A high-profile shift is coming to the Sag Harbor dining scene as SunLife Organics prepares to launch its first Hamptons location at the former site of Estia’s Little Kitchen. Founded in Malibu in 2011 by Khalil Rafati, the health-conscious chain has grown to over 20 locations nationwide. This new outpost marks a significant milestone for the company, as it is the first property the brand has purchased outright rather than leased.
The transition from a beloved local staple like Estia’s to a national brand is being handled with a focus on community integration. Founder Khalil Rafati has already dispatched a team to the East End to engage with local coffee shops and farmers markets from Montauk to Southampton. In a nod to the location’s heritage, SunLife has hired former Estia’s chef Agustin Flores Ochoa and is developing a unique menu specifically for Sag Harbor. Patrons can expect organic, seed oil-free takes on classic comfort foods, including breakfast burritos and chilaquiles fried in beef tallow.
The property itself is set for a major aesthetic and functional overhaul. Rafati’s vision includes a “crystal garden” featuring giant specimens imported from Brazil and Uruguay, designed to create a tranquil space for guests to enjoy their acai bowls and smoothies. Beyond the decor, the company is also investing in long-term infrastructure improvements, including an update to the property’s septic system.
While the brand is rooted in California, Rafati has spent a decade searching for the right Hamptons location, citing the area’s unique blend of beauty and community friendliness. The decision to open in late May aligns with the traditional kickoff of the summer season, though the owner remains open to the possibility of operating year-round based on local demand.
SunLife Organics aims to be more than just a quick-service stop; it is positioned as a wellness destination that honors the site’s history while introducing a modern, organic philosophy to the Sag Harbor corridor. As the team settles into their summer residency, the village can look forward to a new gathering spot that blends Malibu’s health-forward culture with East End charm.
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