Ja Rule Takes Over Calissa
Images courtesy of John Roca
The Hamptons summer scene officially ignited with a one-night-only takeover by hip-hop legend Ja Rule at Calissa in Water Mill on Friday, June 13th. The occasion? The exclusive Hamptons launch of his new whiskey line, Amber & Opal—and the crowd came ready to toast.
Calissa’s already-iconic bar transformed into a stage for Ja Rule himself, who stepped into bartender mode to pour up his favorite custom cocktails using Amber & Opal. Guests enjoyed whiskey-based cocktails, wine, and Mediterranean hors d’oeuvres, all while soaking in the signature Calissa ambiance—sun-drenched Mykonos energy mixed with classic Hamptons polish.
Images courtesy of John Roca
Images courtesy of John Roca
Set on Montauk Highway, Calissa has become known not just for its coastal Greek cuisine and award-winning wine list, but for its effortless ability to bring together food, music, and luxury lifestyle in one inviting setting. On this night, the party flowed inside and out, with live music, flowing drinks, and a crowd that brought the weekend energy early.
The star of the night—besides Ja Rule himself—was the Amber & Opal whiskey collection. With smooth, warm flavor profiles and a striking bottle design, it was easy to see why guests were eager to sample more than one of the specialty cocktails. Ja Rule’s passion behind the brand was clear, and his behind-the-bar charisma sealed the vibe.
Images courtesy of John Roca
Images courtesy of John Roca
Images courtesy of John Roca
The launch also served as a sneak peek of what’s to come at Calissa this season. Starting Memorial Day Weekend, guests can rent Calissa-branded MOKEs—stylish electric beach vehicles—complete with the option for a curated Greek picnic basket. It’s a perfect way to elevate your next beach day in true Calissa fashion.
And the entertainment calendar? Stacked. Guests can look forward to:
Live DJs every weekend (Fridays, Saturdays, and expanded sets on holiday weekends)
Saxophonist-accompanied sets every Saturday
World music Sundays on the Terrace, including standout acts like Cristo and Rafael performing Gipsy Kings tributes on June 29 and July 27, and The Mylos Greek Party Band on July 6 and August 24.
Special July 4th performance from Chase Creighton and Adam Lipson
Full entertainment listings can be found at calissahamptons.com/entertainment.
Whether You Missed It or Want More
If you weren’t able to make it to the June 13th event, Calissa is open all season long—and you can still enjoy Amber & Opal cocktails, weekend parties, and the magic of the Hamptons done right. Dinner reservations are highly recommended and can be made at Calissa’s OpenTable.
Stay tuned for more from @calissahamptons and @amberandopalspirits—this was only the beginning.
