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Monday, September 28th, 2009
Living two blocks from Main Street in Vineyard Haven is incredibly handy. I’m able to walk to the library, the grocery store, the pharmacist and my new favorite place for paninis. Beetlebung Coffeehouse on State Road is a perfect destination for a latte or pressed sandwich. I’ve now gone two weekends in a row and can’t say enough about their panini’s. A nice variety of toppings and bread. My favorite is the hog island which has ham, Swiss cheese, tomato and honey mustard dressing. Ridiculously good. Made fresh to order and they give you a bag of chips to round out the experience. What more could a girl ask for?
The coffee house itself is very comfy and warm with hardwood floors and lots of space to sit and work on your laptop or people watch. Lots of characters pass by the window and I enjoy watching them as I wait for my sandwich. There is a cool soundtrack playing in the background that will make you feel like a hipster at any age.
Their baristas are well trained and can make pretty much any combination or caffeine level you find yourself needing. Daily specials for drinks and food keep me curious to check in on them frequently. Personal size Pizzas are served after 4 pm and the toppings and combos are incredible in their variety.
It’s nice to have a place to run in and grab a hot lunch or an afternoon pick me up of coffee or tea. And don’t forget to check out their dry goods store on Main Street after lunch. You can pick up t-shirts and souvenirs to prove you were there. Beetlebung Coffee House has a won a place on my walking tour of Vineyard Haven.
Tags: beetlebung coffee house martha's vineyard, coffee house martha's vineyard, coffee martha's vineyard, lunch martha's vineyard, vineyard haven martha's vineyard
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Thursday, August 27th, 2009
On Monday, I got a call from a friend asking if I’d like to try Faith’s Seafood Shack and Sushi Bar. Of course I said yes and off we went to try the newest dining experience in Aquinnah. Located by the Aquinnah Circle in the shadow of Gay Head Light House, it’s the perfect location to grab refreshments after viewing the cliffs and surrounding beaches.
We went right before sunset and set up camp outside of Faith’s at the convenient picnic tables she has for her diners. I had been eyeing her menu online for a few days as well as her live streaming web cams which capture the hustle and bustle of the light house and Philbin beach. From the menus I decided I needed to try the angus beef chili and some tuna/avocado sushi. A strange combination I know but they really do go together.
The sushi specials change nightly and we were lucky enough to order the Spider. Containing soft shell crab, avocado, tuna and goodness with a special sauce that needs to be bottled and sold. Our order also included clam chowder and a shrimp tempura roll. While waiting for our food, we claimed a table and opened wine just in time for the sunset show to begin. The sunsets up island continue to amaze me. Every time I see one, it makes me so grateful that this island is my home.
Our food was brought out to us by a very friendly woman who obliged our requests for extra napkins, soy sauce and chop sticks. We were a very needy bunch. The chili was perfect, just the way I like it, not a lot of beans, lots of meat. The Angus Beef really gave it a rich flavor and the shredded cheddar cheese on top was the icing on the cake, or the cheese on the chili…
The sushi was unbelievable! I truly think it might have been some of the freshest fish I’ve ever had. And it complimented my chili perfectly. Everyone at the table enjoyed the sushi and chowder, I meant to share my chili but I again got caught up in deliciousness and neglected to share. Writing this blog has made me quite selfish.
Faith’s Seafood Shack and Sushi Bar is a perfect place to bring the family for healthy and delicious meals. It’s also an excellent date night spot, especially around sunset. And don’t forget to watch the webcams! While doing research for this blog, I happened to be on the web cam the same time President Obama and his family happened to be touring the Gay Head Lighthouse. Thanks for the live feed Faith! No pun intended!
Tags: Aquinnah Martha's Vineyard, Faith's Seafood Shack and Sushi Bar, Gay Head Lighthouse, Martha's Vineyard Web Cams, sushi martha's vineyard, Up Island dining
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Tuesday, August 18th, 2009
I’ve become quite fond of up island this summer; I am fond of getting away from the crowds and enjoying a more peaceful beach experience. One of my new favorite activities is to visit the Galley in Menemsha. I admit in past summers it hadn’t been on my radar as I was normally down island making the rounds at my favorite summer restaurants.
