By Coshandra Dillard
Coshandra writes for Sandcastle Realty, sharing travel tips and the best things to discover on Martha's Vineyard to help guests plan memorable vacations.
While Martha’s Vineyard dining is known for its fresh seafood, the island is also filled with cuisines that’ll satisfy whatever you’re in the mood for. It has a diverse and tantalizing food scene, from the farm-to-table restaurants to its brunch culture. It doesn’t stop there. You get your pick of international cuisines, quick beach fare favorites like burgers and tacos, rich coffee drinks, unusual yet tasty ice cream flavors, and more. You’re sure to find something on the island that will please your palate.
Whether you’d like to celebrate a special occasion with a refined dining experience, grab a bite at a casual spot, or indulge at a brunch place, we’ve got you covered. Check out these top places to eat on Martha’s Vineyard below!
In This Article:
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants
- Casual Dining Favorites
- Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots
- Book Direct to Begin Your Martha’s Vineyard Food Tour
- Frequently Asked Questions
Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants
If it’s been too long since you’ve treated yourself—or your loved one—to an upscale dining experience, these restaurants should be at the top of the list. These are ideal for date nights or just savoring a new, memorable meal.
State Road
State Road is one of the island’s most acclaimed restaurants. With herbs, fruit, and vegetables from State Road’s on-campus farm, Chef Jonathan Warnock crafts from-scratch dishes in a beautifully designed interior with a more rustic look, complete with antiques. Start with the herb milk bread, infused with rosemary, and cured olive butter. Choose entrees like duck confit, swordfish, or lamb with a Dijon pistachio crust. You’ll have a hard time choosing which dessert you’d like to dig into; the lemon orange blossom cake, chocolate terrine, and vanilla gelato made with espresso and shortbread cookie all sound perfect.
- Address: 977 State Rd., West Tisbury
- Phone: 508-693-6633
- Menu
Atlantic Fish and Chop House
Relish in an elevated surf and turf meal from Atlantic Fish and Chop House. Here, you can choose decadent entrees including king crab, wild salmon, filet mignon, USDA prime Angus steaks, bone marrow beef tartare, and a range of vegetables, appetizers, and soups. Splurge on dessert and the extensive wine menu. In addition to savoring delectable food, you’ll feel the warmth and welcoming atmosphere in spacious, multi-level dining areas. Step outside and enjoy your meal while taking in the scenic views of Martha's Vineyard. This restaurant is not only for an upscale meal. Get into the lively scene with a DJ after 10 p.m. during the summer. However, this popular eatery is usually closed for fall and winter and reopens in the spring. The last day of service this year is October 11.
- Address: 2 Main Street, Edgartown
- Phone: 508-627-7001
- Menu
L‘etoile
L‘etoile is a stylish restaurant located in a historic whaling captain’s home, which has been transformed into a modern, vibrant spot for a fine-dining experience. Have your meal in the dining room, the lounge, or, in late June, on the outdoor tented patio. Enjoy dishes like fresh oysters, duck foie gras, crème brulee, and farmstead cheeses. Top it off with cocktails and take in the ambiance. Be mindful of the reservations process, which is completed through Resy only. Plan to arrive early for your reservation, as parking in downtown Edgartown is very limited. In addition, the restaurant accepts parties of eight or fewer and cannot accommodate children under 6. Make sure you give 24 hours' notice for cancellations to avoid a $35-per-person fee.
- Address: 22 North Water Street, Edgartown
- Phone: 508-627-5187
- Menu
Causal Dining Favorites
When you want a quick bite or a relaxed atmosphere, check out these restaurants. But don’t worry, they still cook up deliciousness.
Lookout Tavern
Enjoy waterfront dining at this casual favorite overlooking Nantucket Sound in Oak Bluffs. Lookout Tavern is known for its fresh seafood, award-winning sushi, inventive cocktails, and famed lobster rolls. You can grab a seat on the deck and watch ferries come and go while enjoying your lunch. With its laid-back atmosphere and scenic views, Lookout Tavern remains a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
- Address: 8 Seaview Ave. (across from ferry), Oak Bluffs
- Phone: 508-696-9844
- Menu
Black Dog Tavern
Black Dog Tavern is another iconic dining destination on Martha’s Vineyard. In fact, it is a quintessential Martha’s Vineyard experience to check off your list. This spot has been around since 1971, born out of the desire to provide quality food and service on the island year-round. This casual, family-friendly atmosphere features waterfront dining and offers scallops, clam chowder, and fried calamari, among other seafood favorites. From the land, they cook up lasagna, steak tips, burgers, and steak roulade. They offer new flavors in the fall, and you can also enjoy a game on the big screen on Sundays!
