The Ultimate Brunch Guide

The Best Brunch Spots on Nantucket

These are the island's premier destinations for weekend brunch, ranked by overall experience, food quality, and atmosphere. Each offers something unique, from beloved local institutions to elegant destination dining.

1. 1

   Black-Eyed Susan's

   10 India Street, Downtown | $$

   The undisputed queen of Nantucket brunch for over 30 years. This tiny, beloved institution serves some of the most creative brunch fare on the island in an intimate, counter-and-table setting with an open kitchen. The sourdough French toast with caramelized pecans is legendary, as are the Mexican eggs with black beans and fresh salsa. Cash only, no reservations, and expect a wait on weekends - but the experience is quintessentially Nantucket. BYOB policy means you can bring champagne for DIY mimosas. Arrive before 8am on weekends to minimize wait time.

   Must Order: Sourdough French toast, Mexican eggs, seasonal specials

2. 2

   Galley Beach

   54 Jefferson Avenue, Cliffside Beach | $$$$

   For the ultimate special-occasion brunch, nothing compares to Galley Beach's Sunday brunch overlooking the Atlantic. This family-owned institution since 1958 offers an upscale brunch menu featuring pristine seafood, eggs Benedict variations, and elegant interpretations of brunch classics. The setting is unmatched - dine with your toes practically in the sand while waves crash nearby. Reservations are phone-only and can be made up to 14 days in advance. Book early for waterfront tables.

   Must Order: Lobster eggs Benedict, champagne by the glass, fresh oysters

3. 3

   Topper's at The Wauwinet

   120 Wauwinet Road, Wauwinet | $$$$

   Brunch at Nantucket's only Relais and Chateaux property is a destination experience. The journey to the island's northeastern tip via complimentary jitney sets the tone for the refined elegance that awaits. Chef Kyle Zachary's menu showcases ingredients from the on-site herb garden and local purveyors. The Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning cellar offers exceptional pairing options. This is brunch as an event, complete with impeccable service and stunning views of both harbor and ocean.

   Must Order: Seasonal tasting menu, wine pairings, anything from the garden

4. 4

   Straight Wharf Restaurant

   6 Harbor Square, Downtown | $$$$

   Nantucket's oldest harbor-side fine dining establishment offers weekend brunch that combines locally-sourced ingredients with genuine hospitality. The waterfront dining room provides beautiful harbor views, and the menu strikes a balance between elevated classics and creative seasonal dishes. Same ownership as Ventuno and Provisions means consistently excellent quality. Reservations via Resy are recommended, especially for Saturday and Sunday brunch service.

   Must Order: Seasonal specials, house-made pastries, Bloody Mary

5. 5

   Breeze at The Nantucket Hotel

   77 Easton Street, Downtown | $$$

   The year-round restaurant at the island's last grand 19th-century resort offers reliable, upscale brunch in an elegant setting. Unlike many seasonal spots, Breeze operates year-round, making it a go-to for off-season visitors. The spacious dining room accommodates larger groups, and reservations are available via Resy or OpenTable. The menu features American classics executed with care, and the full bar means proper cocktails without the BYOB hassle.

   Must Order: Classic eggs Benedict, breakfast cocktails, hotel pastry selection

6. 6

   Island Kitchen

   1 Chin's Way, Mid-Island | $$

   This year-round mid-island destination has earned a devoted following for its fresh, healthy, locally-sourced fare. The farm-to-table approach means seasonal ingredients shine, whether in creative egg dishes or fresh-squeezed juices. Easier to access than downtown spots, with on-site parking, making it ideal for those staying outside the town center. Open for breakfast and brunch daily, with dinner service as well. Reservations available via OpenTable.

   Must Order: Farm eggs with seasonal vegetables, fresh juices, house granola

7. 7

   The Proprietors Bar & Table

   9 India Street, Downtown | $$$-$$$$

   From the former owners of the celebrated American Seasons, The Proprietors brings a globally-inspired approach to weekend brunch. The menu features creative interpretations drawing from cuisines around the world while showcasing Nantucket's finest seasonal ingredients. Saturday lunch and Sunday brunch reservations available via Resy. The intimate setting and thoughtful cooking make this a favorite among food-focused visitors.