This summer however, I find myself spending more and more time up island. Lying on the beach at Menemsha where sail boats float by and lobstermen check their pots and the sound of the waves overpowers the sound of people, babies and teenagers. It’s heaven actually.
And what better way to enjoy the Heaven of Menemsha than by eating. The Galley has become my go to spot. Two take out windows take care of anything you would need to order, there is the soft serve window and the food window, a perfect example of summer efficiency.
 View of Menemsha Harbor The meat loaf dinner is delectable and a bargain that includes French fries and cole slaw. The Galley specializes in beach food with grilled chicken sandwiches, lobster rolls, hamburgers and hot dogs, ribs and pretty much anything that you would want after a day on the sand. Root beer floats, hot fudge sundaes and ice-cream cones finish what you started at the first take out window. The staff is friendly and patient while advising indecisive patrons with a smile.
The best kept secret of the Galley is the sitting porch behind the building. Two picnic tables hold the larger parties but I prefer the bench that borders the porch and overlooks the inner workings of Menemsha harbor. Beautifully stained and lacquered wood makes up the counter above the benches and the view is a post card in every direction.
The food is simple and delicious and the best bargain you will find on island. It’s become a weekly tradition for me and where I make the hardest decision of the week, meatloaf or chicken?
Tags: Beach Martha's Vineyard, dining on martha's vineyard, Island Living, Island of Martha's Vineyard, local food, Martha's Vineyard Life, Menemsha Martha's Vineyard, MVOL Foodie, mvol.com, The Galley Martha's Vineyard, Up Island Martha's Vineyard
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Tuesday, August 11th, 2009
One of my favorite summer routines on the Vineyard is visiting the Farmers Market in West Tisbury on Saturday mornings. I try to get there early to have my pick of the fresh produce and baked goods. Fresh flowers, bread, herbs, vegetables and a host of island made products greet you as you walk into the market.
There are many famous venders who return year after year to serve islanders and visitors with their unique contributions. There is the egg roll lady who always has a smile and a line in front of her cart, the Katama honey guy who sells sweetness all morning, the wheat grass man who makes healthy shots to keep you going through the day and a whole cast of players who make coming back each week a reunion of sorts.
Last weekend I was able to take advantage of almost everything the Farmers Market had to offer. I was attempting to make my very first roasted chicken, a dish that I’d been told was so easy that it barely counted as cooking. While this should have been reassuring it instead instilled a deep panic in me, what if I couldn’t do it? What if I couldn’t make the easiest dish in the world? Would the Cooking police come to my house and remove my stove and spice rack?
My day at the market wasn’t quite as relaxed as it normally was, as I was on a mission. I got some beautiful Zucchini and Summer Squash from The FARM Institute booth and lots of lovely fresh herbs from a very helpful and informative woman who sold me rosemary, basil, baby red potatoes and confidence. To hedge all my bets I also bought some home made biscuits for strawberry shortcake, figuring that while a chicken may fail me, dessert never will.
And the outcome? A roasted chicken is in fact the easiest dish in the world to make as well as one of the most delicious. If you heard a woman yelling “I did it’ at the top of her lungs Sunday night, do not be alarmed it was just me fulfilling a dream.
Tags: farmers, Farmers Market Martha's Vineyard, Fresh produce Martha's Vineyard, The FARM Institute, West Tisbury Farmers Market
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Tuesday, August 4th, 2009
It’s official, the Obamas are coming! They have decided to vacation on Martha’s Vineyard and I couldn’t be more excited. I was thinking of ways that I could be of help to the President and first family and it occurred to me that the best way to serve my country would be to offer my advice on where they should eat during their time here.
The most important meal of the day is breakfast and with all the activities that will be happening , the first family should fill up in the morning for energy throughout the day. I highly recommend Waterside Market on Main Street in Vineyard Haven. The portions are huge and they have everything from banana pancakes to wheat wraps to fruit salad. Fresh coffee or espresso, bottled juices and water and you have fed the foundation of your day.
For lunch, I’m thinking a picnic would be nice. Perhaps on the beach or gardenside at the farm. Fella’s Takeout in West Tisbury makes truly fabulous sandwiches. My favorite is the roasted turkey sandwich in a wheat wrap, it comes with bacon, avocado, romaine, tomato and chipotle mayo. Michelle Obama will have many delicious and healthy options here for the whole first family. Call ahead as the lunch hour can be crowded with sandwich seekers.
