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Destination Guides
Dining And Drinking
Perhaps you thought that Nantucket, being an island off the coast of New England, could offer the hungry traveler nothing more exciting than clam chowder or broiled seafood. You are to be pleasantly surprised. If, on the other hand, you have come expecting the island to live up to it is gourmet reputation, you will not be disappointed. Nantucket has managed to attract and retain world-class culinary talent. The options are impressive: from fabulous French fare to a comforting cup of clam chowder, from the freshest, raw Sushi to the perfectly grilled steak. Nantucket is far from the troubles of your daily life on the mainland, but certainly not so far off that the world’s finest provisions can't be brought in.
Nantucket Town
Not to be missed, according to Island residents, is 21 Federal. Housed within the gracious walls of a former private residence (as are many restaurants on the island) the food works hard to match to quiet elegance of the room. Menu items read like a gourmand's idea of heaven: sautéed halibut with crepes, lobster and red wine risotto, followed by chocolate lava cake with caramel sauce anyone? To give you a sense of how seriously the foodies here take their feasts, visit L'Ile de France French General Store on Federal Street, a gourmet market where you can find unique, imported French products.
There's no shortage of eateries that cater to those with a discerning palate but who would also rather not wear a jacket. Black Eyed Susan's on India Street welcomes you as you are (as long as that does not mean gym shorts or bikinis) and presents luscious offerings with an international flair. Other more casual favorites are the Centre Street Bistro, Sushi By Yoshi, and Arno's at 41 Main Street - all right in Town.
Though most dining establishments are right downtown, visitors don't even have to leave the harbor to enjoy a variety of dining options. Most of these restaurants offer indoor as well as outdoor seating and the outdoor option comes with the added benefit of prime people watching. Directly on the harbor is Cap'n Tobey's Chowder House, giving those who seek a waterfront view a full range (formal to casual, American to International) to choose from.
Beyond Town and the Harbor there's always your cottage or beach. A wonderful variety of food purveyors offer gourmet goods to go. Try the full-blown clam bakes from the Lobster Trap - either delivered to your door or available for take away.
Nantucket is hardly known as a wild, party-to-the-wee hours kind of destination. In fact, most establishments close by midnight; however, those who'd like to enjoy a few drinks with friends have plenty of options. In Nantucket Town, Brotherhood of Thieves, Tap Room, and the Rose and Crown all qualify as friendly watering holes, and many of them feature live music (again, think more along the terms of a folk guitarist and banish the idea of an all-night disco or rock bands).
Siasconset
The Chanticleer is perhaps the best-known fine dining option on the Island. Year after year, this French restaurant receives the highest awards and praise, with the wine list alone garnering its own attention and awards. This should be expected as the wine cellar holds 40,000 bottles and the wine list boasts a selection of no less than 1200 French and Californian wines.
So not to worry—defying geography, Nantucket manages to please even the most discerning gourmets.
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Dining And Drinking
