Surfside Nantucket offers an exceptional dining experience where the charm of coastal New England meets innovative culinary craftsmanship. Nestled in one of the most picturesque locations, this restaurant has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by the sea and the rich agricultural bounty of Nantucket.
The menu reflects a deep commitment to quality ingredients, creative preparation, and a balanced fusion of tradition and modernity that appeals to a wide range of palates. From casual beachside lunches to elegant dinners, Surfside Nantucket’s offerings showcase the best of the island’s vibrant food culture.
The menu is thoughtfully designed to highlight the freshest seafood, locally sourced produce, and artisanal products, ensuring each dish bursts with authenticity and flavor. Whether you are craving a light appetizer, a hearty entrée, or a decadent dessert, the variety and depth of options make it easy to find something that satisfies every craving.
The culinary team’s dedication to seasonal ingredients means the menu evolves throughout the year, consistently presenting new and exciting flavors while maintaining beloved staples.
Beyond the food itself, the atmosphere at Surfside Nantucket adds to the overall appeal of the menu. Every dish is crafted to complement the relaxed yet refined setting, where diners can enjoy stunning ocean views and a welcoming ambiance.
The menu is also accompanied by a curated selection of wines, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages that enhance the dining experience and cater to diverse tastes.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Surfside Nantucket is a vibrant showcase of fresh flavors designed to stimulate the palate and prepare guests for the main course. These small plates are crafted with attention to detail, blending traditional New England ingredients with contemporary culinary twists.
Perfect for sharing or as a starter, the appetizers set the tone for a memorable meal.
Popular offerings include the classic clam chowder, a creamy and savory staple that embodies the region’s coastal heritage. This dish is enhanced with locally harvested clams and a hint of smoky bacon, giving it a rich and comforting flavor profile.
Another favorite is the tuna tartare, which features sushi-grade tuna combined with avocado, citrus, and a touch of spicy aioli for a fresh and zesty bite.
Vegetarian guests are also well catered for, with items like grilled asparagus wrapped in prosciutto and drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar. These plates emphasize the use of seasonal vegetables and artisanal cheeses, celebrating Nantucket’s agricultural diversity.
Highlights of the Appetizer Menu
- New England Clam Chowder: Creamy, hearty, and infused with local clams and smoked bacon.
- Tuna Tartare: Fresh sushi-grade tuna with avocado, citrus, and spicy aioli.
- Grilled Asparagus: Wrapped in prosciutto with aged balsamic drizzle, perfect for vegetarian options.
- Crab Cakes: Made with jumbo lump crab and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
“Our appetizers are designed not just to start the meal, but to tell a story of Nantucket’s rich culinary heritage and fresh ingredients.” – Executive Chef
Fresh Seafood Entrées
Seafood is at the heart of Surfside Nantucket’s menu, and the entrées reflect a masterful balance between simplicity and sophistication. Each dish highlights the natural flavors of the ocean, enhanced by complementary ingredients and thoughtful preparation techniques.
The seafood selections are sourced sustainably, ensuring freshness and environmental responsibility.
The pan-seared scallops are a standout, served atop a bed of creamy risotto with seasonal vegetables. Their delicate sweetness pairs beautifully with the rich texture of the risotto and the brightness of a lemon beurre blanc sauce.
Another signature dish is the lobster roll, a Nantucket classic reimagined with a buttery toasted bun and a light tarragon mayonnaise that lets the succulent lobster shine.
For those seeking heartier options, the grilled swordfish steak offers a satisfying, meaty texture and is accompanied by a charred corn salsa and cilantro-lime crema, delivering a burst of vibrant flavors.
The menu also features a daily fresh fish option, allowing guests to experience the best catch of the day prepared with simple but effective seasonings.
Seafood Entrée Comparison
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Pan-Seared Scallops | Scallops, risotto, seasonal vegetables | Sweet, creamy, buttery | Chardonnay or light white wine |
| Lobster Roll | Lobster, toasted bun, tarragon mayo | Rich, fresh, tangy | Sauvignon Blanc or crisp beer |
| Grilled Swordfish Steak | Swordfish, charred corn salsa, cilantro-lime crema | Smoky, zesty, robust | Pinot Noir or medium-bodied red |
Meat and Poultry Selections
While seafood is the centerpiece, Surfside Nantucket’s menu thoughtfully includes a variety of meat and poultry dishes to satisfy diverse tastes. These entrées are expertly prepared to highlight the natural flavors and textures of premium cuts, often complemented by seasonal accompaniments and house-made sauces.
