AN ENVIABLE VIEW, WITH GREAT FOOD AND DRINKS IS A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
BY TROY NEUENBURG
A welcoming entrance takes visitors to The Seafood Shanty
Islanders call it “The Shanty,” but to newcomers and seasonal residents, it’s known as The Seafood Shanty. This two-story, cedar shake sided, New England eatery is surrounded on three sides by the beautiful Edgartown harbor. A wooden walkway accented with flower boxes spilling over with summer-colored blooms takes you directly to the front door.
The first story has a large bar and casual dining area that is great for large groups. Windows, windows, and more windows help you take in the stunning views of enviable boats belonging to the well-heeled, as well as the panoramic water views of the iconic harbor. A beautiful, copper-covered, full-service bar with plenty of seats, and several outdoor tables for al fresco dining, complete the main floor layout.
Shepe Arias, the seasoned general manager of The Seafood Shanty, speaks with pride about his core team that comes back year after year. He also boasts about the global seasonal staff that keeps the place humming every summer. Since 1961, The Shanty has served plenty of happy visitors who journey to Martha’s Vineyard. Shepe has been there many of those years making sure things run smoothly. Wearing a perpetual charismatic smile, Shepe animatedly speaks about the enjoyment he gets from seeing customers return summer after summer for a memorable meal and view.
Open for lunch and dinner, and late-night at the bars you will find many delicious drink and food options. Familiar domestics and microbrews occupy the beer menu offering everyone a satisfying selection. A few favorites are “The Best Damn Bloody Mary Evah” which sports two jumbo shrimp and tops the specialty drink list. If you prefer frozen drinks, the “Frosé” with Bandit Rose, strawberry puree, and a touch of Lillet will really enhance your Vineyard experience.
The Seafood Shanty serves both lunch and dinner 7 days a week. The menu has plenty of choices for visitors of all ages. If you love sushi, then you can relate to the great enjoyment that occurs when served a plate of creatively arranged salmon and tuna sashimi. This colorful plate is full of pinks and deep reds that smells as fresh as the deep cold ocean it came from. The fish is cut by skilled hands using a newly sharpened knife. The slices are clean, precise, artistic, and will make you want more.
The colorful and fresh Sashimi Platter with Salmon, Tuna and a Volcano Roll
The sashimi platter is centered with the “Volcano Roll,” and consists of spicy raw tuna, avocado and crispy tempura bits rolled in sushi rice and soybean paper, topped with spicy mayo. This platter will have you taking “foodie pics” and craving another order. An island favorite to grab on the harbor is the Fish Tacos. Flour tortillas filled with fresh Mahi Mahi gets topped off with a vibrant, flavorful pineapple- mango salsa. Chipotle aioli brings it all together. And who doesn’t love fries – this entrée is served with a generous side of fries!
Fish tacos are an island favorite with Mahi Mahi and a pineapple mango salsa
The raw bar tower is featured on the “Starters” menu. Bam-Bam Shrimp, Buffalo Fingers, and Quesadillas are just a few of the warm-ups on the menu. This seafood-focused restaurant has some great options for the landlubbers in your group, too. The Herb Roasted Chicken, Ribeye Steak, and a Mandalay-Style Vegetable Medley are just a few of the great dinner options served. The Shanty also has a nice selection of kid loving options on the menu that will surely make the little one’s smile.
The Seafood Tower comes with Jumbo Shrimp, Little Necks, Katama Bay Oysters and Twin Chilled Lobster Tails
Sweet tooth anyone? Dessert specials vary, and when you are lucky enough to be at The Shanty when the Creme Brule Cheesecake is offered, order it. This sweet treat is the best of both dessert worlds: soft, creamy-textured, and full of flavor that will surely tantalize your taste buds. The Flourless Chocolate Torte, Key Lime Pie, and the share-worthy Chocolate Layer Cake for Two makes any meal end on a high note.
The Creme Brulee Cheescake dessert is absolutely delightful
The Seafood Shanty experience makes every visit to Edgartown more enjoyable. It has a decades-long track record of helping people share great memories of dining and sipping cocktails while on the Vineyard. The people, the view, and the wonderful food brings it all together for a memorable meal with friends and family every time you’re on the island.
More Information:
The Seafood Shanty
31 Dock Street | Edgartown | (508) 627-8622
Web: theseafoodshanty.com
IG: @the.seafood.shanty
FB: TheSeafoodShanty
