculture, food, and wine on the East End.

Check out the interview with Philip Mastrangelo 👉 Here

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Happenings: Upcoming Events

🤠 Kick Up Your Boots Southold Historical Museum’s high-energy Line Dancing Party on Friday, May 23. Featuring live music by County Line, Long Island’s own country powerhouse. The night will be packed with modern country hits, southern rock, and nonstop dancing fun. Whether you’re a seasoned two-stepper or a total beginner, all are welcome on the dance floor. More Info

🍷 Vineside Fridays Macari Vineyards is staying open late every Friday this summer until 8 PM, starting on Friday, May 23. Sip on tastings or glasses of your favorite wines, and enjoy fresh-made pizza and seafood from Braun’s food truck (serving 4–8 PM). More Info

🌅 Sunset Cruise Set sail with Bedell Cellars for a sunset Wine Cruise on Peconic Bay on Friday, May 23. Sip award-winning wines while enjoying a local raw bar, artisanal cheese, and charcuterie—all against the backdrop of a stunning North Fork sunset. More Info

🐐 Baby Animal Festival Head to Harbes Family Farm this Memorial Day weekend (May 24–26) to meet baby goats, lambs, bunnies, and chicks. Enjoy free live music daily from 1–5 PM and make some farm-fresh memories with the whole family. More Info

👟 Run the Vineyards Lace up for a scenic start to your morning on Sunday, May 25 at Pindar Vineyards for a 5k. Runners and walkers will enjoy a beautiful course through Pindar Vineyards, followed by wine, music, BBQ food truck and celebration at the finish line. All participants receive a race tee, souvenir wine glass, and a free pour. More Info

🍔 Memorial Day Weekend BBQ Clovis Point Vineyard is firing up the grill on Sunday, May 25 for a classic BBQ celebration featuring burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, dry rub baby back ribs, fresh salads, and sweet watermelon, all paired perfectly with vineyard views and great wine. More Info

🥂 Fizz & Fry Monday nights are getting a major glow-up. From Memorial Day (May 26) through Labor Day, head to Sparkling Pointe for a delicious collaboration with Braun Seafood & Kitchen. Think crispy fried chicken, fresh local seafood, mouthwatering sides, and rotating specials, all perfectly paired with sparkling wines. More Info

^{_{Nothing in this section is sponsored. They’re just fun things you need to know. I’ll always let you know when something is sponsored}}

Theater Talk 🎭

👠 Step Into Oz Follow the yellow brick road to the North Fork Community Theatre. The Wizard of Oz opens Thursday, May 15 and runs through June 1. Don’t miss this magical, family-friendly musical filled with beloved songs, dazzling costumes, and all your favorite characters from over the rainbow. More Info

🎸 Youth on Stage Auditions for the high-energy musical School of Rock will be held May 18 & 19 at 6:30 PM, with callbacks on May 20. All roles are open, so bring your talent, attitude, and best air guitar. More Info

^{_{Nothing in this section is sponsored. They’re just fun things you need to know. I’ll always let you know when something is sponsored}}

Live Music + Fun Breakdown

Tuesday

First and South | Julia King | 6-9 PM
The Piano Bar at Sound View | Spencer Lroy | 6-8:30 PM

Wednesday

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THANKS!

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Tom Loncar- Publisher