By Amanda Duckstein, founder of Shadowbox Pilates.

Dive Bar Charm 

Oh, I like going to Murf's of course. We'll head there as a later evening kind of spot. I hate to say late night because I'm leaving by 11 or 12 most of the time, but it's where we go after having dinner in Sag Harbor, maybe after Lulu Kitchen. It's definitely a dive bar, which is part of its appeal, and they still have the ring game that everyone loves.

Summer Scene 

Murf's has this great backyard garden, but it gets really, really busy over the summer where it's hard to even find anywhere to stand, definitely nowhere to sit.

Despite the crowds, it's always really fun. If we're in the mood to be in someplace lively and bustling, Murf's is perfect. There are these cute little corners to sit in if you're lucky enough to snag a seat.

In the off-season they had karaoke once or twice a week, though I'm not sure if that continues during summer.

Social Crossroads 

This is literally a place to rub elbows with everyone. You always run into at least five people you know, spanning all ages — from women I know in their 50s and 60s to twenty-somethings. It's one of those rare Hamptons spots where the social boundaries between different groups break down, creating this authentic community vibe that's hard to find elsewhere, especially in season.

Contact

🌐 Murf's Backstreet Tavern



About Amanda

After teaching Pilates for 15 years, Amanda created Shadowbox Pilates to return to Joseph Pilates' original vision of control, precision, and core-focused movement. 

Her Southampton studio features specialized wooden reformers with towers and jump boards, while her popular Shadowbox in the Wild series brings classes to iconic locations like Gurney's oceanfront deck and Wölffer Wine Stand.

Amanda Duckstein lives and enjoys life on the East End after many years in New York City. 

Lead-in Image

@MurfsBackstreetTavern / Instagram