About The Club Car
Situated in the heart of downtown Nantucket, The Club Car is a historic restaurant and piano bar renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and live music. Housed in a vintage train car from the original Nantucket railroad, the establishment underwent a significant rebranding in 2017, introducing a modern interior with soft blue booths and abundant greenery. The Club Car offers a contemporary American menu with a focus on fresh, local seafood and seasonal ingredients.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Steamed Mussels: Served with root vegetable chips.
- Crab Cake: Accompanied by beurre blanc.
- Grilled Octopus: Paired with zucchini fritters.
- Beverage Selection: The Club Car features an extensive selection of wines, specialty cocktails, and is particularly noted for its excellent piña coladas.
- Ambiance: The establishment combines historic charm with modern elegance, featuring live piano music that encourages guest participation, creating a lively and engaging dining experience.
Why Choose The Club Car?
- Historic Setting: Dine in a vintage train car, offering a unique and nostalgic atmosphere.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy live piano performances, enhancing the dining experience with music and guest interaction.
- Central Location: Conveniently located on Main Street, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
Getting There
The Club Car is located at 1 Main Street in downtown Nantucket, within walking distance of the ferry terminal and other central attractions. Street parking is available, though it may be limited during peak hours.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy season. The piano bar can become lively in the evenings; for a quieter dining experience, consider booking an earlier reservation.
About Sister Ship
Nestled within the Faraway Hotel in downtown Nantucket, Sister Ship is a restaurant, café, and relaxed cocktail club offering elevated cocktails alongside seafood-forward, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The menu showcases New England seafood and local ingredients, providing a unique dining experience that blends coastal charm with Mediterranean flavors.
Far Away Hotels
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Island Creek Oysters: Freshly shucked oysters sourced from local waters.
- Rib-Eye for Two: A tender rib-eye steak, perfect for sharing. Boston Magazine
- Tuna Tartare: Fresh tuna prepared with a Mediterranean twist.
- Beverage Selection: Sister Ship offers a curated selection of elevated cocktails, wines, and beers, designed to complement their Mediterranean-inspired menu. Far Away Hotels
- Ambiance: The interior combines nautical chic with cozy décor, reminiscent of turn-of-the-century captain’s quarters meets underground speakeasy, creating an inviting atmosphere for both dining and socializing. Boston Magazine
Why Choose Sister Ship?
- Innovative Cuisine: Experience a fusion of Mediterranean flavors with New England seafood, crafted with local ingredients.
- Relaxed Cocktail Club: Enjoy a variety of elevated cocktails in a comfortable and stylish setting.
- Central Location: Situated in the heart of Nantucket, Sister Ship is easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
Getting There
Located at 29 Centre Street, Sister Ship is within walking distance of many downtown attractions. Street parking is available on Centre Street, Chestnut Street, Hussey Street, and Broad Street.
OpenTable
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season. For a unique experience, consider dining in the garden courtyard or enjoying the subterranean speakeasy vibes.
About The Rose & Crown
A staple of Nantucket’s nightlife and dining scene, The Rose & Crown combines a casual pub atmosphere with hearty American fare. Located in the heart of downtown, this lively establishment is known for its comfort food classics, friendly vibe, and vibrant entertainment. From lunch with the family to late-night dancing with friends, The Rose & Crown caters to all occasions.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Fish & Chips: Crispy beer-battered cod served with hand-cut fries and tartar sauce.
- Rose Burger: A house specialty featuring a juicy beef patty topped with cheddar, bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
- Lobster Grilled Cheese: Buttery bread filled with fresh lobster and gooey cheese, a local favorite.
- Beverage Selection:
The bar features a wide selection of craft beers, creative cocktails, and an impressive wine list, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Entertainment:
In the evenings, The Rose & Crown transforms into one of Nantucket’s most popular nightlife spots, hosting live music, karaoke, and DJ events throughout the summer season.
Why Choose The Rose & Crown?
- Lively Atmosphere: Enjoy a relaxed pub setting during the day and a buzzing nightlife experience after hours.
- Comfort Food Favorites: A menu packed with classic American dishes and local specialties.
- Downtown Convenience: Located just steps from the center of Nantucket, it’s an easy choice for both locals and visitors.
Getting There
Located at 23 South Water Street, The Rose & Crown is easily accessible by foot, bike, or car from downtown Nantucket. Parking in the area can be limited, especially during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early for dinner during peak summer season to avoid a wait, and stick around for the evening entertainment—it’s one of the island’s best spots for live music and dancing.
About Cru Nantucket
Located at the entrance of the Nantucket Boat Basin, Cru is the island’s premier destination for upscale waterfront dining. With a sleek, nautical-inspired interior and stunning harbor views, Cru offers an elevated yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Known for its outstanding raw bar and expertly prepared seafood dishes, Cru captures the essence of Nantucket’s coastal charm.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Grand Cru Seafood Tower: A luxurious selection of oysters, clams, shrimp, lobster, and crab served on ice.
