About The Gaslight
Opened in June 2019, The Gaslight is a premier dining and live music venue in downtown Nantucket. Co-owned by Chef Liam Mackey, Mixologist Clinton Terry, and Sommelier Stephen Bowler, the establishment offers a Japanese Izakaya-inspired menu featuring haute street food-style pan-Asian cuisine. The open-concept bar and restaurant provide a lively atmosphere, complemented by live music performances from local and regional artists.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Hamachi Ceviche: Fresh hamachi prepared with a Japanese twist.
- Japanese Short Ribs: Tender short ribs with authentic flavors.
- Cheeseburger Bao Buns: A fusion of classic American and Asian cuisines.
- Beverage Selection: The bar program features innovative, fresh ingredient-forward cocktails with culinary-inspired themes, rotating craft beers on tap, and a wine list focusing on fun, funky, natural selections. Notably, The Gaslight houses Nantucket’s only Champagne vending machine, courtesy of Moët.
- Ambiance: The Gaslight boasts a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, with live music starting around 10:30 PM during the summer. The venue features both indoor and outdoor seating, including a patio area, making it a popular spot for both dining and entertainment.
Why Choose The Gaslight?
- Innovative Cuisine: Experience a unique blend of Japanese Izakaya-inspired dishes crafted with local ingredients.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by talented musicians, enhancing your dining experience.
- Creative Beverages: Savor inventive cocktails and a curated selection of wines and beers.
Getting There
Located at 3 North Union Street, The Gaslight is easily accessible from downtown Nantucket. Street parking is available, though it may be limited during peak hours.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. For a unique experience, visit during the late-night hours to enjoy live music alongside your meal.
About The Nautilus
Established in 2014, The Nautilus is a cornerstone of Nantucket’s dining scene, offering a unique blend of New England coastal cuisine with Asian and global street food influences. Owned and operated by a trio of culinary entrepreneurs—Executive Chef Liam Mackey, Mixologist Clinton Terry, and Sommelier Stephen Bowler—the restaurant emphasizes a shared social dining experience in a lively atmosphere.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Blue Crab Fried Rice: A flavorful dish featuring fresh blue crab and aromatic rice.
- Pork Belly Buns: Steamed buns filled with tender pork belly and complemented by house-made sauces.
- Japanese Hamachi Crudo: Fresh hamachi served with creative accompaniments.
- Beverage Selection: The Nautilus boasts an extensive selection of wines, sakes, and innovative cocktails crafted with seasonal and regional inspirations.
- Ambiance: With less than 50 seats, The Nautilus offers an intimate yet energetic setting, featuring curated music and a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
Why Choose The Nautilus?
- Innovative Cuisine: Experience a fusion of New England and global flavors, crafted with creativity and precision.
- Shared Dining Experience: The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging a communal and interactive meal.
- Expertly Curated Beverages: Enjoy a diverse selection of wines, sakes, and cocktails that perfectly complement the menu.
Getting There
Located at 12 Cambridge Street, The Nautilus is just steps off Main Street in downtown Nantucket, making it easily accessible by foot, bike, or car. Street parking is available but can be limited during peak hours.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant’s limited seating. Bookings can be made online up to seven days in advance, starting at midnight. For a unique experience, consider reserving the Captain’s Table, which accommodates larger parties and offers an extended dining time.
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 167 Raw
Established in 1978 by Bill Sandole, 167 Raw began as East Coast Provisions & Seafood Co., a fresh fish and meat wholesaler. In 1995, the business opened its retail store at 167 Hummock Pond Road, evolving into a beloved seafood market and food truck destination. Known for its commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood, 167 Raw has become a staple for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Nantucket flavors.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Lobster Roll: Freshly prepared lobster meat served in a buttery roll.
- Fish Tacos: Made-to-order tacos featuring the catch of the day.
- Tuna Burger: A flavorful burger crafted from fresh tuna.
- Beverage Selection: The market offers a curated selection of wines and beers to complement their seafood offerings.
- Ambiance: Guests can enjoy their meals in the BYOB garden seating area, providing a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Why Choose 167 Raw?
- Fresh, Local Seafood: Sourced daily to ensure the highest quality.
- Casual Dining Experience: Ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.
- Community Favorite: A go-to spot for authentic Nantucket seafood.
