15 Best Restaurants in Dennis Massachusetts
Getting hungry? Looking for a yummy dining experience in Dennis? Are you vacationing here? Or maybe you just moved here after buying a home in Dennis?
Well let me be your guide.
Having the privilege of spending every summer in Dennis since childhood, and now full-time as an adult, I’ve been given a unique perspective when it comes to what restaurants in Dennis can provide the ultimate dining experience for every and any occasion.
I’ve been able to see restaurants maintain their consistency and flavor over many years while others failed, as well as see new restaurants come in and supply fare that has only improved Dennis as a food destination.
If you’re looking for a classic fried seafood meal, an upscale date spot, or even Asian cuisine–Dennis has it all.
Check out this list below to see where you should eat in Dennis next!
1. Sesuit Harbor Cafe
As an East Dennis resident, I may sound biased when I say that Sesuit Harbor Cafe has some of the best seafood in New England, but I promise it’s worth the trip. The clam shack-styled restaurant is located in Northside Marina and offers fresh food during lunch and dinner, with beautiful views of Cape Cod Bay.
The atmosphere at Sesuit is casual and family-friendly with outdoor, picnic-table seating along the water. It’s a great spot to eat and enjoy the sunset, or to watch boats coming in and out of the marina.
The cafe is known for its “world famous” lobster roll, as well as its fish and chips and fisherman’s platter. When looking for something lighter, my go-to is the garden salad with grilled shrimp or swordfish tips.
If you aren’t a seafood fan, the burgers and steak tips are a great choice. Additionally, there is a kid’s menu with a good amount of options for young ones.
Because Sesuit Harbor Cafe is so popular, be prepared to wait in a sometimes, long line (it’s worth it!). If the place is extremely busy, I suggest having one or two people in your party try and claim a table while others wait in line.
This will not only guarantee you a place to sit once you’ve ordered, but it will also give you more time to check out the raw bar at the back of the building–a perfect spot to get appetizers before your meals arrive.
The raw bar features traditional seafood fares, such as oysters on the half-shell, shrimp cocktail, and clam chowder. Moreover, the raw bar features unique items like sushi oysters, which are topped with ginger, wasabi, and soy sauce. The Oysters Rockefeller and clams casino are also great choices.
The restaurant is BYOB, so pack a cooler and don’t forget your bottle opener! It’s also cash only, but they have an ATM inside. Look at their social media to see when they’re serving breakfast and don’t forget to check out the t-shirts and sweatshirts they sell on your way out!
2. Ocean House
If you’re looking for the ultimate fine-dining experience in Dennis, Ocean House is the place to go. This restaurant has beautiful views overlooking the Nantucket Sound along with 5-star service and food. Inside, you will find a vast dining room with gorgeously set tables and a picturesque view of the ocean through the many windows lining the walls.
Looking at the food (because that’s why we’re really here right?), The Ocean House is a contemporary, elegant restaurant providing American cuisine infused with an Asian flare, inspiring very unique and creative choices. Some exceptional menu choices include the wagyu slider dumplings, the Chilean seabass, and the lobster tagliatelle.
There is also a kids menu for those dining as a family as well as many gluten-free options. Additionally, the staff at Ocean House is extremely professional and accommodating.
While the tone of the restaurant is upscale, there is also seating outside at their beach bar, which is a great spot to enjoy a tiki-themed cocktail or some appetizers, like tuna poke nachos or chilled crab dip. There is also a late-night menu from 10-11 pm if you’re a night owl.
The beach bar even has live entertainment during many nights in the summer, making it a desirable spot to snag a table!
The Ocean House is a very busy and popular spot, so please make reservations well in advance if you want to eat here! They do offer reservable tables and barstools up to 30 days in advance, so you have ample time to plan your visit.
It is also suggested that the attire at Ocean House is casual, but men must wear sleeved shirts, so prepare accordingly!
If you want you want a gourmet culinary experience with breathtaking scenery, Ocean House is worth checking out!
3. Oyster Company Raw Bar & Grille
Located in Dennisport, Oyster Company Raw Bar & Grille is another restaurant I’ve grown up eating at and always enjoyed. The atmosphere is cozy and beach casual, while the food is elegant and elevated in flavor.
Whether you’re one of the many locals enjoying a meal, or a tourist in town on vacation, the staff is incredibly welcoming and attentive. The head chef and owner even spends much of his time at his oyster farm in Quivet Neck, making sure the restaurant always has fresh oysters!
There is seating inside their dining room, as well as at their full-service bar, and outside in the adorable patio area. This place is known for its amazing selection of specialty martinis and margaritas–my personal choice usually being the Cape Cod Margarita, which features their housemade cranberry margarita mix.