- Lobster Tagliatelle: Fresh pasta tossed with Nantucket lobster, roasted cherry tomatoes, and a light cream sauce.
- Buttermilk Fried Soft-Shell Crab: Lightly fried crab served with a tangy remoulade and seasonal accompaniments.
- Raw Bar Favorites:
Featuring a daily selection of the freshest oysters, littlenecks, and shrimp cocktail.
- Craft Cocktails and Fine Wines:
Sip on a Cru Crush, a refreshing cocktail made with vodka, fresh grapefruit, and orange juice, or choose from the extensive wine list with a focus on whites and rosés that pair beautifully with seafood.
Why Choose Cru Nantucket?
- Prime Waterfront Location: Enjoy stunning views of the harbor from the open-air patio or the stylish indoor dining space.
- Exceptional Seafood: The freshest catches prepared with innovative flavors and techniques.
- Upscale Yet Relaxed: A polished dining experience that remains welcoming and approachable.
Getting There
Cru is located at 1 Straight Wharf, making it easily accessible by foot, bike, or car from anywhere in downtown Nantucket. Parking in the area is limited, especially during peak hours, so plan ahead.
Insider Tip:
Make a reservation well in advance, as Cru is one of the most sought-after dining spots on the island. For a quintessential Nantucket experience, start your meal with a glass of rosé and a selection of fresh oysters from the raw bar.
About Slip 14
Perched along the scenic Old South Wharf, Slip 14 offers an inviting waterfront dining experience with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Known for its creative dishes featuring fresh, local seafood and bold flavors, this seasonal gem is a favorite among both locals and visitors. The open-air seating, vibrant cocktail menu, and friendly service make Slip 14 a quintessential Nantucket dining spot.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Yellowfin Tuna Poke: Fresh ahi tuna with avocado, seaweed, sesame, and a tangy soy glaze.
- Lobster Rangoons: Crispy wontons filled with a creamy lobster mixture, served with a sweet chili dipping sauce.
- Seared Scallops: Perfectly cooked scallops paired with seasonal vegetables and a light beurre blanc sauce.
- Creative Cocktails:
Try the Slip Margarita or the Nantucket Mule, both crafted with fresh ingredients and served with a seaside flair.
- Outdoor Dining:
Enjoy your meal on the spacious patio with views of the bustling harbor, offering the perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
Why Choose Slip 14?
- Waterfront Dining: The stunning location on Old South Wharf provides unbeatable harbor views.
- Fresh, Local Ingredients: The menu emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced seafood and produce.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: A laid-back vibe with exceptional service makes Slip 14 an ideal choice for any occasion.
Getting There
Located at 14 Old South Wharf, Slip 14 is easily accessible by foot or bike from downtown Nantucket. Parking near the wharf can be limited during peak hours, so plan accordingly or consider arriving early.
Insider Tip:
For the best experience, arrive early to secure a table on the patio during sunset. Pair the Lobster Rangoons with a Nantucket Mule for a perfect start to your meal.
About or, The Whale
Situated in the heart of Nantucket, or, The Whale offers a contemporary American dining experience with a nod to the island’s rich maritime heritage. The restaurant’s name pays homage to Herman Melville’s classic novel, “Moby-Dick; or, The Whale,” reflecting its deep connection to Nantucket’s whaling history. With a chic interior and a spacious outdoor patio, it provides a versatile setting suitable for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.
Dining Highlights
- Duck Carnitas: A flavorful dish perfect for sharing, showcasing tender duck with a delightful blend of spices. Duck Carnitas, Pickled Red Onion, Pickled Vegetables, Raw Tomatillo Salsa, Watermelon Radish, Fresh Herbs, Corn Tortillas
- Grilled Branzino: Served with coconut rice, arugula purée, and vegetable escabeche, offering a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Korean Pork BBQ: A fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisines, featuring sushi rice, cucumber kimchi, and Korean BBQ sauce served with white rice and lettuce wraps.
- Beverage Selection:
An extensive list of craft cocktails, wines, and beers complements the diverse menu, ensuring a perfect pairing for every dish.
- Ambiance:
The restaurant boasts a stylish interior with modern décor, while the outdoor patio, adorned with twinkling lights and comfortable seating, offers a charming al fresco dining experience.
Why Choose or, The Whale?
- Culinary Innovation: Chef Manny Rojas crafts a menu that blends traditional American flavors with contemporary twists, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
- Versatile Dining Spaces: Whether you’re seeking a cozy indoor setting or an open-air patio, the restaurant caters to various dining preferences.
- Central Location: Located on Main Street, it’s easily accessible for both locals and visitors exploring downtown Nantucket.
Getting There
Situated at 38 Main Street, or, The Whale is conveniently located in downtown Nantucket. While street parking is available, it can be limited during peak hours; consider arriving early or using alternative transportation options.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer season. For special occasions or larger groups, it’s advisable to call ahead to ensure availability.
