Vegan in the Hamptons: Smokey Buns
Address | 68 Park Pl, East Hampton, NY 11937
Tucked into the Hamptons’ dining scene, Smokey Buns offers the kind of elevated casual vibe that makes it equally perfect for a laid-back lunch or a low-key evening out. The space strikes a nice balance—cozy yet stylish, with a friendly bar that invites you to linger over a drink while waiting for your meal or to stop in for a casual cocktail on its own. The burger-focused menu is the star here, and while it caters to a wide audience, vegan diners can happily find a satisfying option.
For drinks, the Lemon Spritz was a perfect veggie burger companion—light, citrusy, and refreshing, with just enough sparkle to cleanse the palate between bites. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels equally at home with lunch on a sunny afternoon or as a pre-dinner aperitif while the Hamptons evening breeze rolls in.
On our visit, we went straight for the Mushroom Chickpea Burger, which pairs earthy, protein-packed chickpeas with rich mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based patty. It’s a well-built burger—thick, tender, and packed with flavor—served on a soft bun with creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, a sweet-tangy tomato jam (though in this case, it leaned more toward a ketchup flavor than the jammy slow-roasted tomato style I was expecting), and a scattering of crispy onions for a nice bit of crunch. The combination delivers that essential burger satisfaction while keeping it vegan-friendly and fresh.
The charm of Smokey Buns lies not just in the food, but in the flexibility of the experience. You can order at the bar and settle in for a casual meal, or simply pop in for takeaway if you’re heading to the beach or enjoying a picnic. There’s an ease to the service that makes the space feel approachable without sacrificing the attention to detail that keeps the food consistently enjoyable.
For vegans, finding reliable burger spots in the Hamptons can sometimes feel like a scavenger hunt. While many places will offer a veggie burger as an afterthought, Smokey Buns’ Mushroom Chickpea Burger feels intentional—balanced flavors, thoughtful toppings, and a texture that holds together well without feeling dry. While I might have preferred the tomato jam to be a true slow-cooked, slightly chunky tomato preserve, the ketchup-style version still added a welcome tangy sweetness that worked with the savory patty and rich avocado.
It’s also worth noting that the bar program is a solid reason to visit on its own. Beyond the Lemon Spritz, the menu features a variety of cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic options, making it a nice meet-up spot for mixed-diet groups or friends who want something more interesting than a basic soda.
Smokey Buns slots neatly into the Hamptons’ growing lineup of vegan-friendly destinations—proving that you don’t need to be a fully vegan restaurant to serve up a satisfying, plant-based meal. Whether you’re looking to dine in for a relaxed burger-and-cocktail night or grab something quick to enjoy by the water, it’s a spot worth adding to your Hamptons food map.
