Something new is cooking in the Bostwick's kitchen besides its scrumptious seafood specials. Meet the catch of the day–and the latest menu addition–chef and partner Damnien O'Donnell.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN THE BOSTWICK’S FAMILY? Being in this community the past 20 years, I developed a great relationship with Bostwick’s owners Chris [Eggert] and Kevin [Boles]. Between being neighboring restaurants and my wife having worked for them years ago, it was a natural transition for me to join their team. I was always impressed with their businesses as they produced a quality product. It was the perfect opportunity for me.
Signature oysters from Bostwick’s.
HOW DO YOU BELIEVE YOUR TASTE IS REFLECTED IN THE BOSTWICK’S MENU? Chris and I collaborate on the menu together; we are able to maintain the Bostwick’s staples and signature items for which he is famous while enhancing the menu with some of my signature items from Harbor Bistro. I have an eclectic style to my cooking infusing Asian flair and Mediterranean flavors; however, it is most important to me to maintain the integrity of each dish with the fresh and local seafood that we feature.
Bostwick’s new chef and partner Damien O’Donnell
“Bostwick’s has built a successful brand. My only goal is to enhance it and maintain it.”
–DAMIEN O’DONNELL, CHEF AND PARTNER
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE APPETIZER, ENTREE, DESSERT AND COCKTAIL? Appetizer: tuna tostada; entree: herb-panko-crusted local fluke; dessert: Key lime pie; drink: The Crusher— Tanteo jalapeno-infused tequila, triple sec, lime juice, pineapple juice, Tajin rim
Start every meal at Bostwick’s with shrimp cocktail
WHY DO YOU BELIEVE BOSTWICK’S HAS REMAINED A HAMPTONS STAPLE SINCE 1997? Chris and Kevin have always been present and have high standards to uphold in executing their product; each dish must hit the mark. Bostwick’s has been part of the community for the past 30 years, and they have never settled for anything but the best from the staff. The staff here is like a family, and Chris and Kevin have always put staff first and which is why we have such a long-standing crew at the restaurant.
Stunning sunset views at Bostwick’s on the Harbor
Indulge in dishes like the restaurant’s signature duck.
WHAT DO YOU WISH TO BRING TO THE TABLE IN YOUR NEW ROLE? I am not looking to mess with success. Bostwick’s has built a successful brand. My only goal is to enhance it and maintain it. My goal is to continue the consistency of the product at Bostwick’s and influence the menu with new tastes and flavors to keep guests engaged.
WHAT DOES YOUR IDEAL DAY LOOK LIKE IN THE HAMPTONS? My ideal day off is centered around my family. I like to spend the day at the beach with my wife and three girls and then grill up some fresh seafood at home while enjoying a sauvignon blanc or a cold Montauk brew. And if I am lucky enough to catch the sunset, that makes the day complete. 277 Pantigo Road, East Hampton, bostwickschowderhouse.com.
Photography by: PHOTOS COURTESY OF BOSTWICK’S ON THE HARBOR
