About Sandbar
Situated directly on Jetties Beach, Sandbar is the epitome of laid-back, beachside dining on Nantucket. This seasonal favorite offers a quintessential island experience with a menu full of fresh, flavorful dishes and breathtaking views of Nantucket Sound. Whether you’re arriving straight from the beach in your sandals or looking for a relaxed evening out, Sandbar’s casual yet vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Lobster Rolls: Packed with fresh lobster meat, served warm with drawn butter or cold with lemon mayo.
- Fish Tacos: Grilled or fried fish topped with fresh slaw, pico de gallo, and a tangy crema.
- Sandbar Smash Burger: A juicy double patty topped with cheese, pickles, and special sauce.
- Refreshing Cocktails:
Enjoy beachy favorites like the Frosé, Painkiller, or a classic Mai Tai, perfect for sipping in the sun.
- Kid-Friendly Options:
The menu includes classics like chicken tenders and fries, making it a family-friendly spot.
Why Choose Sandbar?
- Unbeatable Location: Enjoy your meal with toes in the sand and stunning views of the water.
- Casual Beach Vibes: A laid-back environment perfect for friends, families, or couples.
- Live Music: Catch local musicians and bands throughout the summer season, adding to the fun, lively atmosphere.
Getting There
Located at Jetties Beach, Sandbar is easily accessible by car, bike, or shuttle. Parking is available, but it’s recommended to arrive early during peak hours. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride from downtown Nantucket.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early to secure a prime spot on the patio during sunset—it’s one of the best views on the island. Pair your lobster roll with a refreshing Frosé for the ultimate summer meal.
About Queequeg’s
Nestled on a side street behind the Atheneum, Queequeg’s offers a romantic spot for dinner in a fun bistro setting with an intimate bar scene. The cozy dining room, with its warm color scheme and eclectic artwork, radiates comfort. The patio provides a fun retreat from the hustle and bustle of town. Named after Melville’s character from Moby-Dick, Queequeg’s reflects the spirit of adventure and camaraderie found in the novel.
Dining Highlights
Bouillabaise: A hearty blend of seafood in a flavorful broth.
Dynamite Shrimp: Lightly battered shrimp served with a spicy tangy sauce.
Nantucket Town Roll: Tempura Shrimp, Avocado, and Spicy Tuna along Asian sauces and an aioli
- Beverage Selection:
A full bar featuring a curated selection of wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails.
- Dining Areas:
Guests can choose between the cozy indoor dining room adorned with eclectic artwork or the inviting outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying Nantucket’s pleasant evenings.
Why Choose Queequeg’s?
- Intimate Atmosphere: The warm and cozy setting makes it ideal for romantic dinners or intimate gatherings.
- Eclectic Menu: A diverse menu that blends home-style comfort food with European flavors, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
- Central Location: Situated in the heart of downtown Nantucket, it’s easily accessible for both locals and visitors.
Getting There
Located at 6 Oak Street, Queequeg’s is just a short walk from the center of town. While street parking is available, it can be limited during peak hours; consider arriving early or using alternative transportation.
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 Proprietors Bar & Table
Situated in a historic Nantucket home, The Proprietors Bar & Table offers a dining experience that reflects the island’s rich history and global connections. The restaurant’s name pays homage to Nantucket’s original landowners, known as the Proprietors, who played a pivotal role in the island’s development. The ambiance combines rustic charm with modern touches, creating a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Fried Broccoli: Served with sambal vinaigrette and spicy peanuts, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
- Beef Tartare: Accompanied by black garlic, pickles, and a confit egg yolk, showcasing the restaurant’s innovative approach to classic recipes.
- Roasted Half Chicken: Paired with French lentils, braised farm kale, smoked cipollinis, and preserved lemon chicken jus for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Craft Cocktails and Wine:
The bar features an array of inventive cocktails, such as “The Alchemy,” made with sparkling wine, gin, yuzu, dry curaçao, Cocchi, and lemon. The wine list is curated to complement the diverse menu offerings.
- Seasonal and Local Focus:
Emphasizing the use of Nantucket’s seasonal produce and proteins, the menu evolves to highlight the freshest ingredients available.
Why Choose The Proprietors Bar & Table?
- Culinary Innovation: Experience a menu that creatively interprets global cuisines while honoring local ingredients.
- Historic Setting: Dine in a venue that reflects Nantucket’s storied past, adding depth to your culinary journey.
