In Westhampton, Tourist Traps Shrug Off Recession

Local tourist spots in have not been spared by the recession; however, while aftershocks continue to threaten the country, these businesses remain optimistic.

The key to success, owners say, is maintaining a business model that is favorable to local residents, while simultaneously planning for the ebb and flow of a tourist hamlet. Many restaurants are traditionally seasonal, and the shops that remain open prepare for slow winters. In a resort town, owners say it is vital to keep prices manageable to cater to locals, and atmospheres unique and archetypical for tourists.

"When you go on vacation … you want to experience the flavor of the [area]," said Elyse Richman, who owns the store along with an and baby store, all in Westhampton. "Westhampton is the quaint, old-fashioned Main Street."

Richman opened her fashion store 26 years ago after starting a business in New York City. She had vacationed and weekended in Westhampton Beach, and when a storefront on Main Street became available she took it.

She said she got the idea to open a baby store when she was pregnant in 2000, and later took over an ice cream store down the street. In uncertain times the need to cultivate relationships in the community becomes ever more important, she said.

"It's a multi-generational business. I have the kids, the mothers, the grandmothers," she said.

Richman said she is grateful that chains like Starbucks have not moved in because the community thrives on the perks of mom and pop stores, such as knowing the owner personally.

"I know my customers, they've been really loyal," she said.

Richman said she prefers a more seasonal town like Westhampton Beach, over others that may offer more steady foot traffic year-round because of Westhampton's culture, specifically referencing the school system.

Local restaurants must also account for a decline in customers, even if the are pillars of the community.

in Westhampton, which opened in 1928, has had to adjust to a shrinking group of once loyal customers.

"Years ago we had people who came three or four times a week, now they only come once a week," owner Bejto Bracovic said.

Bracovic said the number of "old timers," whose families have had a relationship with Casa Basso for generations, is dwindling because they are put on tight budgets.

Bracovic said the family-owned restaurant survived rough times in the 1970s, but that periods of uncertainty require sacrifice.

"You have to tighten your belt, cut down employees," he said.

Despite the recession, Westhampton Beach has also attracted several new restaurants, including delis, quasi-clubs and unique tastes.

Cafe Mambo on Moniebogue Lane opened in June, and despite originally preparing for a seasonal model, the owners have decided to keep the store open in the fall. Husband-and-wife team Jamie and Olga Betham live and own a restaurant in Maui, bringing their experience of restaurant operation in a resort community to the East End.

"We believed we had a good quality product. We want to build a foundation with the locals, because that's ultimately your market," Jamie Betham said. Betham, who is originally from Britain, began a career as a pilot. However in 2001, he chose to focus on his passion for cooking and the restaurant industry, which his wife shares. It is a second career that he says is about finding happiness as much as it is about making money. 

"Quality of life is important to us, being happy is the main thing," he said. "But if you can make a million [dollars] and make other people happy in the process, that's a [good] thing too."