August 2015

By MARNELY MURRAY

“Life is too short, eat dessert first”

When presented with a dessert menu, the amount of food I’ve previously consumed is forgotten and in my life, there’s always room for dessert. As a pastry chef by training, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’d rather live a life without sunshine than a life without dessert. I’ve rounded up some island’s delicious desserts that will surely have your sweet tooth clamoring for more!
“Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake SLemon Raspberry Cheesecake Square at Isola’s Healthy Habit 1quare” at Isola’s Healthy Habit
Nestled amidst the Edgartown Visitor’s Center and behind The Post Office Square is Isola’s Healthy Habit. Inside you’ll find this quaint and charming eatery has lots of healthy options to choose from, including desserts. The Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Square is completely raw, vegan, and dairy-free. Prepare to have your mind blown when you realize this healthy dessert is made with a blend of coconut cream and cashews making the lusciously fresh, Lemon Raspberry square one of my favorites. The tang from the lemon is nicely balanced by the sweet taste of raspberries! Grab your spoon and prepare to dive into this “cheesecake” square- you’ll be in absolute heaven after the first bite.
Maple Cream Profiteroles at Lighthouse Grill“Maple Cream Profiteroles” at Lighthouse Grill
The Edgartown Lighthouse is one of the most coveted destinations to visit on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, as is dining at the Lighthouse Grill located inside the Harbor View Hotel. If you’re in the mood for a simple yet elegant dessert- the Maple Cream Profiteroles are an inspiration. Light layers of French pastry puffs are topped off with a delicate, airy and smooth maple cream. This delectable dessert is so exquisite, you’ll find yourself daydreaming of Paris and transported to a lovely, Parisian Café. The profiteroles are topped off with bits of shaved chocolate providing the perfect hint of cocoa we all love.
Mudslide 120
“Mudslide” Cocktail at The Sandbar and Grill
There’s just something about sitting outside with a nice warm breeze, sunshine and salty air. The Sandbar and Grill located on the harbor in Oak Bluffs offers casual dining complete with a sand floor and umbrella covered tables. It’s almost as if you never left the beach! If you’re not a dessert lover but still want a hint of sweetness at the end of your meal, the Mudslide at the Sandbar is a tasty and boozy option! A mix of Vodka, Kahlua, Bailey’s and ice cream are blended together to form a dessert cocktail that’s ideal to beat the summer heat! It’s the adult version of a melted ice cream cone, only Better!
Key Lime Pie at The Seafood Shanty 1
“Key Lime Pie” at The Seafood Shanty
The Seafood Shanty in Edgartown is a multi-faceted and very popular restaurant, complete with sweeping views of the ocean and outside deck. One of my favorite desserts is the ever so tangy and sweet, Key Lime Pie. This classic dessert was made popular in Key West, FL and named after the tiny key limes you can only get in New England when they are in season. A slice of this pie is best enjoyed beachside, in my opinion or in this case- with a view of the ocean. The bright, acidic flavors from the key lime are balanced out with the help of some sweetened condensed milk. Served with whipped cream and drizzled with raspberry and caramel, this dessert will put those sugar cravings to rest.
Twix Oreo Cheesecake at The Red Cat Kitchen“Twix Oreo Cheesecake” at Red Cat Kitchen
If you have a penchant for desserts, then you’re going to Love this one! The Twix Oreo Cheesecake is made from scratch by a well-known islander named Erica, and goes by the way of “Tiny Baker.” This decadent slice of goodness starts out with an Oreo crust filled with a smooth and oh so creamy cheesecake filling. Hearty pieces of Twix are mixed in the cheesecake filling as well as sprinkled on top. A healthy drizzle of caramel completes this mouth-watering confection. It’s so good, you might want to consider ordering two- one to share and one for yourself! Tiny Baker’s homemade desserts are now on the menu at Red Cat Kitchen located at the bottom of Kennebec Ave in Oak Bluffs.
Not everyone partakes in ordering dessert after their meal but I say, “go ahead and indulge a little bit while visiting Martha’s Vineyard”- it’s part of the allure of the island. Take pleasure and savor every last bite! After all, you only live once and you might as well live life to the fullest!

Restaurant Information:

Isola’s Healthy Habit
19 Church Street
Edgartown, MA 02539
(774) 549-9329
FB: Isola’s Healthy Habit
Lighthouse Grill
131 North Water Street
Edgartown, MA 02539
(508) 627-3761 for reservations
www.harbor-view.com/dining/lighthousegrill
Red Cat Kitchen
14 Kennebec Ave
Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
(508) 696-6040
www.redcatkitchen.com
The Sandbar and Grill
6 Circuit Ave Extension
Oak Bluffs, MA 02557
(508) 693-7111
www.mvsandbar.com
The Seafood Shanty
31 Dock Street
Edgartown, MA 02539
(508) 627-8622
www.theseafoodshanty.com