The herb-roasted chicken is a perennial favorite, featuring free-range bird marinated in fresh herbs and lemon, then roasted to juicy perfection. It is served with roasted root vegetables and a light pan jus that enhances the subtle flavors without overpowering them.
Another notable dish is the grilled pork chop, sourced from local farms and paired with a savory apple chutney that adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
For a more indulgent option, the braised short ribs slow-cooked in red wine and aromatics offer a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. These ribs come with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed greens, making for a hearty and comforting meal that warms the soul.
Popular Meat Entrées
- Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, served with seasonal vegetables and pan jus.
- Grilled Pork Chop: Locally sourced and accompanied by apple chutney and roasted potatoes.
- Braised Short Ribs: Slow-cooked in red wine, served with mashed potatoes and sautéed greens.
- Beef Tenderloin: A premium cut grilled to order, with a red wine reduction and seasonal sides.
“Our meat dishes are crafted to balance richness with freshness, ensuring every bite is satisfying but never heavy.” – Sous Chef
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Surfside Nantucket takes pride in offering a well-rounded selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that showcase the bounty of local produce and imaginative cooking techniques. These options are designed to be as appealing and flavorful as any other entrée, ensuring that all guests feel catered to and inspired by the menu.
One standout dish is the roasted vegetable quinoa bowl, featuring a medley of seasonal vegetables, toasted nuts, and a bright citrus dressing. This bowl provides a satisfying combination of textures and flavors while remaining light and nutritious.
The vegan mushroom risotto is another highlight, made creamy with coconut milk and infused with fresh herbs and truffle oil for an indulgent yet plant-based meal.
The menu also includes a variety of vibrant salads, soups, and sides that can be customized to fit dietary preferences. These dishes emphasize freshness, balance, and the natural sweetness of the ingredients, making them excellent choices for health-conscious diners.
Vegetarian and Vegan Favorites
- Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: Seasonal veggies, nuts, citrus dressing, and quinoa base.
- Vegan Mushroom Risotto: Creamy coconut milk base with truffle oil and fresh herbs.
- Heirloom Tomato Salad: Mixed greens, balsamic glaze, and toasted seeds.
- Butternut Squash Soup: Silky, spiced, and garnished with roasted pumpkin seeds.
| Dish | Key Ingredients | Dietary Considerations |
| Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl | Quinoa, seasonal vegetables, nuts, citrus dressing | Vegan, gluten-free |
| Vegan Mushroom Risotto | Mushrooms, coconut milk, truffle oil, herbs | Vegan, dairy-free |
| Heirloom Tomato Salad | Tomatoes, mixed greens, balsamic glaze, seeds | Vegetarian, gluten-free |
Seasonal Specials and Chef’s Creations
The seasonal specials at Surfside Nantucket are an exciting element of the menu that reflects the ever-changing bounty of the island and its surrounding waters. These dishes are crafted to showcase peak-season ingredients and often experiment with new flavor combinations or presentation styles, keeping the dining experience fresh and dynamic.
Chef’s creations are a testament to the culinary team’s creativity and skill, offering unique dishes that are available for a limited time. These specials often incorporate unexpected ingredients or techniques, making them a must-try for adventurous diners looking to explore beyond the standard menu.
Recent seasonal offerings have included a spring pea and mint soup with goat cheese crostini, a summer corn and lobster risotto, and a fall-inspired pumpkin gnocchi with sage brown butter. These dishes not only celebrate the seasons but also demonstrate a commitment to innovation and excellence.
Examples of Seasonal Specials
- Spring Pea and Mint Soup: Light, refreshing, served with creamy goat cheese crostini.
- Summer Corn and Lobster Risotto: Sweet corn meets succulent lobster in a creamy risotto base.
- Fall Pumpkin Gnocchi: Handmade gnocchi with sage brown butter and toasted pecans.
- Winter Root Vegetable Stew: Hearty and warming, featuring locally sourced root vegetables and herbs.
“Seasonal specials allow us to push boundaries and celebrate the best of what Nantucket offers at every time of year.” – Head Chef
Desserts and Sweet Treats
No meal at Surfside Nantucket would be complete without indulging in the dessert offerings, which blend classic New England flavors with inventive presentations. The dessert menu is crafted to provide the perfect finale, balancing sweetness and texture to delight every sense.
