With summer just round the corner it’s a fun time as people are busy planning their annual getaway to the Cape. We have all the usual favorites to think about, our glorious beaches, whalewatching, or biking. However, we thought it would be interesting to look at our favorite lunch spots. Whether you’re looking for a casual or more formal setting, we have included something for everyone.  Cape Cod is home to a number of delicious and amazingly fresh seafood spots,  our only criteria for this review is the restaurant/cafe has to be within 20 minutes to the Inn and must have a water view. The list is in no particular order.

Beachcomber – Wellfleet

The Beachcomber has been voted “One of the Best Seaside Dining Spots in New England” by Yankee Magazine, “Best Raw Bar, Best Outdoor Dining, Best Specialty Cocktail and Best Entertainment” in the Cape Cod Life Readers’ Polls, “Best Bar on the Cape & Islands” by Boston Magazine, one of the “Best Bars in America” by Esquire and #10 on the Travel Channel’s “Twenty-One Sexiest Beach Bars in the World” list. With an outdoor bar overlooking the Atlantic and an indoor bar in the heart of a  former U.S. Lifesaving Station, whether it’s lunch or dinner, it does not get any more authentic than the Wellfleet Beachcomber. Beachcomber is about 20 minutes from the Inn.

Chatham fish pier

A great experience is visiting the Fish Pier between 11.30am and 2pm and watch the local trawlers arrive and unload their catch directly on the pier. It’s fascinating to see the seals swimming around the boats and gulls flying overhead hoping to grab the odd treat falling off the boats.  Order the fish and chips for lunch from the Market, take a bench and take in the environment, the working pier, the beach and sand bar. Memorable!

Sesuit Harbor Cafe

A family owned and operated business in its 18th season! Sesuit Harbor Cafe is the classic Cape Cod clam shack offering outdoor dining overlooking Northside Marina and Cape Cod Bay. Always busy and one of our favorites, order at the counter and grab a picnic table outside. Their lobster roll is a classic to be savored while watching the comings and goings of the busy marina.  The cafe does not have a liquor licence but is happy to allow you to  BYO (bring your own!).  Although our focus is lunch, the Cafe is a great spot to experience the spectacular sunsets. The Cafe is about a 20 minute drive from the Inn down the historic 6A.

Chatham Bars Inn

At The Chatham Bars  Beach House, you’ll find fresh, local “just caught” seafood, classic seaside favorites and sunset clambakes. You must try their cocktails and local craft beer,  all  served in an unforgettable oceanfront setting.  The more formal setting and views are truly spectacular, the service is attentive allowing you to relax and enjoy lunch in the afternoon.  The Beach House is around 15 minutes from the Inn and you’ll drive past the scenic Pleasant Bay on the way.

Wequassett Outer Bar and Grille

Spectacular and somewhat similar views to Chatham Bars, you’ll love the relaxed and informal atmosphere of the Outer Grille.  Chef James Hackney’s lunch menu is light, fresh and delicious. This is a great place to enjoy a cocktail, socialize with friends and take in the views.     Just a 15 minute drive from the Inn.

The Pearl – WellFleet

Make sure you get a table on the upper decks to enjoy the wonderful views of Wellfleet Harbor.  The Pearl is the quintessential Cape Cod seaside restaurant offering a casual and fun experience with, fresh local seafood and raw bar. The locally inspired dishes can be washed down with a great selection of local craft beers, wine, and of course cocktails. The Pearl is about 20 minutes from the Inn heading towards Provincetown.

Lastly we need to reminisce about Liam’s on Nauset Beach.   This institutional clam shack was sadly demolished this spring following a series of strong Nor’Easters that hit the beach over winter and badly damaged the building.  However four permits have been issued for food trucks this summer and an area of picnic tables planned. So although Liam’s is no more, we are looking forward to a fresh approach for lunch and new ideas.  Exciting stuff.

The Parsonage Inn is just minutes from both the ocean and bayside beaches. The Inn is opposite one of the best Farm shops on the Cape, close to gorgeous local gift shops, restaurants and the highly rated Sundae School ice cream . Each of our rooms are individually appointed and we offer a delicious organic breakfast each morning.

Reserve your room today, we look forward to welcoming you to Orleans Cape Cod soon

Parson Brown