the vineyard blog

Whether you are on Martha’s Vineyard or wherever you call home this holiday season, we wanted to share with you some delicious recipes that will bring you closer to the Island, while at the same time showcasing a few locals creating delicious content on their sites.
 
Martha’s Vineyard is a special place for so many people, and for those that can’t be on Island for the holidays, this list of recipes will be perfect to bring some of the Island onto your table and menu this holiday season.

Spiced Pear Bourbon
This is the perfect holiday cocktail for those looking for something that involves spices and pears, two of the season’s most delicious ingredients. Local blogger MVY Living brings this cocktail to life in her latest blog post.
https://mvyliving.com/spiced-pear-bourbon/

Drunken Clams and Sausage
Imagine a big bowl of these Drunken Clams and Sausage as an appetizer for your holiday meal, wouldn’t that be delightful? Head to a local seafood market and pick up the fresh clams, and then make sure to secure some incredible Island sausage, which you can find at farms like Grey Barn and Morning Glory Farm.
https://www.nutmegnanny.com/drunken-clams-and-sausage/ 

Sumac, Paprika, and Garlic Sea Salt Brined Turkey and Gravy
Bring an actual taste of Martha’s Vineyard into your homes this holiday season by cooking with Martha’s Vineyard Sea Salt. This recipe brines and roasts a turkey, but you can use the same technique to make a lovely roast chicken with the same flavors and results. 
https://www.mvseasalt.com/recipe-sumac-paprika-and-garlic-sea-salt-brined-turkey-and-gravy-mvssrecipe⠀/ 

Twice Baked Boursin Potatoes
Every holiday table needs potatoes, and local food blogger and chef Marnely brings us this simple recipe for potatoes that are cheesy and delicious. Use whatever creamy cheese you have available locally, and find potatoes popping up at most farmer’s markets and farm stands. 
https://www.cookingwithbooks.net/2014/12/twice-baked-potatoes.html 

Maple Roasted Delicata Squash
Such a seasonal ingredient, you can recreate this recipe at home with deliciously local New England maple syrup and local squash. 
https://www.cookingwithbooks.net/2017/11/maple-roasted-delicata-squash.html 

Chocolate Cake
The holidays are all about treating ourselves and our loved ones, and nothing is more delicious than a simple and rich chocolate cake. This recipe from local cookbook author Sarah Waldman, is just the thing you need to get through the holidays. Need a local chocolate to use in this recipe? Try Not Your Sugar Mamas!
http://www.sarahwaldman.com/chocolate-cake/

Have you ever considered a visit to Martha’s Vineyard for the holidays? Or even a staycation in another home if you’re already here? We know the holidays are going to look a lot different this year but they can still be extra special, and nowhere more so than Martha’s Vineyard. We love the idea of cozying up in a Vineyard vacation rental home, bundling up for a winter walk along the beach, and sipping hot chocolate in an up-Island retreat with no one in sight. Or strolling along North Water Street in Edgartown enjoying all the stately captain's homes potentially blanketed under some winter snow? (This place is gorgeous in the summer but you should see how picturesque it is with a dusting of that pretty white stuff sprinkled on top!)
 
Now’s the time to enjoy the peace and serenity that this season on Martha’s Vineyard allows. For the locals it’s our favorite time of year, a quieter pace, but as beautiful as ever. And now with COVID, we are most appreciative of the vast open space and reduced crowds, which our fall and winter visitors are grateful for too. If you’re looking to retreat to an island hideaway this holiday, here are some lovely homes available for you and your closest family or friends to enjoy, whether you’re coming to stay or just want a change of scenery on-Island. 
 
Traveling to Martha’s Vineyard? Be sure to read the latest COVID safety guidelines here.

Winter Waterfront Oasis on Sengekontacket Pond
If you want: Open space, seclusion and water views
This charming Edgartown home is situated in an idyllic private wooded setting on Sengekontacket Pond, one of the largest salt-water ponds on Martha's Vineyard. The deck looks out over Major's Cove to Felix Neck Sanctuary across the water and Nantucket Sound a mile away. 

Stay warm beside the working fireplace and enjoy the cathedral ceilings in the living, the dining room, and the kitchen. The home is fully furnished with four bedrooms, three of which have water views. The home sits in an association noted for its quiet, safety, and charm.

Stately Captain Spring House by Vineyard Haven Harbor
If you want: Accessibility, entertainment and en-suites for all. 
With sweeping views of Vineyard Haven Harbor, this recently built in-town luxury home combines commanding water views with a sophisticated and stylish living space. The main floor of Captain Spring House features an open Great Room designed for entertaining, with living and dining areas, plus a large Gourmet Kitchen that would make Christmas dinner easier than ever! 

