Whether you’re in the mood for mouth-watering fried seafood, an elegant dining experience with high-end cuisine, or simply a delicious, Instagrammable-latte, Orleans has it all. With an endless variety of dining options, Orleans is a hidden jewel food-destination on the Lower Cape.
Start your weekend of indulgence with lunch at Sir Cricket’s Fish ‘N Chips, because fresh, scrumptious seafood is the reason you came to Cape Cod in the first place, right? The food is moderately-priced, and the menu features several varieties of seafood rolls, English-style fish and chips, fried seafood plates, chowders, and more. The restaurant is located right next to their fish market, Nauset Fish & Lobster, so you know what you’re eating is fresh.
Burn off the calories from lunch with a mile-and-a-half walk to Hog Island Beer Co. Sit back and relax while enjoying craft beer flights or play games such as shuffleboard, ping pong, and foosball. A jumbo-sized “Connect Four” game and a giant Jenga set can keep the kids entertained, too. The brewery also features an outdoor space with picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, and lawn games, so you can soak up the sun while sipping on your favorite beer. Choose from available beers including White Shark Wheat, Far Out Stout, Pig Pen Pharmhouse, and Moon Snail Pale Ale.
For an elegant dining experience for a romantic night out, you don’t want to miss a visit to Captain Linnell House. This historic mansion was built by captain and inventor Ebenezer Linnell in 1840. While this gorgeous building is well-known as a wedding and rehearsal dinner venue, the restaurant serves dinner nightly starting at 5pm. Highlights of Chef and Owner Bill Conway’s menu include bourbon lobster bisque, roasted duckling, and a bouillabaisse (a traditional French fish stew) composed of fresh seafood in a saffron scented broth.
If you aren’t into fancy fare, mingle with Orleans locals at Land Ho!, a pub serving up delicious seafood, salads, and various entrees. The menu features an extensive beer and wine list. For the party animals, Land Ho! has late night selections of appetizers and burgers served until 11pm.
Wake up the next day and kick off another day of foodie adventures at Hot Chocolate Sparrow, The Original Coffee & Chocolate Bar of Orleans. A destination in itself, Hot Chocolate Sparrow is part coffee shop, part candy store, and part bakery, and it’s worth taking a couple of hours to explore the wide assortment of decadent treats. Recognized as “The Best on the Lower Cape,” Hot Chocolate Sparrow’s wide array of chocolate and fudge is sent all over the country. Munch on a handcrafted breakfast sandwich while sipping on one of the many mochas, like the Caramel Mocha Turtle made with whipped cream and caramel drizzle (perfect for Instagram!). Buy decadent treats such as Chocolate Truffle Mousse, Sticky Toffee Pudding, or Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake.
Before you leave the Cape, make sure to end your foodie weekend with a waterfront meal. Surprisingly, restaurants with waterfront views on the Cape can be hard to find. But Lisa Simundson, writer of Truly Orleans magazine, recommends Orleans Waterfront Inn. The restaurant, re-opening for the season on May 17th, features deck stunning views of Nauset Harbor.
- By Ettractions Digital Content Coordinator, PAULA ALVARADO
Massachusetts: Boston
Other States: Connecticut Maine Massachusetts New Hampshire Rhode Island
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