Best Seafood Restaurants

Top Seafood Restaurants

These are the island's standout spots for fresh-caught seafood, each offering something unique to the Nantucket dining experience.

• 1

  Cru

  Straight Wharf

  The island's premier oyster bar and raw bar, Cru has set the standard for seafood excellence on Nantucket. The waterfront setting is spectacular, and the raw bar offerings are meticulously sourced. Order the seafood tower for the full experience - oysters, littlenecks, shrimp, lobster, and crab piled high. Their selection of oysters from New England and beyond is unmatched, and the knowledgeable staff can guide you through varietals and flavor profiles. Don't miss the tuna tartare or the grilled whole fish.

• 2

  Straight Wharf Restaurant

  Straight Wharf

  A Nantucket institution since 1976, Straight Wharf Restaurant offers stunning harbor views and impeccably prepared seafood. The kitchen focuses on local catches with refined preparation - think butter-poached lobster, pan-roasted striped bass, and during scallop season, the most incredible seared Nantucket Bay scallops you'll ever taste. The outdoor deck is prime waterfront real estate for sunset dinners. Reservations essential in summer.

• 3

  Sayle's Seafood

  Washington Street Extension

  Part fish market, part takeout counter, all authentic Nantucket. Sayle's is where locals go for the freshest fish - they supply many island restaurants. Their takeout window serves legendary lobster rolls, fried clams, fish and chips, and chowder. It's casual, no-frills, and absolutely delicious. Grab your order and head to a nearby beach. They also sell fresh fish if you're cooking at your rental - the day-boat catches don't get any fresher.

• 4

  Millie's

  Madaket

  Worth the trip to Madaket for this casual California-Mex seafood spot with serious sunset views. Millie's puts a creative spin on seafood with fish tacos, ceviche, grilled catches with global flavors, and refreshing cocktails. The vibe is beach-casual and the sunsets over Madaket Harbor are legendary. Order the fish tacos, fresh catch of the day, and anything from their raw bar. Perfect after a day at Madaket Beach.

• 5

  The Pearl

  Federal Street, Downtown

  Asian-influenced seafood in a sleek, sophisticated setting. The Pearl brings global flavors to Nantucket's pristine local catches. The wok-charred lobster is legendary, and their sushi and sashimi are among the best on the island. The creative cocktail program complements the cuisine perfectly. This is date-night territory - stylish ambiance, impeccable service, and inventive dishes that go beyond traditional New England preparations.

• 6

  Ventuno

  Federal Street, Downtown

  Italian-influenced seafood at its finest. Ventuno brings Mediterranean sensibility to Atlantic catches, with dishes like whole roasted branzino, frutti di mare pasta, and beautifully prepared crudo. The wine list is extensive and Italian-focused. The elegant setting in a historic building makes it perfect for special occasions. Their fresh pasta with seafood is not to be missed.

• 7

  Slip 14

  Old South Wharf

  Casual waterfront dining with your feet practically in the harbor. Slip 14 offers a relaxed atmosphere and solid seafood preparations - fried clams, fish sandwiches, lobster rolls, and grilled catches. The outdoor seating overlooking the boats is quintessential Nantucket. Great for families and anyone who wants quality seafood without the fine-dining formality. Perfect lunch spot after exploring the wharves.

What to Order: Nantucket Seafood Essentials

These are the must-try items when dining on Nantucket. Timing matters - some of the best seafood is seasonal.

Nantucket Bay Scallops

The crown jewel of Nantucket seafood. These small, sweet scallops are harvested by hand in the island's protected harbors from October through March. They're sweeter and more tender than sea scallops, with a delicate flavor that's best showcased with simple preparation - seared in butter with just a touch of seasoning. When they're in season, nearly every restaurant features them. This is the #1 reason foodies visit Nantucket in fall and early winter.

Lobster

Atlantic lobster is sweet, succulent, and available all season. Order it steamed whole for the classic experience, or try it in a buttery lobster roll, creamy lobster bisque, or as part of an elaborate seafood tower. The cold waters around Nantucket produce particularly sweet lobster meat. Pro tip: order a baked stuffed lobster for a decadent island indulgence.

Oysters

Nantucket restaurants offer extensive oyster selections, often featuring a mix of local and regional varieties. Look for oysters from nearby waters - they'll be the freshest. Most raw bars offer flights so you can taste different varieties and learn the flavor differences between growing regions. Pair with mignonette, lemon, or enjoy them naked to taste the pure brine of the Atlantic.

Fresh Catch of the Day

Always ask what came off the boats that morning. Day-boat fish - whatever local fishermen brought in - is the freshest option and often prepared simply to showcase its quality. Expect to find fluke, black sea bass, bluefish, and other Atlantic species depending on the season.

Striped Bass

When stripers are running (typically spring through fall), this is the fish to order. Firm, flaky, and flavorful, striped bass is a local favorite. It's often grilled or pan-roasted and pairs beautifully with summer vegetables. Ask if it's local - the stripers caught around Nantucket are particularly prized.

Raw Bars and Oyster Spots

For lovers of raw shellfish, these spots deliver the goods.

• Cru - The undisputed king of Nantucket raw bars. Extensive oyster selection, pristine quality, expert shuckers.
• Straight Wharf Restaurant - Elegant raw bar with harbor views. Excellent oyster and shellfish selection.
• The Pearl - Creative raw preparations with Asian influences. Great for sashimi and crudo.
• Brant Point Grill - Raw bar at the White Elephant with waterfront setting.
• Galley Beach - Beachfront raw bar experience, perfect for sunset.

Lobster Roll Guide

The lobster roll is a New England icon, and Nantucket does it right. Here's where to find the best:

• Sayle's Seafood - Classic preparation, generous portion, no-frills perfection. Many locals say this is the best on island.
• Cru - Upscale take on the classic. Sweet lobster meat in a perfectly toasted roll with just the right amount of butter.
• Slip 14 - Casual waterfront spot with a solid lobster roll. Great for a quick lunch.
• Something Natural - Their lobster roll on homemade bread is a local favorite. Perfect for a beach picnic.
• The Juice Bar - Yes, the ice cream place. Their lobster roll is surprisingly excellent.

Lobster Roll Styles: You'll find two main styles on Nantucket. "Connecticut-style" (warm, with butter) and "Maine-style" (cold, with mayo). Most restaurants offer one or both - ask which style they serve if you have a preference.