All four of the bedrooms feature full marble baths with tub and shower, and flat screen TVs, perfect for a small group of friends to stay together while also having privacy. The views get even better on the third floor Penthouse Lounge boasting two large mahogany sun decks, both of which face the harbor.

Then there is the Home Theater and a Pool Room Lounge complete with a tournament pool table. Talk about location! The Captain Spring House sits quietly on a side street, just a block from downtown Vineyard Haven, walking distance to the Steamship Authority Ferry, and local restaurants, and retail shops.

Luxurious South Beach Getaway
If you want: A ton of shared gathering and entertaining space.
This modern farmhouse near South Beach has been luxuriously renovated throughout the Main House, connected Carriage House, and outdoor spaces. The first floor features a hub of interconnected living and entertaining areas, making it the perfect gathering spot for those closest to you. 

The chef’s kitchen boasts stainless appliances, granite counters, dining area, and two prep counter/breakfast bars for the enjoyable meals together. The kitchen also opens into the lounge area for easy entertaining, complete with a wine refrigerator and a beverage refrigerator, plus additional seating. With 6 bedrooms and 4.5 baths there’s ample room for everyone!

Tucked away in Edgartown Village, this contemporary coastal-style home sits atop a knoll that enjoys water views across Edgartown Harbor. The property includes a four bedroom Main House and a separate one bedroom Guest House suite.

The Main House is bright and open, with many areas for relaxing and entertaining, including living room, sun room, open chef’s kitchen and sitting area, media room, and the third story nautically-inspired crow’s nest with grand views across Edgartown Harbor. The cottage-style Guest House has its own full bath for additional privacy.

Sprinkled along a lovely walkway at the Harbor View Hotel, the Captain’s Cottages exude an individual charm fit for a fairy tale. Inside, they display the finest of luxe comfort and amenities. Glossy white, fresh wicker, nautical stripes and upscale furnishings accent a classic New England ambience.

Varying floor plans offer many options ranging from one to three bedrooms with kitchenettes. There are eight cottages with 28 cottage units. All prize personal privacy with access to all of the resort’s services.

In the middle of an active horse farm, this elegant and gracious 5000 Sq. Ft home is perfect for a large gathering of family and friends. Misty Meadows Farm sits on 5.5 acres of stunning surroundings including a Gunite pool, extensive gardens, enclosed courtyard with a patio, lawn and deck. This property abuts 20 acres of protected Sheriffs Meadow Property, including Nat's Farm, expanse of field, meadow, oak woods and pasture. The interior of the house is extremely well appointed and comfortable, including an updated Chef's Kitchen, and all the amenities needed to enjoy a rustic retreat for your Martha's Vineyard holiday stay. Interested parties can email Flanders Real Estate at rentals@flandersrealestate.net or call 508-645-2632.

Fall and winter are seasons when we want to feed ourselves and our loved ones rich, nourishing, and comforting foods. Whether it’s a casual pizza and beer in an outdoor beer garden or a takeout meal from one of our local Island restaurants, these delicious foodie experiences and offerings will make you happy while staying safe.
 
Bad Martha’s Beer Garden
Link: https://www.badmarthabeer.com
Bad Martha in Edgartown is open this fall Thursdays 12 noon to 9pm and Friday, Saturday, and Sundays 11am until 9pm. They have plenty of outdoor space in their beer garden and serve delicious cheese and charcuterie plates, as well as pizzas that you can order for eating in or taking home.  Pair that with delicious and locally brewed beer, and you’ve got yourself a delightful time. 

Chilmark Tavern Takeout
Link: https://www.chilmarktavern.com/menu 
An Island favorite, Chilmark Tavern has been doing takeout for a bit now and they are a delicious option on those days you don’t want to cook at home. They also just recently started offering a down Island delivery service for which they will meet you at the airport, to save you on the drive up Island!

Dilly’s Taqueria
Link: https://www.dillystaqueria.com/menus/
Craving tacos? Dilly’s is currently open for take-out and indoor dining Tuesday through Sunday, 11:30am to 9pm, offering $3 Street Tacos Tuesday-Friday 4-7pm: Chicken or Pork  Street Style with Cilantro & Onion garnished with a lime (dine-in only). With its "Build It Yourself" style menu, Dilly’s is also a great spot to pick up tacos to enjoy at home. You can't go wrong choosing one of their five protein options prepared with their own house-made marinades, or if you'd prefer, their freshly roasted vegetables. From there, they offer countless toppings to ensure the flavor profile or spice level is exactly how you want it!