The restaurant serves dinner and lunch on the weekends. They also have their “Raw Deal” which offers Quivet Neck oysters ½ off, every day until 6:30 p.m. If you don’t want oysters on the half shell, Oyster Company has a variety of raw bar options.
As someone who enjoys some heat, the spicy littlenecks are one of my favorites. I also suggest the seafood tower if you want to try a little bit of everything.
Looking at the entree menu some of the standouts include the sashimi-grade yellowfin tuna, the Portuguese paella, and the lazy-man lobster, which comes stuffed with crab meat and topped with lobster sherry sauce.
You also can take your pick from their specials menu. And, if you still have room for dessert, the Kahula Espresso creme brulee is creamy and luxurious.
As a family-friendly restaurant, there is a kid’s menu too, which has plenty of enjoyable options.
I do recommend making a reservation if you plan to eat at The Oyster Company on the weekend, as it can get busy during the Summer!
4. Scargo Cafe
Scargo Cafe is an upscale, intimate spot offering lunch and dinner year-round. The place itself is inside a traditional colonial-style house-turned-restaurant.
Because of its house setting, there is a plethora of seating in different areas: the patio, the covered deck, the fireplace-adorned dining room, or the large, full-service bar. I especially recommend sitting in the bar area if you want a more casual, lively atmosphere for your dinner. However, the staff in every section of the restaurant is equally professional and attentive.
In addition to the vast cocktail menu, the restaurant has a wide variety of beers on tap and wines by the glass. For appetizers, I suggest arugula salad, crab cakes, or tavern wings. If you’re looking for a healthy meal, the Budda bowl is a great choice that also tastes amazing.
My top pick for dinner is the grilled swordfish which is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. In addition, for those dining as a family, there is a kids menu. Scargo offers a New England classic for dessert: grape nut custard, which is nutty and rich with flavor.
Scargo Cafe is generally a busy spot, even during the week, so I do advise diners to make a reservation. There is also curbside pick-up for anyone who desires to eat at home!
5. Grumpys
Grumpys is a popular family-owned breakfast and lunch joint located along 6A in East Dennis. This place has been my family’s go-to spot for as long as I can remember. The environment is casual with plenty of tables, counter seating, and one of the nicest waitstaff I’ve ever experienced.
Their large menu has an abundance of choices for anyone craving a homestyle breakfast or lunch and their specials board always has new things to try.
Some of their standouts include the blueberry coconut french toast, many different Egg Benedicts, and the oatmeal waffle–which has always been my personal favorite. The from-scratch corn beef hash is a delicious side choice. There is even unlimited coffee to enjoy during your meal.
For lunch, I suggest the turkey club or the Reuben. I also encourage you to grab some of their homemade muffins on your way out!
Grumpys is open 7 days a week from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. There are usually lines out the door during the Summer, but the staff is very efficient at seating people and the line tends to move pretty quickly! The food also comes out fast–so you’re never waiting too long!
6. Kream N’ Kone
Kream N’ Kone is one of the more casual restaurants on this list, but it has some of the freshest fried food around. Located in West Dennis, this place is counter order and seat yourself.
There are tables inside and outside on their deck which sits along Swan Pond River. The atmosphere is relaxed and simple, making it perfect for a family lunch or dinner.
Kream N’ Kone has one of my favorite clam chowders in Dennis and a wide array of fried seafood plates with generous portions.
The fried clam bellies are particularly well-known. If you aren’t in the mood for seafood, their cheeseburger is tasty and their onion rings are homemade, light, and flaky. For dessert, they have an ice cream menu offering frappes and several soft-serve flavors.
Depending on when you decide to dine at Kream N’ Kone, there can be a line out the door, but I’ve found it moves quickly and never had an issue getting a table!
7. The Rooftop at Pelham House Resort
The Rooftop at Pelham House Resort is another picturesque, waterfront spot in Dennisport. This restaurant is located within the Pelham House Resort itself, a gorgeous hotel set right over the Nantucket Sound.
The restaurant has beautiful aesthetics as well as indoor and outdoor seating along its rooftop deck. The roof is also heated, so if it’s a chilly night, there’s no need to worry!
There is a huge selection of draft beers, most of which are local options. The signature cocktail menu is equally vast, with one-of-a-kind drinks, like the kiwi margarita and rhubarb old-fashioned.
The food at The Rooftop is unique and the menu changes often, as the chefs tend to focus on seasonal ingredients. It’s usually suggested that diners split a few “small plates” between their party, so that everyone can try some of everything.
I advise trying the fried artichoke hearts or the jumbo lump crab cake. Looking at the “large plates,” there are vegan alternatives, such as the stuffed poblano peppers. However, my order of choice is easily the day boat scallops or chicken parmesan when I’m not craving seafood.
