15 Best Restaurants in Harwich Massachusetts
Looking for a place to eat in Harwich? Are you vacationing here? Or maybe you just moved to the Cape after buying a home in Harwich?
Either way, I’m here to be your guide!
Harwich Massachusetts is another picturesque Cape Cod town filled with boutique shops, gorgeous beaches, and amazing cuisine.
As a kid, visiting Main Street in Harwich was one of my favorite things to do in the Summer. Admittedly, this was mostly because I really liked going to Dr. Gravity’s Kite Shop as a child, but also because of the food.
As an adult, this is even more true. Harwich’s cuisine has only grown since I was younger, and while some classic gems still thrive and amaze me, there are tons of new restaurants that are worth checking out as well!
If you’re hungry and in the Harwich area, check out these restaurants below!
1. Cape Sea Grille
Cape Sea Grille is an upscale Harwich Port spot serving new American cuisine and local seafood inside a 19th-century sea captain’s home.
The restaurant has a refined, elegant atmosphere while still being warm and cheery, and the quaint style of the house it resides in adds to that warm “Cape” feeling. The dining room tables feature white linens and are candle lit.
There is also seating at the bar and in the indoor porch area, which has large windows that give diners views of the street. If you plan to start your meal with an adult beverage, the kiwi Aperol spritz is tasty and unique. There is also a specialty mocktail option if you don’t want to indulge!
The menu at Cape Sea Grille is often changing with what’s fresh and in season and it’s clear from the beautiful flair and presentation of the plating just how much care is put into each dish.
For appetizers, the crispy duck confit is absolutely delectable, tender, and savory. The housemade pork pate is a hearty flavorful choice. The chilled summer gazpacho is another great option that is bright and refreshing on a hot day.
For entrees, the seared sea scallops are velvety and cooked to perfection. The flat iron steak is a great choice for anyone craving red meat–and it comes with a potato cake that is amazing.
For vegetarians and vegans, the summer vegetable stew is loaded with fresh veggies and a delicate garlic broth.
The menu also has many shareable sides, like the creamed spinach and mac and cheese.
If you still have room for dessert, try the unbeatable flourless chocolate cake or warm pecan tart!
The restaurant serves dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 5 pm to 9 pm and reservations are highly recommended.
Also–when you make a reservation, make sure to specify if you want to sit inside the dining room or on the porch!
Lastly, I would personally consider Cape Sea Grille to be a spot better enjoyed without the kids, as there is no kid’s menu and the food options are quite sophisticated!
2. Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse
Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse is a very special experience that makes diners feel transported to Italy as soon as they walk inside. The Tuscan-themed spot serves high-end Italian cuisine in a cozy, intimate environment furnished with gorgeous wine-barrel decor and red-checkered table clothes along with low lighting.
These intentional choices made by Buca’s owners enhance the romantic ambiance for customers.
Buca’s has seating inside their dining room, as well as some outdoor seating. There are also spots at their bar, which has a TV showing scenic clips of the Amalfi Coast.
The food and beverage menus are both extensive, and the waitstaff is incredibly knowledgeable and great for giving recommendations, especially with the wine list!
When it comes to the food itself at Buca, there is a lot to discuss. Your meal will start with delicious homemade bread that is very much worth indulging in.
For an appetizer, I urge you to try the Carciofi Ripieni, which are prosciutto-wrapped, grilled artichoke hearts with gorgonzola, mascarpone, and balsamic. These are absolutely amazing, and I say this as someone who is not exactly in love with artichokes.
The grilled romaine salad is another starter that lives up to expectations.
For entrees, the veal scallopini is crisp, and flavorful, and can be ordered with a red wine or white wine sauce. If you want seafood, the pan-fried sole is melt-in-your-mouth and comes with fresh pappardelle pasta.
Furthermore, Buca serves Italian classics like chicken or eggplant parmesan. There are also nightly specials and there are plenty of menu options for kids if you want to bring the whole family!
For dessert, the Profiteroles–cream puffs with chocolate sauce are light and so, so yummy. The tiramisu and luxurious chocolate Italian wedding cake are other sweet choices.
Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse serves dinner seven days a week from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The restaurant is quite busy, so reservations are recommended. These can be made online or over the phone.
You can also order takeout online, but I highly suggest eating in the restaurant if you want the full experience!
3. George’s Pizza House
George’s Pizza House is my number one, absolute favorite pizza spot on the Cape. The restaurant has been owned and operated by the same family for 52 years.