Signature desserts include the warm apple crisp, made with locally grown apples and topped with a crunchy oat streusel and homemade vanilla ice cream. The chocolate mousse is another favorite, rich and velvety with a hint of espresso to deepen the flavor.
For a lighter option, the lemon panna cotta offers a refreshing citrus finish, garnished with fresh berries and mint.
Seasonal fruit tarts and house-made sorbets are also available, highlighting fresh ingredients and artisanal preparation. These sweets are thoughtfully portioned to satisfy without overwhelming, making them ideal for sharing or savoring solo.
Dessert Menu Highlights
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Taste Profile |
| Warm Apple Crisp | Local apples, oat streusel, vanilla ice cream | Sweet, crunchy, creamy |
| Chocolate Mousse | Dark chocolate, espresso, whipped cream | Rich, velvety, slightly bitter |
| Lemon Panna Cotta | Lemon, cream, fresh berries, mint | Light, tart, refreshing |
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Buttery crust with fresh island fruits and custard.
- House-Made Sorbets: Rotating flavors inspired by seasonal produce.
- Classic New England Brownie: Rich and fudgy, served with whipped cream or ice cream.
“Desserts at Surfside Nantucket are crafted to be the perfect endnote, combining familiar comforts with unexpected delights.” – Pastry Chef
Beverage and Cocktail Selection
The beverage menu at Surfside Nantucket is curated to complement the diverse flavors of the food, with an emphasis on local and artisanal producers where possible. The wine list features carefully selected bottles that pair well with seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes alike.
From crisp whites to bold reds, there is a wine for every palate and occasion.
Cocktail offerings blend classic techniques with innovative ingredients, inspired by the coastal environment and seasonal produce. Fresh herbs, local berries, and house-made infusions create unique flavor profiles that elevate the drink experience.
Non-alcoholic options are equally crafted with care, featuring refreshing mocktails and freshly pressed juices.
The bar team is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often recommending perfect pairings or creating custom cocktails based on guest preferences. This attentiveness ensures that every sip enhances the meal and the overall dining atmosphere.
Signature Cocktails and Beverage Pairings
- Nantucket Breeze: Vodka, fresh cranberry, lime, and mint, a refreshing coastal classic.
- Seaside Mule: Ginger beer, bourbon, lime, and a hint of sea salt for balance.
- Herbal Gin Fizz: Gin infused with rosemary and basil, topped with soda.
- Non-Alcoholic Cucumber Cooler: Fresh cucumber juice, lime, and mint syrup.
| Food Pairing | Beverage | Why It Works |
| Pan-Seared Scallops | Chardonnay | Buttery texture complements scallops’ sweetness. |
| Lobster Roll | Sauvignon Blanc | Bright acidity cuts through the richness of lobster. |
| Herb-Roasted Chicken | Pinot Noir | Light red pairs well with herbal notes and roasted flavors. |
“Our beverage program is designed to be as thoughtfully crafted as our food, enhancing every moment of the dining experience.” – Bar Manager
Conclusion
Surfside Nantucket’s menu is a celebration of the island’s natural beauty and rich culinary traditions, expertly reinterpreted through a modern lens. Each section of the menu, from appetizers to desserts, reflects a careful balance of fresh, local ingredients and creative preparation methods that result in dishes bursting with flavor and character.
Whether you are indulging in a tender lobster roll, savoring a rich chocolate mousse, or enjoying a craft cocktail by the ocean, every bite and sip embodies the essence of Nantucket’s coastal charm.
With its commitment to seasonality, sustainability, and exceptional quality, Surfside Nantucket stands out as a dining destination where every meal is an experience to remember. The menu’s diversity ensures that it caters to a wide range of preferences and dietary needs without compromising on taste or presentation.
This thoughtful approach, combined with attentive service and a breathtaking setting, creates a memorable culinary journey that invites guests to return time and again to discover new favorites and savor familiar delights.
Ultimately, the Surfside Nantucket menu is more than just a list of dishes – it is an invitation to connect with the flavors and spirit of the island, crafted with passion and care by a team dedicated to excellence.
Whether you are a seafood enthusiast, a meat lover, or a devoted vegetarian, the menu offers something exceptional for every palate, making it a true reflection of Nantucket’s vibrant and evolving food scene.
