Ram's Head Inn, Shelter Island

The Ram's Head Inn is one of those places that I had long had on my mental list of places to visit. I knew the waterfront area was very beautifulI and I had read rave reviews. I was seated for dinner on the enormous porch a balmy Friday evening in early September, overlooking the lawns with their white Adirondack chairs, the tennis courts and beyond to the sailboats. I had been advised that the restaurant was fully booked, but most of the tables were empty. Although the crumbs on the white linen must have been from the previous guests I was appreciative of the fresh pink rose in the bud vase and the shining cutlery. The choice of bottled or local water was offered and a good tasting glass of chilled local water was produced, with no chlorine taste or odor. The waiter took my order, then returned to say that the appetizer was not available. Some time passed and then two warmed, flavorless rolls were brought with a tiny sculpted butter. Finally the entree, cannaloni stuffed with some vegetables, was served on a plain white plate. There were three of them, with neither presentation flare nor sauce. The cannaloni was too crisp as were the bland vegetables, which were binded with that insufferable goat cheese. I cannot review the coffee and dessert since the waiter only served the larger group next to my table and I was not able to obtain coffee and dessert. I would be sitting there still if I had not held my AmEx aloft to finally receive the bill. I cannot recommend the Ram's Head Inn as a place to eat, but the scenery is spectacular.