Since the Obamas are on vacation and probably are going to be off their regular dining routine, let’s throw in an afternoon snack for the girls. Off to Edgartown to watch the boats in the harbor and do some shopping, why not stop at Mac Phails’s Corner Café for one of their fresh baked brownies or cookies. The treats are huge and can be shared if Michelle and the President don’t want Sasha and Malia to ruin their appetites for dinner.
Speaking of dinner, where should the first family eat the last meal of the day? I think Jimmy Seas is the way to go. Chef owned and operated Jimmy Seas Pan Pasta Restaurant has been an Oak Bluffs favorite for seventeen years and counting. Pasta dishes cooked al dente to order and are served fresh in the same pan. A reservation is a must for the first family and anyone else wanting to eat at Jimmy Seas, crowded is an understatement but well worth it.
And for Desert? A drive up island to watch the sunset and get some soft serve at the Galley in Menemsha. I think we’ve covered some delicious option for not only the Obamas but for anyone visiting Martha’s Vineyard. However, if President Obama and the first family need any more suggestions for where to eat or should they need someone to guide them through the menus of the island, please let them know that I am here and waiting to serve.
Click here for more details about the Obama’s Vacation on Martha’s Vineyard
- President Obama visits Martha’s Vineyard
Tags: eating on martha's vineyard, Fella's Takeout Martha's Vineyard, first family martha's vineyard, Jimmy Seas, Mac Phail's Corner Cafe, Martha's Vineyard, michelle obama martha's vineyard, Obama Martha's Vineyard, obama vacation martha's vineyard, sasha and malia obama martha's vineyard, The Galley Menemsha
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Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
I have a new PLACE . Not a new restaurant to recommend but an old friend with a new trick. I don’t even know what they call it but trust me, I have made it definitely my new PLACE.
You may have heard the rumors: ‘Someone has a wagon and they are open late!’ and ‘Did you hear what is going on at the Art Cliff?’ ‘You know where we went when we couldn’t get a table anywhere after Chuchito last Thursday?’ and ‘Have you heard?…’
Oh yes! I have heard and I am here to testify! The Art Cliff has a wagon - a pristine new kitchen on wheels that is SO MUCH better than my kitchen at home and the food they create is SO MUCH better than home, too!
The hours - Thursday thru Sunday nights 5PM-to-2:00-ish.
YOU. MUST. GO.
So, here’s the story: I heard the rumors and knowing the food at the Art Cliff, it was imperative I check it out. Late Sunday night was my opportunity. I had friends coming in on the last boat - 10:30 on a Sunday night - where can you find food?
The parking lot was lit with twinkle lights and happy music playing from the shiny new waon, people milling around catching up and even dancing in the gravel while they waited their turn.
The menu is written on the chalkboards: Lambburger, Cheeseburger, Spicy Pork Taco and couple other choices but since I don’t really see past meat what was the point in reading further?
I had the spicy pork taco - warm, spicy, messy like a taco is eant to be and mmmmmm, GOOOOOD! A friend had the lambburger (can I say GOOOOOD! again?) and hand cut fries - GOOOOOD! Dessert choices that will blow you away: Nutella Donuts with Hot Fudge Sauce?! Fresh Berry Cobbler?! So many choices and SO GOOOOOD!
The Wagon at the Art Cliff is definitely my new PLACE and I’m pretty confident it will be a lot of others, too. GOOOOOD food, reasonable prices, casual, fun and open late! (Cash Only)
Tags: Art Cliff Diner, cheeseburger, dining on martha's vineyard, Eating on MV, Island Living, late night eating on Martha's Vineyard, local food, Martha's Vineyard restaurants, MVOL Foodie, mvol.com, Vineyard Haven
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Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009
I didn’t mean to do it, but it happened and I need to share with you how I ate my way through Oak Bluffs.
It started out as an innocent trip to OB to check out the harbor and do a little shopping and it turned into a full on eating tour of the town. I began with a slice of pizza from Gio’s. Gio’s is famous in Oak Bluffs and beyond. There is normally a line down the block and the pepperoni slices go quick so be prepared to wait but know that the wait is more than worth it. Hot, cheesy and the sauce is the perfect blend of tomatoes and spices. After my slice of Gio’s I wandered down to the harbor to gaze at the boats and do some people watching.