It also sits along Main Street in Harwich Port, making it the perfect spot to grab a slice in between perusing the local stores. George’s is a very casual, counter-order spot that is perfect for families.
I have many fond memories of going to George’s as a young kid, drinking grape soda with my brother (back when I liked grape soda), and awaiting my pizza!
Speaking of pizza, lets talk about George’s.
The crust is slightly thicker and the pies themselves are always hot, fresh, and crispy. There are specialty pizzas like the Mediterranean or the Kimopita pizza, which is topped with homemade meat sauce and cheese.
If you don’t want a specialty pizza, there are plenty of toppings to build your own pizza–my go-to at George’s is usually sausage, onion, and green pepper!
Additionally, during lunchtime, cheese and pepperoni slices are available.
If you aren’t craving pizza, the restaurant offers pasta, grinders, salads, calzones, and sides like cheesy garlic bread and onion rings. The steak bomb and meatball subs are both extremely flavorful and delicious. The Greek salad at George’s is also one of my favorites.
George’s is usually pretty busy, but the staff is always hard at work and the wait never feels too long. The restaurant does offer delivery if you live in the Harwich area, as well as take-out for everyone.
There are also seat-yourself tables inside as well as a few benches out front if you want to eat while enjoying the charming hustle and bustle of Main Street.
If you want to try, what I consider, a Cape Cod institution, make sure to add George’s Pizza House to your restaurant list!
4. Twenty-eight Atlantic
Twenty-eight Atlantic is a high-end restaurant located within Wequassett Resort & Golf Club. The place has floor-to-ceiling windows that give jaw-dropping views of the sunset over Pleasant Bay.
Offering both breakfast and dinner daily, twenty-eight Atlantic is ideal for a fun romantic date night when you feel excited about dressing up!
The dining experience at twenty-eight Atlantic is quite formal, allowing patrons to choose between a three-course pre-fixe menu or a seven-course tasting menu (pricy, but worth it).
You can also choose to add a fixed wine pairing with the seven-course meal. Some standouts within the menu include the rich and delectable lobster carbonara, the black cod (my favorite), and the foie gras trifle.
For dessert, the coconut panna cotta is creamy and even comes with a refreshing pina colada sorbet.
Reservations are highly suggested at twenty-eight Atlantic as it’s a very popular spot for diners seeking a formal meal. If you end up having to wait, there are fire pits with comfy chairs outside, overlooking the tranquil water views!
If you have plans to treat yourself to a gorgeous, upscale meal, definitely consider twenty-eight Atlantic a strong contender!
5. Mooncusser’s Tavern Inn & Restaurant
Mooncusser’s Tavern Inn & Restaurant serves up plenty of cocktails, tapas, and entrees in a lively yet relaxing atmosphere. The lighting is romantic and the decor is elegant but casual.
The ambiance at Mooncusser is incredibly warm, inviting, and down to earth. There is seating in the dining room, or in the adjacent ‘tavern’ area near the bar where some high-top tables are located as well.
Even more, there is seating outside on their patio!
The drinks at Mooncusser’s Tavern are certainly a standout. There is a vast martini menu with choices like a spicy dirty martini and a pear martini. The wine list is also extensive and there are many local beers on tap.
If you plan to split some tapas between your table, I insist you try the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), which are tangy and filled with flavor. The elote and local lobster dip is another dish that is fun to share!
For entrees, I suggest the Limoncello lobster pasta, which is rich and full of flavor. If you’re wanting a burger, Mooncusser’s is the place to fulfill that craving, as they arguably have one of the best burgers on the Cape.
Their Original Mooncusser’s Burger is topped with a fried duck egg, bacon jam, and Havarti–and it’s ridiculously delicious. There is also the Flower Power burger, which uses Beyond Meat, providing a plant-based alternative.
Mooncusser even has a featured nightly burger special in addition to their regular specials, so make sure to ask your server!
If you still have room for dessert, definitely warm molten chocolate cake, which is honestly heavenly and luscious.
While Mooncusser can accommodate kids, they do not have a children’s menu. And, given the vibe of the place, I would consider it more of an ‘adult’s night out’ type of spot.
The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 pm and does accept reservations!
6. Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen
Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen is a casual, modern, and cheerful spot offering craft beers, cocktails, and local favorites with a twist.
