Dria Murphy Talks Hamptons in the Off-Season

Dria Murphy with The Polycarbonate Carry-On. Photos by Dria Murphy.

Founder of the creative brand building company Alise Collective, Dria Murphy has a keen eye for an opportunity: in this case, The Hamptons in the off-season. Minus the crowds, traffic, and general summer craziness, the spot strikes the perfect balance between work and play.

Current location

West Village in New York City.

Day job

I am the Founder of Alise Collective, a brand building company out of New York City that takes a 360-degree approach with our clients. On the daily, this approach can take shape in a number of ways: strategic brand partnerships, events and activations, traditional PR, social media, etc. We work with brands in the wellness, lifestyle, and fashion industries.

Going in the Hamptons since

I started going to the Hamptons in 2013 and I haven't stopped since. At first, it was a complete escape from the city heat and a way to blow off steam with friends. Over the years, though, it has really become a home away from home. I've met so many incredible people, worked on successful projects, and ultimately ended up starting my company out here.

The Hamptons’ best-kept secret

Most people think that the Hamptons completely shut down in the wintertime, but you’d be surprised at how much stays open all year long. The Parrish Art Museum is open all year, and there are tons of delicious eateries that you can walk right into without the summer wait! It’s such a cozy escape from the city.

Off-season routine

On the drive out to Montauk, I usually stop in Sag Harbor for lunch at Lulu’s and pop into Onda Beauty and Love Shack Fancy to do some shopping. When I wake up in Montauk, I love to start the day with a brisk walk along Ditch Plains beach. I try to catch a yoga class at BYoga in Montauk, followed by matcha at Jack’s Coffee. I love stopping by Amagansett Square—Botanica Bazaar, Love Adorned and Communitie are excellent spots to find under-the-radar brands. I always pop into Cavaniola's Gourmet to pick up cheese and charcuterie for later. Not sure many people know about this, but once a week Wolffer Kitchen in Amagansett Square has a wellness prix-fixe menu, certified by The Wellness Foundation in Sag Harbor. 

Where to get work done

I love the living room at the Maidstone Hotel. It has a cozy fireplace and a late menu. Tilie’s at Gurney’s Montauk is also great!

Where to spend a day off

No matter what season, book a wine tasting at Wolffer Estates in Sagaponak—they host a number of fun events in the winter. Or, do a winter spa day at Gurneys Montauk. And definitely plan a dinner at Citta Nuova or Harvest. Then, of course, a stroll along Ditch Plains beach.

The Maidstone Hotel and Ditch Plains beach. Photos by Dria Murphy.

Favorite snack dens

Carissa’s Bakery in East Hampton. The space is bright and airy, the aroma of freshly-baked bread makes you want to buy everything, and they’re known for using locally sourced ingredients in their baked goods. My favorites are the pickled rye bread and olive ciabatta. They also have a great flower selection. I frequent Naturally Good for healthy snacks. In the morning , they have fresh-baked gluten-free muffins that are delicious.

Off-season hotel pick

Topping Rose is not new, but it is great for an off-season stay. Their restaurant by Jean-Georges is farm-to-table, and much more low-key in the off-season. They also have a spa and gym, and the hotel is close enough to walk to town, which I love.

Where to catch the best sunset view

Montauket in Montauk has the best sunset view all year round.

 

Find Dria on Instagram: @driamurphy | @alisecollective