Culper’s 1778: A Steakhouse with a Historical Twist
Recently opened in Setauket, Long Island, Culper’s 1778 steakhouse presents a unique tribute to the Culper spy ring, a covert group active during the Revolutionary War. Co-owner Scott Brittman expressed enthusiasm about the restaurant’s thematic focus, reflecting on how the culper ring played an essential role in American history. While the local area features some representation of this historic espionage group, Brittman aims to honor their contributions more robustly than past efforts, using the establishment as a medium to educate patrons about the ring’s significance and influence.
The restaurant’s decor immerses diners in the Revolutionary War era, showcasing prints of the Battle of Setauket, a life-size musket replica, and an original U.S. flag among other historical artifacts. The theme extends to the beverage menu, which features reinterpretations of drinks attributed to historical figures. For instance, "The Commander," a drink reminiscent of George Washington’s preferred spiced cherry brandy, highlights the establishment’s commitment to authenticity. Other cocktails, such as the gin-based "Agent 355," reference female spy Anna Smith Strong, while "The Traitor" is a nod to Benedict Arnold’s legacy.
Culper’s 1778 has gained traction among history enthusiasts from various towns, underlined by Brittman’s commitment to embodying the spirit of the Culper spy ring. The restaurant’s rich menu not only serves mouthwatering dishes, but also engages patrons in the story of espionage strategies that turned the tide in favor of the American forces during the Revolution. In a fitting tribute to American independence, the establishment plans to close its doors on July 4.
The Culpers comprised at least seven known members, with Benjamin Tallmadge at the helm. Together with his close allies Abraham Woodhull and Caleb Brewster, Tallmadge formed a bond rooted in trust and childhood friendship, united against British tyranny. Christopher Judge, an educator familiar with the ring, likened the Culpers to the modern-day CIA. Their secretive operations and adroit maneuvering under the cover of friendship enabled them to gather essential intelligence undetected—an impressive feat for their time.
In addition to Tallmadge and his immediate circle, other notable members included Austin Roe, a tavern owner with ties to the invention of the retractable tape measure. The ring often operated under the guise of the surname "Culper," ensuring their true identities remained hidden even from key figures like George Washington. This layer of secrecy was critical; even a momentary lapse could lead to detrimental consequences for the entire network.
The Culpers performed some of the war’s most significant espionage, including foiling a British conspiracy to flood the colonial economy with counterfeit money and misleading British troops about the landing of French allies in Rhode Island. Judge emphasized that how the Culpers’ deception potentially altered the course of the war could not be overstated; their ability to remain undetected fueled their success and is highlighted in Brittman’s steakhouse, which operates as a bridge between history and modern culinary experiences.
Culper’s 1778 not only satisfies culinary cravings but presents a living homage to a band of spies whose courage profoundly impacted the American Revolution. With every crafted cocktail and dish, the restaurant invites its clientele to partake in a narrative that transcends time, connecting the past to the present in an innovative way. This intersection of food and history not only enriches the dining experience but also serves to educate a new generation about the remarkable legacy of the Culper spy ring.
