Exploring Culinary Delights in Woods Hole
A Guide to Dining near Sands of Time Motor Inn
Woods Hole, our picturesque waterfront village on Cape Cod, is not just known for its stunning seaside views and scientific community; it’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of our charming village, the Sands of Time Motor Inn offers an ideal base for exploring a diverse array of dining options. From succulent seafood to hearty pub fare, Woods Hole has something to tantalize every palate. Let’s embark on a culinary tour of this delightful destination, featuring some of the best eateries around.
The Landfall Restaurant: A Waterfront Dining Experience
The Landfall Restaurant, located on Luscombe Avenue, is a cornerstone of Woods Hole dining serving lunch and dinner. With its prime location overlooking the harbor, diners can enjoy breathtaking views while savoring fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The Landfall’s rustic charm, with its wooden beams and nautical décor, including its iconic buoys hanging from the dining room ceiling, adds to the authentic Cape Cod experience. This has been a Woods Hole institution for almost 80 years!
Don’t miss:
- Baked Stuffed Lobster: A succulent lobster filled with a savory seafood stuffing.
- Fried Fisherman’s Platter: A combination of Scallops, Scrod, Clams & Shrimp delicately fried.
The Landfall also offers a variety of daily specials, often featuring the freshest catches from local waters and homemade delights.
Woods Hole Wharf: Casual Dining with a View
For those seeking a more casual dining experience, Woods Hole Wharf is a fantastic choice. This eatery offers a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor seating that provides stunning views of the harbor. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a relaxing meal while watching the boats come and go.
Highlights:
- Their wide selection of tasty pizza served straight from their brick oven, aptly named The Hole!
- Crab Cake Sandwich drizzled with malt vinegar.
The Woods Hole Wharf is the perfect destination for anyone seeking delicious, fresh seafood, mouth-watering, brick oven pizza, and craft cocktails with a view!
Shuckers: Fresh Oysters and More
Shuckers World Famous Raw Bar, located on Water Street, is the go-to spot for seafood enthusiasts. This lively establishment is renowned for its fresh, locally-harvested oysters, which are shucked to order. The casual, waterfront setting makes it a great place to unwind with friends.
Must-Try Items:
- Raw Oysters: Served on the half shell with a selection of tangy mignonettes.
- Shuckers Simmer Sipper made with fresh squeezed juice perfect for sipping on sunny days.
Shuckers also offers Twin Lobster Tuesdays! Enjoy seating on the dock or under the awning and sit back, relax, and watch the boats go by.
Captain Kidd: Dockside Dining in Woods Hole
Captain Kidd, affectionately known as “The Kidd,” is a historic tavern that has been serving Woods Hole since 1939. With a waterfront dining room, and outdoor piers that extend over the water you can’t beat the views!. Located on Water Street, this charming pub combines its rich history with a menu that caters to contemporary tastes.
Specialties:
- Dayboat Tacos: Featuring crispy cod, chipotle aioli, oven roasted corn and black bean pico de gallo.
- Fisherman’s platter, featuring cod, scallops, shrimp, clams
The Kidd also offers an extensive beer selection, featuring both local brews and international favorites. While enjoying a cold one be sure to check out their 40-foot mahogany bar, hand carved in The Bowery of New York City in 1865!
Water Street Kitchen: Farm-to-Table Freshness
Water Street Kitchen is a gem for those who appreciate exquisite flavors and farm-to-table dining. This elegant yet cozy chef-owned restaurant prides itself on using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Standout Dishes (often changing!):
- Water Street Burger: Topped with smoked gouda, roasted tomato, braised short rib, and aioli, served with hand-cut togarashi fries.
- Cioppino: A brothy array of mussels, bass, clams, lobster, fennel, tomato, complemented by squid ink bread.
With its thoughtfully crafted menu and intimate setting, Water Street Kitchen is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. During the cooler months, they offer creative Fried Chicken on Wednesday nights that is not to be missed!
Quahog Republic Leeside Pub: A Taste of Local Tradition
The Quahog Republic Leeside Pub is a beloved local hangout that offers a lively atmosphere and a creative but approachable menu. Known for its relaxed vibe and hearty pub fare, it’s a great place to enjoy a meal after a day exploring Woods Hole or Martha’s Vineyard.
