Grocery & Provisions

Main Grocery Options

Nantucket has one traditional supermarket plus several specialty food destinations. Here's where to shop for everything from everyday staples to gourmet ingredients.

1. 1

   Stop & Shop

   Pleasant Street, Mid-Island

   Nantucket's only full-service supermarket and the go-to destination for most grocery shopping. The store carries a comprehensive selection of produce, meats, dairy, frozen foods, and pantry staples. While it doesn't match mainland supermarkets in size, it stocks everything a vacationing family needs. The store gets very busy on weekends and during ferry arrival times when day-trippers stock up. Pro tip: Shop early morning or late evening for shorter lines. They also have a pharmacy, basic household goods, and a decent wine and beer selection.

2. 2

   Bartlett's Farm

   Bartlett Farm Road, Off Hummock Pond Road

   Much more than a farm stand, Bartlett's is a beloved Nantucket institution that's been family-owned since 1843. Their produce section features vegetables and herbs grown right on the property - you can see the fields from the parking lot. Beyond produce, Bartlett's offers an impressive prepared foods kitchen with rotisserie chickens, elaborate salads, and ready-to-heat entrees. They also stock artisan breads, local cheeses, specialty groceries, fresh flowers, and plants. The prices are higher than Stop & Shop, but the quality is exceptional. A must-visit for any serious home cook.

3. 3

   Nantucket Meat & Fish Market

   Old South Road

   The island's premier butcher shop and seafood counter. When you want prime cuts of beef, quality lamb, or fresh poultry, this is where locals shop. Their seafood selection includes the freshest catches from local fishermen - swordfish, tuna, cod, and shellfish that was swimming hours before you buy it. They also carry gourmet items, specialty sauces, and prepared foods. The knowledgeable staff can offer cooking advice and custom cuts. Prices reflect the premium quality, but it's worth it for special meals.

4. 4

   Provisions

   Straight Wharf, Downtown

   A gourmet food emporium on the harbor that's perfect for curating upscale beach picnics and vacation meals. Provisions specializes in prepared foods, artisan cheeses, charcuterie, specialty condiments, and gourmet pantry items. Their sandwich counter is legendary (the lobster roll is a must), and the rotating selection of salads and entrees rivals any restaurant. While not a place for everyday grocery shopping, Provisions is essential for elevated vacation eating. Grab their house-made cookies for dessert.

5. 5

   167 Raw

   Lower Orange Street, Downtown

   Originally a raw bar restaurant, 167 Raw also operates a retail fish market where you can purchase the same pristine seafood they serve in their dining room. This is the spot for oysters, clams, lobsters, and impeccably fresh fish. They'll shuck oysters for you to take to the beach or pack live shellfish for a clambake at your rental. A bit pricier than other options, but the quality is unmatched for those serious about seafood.

What to Bring vs. Buy on Island

Strategic packing can save you significant money. Here's what's worth bringing from the mainland and what to buy on Nantucket.

Bring from Home

• Pantry staples: Olive oil, cooking oils, spices, coffee, tea, cereal, pasta, rice, and canned goods
• Paper products: Paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, and plastic bags cost significantly more on island
• Beverages: Bottled water, juice boxes, soda, and sports drinks - heavy and expensive to ship
• Snacks: Chips, crackers, cookies, and granola bars for beach days and hungry kids
• Baby supplies: Diapers, formula, and baby food if traveling with infants
• Specialty items: Specific brands or dietary items you rely on may not be available
• Sunscreen and toiletries: Drugstore prices on island are notably higher

Buy on Island

• Fresh produce: Bartlett's Farm grows exceptional vegetables and herbs worth the premium
• Seafood: This is Nantucket - the fish is fresher and better than anything you'd bring from home
• Local specialties: Nantucket-made products, local honey, and island treats are part of the experience
• Dairy and eggs: Fresh items that wouldn't survive the journey anyway
• Bread and baked goods: The island bakeries are excellent
• Ice and ice cream: Practical necessities and vacation treats

Prepared Food Options

Sometimes you want to eat well without cooking. These spots offer restaurant-quality meals ready to heat and enjoy at your rental.

Best for Prepared Dinners

• Bartlett's Farm: Rotisserie chickens, complete entrees, and elaborate side dishes. Their prepared food section could feed your family for a week.
• Provisions: Upscale salads, sandwiches, and entrees perfect for easy yet impressive meals
• Met on Main: Gourmet prepared foods including heat-and-serve entrees like braised meats and seafood dishes
• Sayle's Seafood: Seafood chowder, lobster salad, and prepared fish dishes ready to go

Easy Breakfast Options

• Born & Bread: Fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and artisan baked goods
• Wicked Island Bakery: Scones, muffins, and morning treats to grab the night before
• Bartlett's: Egg dishes, breakfast pastries, and fresh fruit cups

Perfect for Beach Picnics

• Something Natural: Legendary sandwiches on homemade bread - a Nantucket institution
• Provisions: Gourmet sandwiches, salads, and picnic supplies that travel well
• Bartlett's: Complete picnic selections from sandwiches to sides to desserts

Local & Specialty Products

Nantucket produces and showcases some wonderful specialty items worth seeking out during your stay.

Nantucket-Made Products

• Nantucket Honey: Local beekeepers produce exceptional raw honey - great for gifts
• Cisco Brewers products: Beer, wine, and spirits made on island (available at various shops)
• Nantucket Cookie Company: Locally-baked cookies that make perfect souvenirs
• Local jams and preserves: Artisan makers using island berries and fruits

Fresh & Local

• Bartlett's Farm produce: Tomatoes, corn, greens, and herbs grown in island soil
• Local shellfish: Nantucket Bay scallops (in season), oysters, and clams from island waters
• Day-boat fish: Caught by Nantucket fishermen and sold within hours
• Farmers market finds: Seasonal local offerings (check schedule for summer markets)

Gourmet Provisions

• Artisan cheeses: Provisions and Met on Main carry excellent selections
• Specialty olive oils and vinegars: Available at gourmet shops around town
• Premium charcuterie: Imported and domestic cured meats for grazing boards
• Craft chocolates: Local and artisan chocolatiers at specialty shops