Castle at Casa Basso

The Castle at Casa Basso, historically known as the Theophilus Brouwer House, is a distinctive landmark located at 59 Montauk Highway in Westhampton, New York. Situated on the eastern end of Long Island between the highway and Beaver Dam Creek, the structure was originally built in the late 19th century by American artist Theophilus Anthony Brouwer, Jr. Inspired by his travels in Spain and Italy, Brouwer designed the residence to resemble a castle he remembered near Seville. The property, once called Pinewold Park, was famously adorned with romantic sculptures, including twelve-foot swordsmen, a Roman lion, and a statue of Psyche, creating a unique artistic estate that included a pottery studio and kiln.

In 1928, the site was transformed into Casa Basso, an Italian restaurant established by restaurateur M.L. Basso. For nearly a century, it served as a beloved dining destination under the Basso family, later owner Valerio Mondini, and finally executive chef Bejto Bracovic, who acquired the business in 1986. The property holds significant local historical value and has been designated a Westhampton Hamlet Heritage Resource due to its architectural uniqueness and association with Brouwer's artistic legacy. Despite its long tenure as a culinary institution, the restaurant permanently closed its doors on November 23, 2024, ending a 96-year run of continuous service to the community.

Following the closure, the historic site entered a new chapter as the Town of Southampton moved to purchase the property for conversion into a public waterfront park. This transition aims to preserve the castle ruins and the surrounding grounds for public enjoyment, ensuring that Brouwer's whimsical architecture and the site's rich cultural history remain accessible to future generations. The location stands as a rare example of castellated architecture in New York State, bridging the gap between private artistic expression, commercial hospitality, and upcoming public stewardship.