The luxury hospitality landscape of the East End is set for a significant transformation as 3rd Space Hospitality, the powerhouse behind New York City’s most prominent social dining destinations, confirms a dual-market expansion for the summer of 2026. This strategic move includes the highly anticipated return of Talya to a premier beachfront location in Montauk and the debut of Maison Close Southampton at the iconic Capri Southampton. These openings represent a calculated growth of the "vibe dining" sector—a hybrid model that blends high-end gastronomy with immersive, club-like social atmospheres—which has increasingly dominated the high-spend markets of the Hamptons and Manhattan.
The announcement marks a pivotal moment for 3rd Space Hospitality, led by co-owner Cole Bernard. By securing two of the most sought-after real estate footprints in the region, the group is positioning itself to capture the lucrative summer demographic that migrates from the city to the coast. Talya is scheduled to launch during Memorial Day Weekend 2026, while Maison Close Southampton will follow with a mid-June opening, ensuring the group has a firm grip on the peak social season.
The Evolution of Talya: A New Chapter in Montauk
Talya first entered the Montauk scene in 2023, quickly establishing itself as a premier destination for those seeking a Mediterranean-inspired escape. For the 2026 season, the concept is being "reimagined" in a more prominent, beachfront setting at 148 South Emerson Avenue. The move to this historic property, situated directly below the popular Bounce Beach, places Talya at the heart of Montauk’s most active social corridor.
The transition from its previous iteration to this new beachfront home allows for a more integrated indoor-outdoor experience. Plate Creative, the design firm behind the project, has focused on evolving the brand’s aesthetic to match the rugged yet refined beauty of the Montauk coastline. The new design incorporates lush greenery, rich textures, and a palette of warm coastal tones. Natural woven elements and soft, atmospheric lighting are intended to create a seamless transition from a sun-drenched afternoon setting to a high-energy late-night lounge.
Culinary direction remains under the stewardship of Executive Chef Geoffrey Lechantoux. Lechantoux, who brings a pedigree of Michelin-level training and years of experience within the Alain Ducasse group, has crafted a menu that bridges the gap between the Greek Isles and the French Riviera. The 2026 menu is expected to emphasize hyper-local sourcing, utilizing the bounty of the Atlantic and the organic farms of the North and South Forks. Signature dishes will focus on vibrant Greek flavors—charred octopus, fresh crudos, and herb-crusted lamb—all designed for the communal, shared-style dining that is central to the Talya experience.
Maison Close: From SoHo to the Capri Southampton
While Talya solidifies its presence in Montauk, 3rd Space Hospitality is simultaneously launching a major offensive in Southampton with the introduction of Maison Close. Following the explosive success of the Maison Close SoHo flagship and a prior seasonal run in Montauk, the brand is moving into one of the most storied hospitality sites in the region: the Capri Southampton at 281 County Road 39A.
The Capri has long been a focal point of Southampton’s social life, and the arrival of Maison Close signals a shift toward a more structured, high-energy dining program. Designed by DMDesign, the space is being transformed to reflect the aesthetic of the French Riviera. The design philosophy seeks to capture the "effortless seaside elegance" of Saint-Tropez, blending traditional Parisian bistro elements with the airy, relaxed atmosphere of a Mediterranean coastal retreat.
Maison Close Southampton will center its identity on the "Parisian cabaret" energy that made its NYC location a viral sensation. This involves choreographed service, live entertainment elements, and a curated soundtrack that escalates in tempo as the evening progresses. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "night out" within a single venue, catering to a demographic that increasingly values convenience and atmosphere alongside culinary quality.
Chef Lechantoux will also oversee the kitchen at Maison Close Southampton, applying classic French techniques to a coastal-inspired menu. Diners can expect a sophisticated selection of bistro classics reimagined with seasonal American ingredients. The program will be supported by an extensive cocktail and wine list, with a heavy emphasis on premium rosés and sparkling wines, which remain the staple beverages of the Hamptons summer circuit.
A Chronology of Strategic Growth
The expansion of 3rd Space Hospitality in 2026 is the culmination of a multi-year strategy to dominate the "vibe dining" niche in New York’s most competitive markets.
- 2022: Maison Close debuts in SoHo, New York City, introducing a high-energy French bistro concept that emphasizes communal celebration and upscale aesthetics.
- 2023: Talya launches its first iteration in Montauk, testing the market’s appetite for Greek-Mediterranean social dining.
