Of all the farm stands on the east end, my favorite to visit is Bhumi, owned by friend and all around cool guy, Farmer Frank! Frank always made the experience of farming your own produce family-friendly, and my kids adore him. Recently, he has opened up a beautiful new restaurant in the town of Amagansett, with partner, Christina Isaly, to plate his farm fresh food for all of us local foodies out for summer. The chefs are innovative and creative in presentation, and the menu is seasonal. Rosie’s is a great place to bring the kids for a quick meal, and perfect for a romantic date night. Don’t forget to ask for the rose infused merengue after dinner, it’s special!
How many years have you been in business?
Farmer Frank: Bhumi has been around for seven years and Rosie’s just opened up this Spring.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
Christina: I really wanted to create a place where I could go with my five kids and get delicious food without the formality of long drawn out service.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
Farmer Frank: I had zero farm experience when I started the farm and we have zero experience starting a restaurant. We can see things from the side of the consumer. There is a freedom in not having the burden of “that’s the way we have always done it” mentality.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
Farmer Frank: We are just focused on putting out the best possible product in the present and we hope our customers like us enough that the long term takes care of itself.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
Christina: By presenting inspiring, clean food, in a well designed, relaxed room.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Farmer Frank: Growing vegetables and watching what our chefs can do with them.
Christina: Meeting new people and hearing their stories (oh and putting on a nice sundress in the evening).
How do you benefit mamas?
Christina: We are giving you your time back! Counter service during the day allows you to determine how long you want your dining experience to be.
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
If Anthony Bourdain were alive he would be eating here right now.
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field.
Mark Smith and Joe Realmuto and Balsam Farms.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Man in the arena speech by Teddy Roosevelt.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
Christina: Eating at Rosie’s.