East Hampton: Turtle Crossing goes bistro

After 16 years as a bastion of barbecue and Southwestern spice, Turtle Crossing has transformed itself into the more upscale Turtle Crossing American Bistro.

The retooled and refurbished eatery now sends out dishes such as Oregon strip loin steak, grass-fed variety;  housemade pappardelle with beef sugo, mushrooms and ricotta; Asian-style tuna tartare; local seafood seviche; smoked and grilled quail; and a poached fish of the day.

Devotees of Turtle Crossing's earlier style will be glad to know that barbecued chicken wings (with minted cucumber), fish tacos, duck leg confit, meatball sliders, and "Oh Yeah! BBQ ribs" will be available, too.

Chef Arthur Wolf, who joined Turtle Crossing in 1998, helms the kitchen.

Turtle Crossing American Bistro, 221 Pantigo Rd. (Route 27/Montauk Highway), East Hampton; 631-324-7166.

Listen for a new voice of the Turtle ...