Vegan in the Hamptons: Kumiso
Address | Alley next to Breezin-Up, 37 Newtown Ln, East Hampton, NY 11937
East Hampton isn’t short on luxury, elegance, or culinary experiences—but it’s rare to find a restaurant that combines all three with thoughtful plant-based options that shine on their own merit. That’s exactly what Kumiso delivers. Tucked away on North Main Street, just minutes from East Hampton Village and a short drive from the beach, Kumiso brings a modern Asian-inspired menu infused with seasonal ingredients, a calm and elegant aesthetic, and cocktails that reflect both creativity and restraint.
On a recent summer afternoon, we visited Kumiso as part of our continuing exploration of vegan dining in the Hamptons. From the first sip of our cocktail to the last spoonful of ramen, this was a meal that balanced freshness and depth, with an attention to detail that makes it one of the most compelling new spots for plant-forward diners in the area.
A Bright Start: Yuzu Gin Cocktail
We began with one of their signature cocktails—a yuzu gin creation that felt like an ideal opening to a warm July afternoon. Yuzu, the fragrant Japanese citrus, added brightness and complexity to the drink without overwhelming the clean, botanical notes of the gin. Served over ice in a lowball glass with a delicate citrus twist, it was the kind of cocktail that feels simple on the surface but is built with a precision that makes it unforgettable.
There’s something about the balance of acidity and fragrance in yuzu that sets the tone for a meal—it awakens the palate, clears the senses, and invites curiosity. Paired with the restaurant’s tranquil interior—concrete, pale wood, soft lighting, and touches of greenery—the entire experience felt both grounded and elevated.
Palm & Peaches Salad: A Seasonal Showstopper
Next came the Palm & Peaches Salad, a gorgeous display of hearts of palm and Little Gem lettuce layered with thin slices of ripe peaches and finished with a peach vinaigrette. This dish is a masterclass in contrasts: the delicate crunch of the lettuce and palm, the lush sweetness of the fruit, and the silky, tangy dressing come together to celebrate summer on the East End.
Hearts of palm often get relegated to afterthoughts in salads, but here they were center stage—lightly marinated and thoughtfully plated. The peaches were peak-season perfection, and the dressing had just enough acidity to round things out. It’s the kind of dish that could easily be ordered again as a main course with some added protein or grains, though it also works beautifully as a shared plate to start the meal.
Avocue: Clean, Crisp, and Artfully Composed
Our next course was the Avocue, a delicate preparation of avocado and cucumber wrapped in rice paper. Served with a small dipping sauce and adorned with edible flowers and microgreens, this dish embodies the clean, modern sensibility of Kumiso’s kitchen.
Though it may seem simple—just two ingredients tucked into translucent rice paper—the execution is where the magic lies. The avocado was at perfect ripeness, buttery and rich, while the cucumber added crispness and moisture. The dipping sauce, possibly soy-based with a hint of citrus and ginger, provided a savory counterpoint to the coolness of the roll.
This dish is ideal for diners who want something light and refreshing—especially if you’re looking for a palate cleanser between richer plates or sipping on multiple cocktails throughout the night. It’s also inherently vegan and gluten-free, a win for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegan Ramen: Comfort and Umami in a Summer Broth
While ramen might not be the first dish you think of on a summer outing in East Hampton, Kumiso’s vegan ramen defies expectations. Built on a creamy, plant-based broth, the dish is both soothing and bright, filled with seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, summer squash, and carrots, alongside menma (fermented bamboo shoots) and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame.
The broth is the star here—rich but not heavy, with layers of umami and subtle heat. It’s clear that this isn’t a broth made from shortcuts; it’s been simmered and blended to achieve a depth of flavor that rivals traditional tonkotsu or miso ramen, without relying on any animal products.
The gluten free noodles—rather than traditional ramen noodles— were perfectly cooked with a slight chew, and the vegetables added not just color but texture and sweetness. The menma brought a bit of funk and earthiness, while the toasted sesame provided a nutty warmth that tied it all together. This is comfort food done with elegance—a dish that feels nourishing and indulgent at once.
The In the Weeds roll highlights the oceanic, umami-rich side of vegan dining. Seaweed takes center stage here, complemented by the clean zing of ginger ponzu and the toasty finish of sesame seeds. It’s simple but elegant, with flavors that feel refreshing and grounding at the same time.
The Beet It roll, a creative take on sushi that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Earthy roasted beets pair unexpectedly well with creamy vegan feta, creating a balance of deep, grounding flavors with tangy brightness. The shiso leaf tucked in adds a touch of herbal sharpness that lifts the roll and keeps it from feeling heavy. A sprinkle of pistachios on top adds crunch and a hint of nuttiness, making each bite a little textural adventure. It’s a roll that proves plant-based sushi can be both imaginative and indulgent.
The eggplant nigiri, topped with torched miso eggplant, is a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The miso glaze caramelizes beautifully under the flame, giving the eggplant a melt-in-your-mouth texture with just the right amount of char. Paired with seasoned sushi rice, each bite feels indulgent yet delicate. It’s a creative plant-based take on classic nigiri, offering richness and depth without overwhelming the palate—an elegant choice for both vegans and sushi lovers alike.
The Orange Tofu is the kind of dish that wins you over with its first bite. Crispy on the outside and tender within, the tofu is bathed in a spicy orange sauce that balances sweetness and heat in all the right ways. The brightness of the citrus lifts the entire plate, while the chili brings a pleasant kick without overwhelming. What really makes it stand out, though, is the addition of Thai basil. Its herbal, slightly peppery note adds complexity and freshness, cutting through the richness of the sauce and tofu. Every bite feels crisp, fragrant, and beautifully layered.
The Kumiso Experience: Refined but Welcoming
What makes Kumiso stand out in the Hamptons dining scene is its blend of refinement and warmth. The service is attentive without being overbearing, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu, including dietary needs and substitutions. While not a fully vegan restaurant, Kumiso offers several vegan and vegetarian-forward options that go far beyond the usual side dishes or lazy modifications. Each plate feels considered and crafted with intention.
The restaurant’s design—soft lighting, natural textures, subtle Japanese influences—creates a serene atmosphere that’s just as fitting for date night as it is for a quiet solo dinner. Whether you sit indoors or on their small but stylish patio, you’ll feel transported.
It’s also worth noting that Kumiso’s cocktail program is one of the best in East Hampton. Beyond the yuzu gin, their seasonal offerings rotate to include fresh herbs, house-made infusions, and locally sourced ingredients. They take the same care in beverage design as they do in their food, which speaks volumes about the overall philosophy of the place.
Final Thoughts
Dining vegan in the Hamptons has never been better, and Kumiso is proof that plant-forward food can be just as luxurious, satisfying, and creatively executed as any other fine dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a fresh salad bursting with seasonal produce, a thoughtful noodle bowl that satisfies without weighing you down, or a cocktail that captures summer in a glass, Kumiso delivers.
It’s rare to find a restaurant that so seamlessly marries clean eating with culinary artistry, but Kumiso achieves it with style. We left feeling inspired and satisfied—and already planning a return visit.
Pro Tips for Visiting Kumiso
Reservations are recommended, especially on summer weekends.
Ask about seasonal vegan specials—they often run off-menu features.
The patio is a great spot for a cocktail at golden hour.
Don’t skip the ramen, even in summer—it’s a standout.
Yuzu gin pairs beautifully with almost every vegan item on the menu.
Whether you're a long-time vegan or just looking for a memorable dining experience on the East End, Kumiso deserves a place at the top of your list.