- Warm Atmosphere: The blend of rustic and modern design elements creates a cozy and inviting dining environment.
Getting There
Located at 9 India Street, The Proprietors Bar & Table is easily accessible from downtown Nantucket. While street parking is available, it can be limited during peak hours; consider arriving early or using alternative transportation.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season. For groups of five or more, it’s advisable to call ahead to ensure availability.
About The Pearl
Located in the heart of Nantucket, The Pearl is an elegant restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience inspired by coastal flavors from around the world. Known for its innovative menu and chic atmosphere, The Pearl is the perfect destination for those seeking a refined meal with impeccable service.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Salt & Pepper Wok-Fried Lobster: A signature dish featuring crispy, wok-fried lobster with lime leaf vinaigrette and jasmine rice.
- Ginger-Glazed Short Ribs: Tender short ribs served with a miso glaze and seasonal vegetables.
- Local Day Boat Halibut: Freshly caught halibut with a saffron broth and heirloom vegetables.
- Craft Cocktails and Wine Pairings:
The Pearl offers an extensive wine list curated to complement the menu, alongside inventive cocktails like the Pearl Martini and the Island Mule.
- Chic Ambiance:
The sleek interior, accented with pearl-toned decor and ambient lighting, provides an upscale and romantic setting.
Why Choose The Pearl?
- Award-Winning Cuisine: Celebrated for its unique coastal dishes and fresh local ingredients.
- Romantic Setting: Perfect for date nights, anniversaries, and special occasions.
- Impeccable Service: Known for its attentive and knowledgeable staff who enhance the dining experience.
Getting There
Situated at 12 Federal Street, The Pearl is conveniently located near downtown Nantucket’s shops and attractions. While parking can be limited, the central location makes it easily accessible by foot or bike.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are essential, especially during the busy summer season. For a special experience, inquire about the chef’s tasting menu or request a table on the patio for an al fresco dinner.
About Oran Mor Bistro
Nestled in a historic Nantucket home, Oran Mor Bistro provides an intimate and upscale dining experience, showcasing the island’s freshest seasonal ingredients. The cozy ambiance, complete with candlelit tables and original artwork, makes it an ideal destination for special occasions or an elegant evening out.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Pan-Seared Scallops: Fresh scallops served with a seasonal vegetable medley and citrus beurre blanc.
- Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: A flavorful and tender lamb dish accompanied by root vegetable purée and a rosemary reduction.
- Handmade Gnocchi: Pillowy gnocchi tossed with local mushrooms, parmesan, and truffle oil.
- Craft Cocktails and Wine:
The bar features a curated selection of wines and artisan cocktails, carefully crafted to pair with the menu’s offerings.
- Seasonal Menus:
With a focus on sustainability, the menu changes regularly to incorporate the freshest ingredients available.
Why Choose Oran Mor Bistro?
- Intimate Atmosphere: The small dining room and cozy decor create a warm and inviting space.
- Culinary Excellence: Known for its artful presentation and use of high-quality, local ingredients.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: A favorite for romantic dinners, anniversaries, and celebratory meals.
Getting There
Located at 2 South Beach Street, Oran Mor Bistro is just a short walk from the center of town. Parking can be limited during peak hours, so plan accordingly or consider alternative transportation.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are highly recommended, particularly during the summer season or holiday weekends. For a more personalized experience, request a table on the second floor, which offers a quieter ambiance.
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.
About Le Languedoc Bistro
Established in 1976, Le Languedoc Bistro has been a cornerstone of Nantucket’s dining scene for nearly five decades. Housed in a charming 1780s tavern, the restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere that reflects its rich history. The cuisine is rooted in classic French techniques, emphasizing simplicity and the pure flavors of the freshest ingredients sourced from Nantucket, New England, and beyond.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Lobster Bisque: A rich and creamy soup garnished with sweet cherry and chives.
- Escargot Scampi: Served with black pepper fettuccini, cured lemons, and ciabatta rusk.
- Sauteed Soft Shell Crab: Accompanied by braised endive, citrus relish, and sauce Provençal.
- Wine Selection:
An extensive list of red and white wines curated to complement the menu’s offerings.
- Dining Areas:
Guests can choose between the bustling downstairs café for a casual meal or the refined upstairs dining room for a more formal experience. During warmer months, the terrace offers a delightful outdoor dining option.
Why Choose Le Languedoc Bistro?
- Historical Charm: Dine in a setting that exudes the character and warmth of an 18th-century tavern.
