The Best Restaurants, Shopping, and Hidden Gems on Nantucket

Lobster dinner

A Local's Guide from Westbrook Real Estate

Few destinations capture the charm and elegance of Nantucket quite like its incredible restaurants, locally owned boutiques, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. While visitors often come for the beaches and picturesque harbor, they quickly fall in love with the island's vibrant dining scene, unique shopping experiences, and small-town atmosphere. These are the places that turn a vacation into a lifelong tradition—and often inspire people to purchase a home and become part of the community.

At Westbrook Real Estate, our family has proudly served Nantucket for more than 40 years. Having grown up on the island, we've watched favorite local businesses become beloved institutions while new restaurants and boutiques continue to add to Nantucket's unmistakable character. Whether you're visiting for the first time or have spent summers here for decades, these are some of our favorite places that make Nantucket one of New England's most extraordinary destinations.

Waterfront Dining You Won't Want to Miss

One of the greatest pleasures of summer on Nantucket is enjoying an unforgettable meal overlooking the harbor.

Cru

Located directly on Straight Wharf, Cru has become one of the island's most iconic restaurants. Known for its fresh seafood, lobster rolls, oysters, and lively outdoor atmosphere, it's the perfect place to enjoy lunch after arriving on the ferry or celebrate a beautiful summer evening.

Watching the yachts come and go while dining on the waterfront is an experience that captures everything people love about Nantucket.

Galley Beach

For one of the most spectacular sunset dinners on the East Coast, it's hard to beat Galley Beach.

Located directly on the sand, diners enjoy elegant coastal cuisine while watching the sun disappear into Nantucket Sound. It's consistently ranked among New England's finest waterfront restaurants and is a favorite destination for anniversaries, celebrations, and unforgettable summer evenings.

Straight Wharf Restaurant

For more than four decades, Straight Wharf Restaurant has been considered one of Nantucket's premier fine dining destinations.

Their creative seafood dishes, exceptional wine list, and intimate atmosphere make it a must-visit for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable culinary experience.

Local Favorites That Keep Visitors Coming Back

While Nantucket is home to world-class dining, some of the island's most beloved restaurants are wonderfully casual.

Brotherhood of Thieves

Located in the heart of downtown, Brotherhood of Thieves has been serving locals since 1972.

Known for burgers, clam chowder, seafood, and a welcoming pub atmosphere, it's one of those places where everyone feels like a local.

The Nautilus

One of Nantucket's most talked-about restaurants, The Nautilus offers creative small plates inspired by Asian and Mediterranean flavors.

The lively atmosphere and beautifully crafted cocktails make it one of the hottest dinner reservations each summer.

Millie's

Located in Madaket, Millie's has become famous for its Baja-inspired seafood, tacos, margaritas, and relaxed beach vibe.

After spending the afternoon watching the sunset at Madaket Beach, stopping at Millie's has become a Nantucket tradition for countless families.

Something Natural

No trip to Nantucket is complete without lunch from Something Natural.

Known for oversized sandwiches served on homemade Portuguese bread, this local favorite is perfect for taking to the beach or enjoying on their beautiful outdoor lawn.

Coffee Shops Worth Visiting

Start your day like a local.

Favorite stops include:

• Handlebar Café

• Lemon Press

• Born & Bread

• Nantucket Coffee Roasters

Whether you're grabbing coffee before heading to Surfside Beach or meeting friends downtown, these cafés offer the perfect start to your morning.

Shopping on Nantucket

One of the reasons people fall in love with Nantucket is the incredible collection of locally owned boutiques.

Walking through downtown feels like stepping back in time as historic brick sidewalks lead you past beautifully restored storefronts filled with clothing, artwork, jewelry, home décor, and handcrafted goods.

Main Street

Main Street is home to many of the island's most recognizable shops.

Here you'll find:

• Luxury clothing boutiques

• Nantucket-themed gifts

• Art galleries

• Jewelry stores

• Home furnishings

• Specialty food shops

Every storefront reflects the island's unique coastal style.

