Vegan in the Hamptons: Carissa's The Bakery
Address | 3 BAY STREET SAG HARBOR, NY 11963
There’s something magical about a summer morning in Sag Harbor. The quiet hum of a waking town, the smell of salt in the air, and sunlight spilling down Main Street like warm honey. It’s the kind of morning that calls for an unhurried walk, perhaps barefoot in sandals, with no real plan other than to enjoy the rhythm of the season. On one such July morning, we found ourselves meandering past the boutique windows and historic shingled facades of Sag Harbor Village, turning the corner onto Bay Street where a familiar scene welcomed us: the white-washed façade of Carissa’s the Bakery.
Carissa’s has become a Hamptons staple, beloved for its thoughtfully made breads, seasonal dishes, and charming atmosphere that balances rustic simplicity with coastal chic. While not exclusively vegan, Carissa’s is one of those rare gems where plant-based diners can find options that feel intentional, fresh, and satisfying—without needing to compromise on flavor or experience.
A Morning Ritual: Iced Oat Milk Latte
On this particular morning, we stepped inside and was greeted by the scent of warm bread and espresso. The space was buzzing softly with morning chatter and the spouting sounds from the espresso machine. We ordered a iced oat milk lattes, which arrived perfectly balanced—strong but smooth, with just enough creaminess from the oat milk to make it feel indulgent. It was served in a clear cup, the espresso and milk swirling into marbled patterns before settling into a soft tan hue. There’s a kind of luxury in starting your day with intention, and this simple pleasure—a good coffee enjoyed slowly under a dappled sky—felt like the essence of summer in the Hamptons.
The Avocado Toast: Simple, Satisfying, and Easily Made Vegan
Carissa’s menu is seasonal and curated, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and elevated simplicity. One of the best vegan-friendly breakfast options is their Avocado Toast. The dish typically comes topped with crumbled feta, so I made sure to ask for it without cheese. What arrived was a slice of their impeccable sourdough bread, lightly toasted and piled with smashed avocado, bright red raddish slices. The avocado was creamy and luscious—exactly what you want in a summer breakfast.
It’s a dish that doesn’t try too hard, and it doesn’t need to. The sourdough base is the real star, with its caramelized crust and open crumb, slightly tangy from fermentation and still warm from the morning bake. It’s a perfect match for the richness of avocado and the sharpness of citrus.
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, pair your toast with a side of market greens or a citrusy salad of heirloom tomatoes—both frequent features on Carissa’s rotating seasonal menu and often made vegan-friendly with a simple adjustment or two.
Taking a Loaf to Go: Sourdough at the Beach
Before leaving, we picked up a loaf of their signature sourdough to enjoy later. The counter was lined with beautifully bronzed loaves—everything from sesame baguettes to rye boules and dark Nordic-style bread. We chose a classic country sourdough, still warm, wrapped simply in brown paper.
There’s nothing quite like enjoying fresh bread at the beach. Later that afternoon, seated on a blanket at Atlantic Avenue Beach in Sagaponack, I tore off pieces of the crusty sourdough and dipped them into hummus I’d packed from home. The tang of the bread, its chewy interior, and the salty ocean air made for a beach picnic that felt far more luxurious than its humble ingredients would suggest.
Vegan Tips for Visiting Carissa’s
While Carissa’s is not a fully vegan bakery, the staff is helpful and familiar with dietary preferences, and many items can be modified. Here are a few tips for fellow plant-based diners:
Check for dairy-based toppings like feta or butter and ask for them to be omitted. The avocado toast and many of the salads are great candidates for this.
Ask about soups and specials. Many of the rotating dishes include vegetables, grains, and legumes, and can often be made vegan by request.
Order a loaf to go. Their breads are made with traditional fermentation techniques and often contain just a few ingredients—flour, water, salt, and time. They’re naturally vegan and perfect to pair with plant-based spreads or enjoy on their own.
Go early. Carissa’s gets busy, especially on summer weekends. Morning is the best time for a quieter experience, fresh pastries (some of which are vegan!), and full bread selection.
A Slice of the Hamptons
Carissa’s is more than just a bakery—it’s a reflection of the Hamptons itself: earthy, refined, and grounded in its connection to the seasons. Whether you’re a local, a weekend visitor, or just passing through in search of good coffee and coastal charm, breakfast here is a reminder of why we return to the Hamptons again and again. For vegans, it’s a welcome destination where the food is as thoughtful and beautiful as the setting.
So if you find yourself on Main Street in Sag Harbor on a sunny July morning, do yourself a favor—turn the corner, step into Carissa’s, and order that iced oat milk latte and avocado toast (hold the feta). And don’t forget to grab a loaf for the beach.
