Babette's

63 Newtown Lane, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631-329-5377, www.babetteseasthampton.com

While on vacation in the area during Christmas week, we decided to take an evening stroll. But when the thunderstorm began, we quickly ran into Babettes. The dining room was virtually empty, not a good sign, but it was warm and dry and we were about ready for a glass of wine and some hot food.

The Golden Pear Cafe

111 Main Street, Sag Harbor, NY 11693, 631-725-2270, www.goldenpearcafe.com

We'd noticed this mini-chain of cafes in several locations around the Hamptons but finally stopped in one afternoon in Sag Harbor. We were in need of some coffee and maybe a muffin and both were quite delicious. It was after lunch so the bulk of the rush was gone and we relaxed at a table. Refills were advertised as only $1 each but when we went up to pay, the manager waved away the money. It had started drizzling outside and we happily stayed, sipping hot beverages, nibbling on our muffins and enjoying our vacation.

Christmas in East Hampton

The Old Hook Mill just off Main Street

The 1770 House Restaurant

143 Main Street, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631-324-1770, www.1770house.com

We dined here while staying upstairs at the inn during Christmas week but this restaurant attracts many non-guests as well. A beautiful dining room decorated down to the smallest detail, a large romantic fireplace and wonderfully comfortable chairs all add to the experience. But ultimately, it is the food you will remember.

The 1770 House

143 Main Street, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631-324-1770, www.1770house.com

We knew we wanted to spend a romantic Christmas week in East Hampton and we chose this inn based on their lovely web site.

King's Carriage House

251 East 82nd St., NY, NY 10028, 212-734-5490, www.kingscarriagehouse.com

This restaurant is somewhat nondescript from the street and you're hard pressed to find the sign bearing it's name. Upon entering the first impression is that it's cramped and slightly 'rabbit-warren-ey.' But we were shown to the first floor back room dining area that was quite comfortable and romantic.

Maruzzella Ristorante

1483 First Avenue, New York, NY 10075, 212-988-8877, www.maruzzellanyc.com

This mid-priced Italian offers decent food in a newly renovated, romantic dining room. Appetizer specials like asparagus or white bean salad can be excellent, pasta dishes are usually reliable and the veal Milanese is generous and tasty. The service is attentive and they let you linger and enjoy the atmosphere over a glass of wine while you look at the menu or sip coffee after your meal. The food might not be memorable once you leave but you will have enjoyed the experience while you're there.

Quatorze Bis

323 East 79th Street, New York, NY 10075, 212-535-1414

Quatorze Bis always seems to be bustling with an older, respectable looking crowd who seem to be enjoying themselves. Delicious classic French food from the creamy potato and leak soup (oh, so rich!) to the proverbial steak au poivre with frites. This is a great place for brunch, too, as the chef really knows how to make an omelet and also lovely for a drink by the bar even if you're not eating. It has the feel of someplace that would offer a great souffle or decadent chocolate cake for dessert and we were disappointed to find it didn't. But otherwise, it's a little touch of expensive civility in the city.