8 Best Restaurants in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

A dark, intimate wine bar and restaurant with hardwood floors and richly colored banquette seating, Détente serves more than a dozen wines by the glass as well as numerous half bottles. Even if you're not much of an oenophile, it's worth a trip just for the innovative food, much of it from local farms and seafood purveyors. Owned by a husband and wife, the menu reflects their travels; think of it as Europe-meets-New England on a plate.

High ceilings, exposed beams, and a beautiful stone fireplace make for a warm and light-filled meal. The menu takes advantage of delightfully prepared local and organic products, creating memorable dishes. Everything is made from scratch, with many ingredients culled from their own herb, fruit, and vegetable gardens.

Nothing says 'summer on the island' like slurping local oysters outdoors on a patio, and head chef Joe Monteiro will make sure you have a shucking good time. They aim for a true oyster bar—something the Vineyard was lacking—and they nail it, right down to the reclaimed wood and industrial accents. While glistening oysters are the star of the show, other fresh seafood dishes (that ceviche!), even duck, pack plenty of flavor.

Alchemy aims for a European-chic bistro-style scene and menu, missing only the patina of age—and French working-folks' prices—but you can expect quality and imagination. On balmy evenings, the half-dozen outdoor tables on the candlelit brick patio are highly coveted.

With its ample windows looking out to the serene lagoon, lofted ceilings, and mellow globe lighting held aloft by sturdy ropes, the decor aptly reflects the kitchen's "sea-to-table" theme for its seasonally inspired and locally sourced offerings. Everything is scratch-made, including the baked goods, and the massive bar is a popular spot for dining and cocktails.

This island landmark—part of a mini-complex that includes a general store and a kid's shop—lies just steps from the ferry terminal in Vineyard Haven. The dining room—roaring fireplace, dark-wood walls, maritime memorabilia, and a grand view of the water—makes everyone feel at home; there's additional seating on the patio when the weather allows. Sure, it's touristy---but it's fun.

Michael Brisson has been at the helm of this creative French kitchen since the mid-1980s, yet his dedication to fresh, exquisitely prepared local food remains as fervent as ever. Changing with what's seasonally available, his menu features fresh fish and game; for lighter fare (and less intimidating prices) or to indulge in a fancy martini, head to the stunning copper bar with its sleek leather-backed chairs or the lovely terrace for alfresco dining. No children under age six, please.

The venue has changed, but the spirit hasn't with its "stellar cuisine meets lively bar" vibe. Standing at nearly 6½ feet tall and covered with colorful tattoos, chef--owner Ben Deforest turns out an extraordinary array of dishes—think seared yellowfin tuna in a coconut red curry broth, slow-braised short rib, linguine and clams, or a fried tomato and snow crab salad—in the heart of Oak Bluffs. The service is so friendly, everyone feels like a regular. Whatever else you order, get a plate of crispy Brussels sprouts (or two) for the table.