Eat with Austin & Maura
Link: https://www.instagram.com/eatwithaustinandmaura/
New and noteworthy is this venture by two local food entrepreneurs and chefs, Austin and Maura. They will be cooking takeout meals from the PA Club in Oak Bluffs, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 4pm-8pm. You can view the weekly menu on their Instagram page. Supporting these local initiatives is a great way to be a part of the community, while staying safe and getting takeout! 

Fantzye Bagels 
Link: https://www.fantzyebagels.com/shop 
These naturally fermented bagels are handmade on Martha’s Vineyard with toppings sourced from local farmers and fishermen. Follow them on instagram @fantzyebagels for news on their next sales.

Great Harbor Market
Link: https://www.greatharbormarket.com 
Great Harbor Market in Edgartown offers fresh salads, hot and cold sandwiches and amazing Brazilian specialties all year long. Located inside the Mobil Gas Station in Edgartown, it has a great variety of takeout meals. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or just some snacks, this market is creating freshly made meals on a daily basis. Make sure to try their breads and baked goods - such a tasty delight!

Juice by the Sea
Link: https://juicebytheseamv.com
Nourish your body with raw artisan juices and an extensive plant-based menu crafted from locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Featuring a full gluten-free and vegan menu, organic coffee and espresso bar, pastry case filled with decadent desserts, and an array of juices and wellness tonics. Juice by the Sea is a woman-owned business that nurtures our bodies from the inside. 

7Afoods 
Link: http://www.7afoods.com/menu 
You can order breakfast and lunch in person as well as phoning it in Monday through Saturday, 8am-2pm. Their seasonally made items are always a delight; please make sure to read their updates on how things are working regarding COVID. 

The Pawnee House
Link: https://www.thepawneehousemv.com
Oak Bluffs is quite the place to eat and drink, and this new venture is called the Pawnee House, where 30% of the menu is plant based, but their main focus is comfort food. It’s a cozy place, with open windows and a menu that has something for everyone. They offer brunch on the weekends and do great takeout meals as well. 

Please remember it is mandatory to wear a mask when outside of your home in Massachusetts. You are allowed to remove your mask when sitting at a table dining in a restaurant. For the most up to date information, please check: https://www.mvy.com/covid19.html

You don’t need to be on Martha’s Vineyard to give the gift of the Island! Several of your favorite Island retailers have their goods available online for a virtual and contactless shopping experience, and we know they would love your support. We’re asking everyone who loves Martha’s Vineyard to put their money where their heart is this holiday. 
Just because you might not get to shop on-Island doesn’t mean you can’t shop with the Island in mind. From iconic Vineyard jewelry to eclectic home furnishings and even gift cards for future use, let Martha’s Vineyard business owners know you’re thinking of them whether you’re near or far. 
 Here are just some of our favorite Island retail stores where you can purchase online:
 
Clothing
 Soft as a Grape: Who doesn’t love a super soft and cozy Vineyard sweatshirt? Especially these days when our go-to wardrobe staples are more casual than ever. Choose from iconic t-shirts, sweatshirts and sweatpants from Soft as a Grape, plus check out their new face mask designs too.
 
The Green Room: This beloved clothing and hard-goods shop on Main Street, Vineyard Haven has some of the highest quality threads on-Island, selling big name brands like Patagonia, Yeti, Free People and more. It’s a fabulously curated store and their online shop is just as impressive, capturing the essence of Island style, comfort and durability. 
 
Jewelry
CB Stark Jewelers: From hip and casual to upscale and elegant, CB Stark Jewelers is renowned on Martha's Vineyard and beyond. Check out their iconic Island inspired charms, featuring uniquely Vineyard charms like a Mocha Mott’s Coffee Cup, town signs, the Ocean Park Gazebo, Edgartown Lighthouse and more. 
 
Stefanie Wolf Designs: This Edgartown based jewelry studio is adored for its vibrant, elegant designs and distinctive colorful glass beads, culled from the owner’s travels across the globe. The studio is open to visitors year-round, and the webstore is too, with a robust inventory of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, accessories and more. 
 
Eats & Sweets
 Enchanted Chocolates: This Oak Bluffs chocolate shop produces some pretty magical confections that we just can’t get enough of. Try their aptly named “Stoner Food” dark chocolate and caramel covered pretzel rods topped with their famous "Almond Butter Crunch" crumbles and Martha’s Vineyard Sea Salt. Their treats are sure to make your holidays extra sweet and this season's smaller gatherings, you’ll have more to yourself too!
 
