Where to Find the Best Fried Seafood on Martha’s Vineyard
There’s nothing quite like savoring perfectly fried seafood while vacationing along the stunning coast of New England, and Martha’s Vineyard offers some of the freshest, most mouthwatering options around. Known for its abundant waters teeming with local delicacies, the island is a paradise for seafood lovers. From crispy clam strips to golden fish and chips, fried seafood is a staple of the Vineyard dining experience, embodying the essence of summer in every bite.
Martha’s Vineyard is home to a thriving fishing community, with dedicated fishermen and women bringing in the daily catch that lands on your plate within hours. The island's commitment to fresh, local ingredients is evident in every dish, making it a true haven for foodies. Whether you're a seasoned seafood enthusiast or new to the joys of coastal cuisine, you’ll find that the Vineyard’s offerings are simply irresistible.
When visitors arrive, they often ask where to find the best clam chowder or the most succulent lobster rolls. But for those with a craving for something crispy and golden, we’ve gone on a culinary adventure to bring you the top spots for fried seafood on Martha’s Vineyard. After polling locals and sampling dishes from various eateries, we've compiled a list that will have you eagerly exploring the island’s hidden gems. These recommendations are tried and true, celebrated by both residents and visitors alike. Prepare to indulge in the crispy, salty goodness that makes the Vineyard’s fried seafood a must-try experience.
What to Order: Fish & Chips
Image: Fish & Chips from The Barn
Head to the end of Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs and inside the island’s only bowling alley is a restaurant serving up one of the tastiest fish & chips platters! Hand breaded and then fried cod, it is served with classic tartar sauce and coleslaw.
What to Order: Fried Lobster Tails
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury, the fried lobster tails at Coop de Ville on Oak Bluffs Harbor is it! You don’t typically see lobster served as a fried dish but when you do, we recommend getting it because when fried to a crispy exterior and still juicy interior, it’s a favorite dish of everyone that tries it!
What to Order: Clam Cakes
A very unique item to this market, Clam Cakes are most commonly known in Rhode Island but the owners of John’s Fish Market have been making them for years and it’s a delicious treat! These crispy balls of briny clams and spicy Portuguese sausage are the perfect snack to have while waiting for your entree.
Image: Town Bar's Fried Fisherman Platter
Town Bar & Grill
What to Order: Fried Fisherman’s Platter
Head into Edgartown and on Upper Main Street you’ll find the restaurant Town Bar & Grill serving up a platter filled with fried scallops, haddock, shrimp, calamari, french fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce!
The restaurant has a great patio for you to enjoy your meal on and is also open year round with plenty of indoor and bar seating.
What to Order: Fried Whole Belly Clams
Gio’s has been serving the Vineyard since 1930 and continuously does so because they deliver delicious food, always. Their Fried Whole Belly Clams are so tender and crispy, you won’t want to ever get them anywhere else. Served with French fries and coleslaw, this is a plate of fried seafood you won’t forget.
What to Order: Fried Fish Sandwich
Finding a delicious fried fish sandwich is not difficult on Martha’s Vineyard but everyone raves about the Fried Fish sandwich at The Net Result. Served with the classic tartar sauce on a soft bun, this sandwich is best enjoyed under the sun on the benches outside of the Net Result as you people watch during your meal.
Image: Offshore Ale Co.
What to Order: Fish & Chips, Paired With An Offshore Beer
Steps away from Ocean Park, Offshore Ale Co. is a staple in everyone’s Oak Bluffs vacation. This fish and chips plate is perfect when paired with one of Offshore’s beers, brewed on site fresh and daily! The beer is even used in the batter to fry the fish, so get a taste of their Amber Ale in a glass and in the batter as you enjoy this iconic dish.
What to Order: Cajun Fried Oysters
Another great spot in Oak Bluffs is The Lookout Tavern where you can score a plate of these Cajun Fried Oysters. They are so delicious, you’ll wonder why you don’t eat them on a daily basis. What makes them extra special is that they have a dusting of cajun seasoning that makes you come back for more.
What to order: Fried Local Oysters
Head up island and try the fried local oysters at Homeport, served with a jalapeno lime slaw, remoulade sauce, and lemon wedges, your mouth will be happy you did! A truly delicious appetizer, it’s the perfect way to kick off their prix fixe menu!
