The Best Places to Eat on Nantucket
Let me preface this by saying, there are SO many wonderful restaurants on Nantucket. This will be a list of the best sit-down restaurants, in my opinion. I’ll make a separate post for my favorite coffee shops and cafes. If you’re visiting, make sure to check whether or not these restaurants are open as some are only seasonal:
The Galley– The ultimate Nantucket summer spot. Dinner at The Galley, on the sand, at sunset is truly an experience. It’s located on the calm waters of the harbor, partially indoors, and partially outdoors. It’s more upscale so if you’re looking for a beach spot for kids, check out Jettie’s or Millie’s, below. The Galley has a great, “New American” menu including some of my favorite crab cakes and craft cocktails. And if you’re an Elin Hilderbrand fan, take note that The Blue Bistro was written with The Galley in mind.
The Chanticleer– The most charming restaurant on island, in the quaint town of Sconset. The Chanticleer offers contemporary American fare in a picturesque garden, as well as a cozy indoor space. When the Chanticleer garden is in full bloom, it’s truly magical. Make sure to stroll down the bluff walk, to Sankaty Head, before or after enjoying a meal at The Chanticleer.
Cru– Cru is the hot spot during the summer. It’s right on the water by the ferry docks, and offers classic New England fare including my favorite lobster roll on island, and an impressive raw bar. I’m not one for a “scene” but I still love Cru. The wait staff is enthusiastic, the menu is fantastic, and you can’t beat the views.
Proprietorβs Bar– Located on India Street, Proprietor’s has a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with an incredibly unique, seasonally changing menu. Their food is locally sourced and globally inspired, and I’ve had some of my favorite dishes on the island there.
The Pearl– Delicious, Asian-inspired seafood in a beautifully redone space on Federal Street. They have great craft cocktails and a beautiful little bar area. Don’t miss the wok-fried lobster and crab rangoons.
Topper’s– Located at the only Relais & Chateaux property on island, The Wauwinet, Topper’s is an elegant spot that offers upscale East Coast and American faire. During the summer, you can take the boat across the harbor from its sister hotel, The White Elephant, which is such a fun way to arrive. But however you get there, make sure to stay for sunset. Sunset on the lawn is spectacular and one of the things I try to squeeze in on every trip.
Bar Yoshi– Excellent sushi on Old South Wharf. Need I say more?
Straight Wharf Fish– A great, casual spot for local, freshly caught seafood. Sit on the deck if you can for extra ambiance looking over the water.
The Nautilus– If you can get a reservation here, take it. It’s one of the hardest spots to get into and is known for its seafood small plates and shared dishes. Get the blue crab fried rice to share, and the tempura oyster tacos.
Ventuno– A delicious Italian spot with all of the classics and freshly made pasta. Ventuno is a great date night spot for its elegant ambiance and it has something for everyone.
Millieβs– Millie’s is a beloved, seasonal, summer spot located out in Madaket and is the perfect place for a casual meal. Thankfully, they recently opened a smaller spot at the mid-island rotary so you can enjoy Millie’s famous Mexican-meets-New-England-fare, year round. The original location has picnic tables out front which are great for families with young kids to run around, and a large, 2-story indoor space that looks over the ocean. Millie’s is great for a crowd, and the perfect spot for a post-beach, casual dinner. Check out Millie’s market for ice cream and merch during the summer, too.
The Summerhouse– Located on a bluff, overlooking the ocean in Sconset, The Summerhouse is a classic, Nantucket landmark. It offers elegant, candle-lit dinner, live piano, and delicious American fare.
The Brotherhood of Thieves– The Brotherhood is a long-time, beloved, town favorite. It offers an expansive, hearty menu for the whole family, as well as craft beers and cocktails. I recommend the spicy rigatoni.
Blackeyed Susanβs– The ultimate, old-school Nantucket spot for pancakes and eggs, and all the breakfast favorites. Be ready for a wait though, especially if you’re a larger party in the summer. They do not take reservations. Blackeyed Susan’s now offers dinner too, which I’ve heard is great. I recommend the pancakes for breakfast.
The Club Car– The Club Car itself is a restored 19th-century train car at the beginning of Main Street and has been around since the ’70s. Go there for live piano, dancing, drinks, and a good time. It can get pretty packed, but if you don’t mind, it’s another Nantucket staple that people lovee.
Sea Grille– A favorite among locals, Sea Grille is open year-round and located mid-island. They specialize in locally caught, fresh seafood, so you can get your New England favorites and other unique seafood dishes.
Or, the Whale– In a prime location on Main Street, Or, the Whale is a great spot to pop into for lunch or dinner. They serve global fare and the interior and patio have a chic vibe. I ate at the table that looks out to Main Street one year over Stroll, and it was so much fun to people watch in their festive Stroll attire.
Lola 41– Another Nantucket hot spot, Lola 41 offers great sushi and gourmet burgers. Definitely make a reservation!
Brant Point Grille– The Brant Point Grille is located inside the White Elephant hotel. The hotel and restaurant were recently re-done, and are absolutely beautiful. The patio looks out onto the harbor so it’s a perfect spot for a scenic brunch or lunch, but they also have wonderful dinner menu. My favorite is the lobster mac and cheese.
Sister Ship– Located inside the Faraway hotel, Sister Ship is a chic, smaller restaurant that serves Mediterranean fare and craft cocktails. Their patio is a great spot to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail.
Breeze– Breeze is inside The Nantucket Hotel and offers a cozy bar atmosphere with space for dining on the patio, too. I happen to love their lobster roll.
Sandbar at Jettie’s– This beachfront spot on the harbor is perfect for kids and adults alike who are looking for a laid back, barefoot, picnic-table-vibe to grab a dozen oysters and a frozen drink. It’s only open seasonally but if you’re on Nantucket during the summer, definitely check it out.
Lemon Press– I have mixed feelings about Lemon Press. Their food is great, but it has a very LA/NYC vibe with its cold pressed juices, smoothie and poke bowls, and artisanal coffee creations. And being from LA, when I’m on Nantucket, I prefer to have classic New England fare. But I will say, this is my kids’ favorite restaurant and you can’t beat the location. So I do frequent and enjoy it π
Le Languedoc– Le Languedoc is a French bistro located in a 1700s tavern with an elegant but casual vibe. It’s a great spot for birthdays or special occasions. I’ve heard their burger is excellent, but can’t say for certain as I’m a pescatarian.
Did I miss any of your favorites? Leave a comment below or send me a message! I’m always up for trying all the spots on Nantucket.