- Culinary Excellence: Experience dishes that blend traditional French techniques with the freshest local ingredients.
- Versatile Ambiance: Whether seeking a casual meal or a special night out, the varied dining spaces cater to different preferences.
Getting There
Located at 24 Broad Street, Le Languedoc Bistro is situated in the heart of Nantucket. While street parking is available, it can be limited during peak hours; consider arriving early or using alternative transportation.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer season. For patio seating, it’s advisable to call on the day of your visit between 11 AM and 1 PM or after 5 PM, as these reservations are made same-day.
About Crosswinds Restaurant
Located within Nantucket Memorial Airport, Crosswinds Restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere for both travelers and locals. Known for its generous portions and daily specials, it serves as a convenient spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while watching planes take off and land.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- All American Breakfast: Two eggs any style with choice of meat and toast
- Fish and Chips: Beer-battered Atlantic cod served with fries and coleslaw
- Meat Lovers’ Omelet: Filled with linguica, ham, bacon, sausage, corned beef hash, and provolone cheese
- Daily Specials: Each day features a unique special, such as BBQ Ribs on Thursdays and Fish & Chips on Fridays.
- Full Bar: Offers a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails to complement your meal.
Why Choose Crosswinds Restaurant?
- Convenient Location: Ideal for travelers and locals, situated within the airport premises.
- Family-Friendly: Offers a kids’ menu and a casual dining environment suitable for all ages.
- Takeout Options: Entire menu available for takeaway, perfect for those on the go.
Getting There
Crosswinds Restaurant is located inside Nantucket Memorial Airport, accessible before the security checkpoint. Ample free parking is available right outside the restaurant, making it convenient for both diners and travelers.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early for breakfast to enjoy a hearty meal before your flight, or stop by on Wing Night for a popular local experience.
About Kitty Murtagh’s
Established in 2000, Kitty Murtagh’s brings a slice of Ireland to Nantucket. Named after co-owner John Keane’s grandmother, the pub offers a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of traditional Irish establishments. With ample wrap-around seating, pool tables, dartboards, and multiple televisions, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy hearty fare.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Guinness Battered Fish & Chips: Local cod served with coleslaw, lemon, and tartar sauce.
- Shepherd’s Pie: Tender beef with peas, carrots, gravy, and mashed potato.
- Bangers & Mash: Irish sausage paired with mashed potato and beans.
- Beverage Selection:
A full bar featuring Irish red ale, Irish whiskeys, draft beers, and wines.
- Entertainment:
Live music every Tuesday and Friday night enhances the authentic pub experience.
Why Choose Kitty Murtagh’s?
- Authentic Irish Experience: Enjoy traditional Irish dishes and drinks in a setting that captures the essence of Ireland.
- Family-Friendly Environment: A welcoming space suitable for gatherings of all sizes, with a menu that caters to both adults and children.
- Entertainment Hub: With live music and games like pool and darts, it’s a lively spot for both locals and visitors.
Getting There
Located at 4 West Creek Road, Kitty Murtagh’s is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. It’s a short drive from downtown Nantucket, making it a convenient dining option for both locals and visitors.
Insider Tip:
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. Stop by on a Tuesday or Friday to enjoy live music and the full pub experience.
About Island Kitchen
Established in 2012, Island Kitchen offers a fresh and healthy dining experience on Nantucket Island. Under the guidance of founder and owner Chef Patrick Ridge, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, focusing on seasonal ingredients and unpretentious dishes. The ambiance is casual and family-friendly, making it a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors.
Dining Highlights
- Signature Dishes:
- Lobster Roll: Fresh lobster meat served on a toasted bun.
- Island Kitchen Burger: A classic burger with customizable toppings.
- Fish Tacos: Grilled fish with fresh salsa and lime crema.
- House-Made Ice Cream: A variety of flavors made in-house, perfect for a sweet treat.
- Juice Bar: Freshly squeezed juices and smoothies made to order.
Why Choose Island Kitchen?
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce from local farms.
- Family-Friendly Environment: Casual setting suitable for all ages.
- Year-Round Service: Open throughout the year, providing consistent quality and service.
Getting There
Located at 1 Chin’s Way, Island Kitchen is easily accessible by car or bike. The restaurant offers a private parking lot for guests, a rarity on the island.
Insider Tip:
Island Kitchen is known for its popular brunch menu. Arriving early is recommended to avoid waiting during peak hours.