Chilmark Coffee: Coffee lovers rejoice! You don’t need to be in Chilmark to score Chilmark Coffee. Local coffee guru Todd Christy brought his signature blends online for all to enjoy, no matter where you are sipping on it. Choose from favorites like the light roast Ethiopia blend or the dark roast Squibnocket Rocket. 2020 has been full of countless uncertainties but one thing’s for sure, this coffee is incredible and should be shared far and wide!
 
Housewares & Home Goods
Coastal Supply Company: Formally Refabulous Decor, this Island gem is situated on Union Street in Vineyard Haven just steps from the Steamship Authority terminal. If you’ve never visited you’re missing out, but thanks to their well thought out webstore you can score their coastal decor, local art and jewelry 24/7.  
 
Rainy Day: We could actually spend all day in this store (rain or shine), but in today’s times we’re happy to be able to sit home and scroll the thoughtful selections of this Island gem. From accessories to bath and body products, books and puzzles, to greeting cards and candles galore there is something for everyone on your list at Rainy Day. 
 
A Little Bit of Everything 
Martha’s Vineyard Made: Martha’s Vineyard is known for its talented artists and now you can shop from several of the Island’s most talented makers all in one place! Just launched, Martha’s Vineyard Made offers an assortment of locally made, Island inspired gifts, and one seamless checkout experience. Choose from individual products or specially curated sets and gift boxes and hit all the notes while supporting local Vineyard artists this holiday. 
 
Chicken Alley Thrift Shop: If you’ve ever visited the go-to thrift store on-Island there’s no way you left empty handed, and now that Chicken Alley has gone online late night shopping binges have never been more dangerous. Browse funky vintage Island finds, artwork, jewelry, and trinkets galore, all while benefiting Martha’s Vineyard Community Services. 
 
Everybody Loves Gift Certificates! 
Seriously everyone. Plus a gift certificate gives the recipient something to look forward to and we could all use more of that excitement in 2020. Not to mention a gift card purchase is a boost to the vendor you’re buying from and our local businesses will appreciate it. 
 
The Martha’s Vineyard Bank makes it easy to support multiple businesses at once through their new LIFT certificate program.  LIFT is an online store featuring discounted gift certificates from several Martha’s Vineyard based businesses, making it a one-stop shop for those who love Martha’s Vineyard and want to shop where their heart is. 
 
LIFT features discounted gift certificates from local lodging, restaurants, artists and retailers. Shoppers have access to exclusive discounts not offered elsewhere. The site is powered by Martha’s Vineyard Bank—at no cost to merchants and has generated over $460,000 in merchant revenue to date since launching earlier this year. 
 
If we didn’t mention your favorite Island retailer be sure to look them up, contact them and see how you can make a purchase there this holiday, even if it means picking up the phone and getting a FaceTime tour of the store. Our small businesses will thank you.

Thanksgiving might not be as big and boisterous this year, but that doesn’t mean it still can’t be delicious. Whether you’re choosing to safely visit Martha’s Vineyard for the holiday or you call the Island home, we can assume you’ll appreciate comfort food more than ever this year - we know we will!
 
In anticipation of the holiday we’ve rounded up some of the most mouthwatering Thanksgiving offerings on Martha’s Vineyard that we could find. From dine-in, to take-out, from where to get a whole bird to everything but … and of course desserts too. Check out these delectable dining options and be guaranteed a flavorful Thanksgiving on Martha’s Vineyard. 

Dine-In
The Black Dog Tavern in Vineyard Haven offers one of the more casual in-person dining options, and the most affordable. Enjoy all the fixins' of a homemade Thanksgiving dinner while taking in the picturesque Vineyard Haven harbor from the cozy Tavern. The Black Dog's traditional three course Thanksgiving dinner boasts savory selections like Ginger Pumpkin Bisque and Candied Yams, plus bakery-made pie, of course! Seatings are at 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm and 4pm, $46/person ($20 for kids 12 and under). Take-out meals are also available and orders must be placed before November 24th. Call 508-693-9223 for reservations or to place an order.
 
