FIVE THINGS TO EAT ON LONG ISLAND

1 Ask a local what’s for breakfast and the answer trips easily off the tongue: bacon, egg, cheese, salt and pepper and ketchup on a roll (that’s “BEC” for short). Order one made fresh from one of the delis that sit on the corners of most towns, owned and run by Jewish families that go way back in the area (you can get your BEC on a bagel, too, if you prefer).

2 The area is famous for its seafood and while the oyster harvest is still in recovery following a big storm in the early 20th century, clams, crabs and lobsters are in plentiful supply. Try a lobster roll from a great restaurant, cold with mayo or hot with butter (“Connecticut-style”) if you can find it, and always with a side of fries.

3 Pizza isn’t unique to Long Island but the locals say theirs tastes better than it does in New York City. Find an Italian-owned store — generally the less pretty the shop, the better the pizza, and try a pepperoni or a local special — penne a la vodka pizza (yes, that’s pizza with pasta on top). Little Vincent’s and Rosa’s are both reliable, but if in doubt, ask a local (and don’t over-order: one 18-inch “pie” was enough for five of us).

4 The north coast of Long Island is a fruit bowl, and depending on the season you should drop by a farm shop and pick your own apples — or try something prepared earlier. The apple cider doughnut is a proud local treat, or pick up an American-style fruit pie to take with you.

5 According to an old saying, people in the Hamptons drink more rosé than water, and to be honest there is something lovely about sipping a cold glass of something pink with a view of the sea. Pick up a bottle from a nearby vineyard or cheat and buy “Hampton’s Water”, Jon Bon Jovi’s delicious Frenchgrown brand designed for the thirsty local market.