Getting There
Located at 167 Hummock Pond Road, 167 Raw is accessible by car or bike. Parking is available on-site, but spaces can be limited during peak hours.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early during peak seasons to avoid long lines, as 167 Raw is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
About Sushi Sean’s 11:11 Market & Bistro
Established in 2012 by Chef Sean Durnin, Sushi Sean’s 11:11 Market & Bistro has become a beloved destination for Japanese-inspired cuisine on Nantucket. After honing his skills at the Tokyo Sushi Academy in Tsukiji, Tokyo, Chef Sean returned to the island to make professional Japanese cuisine more accessible to the community. In 2024, the restaurant found a permanent home at 130 Pleasant Street, offering a cozy dining experience that blends traditional Japanese techniques with local ingredients.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Slammin’ Salmon Roll: A flavorful combination of fresh salmon and avocado, topped with a special house sauce.
- Bonsai Roll: A creative roll featuring tempura shrimp, cucumber, and spicy mayo, finished with eel sauce.
- Classic Miso Crispy Chicken Ramen: A hearty bowl of miso-based broth with crispy chicken, baby bok choy, and a soft egg.
- Beverage Selection: The bistro offers a selection of sake, Japanese beers, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails to complement the menu.
- Ambiance: The interior reflects a blend of modern and traditional Japanese aesthetics, creating an inviting atmosphere for both casual dining and special occasions.
Why Choose Sushi Sean’s 11:11 Market & Bistro?
- Authentic Japanese Cuisine: Experience dishes prepared with techniques learned from Tokyo’s renowned sushi chefs.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local vendors.
- Community-Centric Approach: Benefit from a dining experience that prioritizes accessibility and community engagement.
Getting There
Located at 130 Pleasant Street, the bistro is easily accessible by car or bike. Street parking is available, but can be limited during peak hours.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season. For a unique experience, try the chef’s omakase menu, which offers a curated selection of the day’s freshest offerings.
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 Misogi Noodle Bar
Opened in April 2024, Misogi Noodle Bar is the latest venture by Chef Felino Samson, former chef-owner of The Beet. The restaurant offers a fusion of Southeast Asian cuisines, drawing inspiration from the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan. The newly renovated dining space emulates a Japanese izakaya, providing a polished yet casual atmosphere. A seven-seat bar serves both innovative and classic cocktails, alongside a curated selection of wines and sakes.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Duck Leg Moo-Shu: Tender duck leg served with traditional accompaniments.
- Vegetable Dumplings: Handcrafted dumplings filled with fresh vegetables.
- Brussels: Flavorful Brussels sprouts prepared with Asian-inspired seasonings.
- Beverage Selection: The bar crafts both new and classic cocktails, including the Misogi Tiki Tiki and the Spicy Margarita. The beverage program also features a sommelier-curated wine list, a variety of sakes, and an assortment of mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Ambiance: The interior design reflects Japanese aesthetics, creating an intimate and inviting setting reminiscent of an izakaya. The addition of a full-service bar enhances the dining experience, offering a space for both dining and socializing.
Why Choose Misogi Noodle Bar?
- Culinary Diversity: Experience a unique blend of Southeast Asian flavors, thoughtfully crafted to reflect Chef Samson’s heritage and culinary travels.
- Innovative Beverage Program: Enjoy a range of beverages designed to complement the diverse menu offerings.
- Central Location: Situated in downtown Nantucket, Misogi Noodle Bar is easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
Getting There
Located at 9 South Water Street, Misogi Noodle Bar is within walking distance of many downtown attractions. While parking can be limited during peak hours, the central location makes it convenient for walking or biking.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season. For a more personalized experience, consider dining at the bar, where you can interact with the bartenders and enjoy the crafted cocktails.
About Millie’s
Located at the edge of Madaket Beach, Millie’s is a quintessential Nantucket dining destination known for its casual atmosphere, fresh coastal cuisine, and unbeatable sunset views. Named after Millie Jewett, a beloved Madaket resident, the restaurant reflects the laid-back charm of the island’s west end. Whether you’re enjoying tacos after a day at the beach or sipping on a signature cocktail while the sun sets, Millie’s captures the spirit of summer on Nantucket.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Westender Tacos: Blackened mahi mahi in corn tortillas with pineapple mango salsa, guacamole, and lime sour cream.
