Cru
One of my favorite lobster rolls on the island comes from this exquisitely decorated oyster bar on Straight Wharf. Make reservations well in advance or be prepared to wait with a glass (or two) of rosé on their outdoor patio or at the bar in the front room. It’s definitely a splurge for lunch or dinner, but the chic nautical interior and waterfront views are worth every penny whether it’s your first trip or your tenth.
Galley Beach
If you can look past the overpriced cocktails and hit-or-miss service in favor of one of the island’s best sunsets, Galley Beach is a short drive from downtown and a great option for pre-dinner cocktails with your toes in the sand. Make dinner reservations in advance or scope out a firepit a couple hours before sunset. And be sure to call ahead on weekends to make sure it’s not closed for a wedding or rehearsal dinner.
Lola 41
This buzzy sushi restaurant only takes same-day reservations, so call right at 4 p.m. or pay them a visit in person to secure a table or a spot at the sushi bar. It’s decidedly trendy by Nantucket standards, but the sushi is out of this world.
Millie’s
If you’re looking for casual Baja fare like fish tacos and lobster quesadillas, Millie’s is the best place. Make it a beach day in Madaket with snacks from Millie’s Market or kid-friendly fare from the takeout window, or take an Uber out in time to enjoy the killer sunset with an infamous Madaket Mystery in hand. You may wait a while for a table if you arrive at a peak time, but Madaket Beach is a quick stroll down the road while you wait for your table. I may be biased as my cousins and siblings worked here for many summers, but it’s the perfect spot for simple, good food when you’re ready for a break from fancier dining options in the downtown area. They also have a food truck parked at Cisco Brewers!
Nautilus
A delicious dinner-only spot in town that takes same-day reservations. Start with an ACK Nauti cocktail at the bar then sit down for small plates like oyster tacos and tuna poké or a shareable dish of their famous crab fried rice.
Proprietors
An eclectic spot in town that’s one of my favorite spots for a dinner with girlfriends. Order a bottle of rosé and a variety of shareable plates – and don’t leave without trying the fried broccoli!
The Summer House
Go for lunch downstairs at the Beachside Bistro (where we had our wedding reception!) or make dinner reservations at the main restaurant up top and stay for cocktails in the piano bar (where we had our after party!).
Topper’s at the Wauwinet
If you’re looking for a special occasion meal outside of town, head to Topper’s at the Wauwinet for fine dining and cocktails on the lawn overlooking the water and an incredible sunset. If you book in advance, you can also reserve a complimentary spot on their boat the Wauwinet Lady for a 50 minute sail to the restaurant that leaves from their sister property the White Elephant in town.
Ventuno
Hands down the best Italian food on the island and lovely service to boot. Enjoy a cocktail in the “back bar” (outdoor patio) or the wine bar upstairs. We love the ricotta and honey crostini to start, and you can’t go wrong with any of the pastas.