Eat Your Way Through Falmouth and Woods Hole

Certainly the largest fish and seafood market on Cape Cod, the Falmouth Fish Market showcases bounty from local and near-local waters. Shop for tonight’s dinner here and/or dive into one of the best lobster rolls in Falmouth at the Clam Man. Oh yeah.

Looking to do a seafood feast for the whole family? That means aunts and uncles, too. Seafood Sam’s serves up fresh fish and seafood with all the fixings–think baked potatoes, corn, cole slaw and beans–at great prices. It’s fun to sit outside on ocean-blue picnic tables arranged atop a crush of seashells, crack your lobster and delight in all that melted butter running down your chin. (It’s not on the water, however, the nautical theme and seafood here create a bright, seaside resort scene.)

What would a trip to the Cape be without a stop at a raw bar? Shuckers, in Woods Hole, is one of the best. You’ll particularly enjoy eating steamers with a cold beer at their open-air bar.

You can also make your way to the Landfall Restaurant, a handsome waterfront restaurant and bar known for its terrific views. Best to put your name on the list first, then visit the Nobska Lighthouse, then settle into your table during the busy season. Or, just reserve ahead. Either way, the grilled swordfish won’t disappoint.

Also in Woods Hole, consider taking a tour of Nobska Farms, a sustainable farm that harvests some of the best dang chili peppers this side of the Mississippi. If you’re lucky, you’ll meet the big red rooster while you’re there. In any event, do hit the farm store to procure one of their much-talked-about products such as Rooster’s Bog Cranberry Jelly or Pocket Rocket Hot Sauce.

If you’re looking for a fun and happening restaurant from which to watch the sunset, drive or cruise–by boat, of course–up to the Chart Room in Cataumet. Savor pre-dinner cocktails outside as the sun sets over the yardarm. Inside–whether you’re way inside or on the porch–the ambiance percolates with all the enthusiasm of a ship’s galley. You can choose from a larder of fresh fish and seafood for lunch and dinner; the scallops, however, just might be among the best around.

Sophistication and fine dining form an innovative culinary experience within the contemporary décor at The Glass Onion in Falmouth. Did someone say lobster strudel? Remember this terrific address for your extra special occasions.

Most people want to eat Italian at least once during their vacation. Osteria La Civetta offers some of the best Italian food in an oh-so authentic and romantic setting. (Think candles, candles and more candles. Bellissimo!) Go ahead and order the carbonara; you deserve it.

Baked goods of France are lauded in their most exquisite forms at Maison Villatte. This fabulous French bakery rivals the best of the Right Bank pâtisseries and boulangeries in Paris. It’s so good that you’ll probably want to do something very French and go here everyday.

Pot pies and New England go together like peas and carrots. Buy sweet and savory pies to go at Pies à la Mode Café at Driftwood Plaza, just outside of Falmouth. Speaking of pie, Pie in the Sky Bakery and Café in Woods Hole is an institution of sorts. It’s no wonder–their coffee, baked goods and wifi are as good as it gets.

Can’t decide between something sweet or something salty? Opt for the lobster ice cream at Ben and Bill’s Chocolate Emporium. It’s unique and yummy. The truth is though that it’s totally sweet and not at all salty. Try it, you’ll like it. You can also buy lots of other sugary treats at this favorite sweet shop including–you guessed it–chocolate.