Renowned restaurateur and reality TV star Zach Erdem is at the center of a legal storm involving his Mediterranean restaurant, ZErdem, in the quaint Greenport village of Long Island. Best known for HBO Max’s hit series “Serving the Hamptons”, Erdem claims the village’s officials, led by Mayor Kevin Stuessi, unlawfully shut down his establishment with what he describes as ‘bogus’ violations.
The Legal Showdown: What Happened?
In June 2023, during one of ZErdem’s opening weekends, Mayor Stuessi and 11 village officials reportedly raided the restaurant, demanding an immediate closure. Shortly after, ZErdem faced 24 code violations, which included accusations of hosting an illegal hookah lounge, serving alcohol without a license, and playing loud music outdoors. Erdem, however, has categorically denied these claims, calling them baseless and discriminatory.
According to the lawsuit filed in June 2025 in the Eastern District of New York, Erdem is seeking $5 million in damages, asserting that these actions not only disrupted operations but created a public spectacle that hurt his business and reputation.
Erdem Fights Back
Erdem has made it clear he runs his businesses by the book. Speaking to the media, he expressed frustration particularly over accusations of serving alcohol without a proper license. “I’ve been in this business for years and wouldn’t do anything without proper permits,” he said. He clarified that the area mistaken for a bar was actually a service space for washing plates and tablecloths. Additionally, the issuance of violations also delayed his ability to obtain a liquor license, which wasn’t granted until August 2024—over a year after the alleged violations.
ZErdem’s Road to Recovery
While ZErdem reopened during the summers of 2023 and 2024, it wasn’t until summer 2025 that the restaurant could operate at full capacity. With a valid liquor license in hand, the business saw an uplift this year, bringing back loyal patrons and new guests keen to experience Erdem’s Mediterranean menu. Visitors rave about ZErdem’s authentic flavors and vibrant ambiance, making it a standout addition to the Long Island dining scene. For those interested in Mediterranean cuisine and luxury dining, ZErdem’s story is one of resilience and passion for exceptional service.
What’s Next for Zach Erdem?
In addition to ZErdem, Erdem operates several successful ventures on Long Island, including his flagship restaurant 75 Main in Southampton, a hotspot visited by celebrities like Kendall Jenner and even the Bidens. He has expressed his desire to establish a strong presence in Greenport, a village considered an alternative to the Hamptons for its charm and tranquility. “I love Greenport and its people,” said Erdem. “I just want to serve the community and be a part of it.”
As of now, the village has publicly denied wrongdoing, with legal representatives labeling Erdem’s claims as meritless. However, this lawsuit has drawn attention to local governance and the enforcement of code violations, with some speculating bias and selective application of the law. Further complicating matters, a former Greenport code enforcement officer has filed a separate lawsuit alleging wrongful termination and coercion to target Erdem’s businesses.
Discover Mediterranean Culinary Excellence
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To book your table at ZErdem and experience the true essence of Mediterranean dining in Greenport, visit their official website or call for reservations. Stay tuned for updates on Erdem’s ongoing legal battles and his success story in the hospitality world.