Centre Street

Centre Street offers a wonderful collection of independently owned boutiques where shoppers can discover everything from handmade candles to luxury linens.

Many businesses have been family-owned for generations, helping preserve Nantucket's authentic character.

Mitchell's Book Corner

Established in 1968, Mitchell's Book Corner has become one of Nantucket's most beloved independent bookstores.

Authors frequently visit during the summer, making it a wonderful place to discover your next beach read or attend a book signing.

Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

Some of Nantucket's greatest treasures aren't listed in travel brochures.

The Bluff Walk in Siasconset

Beginning near Front Street in 'Sconset, the Bluff Walk winds behind some of the island's most beautiful cottages while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

The walk offers breathtaking gardens, historic homes, and spectacular ocean views that many visitors never discover.

Steps Beach

Located just north of town, Steps Beach remains one of Nantucket's quieter beaches.

Its dramatic staircase, calm waters, and peaceful setting make it ideal for families looking to escape the larger crowds.

Sanford Farm

Nature lovers shouldn't miss Sanford Farm.

Miles of walking trails lead through open conservation land, forests, and eventually to panoramic ocean views overlooking the south shore.

It's one of the island's best places for hiking, photography, and sunset walks.

Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge

Accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicle or guided tour, Coskata-Coatue is one of Nantucket's hidden treasures.

Visitors often spot:

• Seals

• Ospreys

• Deer

• Shorebirds

The refuge offers miles of untouched beaches and some of the island's most spectacular natural scenery.

Art and Culture

Nantucket's artistic community continues to thrive.

Spend an afternoon exploring:

• Artists Association of Nantucket galleries

• The Nantucket Whaling Museum

• The Dreamland Theater

• Small independent galleries throughout downtown

These cultural institutions help preserve the island's remarkable history while supporting today's talented artists.

Why Lifestyle Drives Nantucket Real Estate

Many people initially visit Nantucket for a long weekend or summer vacation.

They come for the beaches.

They stay for the lifestyle.

The combination of exceptional dining, boutique shopping, outdoor recreation, rich history, and genuine community creates an experience unlike anywhere else in New England.

Over time, many visitors realize they want more than a vacation—they want to own a piece of Nantucket.

Whether it's a historic home in Town, a waterfront retreat in Brant Point, or a charming cottage in Siasconset, buying a home allows families to enjoy these experiences year after year while building memories that last for generations.

Why Work with Westbrook Real Estate

For more than 40 years, Westbrook Real Estate has helped buyers and sellers navigate Nantucket's unique real estate market.

As a family-owned company with deep island roots, we understand that purchasing a home here is about much more than real estate. It's about finding the perfect neighborhood, discovering your favorite local restaurants, building friendships, and embracing the Nantucket lifestyle.

Whether you're searching for a summer getaway, an investment property, or a forever home, our local knowledge and decades of experience allow us to guide you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best restaurants on Nantucket?

Some of the island's most popular restaurants include Cru, Galley Beach, Straight Wharf Restaurant, The Nautilus, Millie's, Brotherhood of Thieves, Something Natural, and Black-Eyed Susan's.

Where is the best shopping?

Downtown Nantucket, including Main Street, Centre Street, Federal Street, and Old South Wharf, offers the island's best shopping experience.

What are Nantucket's hidden gems?

Locals love the Bluff Walk in Siasconset, Sanford Farm, Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, Steps Beach, and many of the island's smaller conservation areas.

Why do people buy homes on Nantucket?

Many buyers fall in love with Nantucket's relaxed coastal lifestyle, beautiful beaches, historic charm, exceptional dining, boutique shopping, and strong sense of community.

Discover Nantucket with Westbrook Real Estate

Whether you're planning your first visit or searching for your dream island home, Nantucket offers an unmatched combination of history, luxury, natural beauty, and small-town charm.

At Westbrook Real Estate, we're proud to help families discover everything this incredible island has to offer. If you're considering buying or selling Nantucket real estate, we'd be honored to share our local expertise and help you find the perfect property.

Westbrook Real EstateServing Nantucket Families for Over 40 Years