Bettini at the Harborview Hotel is offering a delicious four course Thanksgiving Dinner and welcomes Thanksgiving to-go orders from anyone local or staying on Martha’s Vineyard during the Thanksgiving holiday. Enjoy savory, herb-roasted turkey, served with all the traditional sides: creamy mashed potatoes, sausage and roasted apple stuffing, crispy Brussels sprouts and sweet potato gratin to name a few. Finish with homemade pie of course, all while savoring the taste of home with a breathtaking view of Edgartown Harbor and Lighthouse. 
Seatings available from 11am – 5:30pm; $115 per adult ($35 for children 12 and under). Take-out is available with the bird and all the fixings or with everything but the bird. Call 508-627-3761 or email Bettini@harborviewhotel.com. Make Thanksgiving weekend even more special by exploring historic Edgartown by horse and buggy with their horse-drawn carriage rides!
 
Dining at the Terrace at the Charlotte Inn is like stepping back in time, and what could be a better way to pay homage to our ancestors this Thanksgiving than by enjoying a traditional gourmet Thanksgiving dinner at this historic Edgartown gem. The Terrace will be offering a classic four course meal with the option of a roasted Misty Knoll Farm turkey breast & braised leg, mashed potatoes, sage stuffing, sweet potato, caramelized Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce and gravy. If you’re looking for a less traditional option, they’re offering Citrus Cured Baked Faroe Island Salmon or a Red Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs and of course, pie. They’re now taking reservations from 3-7pm by calling 508-627-6227. 

Take-out
This year’s Thanksgiving take-out menus on Martha’s Vineyard are plentiful and oh so impressive. Our local restaurants are really stepping up to make sure Thanksgiving 2020 is still extra special at home despite this year’s restrictions. Here are some menu highlights and offerings that are making us extra hungry:
Black Sheep Mercantile: Brie in Puff Pastry with Cranberry Chutney and Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Bacon & Shallots.
Offerings: a selection of breads, sides, apps, turkey, chicken, dessert.
Chilmark Tavern: Vegan Mashed Parsnip and Celery Root and Roasted Squash Soup with Pepitas and Crispy Sage.
Offerings: salads, soups, sides, turkey, ham, accompaniments, dessert.
Juice by the Sea Vegan Cafe: Kale & Spinach with Cranberry, Orange and Pistachio, and Raw Chocolate Cake with Salted Caramel Turtle Topping.
Offerings: appetizers, mains, desserts, all vegan, gluten-free and made with no refined sugar. 
Katama General Store: Creamed Local Kale with Nutmeg and Local Shiitake & Fennel Sausage Stuffing.
Offerings: baked goods, sides, appetizers, turkey, dessert. 
Life at Humphrey’s: Apple Galette and Roasted Butternut Squash.
Offerings: sides, turkey, sweets.
Little House Cafe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes and Roasted Carrots. 
Offerings: everything but the turkey. 
Morning Glory Farm: Farm Roasted Rainbow Beets and Cranberry Apple Sage Stuffing.
Offerings: uncooked turkey, soup, sides, quiche, pies, breads, cheese platters, centerpieces. 
Salvatore’s Ristorante Italiano: Four Cheese Tortellini con Pesto and Pappardelle Filetto di Manzo.
Offerings: family-style appetizers, pasta specials, wine and dessert. 
Scottish Bakehouse: Linguica, Apple & Corn Stuffing and Cheddar and Scallion Biscuits.
Offerings: soup, salads, sides, turkey, breads.
Sweet Bites: Brazilian Chicken Croquettes and Brown Sugar Glazed Baby Carrots.
Offerings: appetizers, side dishes, turkey, dessert. 

*Be sure to call the restaurant directly in advance to place your order! Pre-order dates and pick up times vary. 

Turkey
If you’re up for cooking at home but want to secure a farm fresh turkey check out:

• Outpost Farm turkeys from Holliston, MA provided by Morning Glory Farm
  
• Cleveland/GOOD Farm organically fed turkeys from The Larder
  
• Free Range Misty Knolls Turkey from Menemsha Fish House 
  

 
Sweets
Let’s be honest we’re all in it for the dessert, right? Nothing completes Thanksgiving dinner quite like an expertly prepared pie and Orange Peel Bakery in Aquinnah, Morning Glory Farm in Edgartown, and Pie Chicks in Vineyard Haven have you covered. If it’s fudge your craving Murdick’s Fudge in Edgartown will be open November 23rd to November 30th, plus it makes great holiday gifts! Donut lovers can rejoice in knowing that while the Back Door Donuts bakery has closed for the season they are still accepting holiday pre-orders for their beloved apple fritters, donuts and cakes for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. 
 
Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at Visit Martha’s Vineyard. We hope you enjoy a safe holiday with those closest to you. We’re extra thankful for you this year!