While wandering and watching I noticed a man with a sailors hat and a ukulele strumming in front of a sign for Dinghy Dogs, “Hot dogs for hot dog people”. I couldn’t resist, I consider myself part of the hot dog people nation and felt I should support the community. Dinghy Dogs is amazing! They have every possible topping and combo you could dream of. As well as one of the best deals on the island. For just $10, you can get 2 hot dogs, 2 bags of chips and 2 sodas. I’m sure by now you can guess what happened. I am now an official Dinghy Dog follower. I enjoy my dogs with kethup and onions and was made fun of for my apparently “kindegarden” order but I’m ok with that. I’ll leave the sauerkraut and relish for the stronger types.
Feeling completely full, I headed up circuit avenue to see what was new in the shops and boutiques. After viewing lovely dresses, accessories, artwork and souvenirs I started to get a craving for something sweet. To my delight, across the street was Ben and Bill’s Chocolate Emporium, and you know with a name like that the goodies must be good. I ventured in a got a small cherry chip ice cream cone that turned out to be so large I had to transfer the ice-cream into a cup so I could eat it with a spoon. Delicious and the perfect summer treat! Those scoopers are generous and while my hips might not thank them, my heart does.
Next time you are in Oak Bluffs, and feel the need to eat your way through town feel free to follow my route and try to keep up with me. Enjoy your summer snacking.
Tags: Ben & Bill's Chocolate Emporiaum, Dinghy Dogs, dining on martha's vineyard, Eating on MV, Family Activities, Family Life on MV, Gio's Pizza MV, Island Living, local food, Martha's Vineyard, Martha's Vineyard Life, Martha's Vineyard restaurants, MVOL Foodie, mvol.com, Oak Bluffs
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Friday, July 3rd, 2009
There is a new restaurant in Vineyard Haven that I’ve been wanting to try and this week my wants became reality. The Blue Canoe Grill is located on Beach Road in Vineyard Haven in the space formally inhabited by Mediterranean Restaurant which now occupies the space where Lola’s was in Oak Bluffs. Stick with me dear reader, I promise I’ll bring it back to the Blue Canoe.
One of the few restaurants in Vineyard Haven with a water view, Blue Canoe sits right on the harbor with its own private beach that patrons can take advantage of before eating. Two floors with a porch a piece gives ample room for Harbor Views from your table. I was lucky enough to get there in time to get a table on the first floor porch overlooking the most amazing boats that had come into port for the night. With the sun setting and the whispering of waves lulling me into a tranquil state I nearly forgot that I was going to be able to add dinner to the view.
My table companions were excited at the thought of being able to help me with their opinions regarding the dishes and I was pleased to be able to write about more than my dinner. We began with the “huge shrimp cocktail” and that is a literal quote from the menu. Our order arrived and the menu was not bluffing, these creatures of the sea were HUGE. I was a little intimidated on how to politely tackle something of that magnitude but after looking to my left and right to see how my table was handling this I saw that my partners in crime simply dunked the shrimp with one hand and took large bites until the only thing remaining was the tail shell. Delicious! While the portion was two apiece I decided to pass on my second in fear that I would become too full.
For the main course my friend on the left ordered the lobster roll, my friend on the right ordered the mussels in a curry broth and for my self I ordered the grilled chicken breast sandwich. The lobster roll was full of lobster meat, so full of lobster meat that the top portion of the bun was removed in order to fit the sandwich into left friends mouth. He was very pleased with the amount of lobster and must have enjoyed it because I only saw it for a second before he was was wiping his mouth and moving on to the fries. Personally I think he did it so I couldn’t sample it for myself.
The curry broth mussels were plentiful and spicy with a nice aftertaste. Being such a delicate creature I was only able to handle one but my heartier left and right friends were able to finish the whole order while I drank their waters for relief. My grilled chicken breast sandwich had a garlic ranch sauce on top that was a perfect topping for the bacon and cheese and unique enough to make me wonder if I could duplicate the sauce at home for future use.
