Joni's Montauk

Joni’s Montauk: Healthy Food Near the Beach

Joni’s Montauk is a takeout and dine-in spot in Montauk, New York. Joni Brosnan opened it in the summer of 2001, aiming to create a small, stylish place that felt good for the soul and the palate in what was then a quiet town. Over time, it became a gathering place for artists, writers, celebrities, and barefoot surfers.

The cafe keeps a coastal feel, with cyan-blue tones, retro Hawaiian art, fresh flowers, and vintage photographs. It is a short walk from the beach and offers a casual option for takeout or a seat at a picnic table.

History and Beginnings

Joni Brosnan grew up on the Upper East Side and spent summers in Montauk with her family, where she fell in love with the area. After years of traveling between the city and Montauk, she settled there permanently, married Mick at Cavett’s Cove, and set out to bring nourishing food to the far end of the East End. She studied art and photography in New York and came to see food as her canvas. Before opening Joni’s, she worked at places including Indochine, Blanche’s Organic, and Sarabeth’s.

The Menu

The menu centers on sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies, according to the cafe’s own description. It includes options for people who are gluten intolerant, vegetarian, or vegan, an approach the cafe says it adopted before it became common. Fresh-fruit smoothies and pressed juices are presented as natural sports drinks. There is also a children’s menu for younger diners, including picky eaters.

Media Coverage

The cafe has appeared in publications including Vogue, Ralph Lauren Magazine, Food Network, Travel + Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine, House Beautiful, Condé Nast Traveler, Goop, the New York Post, DuJour, Cultured Magazine, Hamptons Magazine, and The Purist.

Cookbook

Joni’s has published a nontraditional cookbook that combines photographic memoir and food memories, with signature healthy recipes such as Thai Me Up, Up In Smoke, Four Play, Sorry Charlie, and Sex Booster. The book also features members of the Montauk community that has shaped the cafe.

Location and Contact

28 South Etna Ave., Store #9 (enter on South Edison St. between South Etna Ave. and South Elmwood Ave.), Montauk, NY 11954 · Phone: 631-668-3663