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Beachside Bistro
Cru
One of few coveted waterfront spaces in town, Cru Oyster Bar opened in 2012 and offers a front-row view of the wharf and bay beyond. The nautical interior is thoughtfully done and features plush banquettes, a central communal high table, dark wood and beautiful bubbled glass light fixtures. Seafood lovers should not miss the oyster bar, which offers fresh local selections daily. But be warned: the restaurant’s location right next to the Hy-Line Ferry can lead to overcrowding.
Galley Beach
Opened in 1958, Galley Beach is an island classic due to its spectacular location on Cliffside Beach. The beachside dining room offers unrivaled sunset views, and after a 2008 renovation the iconic eatery is sophisticated without being too sleek. While the food is not outstanding, the view is breathtaking, and Galley Beach remains the see-and-be-seen spot for summer locals.
Sandbar at the Jetties
Straight Wharf
Despite opening 1975, Straight Wharf has never gone out of style or aged one bit; in fact, it’s as popular as ever, enticing patrons with watermelon and tomato salad, arugula and French green olives and zucchini-blossom appetizers. For a drink at sunset, the simple wooden bar inside the main dining room and the patio overlooking Straight Wharf are always crowded. This is not the place for an intimate cocktail (for that, go to Òran Mór), but to see and be seen, there’s no better location on the island.
Topper’s
The restaurant of the Wauwinet, Topper's, remains at the top of the Nantucket dining scene. The innovative menu is mostly a riff on French cuisine, with the occasional Asian, American or Italian touch. Memorable past dishes include a creamy lobster bisque, branzino with summer vegetables and perfectly prepared Wagyu beef sirloin. The more formal white dining room has banquet seating, large tables and is furnished with antiques, but the gracious service ensures that it never gets stuffy. More casual is the patio, where guests are seated on cushioned wicker chairs, with sea views in the distance. While children are normally not allowed, they can join for the first dinner seating of the evening on the patio.
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