The handcut fries were delicious, and you know what a tough critic I am of my favorite carb. Perfectly fried with a generous portion on each plate. The night couldn’t have gone better. Sunsets, harbors and French fries, does a girl need anything else?
The Blue Canoe Grill is located at 52 Beach Road, Vineyard Haven, 508-693-3332
Tags: dining on martha's vineyard, dining with a view, Eating on MV, french fries, Island Living, local food, Martha's Vineyard, Martha's Vineyard Life, Martha's Vineyard restaurants, MVFamily Life, MVOL Foodie, mvol.com, outdoor dining, Vineyard Haven
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Thursday, June 25th, 2009
It’s Restaurant Week here on Martha’s Vineyard which means that Christmas has come early for me. All Restaurant Week participants agree to a three course meal with prices ranging from $25-$45. Last night I went to Chesca’s and didn’t want to leave. I adore Chesca’s and was so excited that they were participating in Restaurant Week. One of my favorite things about Chesca’s is the outside porch where you can have a cocktail pre dinner. There are beautiful wooden rocking chairs lining the porch overlooking the busy streets of Edgartown and is a great way to people watch and relax before dinner.
I went with a friend who knows my eating patterns and it was understood that I may be speechless for most of the meal. I began with the lobster bisque and it was everything a lobster bisque should be, creamy, flavorful with the perfect amount of lobster meat waiting to be on your spoon. It’s one of the best lobster bisques I’ve tasted on the island and you all know how delicate my palate is.
My next course was the main course of grilled salmon with a Thai chili glaze, chive mashed potatoes and fresh sauteed vegetables. The salmon was grilled to perfection and the glaze is a perfect union of sweet and tangy. My mashed potatoes and vegetables weren’t just accessories they held their own and shared the plate as a team with the salmon. I normally pass on anything resembling a vegetable but I have to tell you that I finished every bite of my vegetables and made many moms proud.
My third course was dessert, I opted out of the salad course in order to ensure I went over my calorie limit for the day. I ordered the brownie sundae with cappuccino ice cream and Callebaut dark chocolate sauce. The first bite was so amazing that I completely forgot that I was going to share with my dinner companion and I couldn’t stop eating. The brownie was soft but firm and was the perfect foundation for the ice cream which had a subtle caffine flavor that worked well with chocolate sauce which was generously ladled out. I tend to shy away from establishments that skimp on the chocolate sauce but Chesca’s did the exact opposite.
If you are on the Vineyard and looking for a dining experience that covers every course from soup to sauce while covering every flavor from sweet to subtle to savory this is the restaurant you’ve been waiting for. Located at 38 North Water Street in Edgartown.
Tags: Chesca's, cocktails on the porch, dining on martha's vineyard, Eating on MV, Edgartown, Island Living, local food, Martha's Vineyard, Martha's Vineyard Life, Martha's Vineyard restaurants, mvol.com, Restaurant Week
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Friday, June 19th, 2009
Normally, I write my blogs on the amazing culinary delights that are found on the island. This week however, I’d like to tip my hat to a wonderful little wine and spirit shop in Edgartown. Town Provision Company is a cozy hole in the wall shop in downtown Edgartown. The proprietor of the shop is one of those knowledgeable types that doesn’t make you feel silly when you ask what the difference is between a pinot noir and a pinot grisio. Not that I’ve done that…
The selection is huge and if what you want isn’t there, they will happily order it for you and make sure that you’re contacted as soon as it arrives. They are happy to give you suggestions on anything from the best type of champagne for mimosas to the best wine to serve with crab legs. Located right in the harbor (8 Mayhew Lane), it’s a convenient way for boaters to stock up. The added bonus is delivery! Island-wide!
I’ve come to rely heavily on the suggestions from Town Provisions. They have helped me to give the impression that I am not only a dinner party hostess, but a hostess with a truly sophisticated palate. I realize by writing this that I am blowing my cover but I feel the need to share this hidden gem with you, we’ve been through a lot together and there is no reason for me to hide this from you.
So whether you are planning your next clam bake or merely afternoon cocktails, remember my friends at Town Provisions and let’s toast summer in together.
Tags: Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard Life, MVOL Foodie, mvol.com, special and liquor delivery on Martha's Vineyard, Town Provisions, wine and spirits
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