The scenic dinner train is the Cape's entry in the novelty dining experience category. Dress up for a three-hour tour among cranberry bogs and marshes in a restored 1937 dinner coach. From Hyannis, the train crosses the canal and then stops in Bourne while you consume your entrée choice, usually steak, chicken, fish, or pasta. The Elegant Dinner Train was named one of the top three nationwide by the Food Network Dining on the Train. A full bar is available.
Flying Bridge is a particularly appropriate name for this longtime Falmouth favorite because, like the flying bridge on a boat, the dining room offers a wide open view of the harbor and ocean beyond. Falmouth's Inner Harbor is one of the busiest on the Cape, so there's plenty of action to watch from a seat on the outside deck. In addition to its large dining room, there are also several intimate cocktail lounges. Talented local bands rock the house several nights a week during summer months.
When you're on Martha's Vineyard and craving a pint, stop by the Offshore Ale Company for a locally-brewed beer and a bite to eat. The menu features all sorts of pub favorites like seafood, burgers and pizza, including a never-ending supply of peanuts. There's always live music and special events, so check out their schedule for the latest goings-on. Don't forget to toss those peanut shells directly on the floor - it's encouraged!
The readers of the Vineyard Gazette have named the Newes the best bar and pub on the island. The nautical theme brings you back to the 1700s and the charm of seafaring days. The room is dark and the main lighting source is the lanterns and the fireplace. The menu includes typical pub fare: tasty burgers, French fries, chicken wings and other appetizers abound. A friendly staff is willing to help you decide from the long list of microbrews and wine offerings on offer. This place gets quite crowded and children are welcome. Located next to the beautiful Kelley House.
One side of this landmark is an old-fashioned restaurant complete with high-backed booths and red carpeting. The other side features a huge bar and room to mingle. The food is good in either venue. Steak, seafood and chowder are staples in the dining room, while lighter fare is the norm at the bar, where the focus is more on drinking. Cape Cod restaurants come and go, but this popular spot, especially at night, remains a fun place to grab a bite or share a drink with friends.
A visit to Martha's Vineyard is not complete without stopping at the popular Black Dog Tavern, if only so you can say you have been. This simply decorated restaurant has pine floors and old beams, and its wooden tables are packed pretty tightly together. This place is not for the claustrophobic, nor for the diner needing a quick meal, especially in-season when the wait for a table is an hour at the minimum. The main menu items are fresh fish and vegetables, each from local sources. You can bring your own wine or beer.
Every Cape regular has a favorite ice cream shop; since 1976, many people have been converted at the Sundae School. Choose from more than 30 homemade ice cream flavors; frappes, banana splits and frozen yogurt are available, and seasonal toppings (blueberry, cranberry, spiced apple, raspberry) make a standout sundae. There are also locations in Harwich Port and East Orleans.
You can't visit the Cape without indulging in some old-fashioned fish & chips, and one of the better places to enjoy this classic pairing is at Sir Cricket's, in the heart of charming Orleans (mid-Cape). If you've never had New England-style fish & chips, don't miss the traditional "clam roll," fried clams served on a hot dog-like bun. Let the tartar sauce flow as you delight in seafood of all varieties, from oysters to cod to scallops to lobster. And on those cold Northeast days, warm yourself from the inside out with a bowl of their delicious clam chowder. This joint is tiny, so take-out is usually the best way to go, but if you choose to stay, you'll no doubt be charmed by the nautical theme and neighborhood feel.
Set within a vintage countryside cottage, Red Cottage Restaurant adds a touch of old-school charm to modern day dining. This cozy little diner-style restaurant transports you back to the 1950s, with its retro decor and friendly vibes. Best known for its classic breakfast options, this is where you should head to for a simple yet delectable local-style meal. Tease your taste-buds with their signature Chevre & Fresh Chive Scramble, Plantation Breakfast and Chesapeake Bay Breakfast, or opt for one of the unique breakfast sandwiches.
When you're on Martha's Vineyard and craving a pint, stop by the Offshore Ale Company for a locally-brewed beer and a bite to eat. The menu features all sorts of pub favorites like seafood, burgers and pizza, including a never-ending supply of peanuts. There's always live music and special events, so check out their schedule for the latest goings-on. Don't forget to toss those peanut shells directly on the floor - it's encouraged!
Fine French fare in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere is exactly what Blue offers. Enjoy a delicious meal of traditional French staples among which the Escargot, Duck with Risotto, Onion Soup, and Oysters are recommended. Combine their meals with an excellent glass of fine wine from their well-curated wine cellar. The service is always on point and the staff is extremely warm and friendly. This restaurant undoubtedly is one of the best in the city and deserves a visit.