As we head into our ninth season as innkeepers on Cape Cod, we
consider ourselves “locals.” As such, we
happen to be “in the know” when it comes to the best the Cape has to
offer. So when new restaurants, shops,
and activities open their doors, we like to be some of the first to visit – and
as innkeepers, we do so with a critical eye.
This season, a number of “newbies” surpassed our expectations and made
the innkeeper’s cut – not an easy feat!
Here, in random order, are some of our new favorites:
Mooncusser’s Tavern: Located
in Harwich, Mooncussers is going into its second season, but this time with a
revamped menu and new executive chef.
Specializing in tapas and decadent martinis, this cozy tavern is the
perfect place to grab a bite or indulge in one of their new entrees like their
crimini and parmesan encrusted ribeye with blue cheese potato croquets, truffle
grilled asparagus, and shallot glace de veau.
We love to order a bunch of tapas and nibble the night away – favorites include
black truffle parmesan fries and duck infused sliders.
Longshore Restaurant: Run by a local family who helped establish
the successful and popular Arnold’s and Fairway restaurants, this new
reasonably priced family eatery is sure to be a hit and a welcome addition to
the Chatham restaurant scene. Eat in or
take out for lunch and dinner and if the lobster rolls are as good as Arnold’s
don’t leave without trying one!
Fin Seafood: Going into its second season, Fin was
outstanding from the moment they opened their doors. Located just next to the Cape Playhouse on
Route 6A in Dennis, this is an excellent choice for dining followed by live
theater. The menu focuses on locally
sourced ingredients, primarily seafood with a couple options for carnivores and
even a vegetarian entree. Regardless of
what you order, it is sure to be fabulous and coupled with exceptional service
and ambiance, you really can’t go wrong dining here.
Adventure Chatham: If you’re a fan of kayaking, why not give
paddle boarding a try? This new water
sport has gained popularity and the
Adventure Chatham team specializes in custom stand up paddle delivery
excursions throughout Cape Cod, focusing on the beautiful and diverse waterways
of Chatham and Harwich. They also offer
sightseeing tours and fitness classes.
Chatham CheeseCompany: If you’re a lover of cheese like me, setting foot in this store could
be dangerous. You’re welcome to sample
before you buy and you can also pair their artisan cheeses with cured meats,
gourmet preserves and crackers, and fine wines for a romantic picnic on the
beach or back at the Captains House Inn.
Millie’s GeneralStore: Just what Chatham needed – an old fashioned general store featuring all
the souvenirs you’re obligated to bring home under one roof. Their inventory focuses on almost entirely
products made in New England including edibles, Nantucket baskets, note cards,
totes, kitchenware and more.
works is a new movie theater in downtown Chatham called the Orpheum. The town is working aggressively to raise
money to build this and when they do, Chatham may start looking a little more
alive in the quite winter months!