The Rooftop offers breakfast on the weekends, lunch five days a week, and dinner seven days a week. Definitely make a reservation for dinner!
8. Gina’s by the Sea
Gina’s by the Sea is a quaint seaside restaurant offering classic Italian dishes in a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Gina’s has been serving gourmet dinners Thursday through Sunday for over 65 years. Honestly, it’s quite legendary to those who know it and I promise, it’s worth knowing.
The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating. There are daily specials in addition to their regular menu. Meals also come with a side salad, featuring their homemade dressing–which I really would love a bottle of to bring home.
I usually struggle to decide between the shrimp scampi or the veal milanese, but the eggplant parmesan is also very popular. I also suggest placing an order of garlic bread for the table!
Gina’s does not accept reservations, so you may have to wait a bit to be seated. However, this “old cape” spot is located only steps from Mayflower and Bayview beaches, so feel free to stroll and watch the sunset while you await your table.
If you don’t feel like leaving the restaurant, mingle in their charming bar area and enjoy a cocktail!
Lastly, for dessert, their famous chocolate rum cake is a must-try!
9. Fin
Fin is a fine-dining restaurant and another of my family’s go-to spots! This restaurant boasts elevated seafood dishes, while always using sustainable and local ingredients.
There is seating inside (both downstairs and upstairs) as well as outside on the patio, which has heat lamps placed liberally throughout in case it’s a cool night. The quaint bar inside also has some seating and is the perfect spot to sit if you wish to take part in Fin’s happy hour from 5-6 pm.
The menu at Fin does change quite often because the chef uses such local and seasonal ingredients. I suggest ordering something from their raw bar to start your meal, which has notable choices, like the white sturgeon caviar or yellowfin tuna tartare.
Moreover, the luxurious and creamy oyster chowder is the perfect starter for your dinner if you want something hot! I also encourage anyone feeling adventurous to try the lobster doughnut (just trust me).
When it comes to ordering an entree, Fin always has amazing specials, which admittedly I tend to order, especially if it’s any kind of fish. However, if you want to choose something off the regular menu, the swordfish is always delicious, as well as the salmon.
While I have seen kids eating here, the place is on the smaller side and the menu is very sophisticated, so I would consider it a better option for a date night or a place to enjoy a meal with friends. While the restaurant does provide upscale dining, it always remains unpretentious and warm due to the kind and attentive staff.
Ultimately, Fin is a place I always recommend to those staying in the Dennis area! Make sure you book a reservation!
10. The Marshside
Marshside is an institution for anyone who lives in East Dennis. I first ate at Marshside when I was four or five years old and remember fondly how the owners had toys and dolls for children to play with while their families waited for a table.
And now–when I go to Marshside as an adult it warms my heart to see that there are still toys and games for kids to use in the waiting area. This place is the definition of warm and family-friendly and the owners are extremely kind!
The restaurant itself is beautiful and located over Sesuit Creek, offering panoramic views of the marsh through the many windows wrapped around the building.
The dining room features high-beamed ceilings and a large bar with TVs along one side. The bar is a great spot to sit if you want to catch the latest Red Sox game and take part in their extensive happy hour, which runs Monday through Thursday 3 pm- 8 pm and Sunday from 11:30 am to 8 pm and has both food and drink options.
There is also newer seating outside on their deck!
The menu at Marshside offers an abundance of choices, but the first thing you’ll receive upon being seated is a basket of their amazing bread for the table–which they even let you bag up and take home if you desire to!
For appetizers, I highly endorse the clam chowder as one of the best in the area. It is creamy, rich, and flavorful. They also have an array of sandwich options from burgers to their Cape Cod Reuben which is made with beer-battered haddock instead of the traditional corn beef.
Marshside also offers a “Prix Fixe Menu” Sunday through Thursday for $45 a person. This comes with a cocktail, an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert. And of course, they have a kid’s menu!
Check out Marshside for a casual, family-fun time with beautiful views and friendly staff!
11. Lost Dog Pub
Lost Dog Pub is a cozy yet lively spot for families and sports fans alike seeking pub-style dining. This is another restaurant I’ve been eating at for many years and everything about the atmosphere remains consistent and the food, is just as tasty.
There’s plenty of beer on tap and a great bar with TVs and an energetic crowd at night. The staff here is extremely friendly and hardworking, adding to the upbeat environment.
The restaurant itself has a vast menu featuring its pizza, of which the dough is made from scratch. A gluten-free crust is also available. The specialty pizza options like surf and turf or shrimp scampi make for a fun and tasty experience.
The menu also has a lot of comfort food options, like steak and cheese or chicken parmesan. The kid’s menu has enjoyable choices for youngins!
There are daily specials and you can also order takeout to be picked up by the bar.