- Address: 20 Beach St. Ext., Vineyard Haven
- Hours: Open daily: breakfast/brunch - 7 am to 3 p.m. | dinner - 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Menu
Larsen's Fish Market
With its waterfront setting, Larsen’s Fish Market is a perfect place to enjoy a midday meal. Eat fresh seafood like lobster, oysters, chowder, or fish right out of the water in this fishing village. It's not a full-service restaurant, so no reservations are needed. You can sit at a picnic table outside of the small building, opt for takeout, or get some seafood to cook at home. The market gives off a distinctly classic New England feel, and it’s a perfect place to watch the famous Menemsha sunset. But act quickly, the last day it's open in the fall season is October 18.
- Address: 56 Basin Rd, Menemsha/Chilmark
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 pm. (seasonally)
- Menu
Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Dining on Martha’s Vineyard, it won’t be hard to find places that provide fun vibes, luscious food, and unique cuisines in a laid-back environment. Black Joy Kitchen, Behind the Bookstore, and Espresso Love fit that bill perfectly, especially for breakfast and brunch.
Black Joy Kitchen
Discover the food inspired by the rich flavors, cultures, and traditions of the Black Diaspora at Black Joy Kitchen. It’s the perfect space for brunch, where you’re warmly welcomed into a laid-back yet vibrant setting. Dig into Gullah red rice from South Carolina, moqueca from Brazil, a waakye bowl from Ghana, or the U.S. South’s collard greens and gumbo dishes. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a history lesson.
- Address: 7 Oakland Ave, Oak Bluffs
- Hours: Wednesday - Friday - 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Sunday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Menu
Behind the Bookstore
As the name implies, this hidden gem is nestled behind a bookstore in Edgartown. Behind the Bookstore offers an all-day breakfast menu featuring delectable dishes such as French toast, breakfast pita, eggs en cocotte, and croque madame. This charming spot is all about good coffee, fresh food, and conversations with friends on a slow, relaxed day. A favorite neighborhood café, it is designed to welcome all who need a slower pace, making it one of the great places to eat on Martha’s Vineyard.
- Address: 46 Main St, Edgartown
- Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Menu
Espresso Love
Espresso Love is a long-time favorite on the island, serving coffee and quick breakfast bites. Try the breakfast burritos and bagels, and pair with a handcrafted latte. Enjoy your light meal in the café’s courtyard and bask in the crisp island air.
- Address: 71 Church St., Edgartown
- Hours: Open daily for breakfast and lunch; hours vary seasonally
- Menu
Book Direct to Begin Your Martha’s Vineyard Food Tour
Featured Property: 1820 Chilmark
With all the food you’re sure to try, you’re going to need a comfortable Sandcastle Realty vacation rental home to unwind in. Whether you’re looking for a patio, fireplace, or kitchen essentials to help you cook the lobsters you picked up at Larsen's Fish Market, we have a home for you. Our luxury homes are a must-try if you’re seeking the finest experience while on the island. If you want a waterfront view, we have rental homes with that as well. Most importantly, when you find the perfect home for your stay, be sure to reserve it right here on our website. Simply complete the form, and our team will handle the rest.
See All Martha's Vineyard Vacation Rental Homes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Martha’s Vineyard restaurants?
It’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially for popular waterfront or fine-dining restaurants. Booking ahead helps you secure your preferred dining time and avoid long waits.
How late do Martha’s Vineyard restaurants stay open?
The hours vary by restaurant and season. While many restaurants stay open until 9 p.m. or later during the summer, some may have shorter hours during the offseason. It's always a good idea to check current hours before your visit.
Are there any “dry” towns on the island?
Yes. West Tisbury and Chilmark have historically maintained restrictions on alcohol sales. However, restaurants in these towns may serve alcohol with meals, and regulations can vary by establishment. Some allow BYOB. Check with the restaurant if you want an alcoholic beverage with your dining experience.