Nantucket will forever be our special place, as I know it is for many people. When I first visited sixteen years ago, I was immediately awe struck by the magic and pure unadulterated beauty of the island. The unforgiving “New Englandness” of it all and its upscale Americanism that truly rain supreme. Our transcendent tour guides, Emily and Jack, were present throughout our brief little trip, and we are forever grateful to them for guiding us in the most perfect directions. We spent a little under three days on the Island but, as always, it was well fueled by fantastic and memorable eats. Here are my Radish Recs: Nantucket
Thai Scramble with black eyed peas and huevos rancheros at Black Eyed Susan's
Vegetable pesto scramble, Portuguese scramble, and buttermilk pancake at Black Eyed Susan's
Black Eyed Susan's- One of my most favorite restaurants ever. I first visited Black Eyed Susan's on my inaugural visit when I was a wee little "veghead", I remember standing on line, grumpy and famished, not understanding the fuss. It was probably the best meal I had ever had (Thanks Mom). Sixteen years later with a slightly more sophisticated palate, Black Eyed Susan's lived up to my fondest recollection. We breakfasted here twice, indulging in their unique and eclectic scrambles- the sure fire standout being the green curry and cilantro laced Thai scramble served with black eyed peas.
Vegetarian sandwich at Something Natural
Lawn dinning at Something Natural
Provisions from Provisions: curry chicken salad, vegetarian sandwich, and vegan tomato soup with walnut pesto
As a forever advocate for "vegging out", I am constantly in pursuit of the best veggie sandwich to revival my go-to #11 at Lenny's. I was thrilled to discover two worthy competitors on the island. Provisions offered a curried chickpea hummus, with roasted carrots, cilantro, avocado, cucumber, tamarind, and lettuce on fresh six grain bread. A worthy contender was had at Something Natural, which dished up hummus, sprouts, cucumber, lettuce, pickled jalapeno, tomato, and avocado on house made whole grain bread. Picnic tables were scattered throughout the lawn and colored Asian lanterns, overgrown grass, and welcoming service, created a lovely homey vibe.
A little Provisions for the flight home
The Lobster Trap
Chatham cod, local corn, quahogs, and pickled pepper perfection at Oran Mor Bistro
Dune is an elegant and modern upscale restaurant located in the heart of town. The focus is on local and sustainable cuisine highlighting the islands farms and fisherman. Summer favorites include the enormous Dune house salad, Rhode Island Crispy Calamari, and Sautéed Norwegian Salmon.
Straight Wharf Restaurant has a bar room and a more formal dinning room with option to sit outside overlooking the water. Straight Wharf features upscale classic New England eats with a creative contemporary spin. Summer favorites include the watermelon gazpacho, tender lettuces, stuffed Italian eggplant, and stone fruit galette with house made chamomile ice cream.
We were generously gifted dinners at The Lobster Trap, which was a quaint wood paneled quintessential spot where we indulged in a bounty of crustacean, and at Oran Mor Bistro. I never wanted to get full at Oran Mor. The inventive and seasonal menu showcased the region’s local seafood, fresh Nantucket grown produce, and sustainability raised meats served in an enchantingly warm setting.
Cisco Brewery
Cisco Brewery was a highlight of the trip. Not only did we discover where all the "young folk" were hiding, we sipped fantastic locally brewed beer, slurped freshly shucked New England oysters, and were blissfully lulled into the evening by live music and happy vibes.
Sunset at Galley Beach
Everyone told us to not miss out on the sunset at Galley Beach, we listened, and it was perfection.
Room with a view at White Elephant
The White Elephant served as our base for the trip. The location and service could not have been better. Complementary bus passes, courtesy car, and shuttle, coffee, champs, and berries were all lovely touches. We spent plenty of leisure time lounging on our balcony taking in the harbor view. The fall chill in the air gave us a good excuse to light the fireplace. If I had to be particular, for the cost of the room, the amenities could have been a little more luxe. The room seemed in need of a make-over, not that it was dirty or weathered, just that the electronics, bathroom, and linens could use a boost. All in all, will I be back at the White Elephant, yes.
Jetties Beach
Sankaty Lighthouse
Old South Wharf
Nantucket, you will forever be magical. I look forward to my return.
xx
The Radish
This post was originally published 9/29/14