Lunch at Lost Dog is served from 11:30 am to 3 pm and they do not take reservations, it’s first come first serve!
12. Thai Ocha Cafe
Thai Ocha Cafe offers authentic Thai food for lunch and dinner. Located in Dennisport, this spot has truly delicious and tasteful cuisine. Thai Ocha has one of my favorite pad Thai dishes and the Tom Yum soup has incredibly deep and layered flavors.
There are also many vegetarian options throughout the menu. And, for most menu items, you are able to customize the spice level, from one to five, five being the hottest. I love spicy, but I never go about a three or a four, and the four is only if I’m feeling especially daring.
For dessert, I really suggest any of the options that come with their coconut ice cream. Whether that is the fried banana or the sticky rice–both are delicious. If you want a drink to go, the Thai iced tea is also very yummy!
Thai Ocha Cafe also provides lunch specials Monday through Friday from 11 am to 3 pm that are worth checking out.
An important thing to note about this restaurant: it is take-out only! Patrons must call ahead to order and you will be given a time you can pick up your food. I recommend calling a few hours ahead if you want to be able to request a specific pick-up time, as their orders and times tend to fill up quickly!
I promise this place is worth the effort, it is some of the best Thai food I’ve ever had. Seriously. It’s that good.
13. Captain Frosty’s
Captain Frosty’s is a classic clam shack in Dennis with a 50s vibe and beachy decor. The restaurant itself is counter-order and seat yourself–inside or outside. The atmosphere here is very casual and family-friendly.
Located only a short drive from Mayflower Beach, this is a great place to stop for dinner or lunch on your way home!
This place has awesome fried seafood, from their fish and chips to homemade ‘clam cakes’ which are reminiscent of hush puppies.
Nevertheless, if you aren’t in the mood for fried food, the grilled scallop bowl or Caesar salad topped with your choice of protein are delicious, heartier alternatives. There is a small kid’s menu, but the regular menu also offers burgers, hot dogs, and grilled cheese.
The outside window on the side of Captain Frosty’s provides you access to order dessert at their dairy bar. There, you can take your pick between their classic soft serve flavors, those of which can be dunked in cherry or chocolate dip if you desire. They also offer frappes, flurries, ice cream floats, and their famous orange freeze!
Stop by Captain Frosty’s if you’re looking for fresh seafood fare at a casual, family joint.
14. The Pheasant
The Pheasant is an American restaurant with a French flair that only uses ingredients from local farms. This makes the menu exciting and ever-changing, as the place uses whatever is fresh and in season at the time.
However, It is clear from the menu options that the chef is unafraid to take risks in order to provide a unique culinary experience.
Because the food menu changes so often, it’s difficult to try and recommend a specific dish, in case it isn’t there if you try the Pheasant out for yourself. However, if the brick chicken is available, I would highly recommend ordering that! They also have ridiculously delicious salads with a homemade dressing that will honestly make you forget you are even eating a salad.
There also is a “living wine list” inside the restaurant with a rotating selection of specially chosen wines, as well as a large craft beer and cocktail menu.
The restaurant has a lovely, old-fashioned antique feel, with dark wood and a burning woodstove. The ambience is cozy and warm with additional seating at the bar or outside.
The Pheasant definitely feels more appropriate for an intimate romantic date or small group dinner. This place is a bit pricy, but it’s completely worth it if you want to treat yourself to a fantastic and special experience.
Make sure you book a reservation, The Pheasant stays busy!
15. The Red Nun Bar & Grill
The Red Nun Bar & Grill is a fun, lively spot perfect for anyone looking for a great burger, a great beer, or a family-friendly place to bring the kids. Located in Dennisport, The Red Nun offers high-quality pub-style lunch and dinner in a casual yet modern setting.
There is a lot of table seating as well as a large wooden bar that is full service and gives you perfect access to watch the latest game. The drink menu features an extensive draft beer selection, which is viewable online, as well as many specialty cocktails.
The food menu is sizable, especially the unique variety of burgers. The Thai burger is distinctive and flavorful–as well as topped with peanut butter.
If you’re into spicy food like me, the fire and ice burger comes topped with ghost pepper cheddar, which admittedly might cause some sniffles, but is totally worth it in my opinion. Every burger also comes as a turkey or veggie burger, allowing those who don’t desire to eat red meat to feel included.
Furthermore, there are yummy non-burger choices. Particularly, the fish sandwich and kale Caesar salad, which as a person who never got on the kale train, was genuinely blown away by.
The restaurant also has a kid’s menu and a list of daily specials, which can be found written on the chalkboard over the bar.
If you feel like dining in, takeout is available. But in my experience, Red Nun is a place you want to appreciate in person. There are even fun events on occasion, like trivia night and live music!