- 2024-2025: The group refines its operational model, expanding its portfolio with NYC hotspots like Ayah and Petite, while scouting permanent or high-visibility seasonal locations in the Hamptons.
- Late 2025: Lease agreements are finalized for 148 South Emerson Avenue (Montauk) and the Capri (Southampton).
- May 2026: Talya Montauk opens for Memorial Day Weekend.
- June 2026: Maison Close Southampton opens, completing the group’s dual-hub presence on the East End.
This timeline illustrates a deliberate move away from temporary "pop-ups" toward more established, anchored locations. By securing a beachfront spot in Montauk and a partnership with a well-known hotel in Southampton, the group is mitigating the risks associated with the seasonal nature of the Hamptons market.
The Business of "Vibe Dining": Market Context and Analysis
The expansion of 3rd Space Hospitality occurs against a backdrop of shifting consumer preferences in the luxury hospitality sector. Market analysts note that post-pandemic dining habits have shifted toward "experiential" consumption. Modern affluent diners, particularly the millennial and Gen X demographics that frequent the Hamptons, are less interested in traditional, hushed fine dining and more drawn to venues that offer social currency, high-quality design, and entertainment.
The "vibe dining" model is particularly effective in the Hamptons, where the population swells with high-net-worth individuals during the summer months. These consumers are often looking for venues that can serve as a "one-stop-shop" for their evening—starting with a high-end meal and transitioning into a lounge or party environment without the need for a second location.
By operating both Talya and Maison Close, 3rd Space Hospitality is diversifying its Mediterranean offerings. While both concepts fall under the social dining umbrella, Talya leans into the breezy, Greek-coastal aesthetic suitable for the "End of the World" vibe of Montauk, while Maison Close offers a more structured, glamorous French experience that aligns with the traditional prestige of Southampton.
Official Responses and Operational Outlook
Cole Bernard, co-owner of 3rd Space Hospitality, emphasized the brand’s mission to create "transportive" experiences. In a statement regarding the expansion, Bernard noted that the return of Talya and the debut of Maison Close Southampton represent a commitment to "creating dynamic destinations where cuisine, design, and atmosphere converge."
The group has also addressed the logistical challenges of operating in the Hamptons, such as staffing and supply chain management. By centralizing the culinary leadership under Chef Lechantoux, 3rd Space ensures a consistency of quality across both locations. Furthermore, the emphasis on organic and locally sourced ingredients serves two purposes: it appeals to the health-conscious Hamptons diner and supports the local agricultural and fishing industries of eastern Long Island.
Broader Implications for Hamptons Tourism
The arrival of these two high-profile venues is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy. The Capri Southampton, by hosting Maison Close, is likely to see increased room occupancy and daytime foot traffic. In Montauk, the revitalization of 148 South Emerson Avenue contributes to the ongoing "upscaling" of the village’s commercial district, which has seen a steady influx of luxury brands and high-end hospitality groups over the last decade.
However, this trend also brings challenges, including increased traffic and the continued transformation of Montauk from a quiet fishing village into a global nightlife destination. Local officials and residents continue to monitor the balance between economic growth driven by hospitality and the preservation of the area’s natural character.
Operational Details and Accessibility
For the 2026 season, both venues have established rigorous operating schedules to maximize the short summer window:
Talya Montauk (148 South Emerson Ave):
- Dinner: Wednesday (5 PM – 12 AM), Thursday (5 PM – 2 AM), Friday (5 PM – 3 AM), Saturday (7 PM – 3 AM), Sunday (12:30 PM – 2 AM).
- Weekend Brunch: Sunday (12:30 PM – 6 PM).
- Digital Presence: talyarestaurant.com | @talyarestaurant.
Maison Close Southampton (281 County Road 39A):
- Dinner: Wednesday (5 PM – 12 AM), Thursday & Friday (5 PM – 2 AM), Saturday & Sunday (7 PM – 2 AM).
- Weekend Brunch: Saturday & Sunday (12 PM – 6 PM).
- Digital Presence: maisoncloserestaurant.com | @maisonclosesouthampton.
As the Hamptons prepares for the 2026 season, the dual expansion of 3rd Space Hospitality stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the region as a laboratory for luxury lifestyle concepts. By combining Michelin-trained culinary expertise with world-class interior design and high-energy social programming, Talya and Maison Close are positioned to be the defining venues of the upcoming summer.