   Must Order: Globally-inspired specials, craft cocktails, seasonal plates

Casual Brunch Spots

Not every brunch needs white tablecloths. These beloved casual spots deliver satisfying morning meals without the formality or the price tag.

Downyflake

A Nantucket institution since 1935, this is the island's classic American diner experience. Famous for homemade donuts that have achieved legendary status, plus hearty breakfast plates that fuel islanders and visitors alike. The Flake Special - eggs, breakfast meat, homefries, and your choice of donut, biscuit, or muffin - is the quintessential Nantucket breakfast. Blueberry pancakes and fluffy omelets round out a menu that prioritizes comfort over trends. Located mid-island with on-site parking, it is accessible by bus or bike. Cash preferred. Note: verify current operating status before visiting.

Price: $ | Best For: Classic diner vibes, donuts, families

Corner Table Cafe

This year-round downtown cafe serves healthy, locally-sourced food with an emphasis on quality ingredients. Founded by locals Joy and Greg Margolis, it has become a community gathering spot with indoor and outdoor seating. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and creative breakfast options including vegan and gluten-free choices. No reservations needed - just walk in. Free WiFi makes it popular with remote workers lingering over a second cup.

Price: $-$$ | Best For: Healthy options, coffee, casual meetups

Fog Island Cafe

A local institution serving homestyle breakfast in a cozy, unpretentious downtown setting. The pancakes are legendary, the omelets are generous, and the coffee keeps flowing. This is where you will find regulars reading the paper and families gathering for weekend brunch. Friendly service and reasonable prices make it a perennial favorite that never feels touristy despite its prime location.

Price: $$ | Best For: Classic breakfast, families, value

Waterfront Brunch Options

Brunch with a view transforms a meal into a memory. These spots offer stunning water views to accompany your late morning indulgences.

Galley Beach

The premier waterfront brunch destination. Sunday brunch service runs from 10:30am to 2pm with direct beach views. The setting alone justifies the splurge, but the food matches the scenery. Phone-only reservations up to 14 days ahead - call between 10am and 5pm.

Straight Wharf Restaurant

Harbor views from Nantucket's oldest waterfront fine dining establishment. Weekend brunch service offers locally-sourced dishes in an elegant dining room overlooking the working harbor. Watch boats come and go while enjoying refined classics.

Slip 14

Dockside dining on historic Old South Wharf with views of the Boat Basin. The raw bar and seafood focus make this ideal for brunch that leans savory. The atmosphere is more casual than fine dining waterfront options, with late-night hours that extend the celebration. Lunch service Thursday through Sunday starting at 11:30am.

Topper's at The Wauwinet

Unique dual-water views of both harbor and ocean from the island's northeastern tip. The journey via complimentary jitney becomes part of the experience. Refined and secluded, this is brunch as an escape.

The Summer House Beachside Bistro

Casual oceanfront dining at the iconic Summer House in Sconset. The Beachside Bistro offers a more relaxed alternative to the formal restaurant, with feet-in-the-sand atmosphere and Atlantic views. Seasonal operation.

Boozy Brunch Guide

A proper brunch deserves proper cocktails. Here is where to find the best boozy brunch options on the island.

Full Bar Service

• Slip 14: Creative cocktails and dockside vibes. The bar program rivals the food.
• Breeze: Classic brunch cocktails in an elegant hotel setting. Bloody Marys and mimosas done right.
• Straight Wharf Restaurant: Sophisticated drinks to match the refined food and harbor views.
• Galley Beach: Champagne by the glass or bottle with your oceanfront brunch. The wine cellar holds over 5,000 bottles.
• Topper's: Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning cellar with exceptional by-the-glass options.

BYOB Brunch

Some of the island's best brunch spots are BYOB, letting you control the cocktail situation and save money in the process.

• Black-Eyed Susan's: Bring champagne and orange juice for DIY mimosas. The intimate setting makes it feel like a dinner party.

Upscale Brunch

When brunch is the main event, these refined options deliver memorable experiences.

Topper's at The Wauwinet

The pinnacle of Nantucket brunch elegance. The Relais and Chateaux property delivers impeccable service, stunning views, and a menu that showcases the best of local and seasonal ingredients. Chef Kyle Zachary's cooking is refined without being fussy. The complimentary jitney from town makes the journey part of the experience. Reserve via Resy.

