One of the things I like to do when planning a trip anywhere is research the local restaurants. I feel like cuisine is a great way to learn more about the different places you’re visiting and the cultures that influenced the food. Not to mention, who doesn’t enjoy a delicious meal? I know I do!
As much as I was excited to visit Nantucket for its sheer beauty, I also heard great things about the delicious and fresh food here. For such a small island, you would be surprised at how many restaurants there are. And to be honest, if you look up “best places to eat in Nantucket” on the internet it is rare to find a place that had a bad rating.
One thing about Nantucket though is that many of the restaurants are extremely pricey. Also, some of the most popular restaurants are scattered around the island. I put this Nantucket food guide together to help you plan out your restaurant selections based on budget, location, and type of food.
Casual Dining
Millie's
Millie’s is a popular restaurant in the village of Madaket. Many people like coming here because of the relaxed atmosphere and moderate prices (for Nantucket).
Their food is just as fresh and delicious as some of the higher-end restaurants, making it worth the trip to Madaket.
The best part of Millie’s is the spectacular view of the sunset from the beach. You can also get great views from the upstairs dining room.
Address: 326 Madaket Rd formerly Westender, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $ – $$
Cisco Brewey
I’ve talked a lot about Cisco in my other posts, because this place is amazing. This Brewery/Winery serves many local beers and is popular all year long.
The overall atmosphere is very casual and there are many picnic areas and outdoor seating for guests. The best part is the Brewery works with other restaurants from the island that supply food trucks. You can get the best lobster rolls from the Lobster Trap here instead of dining at their restaurant.
There is however a $10 cash cover to get in. It is worth it for the fun atmosphere, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment.
Address: 5 Bartlett Farm Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$
Sandbar
Sandbar is a more casual restaurant as it is a beach bar on Jettie’s Beach. Since it is located on one of the busiest beaches on the island it is usually packed.
They do not have a large menu but are a convenient option if you want a quick and inexpensive meal while relaxing on the beach. The restaurant also has a surf shop where you can purchase beach rentals and other items.
Address: 4 Bathing Beach Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$
High-End Dining
Cru
Cru is another popular high-end seafood restaurant. It too is located in the downtown area with beautiful views of the harbor. The restaurant is advertised as an oyster bar, but they also have other great seafood dishes.
Many of their dishes incorporate Mediterranean elements to, which is probably why I love this place so much. If you are an oyster fan, I would recommend coming here!
Address: 1 Straight Wharf, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$$$
Straight Warf
Straight Wharf is one of the most popular restaurants in Nantucket, as well as one fo the pricer options. It is located in the downtown area and is known for some of the freshest local seafood. On average, expect to spend a minimum of $100 per person at any of these restaurants.
Address: 6 Harbor Sq, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$$$
Galley Beach
Galley Beach is another of my favorite dinner restaurants. Of course the food is delicious, but the atmosphere is what I loved most about it. The restaurant is located on the beach and has been around since the 1920s.
The restaurant is open for lunch as well and is a great place to hang out and have a couple drinks if you want to skip the dinner. Most people make reservations just so they can dine here during sunset.
Address: 54 Jefferson Ave Nantucket Town, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$$$
The Nautilus
The Nautilus is a wonderful seafood restaurant with an Asian twist. The majority of the menu is tapas-style for parties to enjoy. The overall atmosphere is very lively and very unique. They also have some outdoor seating on the street. At night the alley is lit up with lights, making for a romantic setting.
Address: 54 Jefferson Ave Nantucket Town, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$-$$$
The Chanticleer
For a wonderful French dining experience surrounded by charming gardens, stop by The Chanticleer during your visit to ‘Sconset. This beautiful restaurant has been in business since the early 1900s when it was first used as a teahouse.
The Chanticleer was one of our favorite places to eat in Nantucket. The service was impeccable and we were lucky enough to get a table out in the garden. We will definitely be going back here next time we visit the island.
Address: 54 Jefferson Ave Nantucket Town, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$$$
Breakfast and Brunch
Island Kitchen
Island Kitchen is a great breakfast restaurant mid-island. They also have a small counter on Main Street in the downtown area where you can get samples from their menu if you want a quick bite on the go.
Address: 1 Chins Way, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$-$$$
Black-Eyed Susan's
If you are staying in the downtown area, you must stop here for breakfast. The place is very small and also extremely popular so make sure you get there right when t opens, or wait until the breakfast rush is over.
We went there on our last day in Nantucket around noon and were able to get a table right away. Just a heads up, they don’t make reservations or take credit cards.
Address: 10 India St, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $$
Sweet Treats
Juice Bar
If you have done any research into Nantucket, this place will definitely have come across your radar. Despite the name, The Juice Bar is actually an ice cream shop.
They do also serve refreshing smoothies and drinks, but their ice cream is what brings crowds to their doors each day. Be prepared to stand in line no matter when you go, but it is worth the wait.
Their ice cream is homemade and comes in some very unique flavors. Best of all is their fresh waffle cones which are made to order.
Address: 12 Broad St, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $
Downyflake
Downyflake is a breakfast and lunch restaurant in the downtown area that has an extensive menu. They are however mostly known for their donuts.
The donut shop has been serving the Nantucket community for over 85 years, and is constantly introducing new flavors. Check out their facebook page to see which flavors they are currently serving.
Address: 18 Sparks Ave, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $
Jack and Charlie's
Although not as well known as Juice Bar, Jack & Charlie’s has some delicious ice cream and refreshing iced coffee drinks. The ice cream shop is in the downtown area. You can choose from a large assortment of ice cream and gelato flavors, and even add toppings. Best of all, they offer doggie cones for your furry companion!
Address: 18 Sparks Ave, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $
Sandwich Shops
Something Natural
Something Natural is about a 10-minute walk from downtown. This was one of our favorite places to eat. It is a wonderful sandwich shop with everything made fresh in-house.
Many people love coming here because they have a fast menu that meets everyone’s dietary needs.
You can order from the counter or through a self-order kiosk making it easy to pack a beach lunch. Besides sandwiches, the sandwich shop also has a great soup and dessert selection.
Address: 50 Cliff Rd, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $
Provisions
This is another fabulous sandwich shop right near the ferry docks downtown. Their sandwiches are delicious and they also have a great coffee and pastry selection. Since we had plans to visit ‘Sconset that day, we liked being able to grab food to-go for a quick bite.
Address: 3 Harbor Sq, Nantucket, MA 02554
Price: $
Claudette's
Claudette’s is a sandwich shop that is in ‘Sconset. They have some great sandwich and breakfast options that you can bring to the beach with you. We both had their turkey sandwich with “the works”, which is their most popular item on the menu. They also have a selection of breakfast sandwiches available until 11 am every day.
Address: 10 Main Street, Siasconset, Nantucket, MA 02564
Price: $
ConclusION
One of the best thing about Nantucket is the food. If you love seafood, this is definitely the place for you. There are so many other delicious options here and surprisingly some great budget places to eat as well. Have another Nantucket restaurant recommendation? I’d love to hear about it!
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