Millennial turns Montauk into Margaritaville

Simon Cascante, a native of East Hampton, made a bold decision to forgo college and pursue his dream of creating his own tequila brand. His brand, Montaukila, has been making waves on Long Island’s exclusive South Fork, offering a unique and locally focused approach to the spirits industry.

Cascante, now 33 years old, has been in the business for six years and has taken a hands-on approach to promoting his brand. He personally drives a custom van, dubbed the “mobile cantina,” to events and markets in the area, serving up his special tequila and connecting with customers on a personal level.

Growing up in the restaurant industry, working at Lobster Roll in Amagansett, Cascante honed his work ethic and customer service skills. He believes that the restaurant industry provided him with invaluable experience that has helped him succeed in the business world.

In 2019, Cascante had a breakthrough moment when he combined his love for Montauk with tequila, giving birth to the name Montaukila. Despite facing challenges in sourcing the tequila from Jalisco, Mexico, Cascante persevered and eventually found a distillery willing to work with him, Casa Maestri.

Since then, Montaukila has expanded its reach across Long Island, New York City, and the Hudson Valley. Cascante credits his hospitality background for helping him navigate the competitive retail market and set up unique events to promote his brand.

This season, Cascante has introduced canned cocktails to his lineup, paying close attention to details like the salinity levels to ensure a perfect salt on the rim aftertaste. His dedication to quality and innovation has set Montaukila apart from the competition and garnered a loyal following.

As Cascante continues to grow his brand and make a name for himself in the spirits industry, he remains committed to his roots in Montauk and the community that has supported him from the beginning. With his entrepreneurial spirit and determination, there’s no doubt that Montaukila will continue to thrive in the years to come.