Don’t Miss:
- Cape Cod Nachos: Loaded with a cheddar and mozzarella blend, beer cheese, scallop pieces and applewood smoked bacon.
- A selection of grilled pizzas that can be made quickly if you have a ferry to catch!
The pub also features a variety of beers, cocktails, and special events, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Quicks Hole Taqueria: Fresh and Flavorful Mexican Cuisine
For a delightful twist on traditional Cape Cod fare, visit Quicks Hole Taqueria on Luscombe Avenue. This vibrant eatery offers a range of Mexican-inspired dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients.
Top Picks:
- The Original Lobster Taco: With cabbage, pico de gallo, queso fresco, baja sauce.
- Blackened Swordfish Sandwich: With tomato jalapeño relish, bibb lettuce, tomato, red onion, garlic aioli.
Quicks Hole Taqueria’s lively atmosphere and inventive menu make it a standout choice for a casual yet flavorful meal. If you’re lucky you’ll get to dine to the sounds of live music outside on their patio and don’t miss the chance to pose for a photo with their iconic giant lobster sculpture!
Woods Hole Market & General Store: A Local Staple for Fresh Produce and More
Woods Hole Market, situated on Water Street, is a cornerstone of the local community, providing a wide range of groceries, produce, and prepared foods. This charming market is perfect for picking up supplies for a picnic or enjoying a quick meal on the go, or eat on their rooftop porch overlooking Eel Pond.
Noteworthy Offerings:
- Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich: With housemade pulled pork, BBQ sauce, homemade close slaw, piled high on a bulkie roll
- Fresh Lobster Roll: Made to order from the freshest local ingredients.
The market also features a deli counter with an array of sandwich options made to order, as well as fresh salads, making it easy to find something delicious to enjoy at any time of the day.
Pie in the Sky Cafe & Bakery: Baked Goods and More
Pie in the Sky Bakery & Café, located on Water Street, is a beloved institution in Woods Hole. This quaint bakery offers a delectable array of pastries, breads, and sandwiches, all baked fresh daily.
Popular Items:
- Popovers: Like brioche but better, perfectly eggy and delicious!
- Fruit Smoothies: Made with yogurt, orange juice, or milk and the perfect way to fuel your day.
Coffee Obsession: A Coffee Lover’s Paradise
Coffee Obsession, with locations on Water Street in Woods Hole and at the Queens Byway near downtown Falmouth, is a must-visit for coffee aficionados. This cozy café offers a wide selection of coffee drinks, teas, and light snacks in a welcoming environment.
Recommendations:
- Hot Mexican Mocha Latte: A wonderful mix of spices create the Mexican chocolate, and cinnamon and nutmeg bring out the broad, rich, flavor of the chocolate.
- Breakfast Salad: Two eggs over baby arugula, with chopped applewood smoked bacon, grape tomatoes, avocado, quest fresco, and caramelized shallot vinaigrette.
With its friendly atmosphere and excellent beverages, Coffee Obsession is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Maison Villatte: French Pastries in the Heart of Cape Cod
Maison Villatte, located on Main Street in Falmouth, recently opened a second outpost in Woods Hole bringing a taste of France to our little seaside village. This charming bakery offers an exquisite selection of French pastries, breads, and desserts, all made with traditional techniques.
Must-Try Treats:
- Croissants: Buttery and flaky, a true delight. The Almond Chocolate one is our fave!
- Mini Tarts: With a variety of flavors they are all equally delicious and almost too pretty to eat!
Maison Villatte’s artisanal approach and delightful offerings make it a perfect spot for indulging in some sweet treats and unforgettable flavors.
Woods Hole is a culinary treasure trove, offering a wide variety of dining experiences that cater to every taste. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, hearty pub fare, or exquisite pastries, our charming village has it all. As a guest at the Sands of Time Motor Inn, you’ll find yourself perfectly situated to explore these fantastic eateries and savor the flavors of Cape Cod. Enjoy your culinary journey through Woods Hole!
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.