From quaint bookstores to contemporary fine dining, Easton has the best of both worlds.

Initially, Easton resembles other towns inMarylands Eastern Shore.

The population is just shy of 17,000 residents, with well-preserved historic buildings hugging the narrow, tree-lined streets.

Federal Street, Easton, Maryland

Credit: Eric Taylor

And naturally, the pace is unhurried.

But one block downtown on Federal Street stands out.

And thats because theyre all part ofBluepoint Hospitality, a family of restaurants and shops envisioned by Paul Prager.

Bas Rouge Dining Table

Nicole Franzen

Though Prager appreciated the quality of life Easton afforded him, he missed his social life back in Manhattan.

Also important was respecting establishments that were already open.

And Flying Cloud Booksellers harkens back to the quaint, neighborhood stores many of us grew up with.

Sunflower and Greens dining table in Easton, Maryland

Nicole Franzen

Thankfully, trusting his intuition paid off faster than he anticipated.

Waitress walking out of The Wardroom

Melanie Dunea