- Hither Creek Tacos: Grilled striped bass with tomato and corn salsa, guacamole, and lime sour cream.
- Steps Beach Quesadilla: Lobster, roasted tomato, grilled zucchini, and Monterey jack cheese in a perfectly grilled tortilla.
- Beverage Selection:
Enjoy Millie’s renowned Madaket Mystery, a refreshing cocktail that pairs perfectly with the beachside setting, along with a curated selection of beers and wines.
- Ambiance:
The open-air dining area, complete with picnic tables and ocean breezes, makes Millie’s the perfect spot to soak in Madaket’s relaxed vibe.
Why Choose Millie’s?
- Unbeatable Location: Enjoy dining just steps from the beach, with stunning views of Nantucket’s famous sunsets.
- Fresh, Flavorful Cuisine: A menu featuring locally inspired tacos, quesadillas, and fresh seafood ensures a delicious dining experience.
- Laid-Back Atmosphere: Millie’s casual, beachy setting is ideal for families, friends, and couples alike.
Getting There
Situated at 326 Madaket Road, Millie’s is easily accessible by car, bike, or the NRTA Madaket shuttle. Parking is available, but arriving early is recommended during peak hours.
Insider Tip:
Arrive in the early evening to secure a table and enjoy a front-row seat to Madaket’s famous sunsets. Pair your meal with a Madaket Mystery and finish with a visit to Millie’s Market for a sweet treat.
About The Charlie Noble
Situated in the heart of Nantucket, The Charlie Noble offers a blend of classic and progressive New England cuisine. Named after the smoke stack of a ship’s galley, the restaurant provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on quality seafood and regional dishes. The establishment features both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy views of the bustling harbor.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Chilled New England Lobster Roll: Fresh lobster meat tossed in lemon aioli and celery, served on a toasted brioche.
- Crab Cake BLT: Pan-seared crab cake with applewood smoked bacon, greens, and lemon aioli.
- Surf and Turf Burger: Double stack of prime beef patties topped with lobster meat, Swiss cheese, lemon aioli, and onion straws.
- Beverage Selection: An extensive list of craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails complements the diverse menu offerings.
- Ambiance: The Charlie Noble boasts a nautical-themed interior, reflecting Nantucket’s maritime heritage, and offers a casual yet refined dining experience suitable for families and groups.
Why Choose The Charlie Noble?
- Harbor Views: Enjoy meals with picturesque views of Nantucket Harbor, enhancing the dining experience.
- Family-Friendly Environment: The welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu cater to guests of all ages.
- Fresh Seafood: A commitment to using fresh, locally sourced seafood ensures high-quality dishes.
Getting There
Located at 15 South Water Street, The Charlie Noble is easily accessible from downtown Nantucket. While parking can be limited during peak seasons, its central location makes it convenient for walking or biking.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season. For a more relaxed experience, consider dining on the patio to enjoy the pleasant Nantucket evenings.
About The Tavern on Nantucket
Situated in the heart of Nantucket, The Tavern offers a quintessential island dining experience. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and harbor views, it serves as a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The establishment is family-friendly, providing a children’s menu, highchairs, and stroller parking. The adjacent Gazebo bar is renowned for its lively ambiance and signature Mudslide cocktails.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- New England Clam Chowder: A creamy blend of clams and potatoes, offering a taste of regional tradition.
- Fresh Salads: Utilizing local produce to create refreshing options for lighter fare.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: A variety of choices catering to diverse palates.
- Beverage Selection: The Gazebo bar is famed for its Mudslide cocktails, a must-try for patrons seeking a sweet and indulgent drink.
- Ambiance: With its open-sided structure, The Gazebo allows guests to enjoy ocean breezes and views of the bustling Nantucket harbor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Why Choose The Tavern on Nantucket?
- Harbor Views: Enjoy meals with picturesque views of Nantucket Harbor, adding to the charm of the dining experience.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Accommodations such as a children’s menu and stroller parking make it convenient for families.
- Seasonal Freshness: The menu features fresh seafood and local ingredients, highlighting the best of Nantucket’s offerings.
Getting There
Located at 4 Harbor Square, The Tavern is easily accessible from downtown Nantucket. While parking can be limited during peak seasons, its central location makes it convenient for walking or biking.
Insider Tip:
The Tavern operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early during peak times can help secure a table without a long wait.