Price: $$$$ | Dress: Smart casual | Reserve: Required

Galley Beach

Sunday brunch overlooking the Atlantic combines beachfront setting with white-tablecloth service. The Silva family has operated this institution since 1958, evolving from clam shack to premier dining destination. The wine cellar is exceptional, and the service strikes the right balance between professional and welcoming.

Price: $$$$ | Dress: Resort elegant | Reserve: Phone only, 14 days ahead

Straight Wharf Restaurant

Since 1976, this harbor-side institution has defined waterfront fine dining on Nantucket. Weekend brunch maintains the same commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and genuine hospitality that made the dinner service famous. The setting in a converted warehouse maintains nautical character while delivering polish.

Price: $$$$ | Dress: Smart casual | Reserve: Resy recommended

The Proprietors Bar & Table

Globally-inspired cuisine from the team behind American Seasons. The intimate downtown setting and creative cooking appeal to serious food lovers. Saturday lunch and Sunday brunch offer a more accessible way to experience their innovative approach.

Price: $$$-$$$$ | Dress: Casual elegant | Reserve: Resy

Best Times for Brunch

Timing can make or break your brunch experience. Here is the strategic breakdown.

Peak Hours to Avoid

The brunch rush hits between 10am and noon on weekends, especially Sundays. This is when waits are longest at popular spots without reservations, and even restaurants that take bookings fill up quickly. If you're flexible, avoid this window.

Sweet Spots

• Early Bird (8-9:30am): Beat the crowds at first-come-first-served spots like Black-Eyed Susan's. You might wait 15 minutes instead of 45.
• Late Brunch (After Noon): The rush subsides after noon. Many spots serve brunch until 2pm, and you will find shorter waits and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Saturday vs. Sunday: Sunday is busier at most spots. Consider Saturday brunch if you have weekend flexibility.

Seasonal Considerations

• Peak Summer (July-August): Maximum waits, book everything possible in advance. Popular spots fill up days ahead.
• Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Easier to snag tables, but many seasonal spots operate reduced schedules.
• Off-Season (November-April): Limited options as many restaurants close, but year-round spots like Breeze, Corner Table, and Island Kitchen offer brunch without the crowds.

Reservation Tips

Navigating the Nantucket brunch reservation landscape requires strategy. Here is how to secure your spot.

Platforms by Restaurant

• Resy: Topper's, Straight Wharf, Breeze, The Proprietors, Slip 14
• OpenTable: Breeze, Island Kitchen
• Phone Only: Galley Beach (508-228-9641, 10am-5pm, up to 14 days ahead)
• No Reservations: Black-Eyed Susan's, Downyflake, Corner Table, Fog Island

Booking Strategy

• For Resy restaurants: Reservations typically open 7-14 days in advance. Set a reminder and book at opening time for peak weekend dates.
• For Galley Beach: Call exactly 14 days before your desired date at 10am. This is the most competitive reservation on the island.
• For walk-in spots: Arrive 30-45 minutes before you want to eat during peak season. Bring something to read.
• For groups of 6+: Stick to spots with reservations. Large parties at walk-in spots face the longest waits.

Backup Plans

Always have a Plan B. If your first choice has a 45-minute wait, knowing alternatives saves the morning. Corner Table and Island Kitchen rarely have long waits. Grabbing pastries from Wicked Island Bakery and eating at the beach is never a bad backup plan.

Quick Pastry Stops

Sometimes brunch is a morning bun and excellent coffee on a bench. These spots deliver grab-and-go excellence.

Wicked Island Bakery

Home of THE famous Nantucket Morning Bun - a Saigon cinnamon and Tahitian vanilla creation with a secret spice that has achieved legendary status. Chef Ben Woodbury trained at the French Culinary Institute and uses 83% European-style butter in his hand-rolled croissants and French pastries. The ham and Gruyere croissant is exceptional. New location at 7B Bayberry Court off Orange Street with on-site parking.

Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-2pm, Sat-Sun 7am-12pm

Provisions

The gourmet market at Straight Wharf offers fresh-baked pastries, excellent coffee, and breakfast sandwiches for quick, quality grab-and-go. Also a great spot to pick up picnic supplies and BYOB provisions before a breakfast reservation elsewhere.

Daily Breads

Fresh pastries, muffins, and coffee to go. Nothing fancy, just good baked goods executed consistently.