The Springs Tavern has opened in the former East Hampton haunt of painters Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning.
Dating to 1934, the historic gathering place for the abstract expressionists and generations of locals, has hosted bars, of the dive variety, with names such as The Jungle Inn, Jungle Pete’s, and, most recently, Wolfie’s Tavern.
Now, expect fare that is New American and not, drinks, sports on TV, karaoke, darts, and live entertainment. The chef is Michael Ruggiero, whose resume takes in stints at Nick & Toni’s and Fresno is East Hampton and The Harvest on Fort Pond in Montauk.
His dishes include Baja fish tacos, Texas-style chili, a wedge salad, sandwiches, burgers, and main courses such as fish and chips, steak frites, and grilled salmon.
Artful dessert: the Jackson Pollock plate with berries, pistachios, nougat, caramelized phyllo, caramel and both crème anglaise and fudge sauces, presumably dripped.
The remade tavern is the work of Dan and Charlene DeSmet. The redesign and renovation are marked by the restored hardwood floor, bead-board wainscoting, and a new oak bar.
Currently, The Springs Tavern is open for dinner Thursday to Sunday, 4 to 10 p.m. The bar is open daily. starting at 11 a.m. and pouring past midnight.
The Springs Tavern, 15 Fort Pond Blvd., East Hampton, 631-527-7800, thespringstavern.com
