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5 minute read
Introduction
Nestled amidst the forests, beaches, and rolling dunes of Cape Cod, the charming town of Brewster, Massachusetts, offers more than just breathtaking scenery and tributes to a deep maritime heritage. In recent years, Brewster has cultivated a surprisingly diverse culinary scene, catering to a range of palates and budgets.
Whether you crave a steaming cup of coffee and a flaky pastry from a cozy cafe, a casual lunch with a view, or an elegant evening of fresh, local seafood, Brewster's restaurants offer a delightful variety of dining experiences waiting to be explored. In today's post, we'll serve up a gastronomic journey that takes you on a delectable tour of Brewster's top restaurants!
Ocean Terrace: Dining with a View
If you could use only one word to sum up the dining experience at Ocean Terrace, that word would be “exquisite.” Ocean Terrace is a highlight fine-dining destination for savoring locally sourced seafood, considering its view over Cape Cod Bay – particularly at sundown (note that you should reserve well ahead of time to get a spot on the terrace).
As far as the flavors are concerned, dishes like clam chowder (a perennial favorite), lobster mashed potatoes, and scallops are highlights of the restaurant’s ode to the ocean.
The menu as a whole is exceptionally well traveled: a mezze plate with hummus, olives, and pita chips brings in flavors of the eastern Mediterranean, while the duck confit with bacon jam and a "Carbonara" reinterpretation with sweet corn puree both showcase a dedication to French/Italian/American fusion cuisine.
The Ocean Terrace is open year-round.
Make a reservation at the Ocean Terrace
The Brewster Fish House: A Local Favorite
With seating available on a first-come, first-serve basis only, there can be a wait to sit down at peak hours (although if you arrive at 5 PM, you will likely be seated straight away). Families and children of all ages are welcome, although note that high chairs are not provided.
As you might expect, the menu is heavily weighted towards seafood delicacies (reviewers say it serves "some of the best seafood on the Cape"), but sirloin burgers and lamb tartare feature as well – and a beef ragout/duck confit/rabbit sausage cassoulet makes a stunning appearance.
Although the Brewster Fish House is open year-round, its hours may be variable during the off-season, so do check the website ahead of your visit.
Chillingsworth Bistro: Elegant Dining
Situated on the 300-year-old Chillingsworth Foster among six acres of lawns and gardens, Chillingsworth Restaurant has been serving classic French cuisine for over four decades.
It offers an award-winning menu as well as a more casual bistro menu featuring many of its specialties. Overall, the menu's focus is on seasonal produce, and features French culinary techniques, with some nods to Italian cuisine as well as North American flavors.
Reservations are recommended, although walk-ins are welcome, depending on availability.
Chillingsworth Restaurant is open from May through the Fall season – do check their website to verify ahead of time.
Make a reservation at Chillingsworth
JT's Seafood: Casual Eats and Local Catches
JT's Seafood is a family-friendly counter-serve clam shack that’s locally famous for its clam chowder, lobster rolls, and relaxed dining experience. With an outdoor patio and a kid’s menu that’s perfect for picky eaters (grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken nuggets feature alongside fish & chips and clam strips), this spot is tailor-made for great on-the-go dining.
What makes JT’s a must-visit for casual dining enthusiasts is its extensive menu of seafood delights, with standouts including its fried clams, lobster rolls, and fried fisherman’s platters. Choosing dessert may well be the most challenging activity of the day, with over 20 flavors of ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet to select from.
Operations are seasonal – check the website for current opening hours.
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Peacemaker: Start Your Day Right
At the location of the former Brewster Coffee Shop is the Peacemaker, a perfect stop for breakfast or a mid-day snack. With a menu that’s devoted to a wide variety of breakfast and lunch sandwiches, the Peacemaker also offers pastries and baked delicacies, as well as breakfast specials that now include Belgian waffles and French toast.
Diners highlight the Peacemaker’s friendly service as well as the superb quality of the coffee and breakfast sandwiches.
The Peacemaker is open year-round, seven days a week, from 7 AM to 2 PM.
Cobies: A Taste of Summer
Cobies is a must-visit Cape Cod icon famous for its quintessential clam shack vibe – and as a summer dining staple in Brewster since 1948.
Located right off the Cape Cod Rail Trail, with plenty of parking, menu favorites are perfectly suited for hungry explorers and include fried clams, fried seafood, burgers, hot dogs, french fries, and ice cream. There’s also a kid's menu starring chicken nuggets and mac & cheese for finicky eaters.
Due to its popularity, Cobies can be crowded, and if you’re looking for a seat there may be a wait.
Cobies is open from Spring to Fall – check their website before visiting!
Breakwater Fish and Lobster Market: Freshness Guaranteed
Breakwater Fish and Lobster Market is one of Brewster’s top fish markets, and truly provides an exceptional experience of selecting and enjoying the freshest seafood right off the boat.
Offering patio dining in the shade as well as a take-out option for nearby beach enjoyment, Breakwater Fish and Lobster Market serves up lobsters, oysters on the half shell, fresh-cooked seafood, raw bar options, tuna, clams, steamed mussels, and more, including a selection of wines and craft beers.
A kid's menu featuring chicken fingers and hot dogs is also available for youngsters.
The Breakwater Fish and Lobster Market is open in season only - check their website ahead of your visit.
Breakwater Fish and Lobster Market website
Brewster’s Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Dining
Brewster offers a wealth of standout dining spots offering both exceptional food and unique atmospheres.
Tucked away next to the Captain’s Golf Course (and open in season only) is the Freemans Grill. Watch golfers tee off as you order from a menu featuring bar-food favorites such as wings, hot dogs, nachos, and … this being Cape Cod, the catch of the day. If you’re actually on the course itself you can get food and beverages delivered to you from the restaurant's snack cart.
Cafe Alfresco (open 8 AM - 3 PM daily and year-round) is another local breakfast and lunch favorite, featuring award-winning sandwiches, exceptionally friendly service, and outdoor seating
The Kitchen Cafe (open year-round from 8 AM to 2 PM; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) is another recent addition to the Brewster breakfast scene, and serves up chef-inspired breakfast and lunch menu items for dining in or take-out. Its crispy Brussels sprouts salad has already made a name for itself!
Conclusion
Brewster is truly emerging as a Cape Cod culinary gem. Beyond the breathtaking coastline, a vibrant dining scene awaits, tantalizing taste buds with unexpected flavor fusions. Fresh-off-the-boat seafood gets a modern twist, while turf-based offerings offer references to cuisine from all over the world.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a casual diner seeking a delightful escape, Brewster's restaurants promise an unforgettable marriage of deliciousness and coastal charm.
So if your walking shoes are already packed for Cape Cod, pack your appetite as well, because you’ll find that every bite in Brewster is an invitation to savor a rich tapestry of flavors.
