Max Chodorow to Revamp Iconic Hamptons Steakhouse Old Stove Pub

Restaurateur Max Chodorow, known for Manhattan's Jean's, is taking over the Old Stove Pub in Sagaponack, a historic steakhouse opened in 1969 by the Johnides family in an 1820 farmhouse. The venue was a haunt for JFK Jr. and Billy Joel, beloved by locals and seasonal visitors alike. Chodorow, son of Jeffrey Chodorow (China Grill, Asia de Cuba), purchased the restaurant from former owner Joseph DeCristofaro for $4.5 million. He plans to preserve the neon sign, refinish pine floors, and potentially rename the spot. The famous horse statue may get a facelift by an undisclosed artist, possibly turning it into a zebra. Chodorow aims to source locally, channeling a dock-to-table movement, with his Pennsylvania farm supplying 95% of Jean's produce. He emphasizes connecting with true Hamptonites rather than tourist crowds, keeping local staff year-round. The restaurant is set to open next year, with potential chef takeovers from city-based collaborators. Lifelong Hamptonite James Cruickshank suggests partnerships with Ludlow Farms and King's Farm, and wines from Wölffer and Channing Daughters. Chodorow cites Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson's 2024 revamp of Le Veau d'Or as a model for respectful renovation.