The restaurant itself is warm and has tables inside as well as seating at the bar.
Although, I think the true essence of Mad Minnow is expressed when you walk outside and see the outdoor dining area. A large white tent with string lights is set up over picnic tables, along with cornhole, fire pits, and outdoor couches.
There is even an outdoor beer garden with selections on tap and wines available. If you’re craving a refreshing cocktail, try the dark and stormy, which is topped with a housemade popsicle.
For an appetizer, I suggest trying the tuna cannoli, which is filled with fresh poke-style tuna, citrus, and sriracha aioli. The clam chowder is also a good starter if you want something a bit more filling.
Looking at entrees, there are many options for every type of craving. From rigatoni bolognese to lobster rolls to the shrimp and crab cake po boy–everyone will have their needs met.
I recommend trying Mad Minnow’s take on a ‘Filet-O-Fish’ which comes with cornflake-crusted cod and housemade tartar sauce on a brioche bun.
Furthermore, a gluten-free menu is available.
The restaurant does not accept reservations, so it’s first come first serve at Mad Minnow, but it’s worth the wait! Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen does have a kid’s menu and with all of the activities in their outdoor area, it surely is a great spot to bring the family!
7. Villa Roma
Villa Roma is a Cape Cod staple for anyone craving classic Italian food in a fine-dining setting. The restaurant has been open for over twenty years and has a very “North End Boston” vibe that is cozy and dimly lit.
The tables are a bit close together, but that only adds to the authentic, intimate vibe–and it never feels overly crowded. Additionally, there is outdoor seating in the patio area as well as seats at the fully-stocked bar.
The service at Villa Roma is exceptional, with attentive and helpful waitstaff.
Your meal will begin with a yummy serving of fresh bread and butter. If you plan to have an appetizer, the Italian Wedding Soup is absolutely amazing.
I also recommend the chicken marsala or alfredo for an entree, both of which have greatly generous portions.
However. Villa Roma is also known for its homemade lasagna.
Additionally, the restaurant has nightly specials, which can be found on the front page of its website. For dessert, the housemade tiramisu is incredible, rich, and melts in your mouth.
I would definitely make reservations if you plan to dine here, and while the place does technically welcome children, there is no kids menu and it is much more suited for a romantic evening or a kid-free, adult-only evening.
Overall, Villa Roma is a gem that should be known to all on the Cape looking for a relaxing Italian meal!
8. Outer Bar + Grille
Outer Bar + Grille is another lovely spot located within the Wequassett Resort & Golf Club. The restaurant overlooks Pleasant Bay and promotes an open-air atmosphere, as displayed by its large outdoor deck.
The indoor decor is chic, modern, and beachy, with additional views of the pool below. The deck also has canopies to shade outdoor seating while still allowing you to enjoy the wonderful ocean breeze.
The staff at Outer Bar and Grille is especially personable and knowledgeable of the wine list and able to make suggestions for what specialty cocktail to try (I’d go for the toasted coconut margarita, but that’s just me!).
There are also mocktails and non-alcoholic beers available.
The food at Outer Bar + Grille promotes local seafood cuisine with creative twists. For starters, the raw bar offers fresh choices like shrimp, oysters, and their luxurious caviar flight.
If you want something vibrant and bright, the menu has a variety of poke bowls and salads to choose from. For more traditional fare, try the lobster roll or one of their pizzas–they even have a pizza topped with shaved potato and caramelized onion!
If you want to indulge a little extra, try the beach dog–topped with mac and cheese and bacon. And for dessert, don’t miss out on the brownie sundae or NY-style cheesecake.
For vegetarians, there is a tofu poke bowl as well as a chickpea shawarma dish and a cauliflower steak alternative!
The restaurant does accept reservations, which are recommended. However, if you do end up having to wait for a table, take a stroll to the beach or the docks!
The Grille serves lunch from 11:30 to 3 pm and dinner until 10 pm daily! Moreover, there is a kid’s menu with plenty of choices.
Finally, don’t be deterred that Outer Bar + Grille is located within a resort and golf club–it’s welcome to everyone, not just those staying at the Inn or golfing!
While the restaurant is a bit pricy, it’s totally worth it to treat yourself to a meal here!
Lastly, check their social media to see if they have live entertainment going on before you visit!
9. Red River BBQ
Good BBQ is a cuisine difficult to find among Cape Cod’s well-known seafood fare, but Red River BBQ has proven to be the spot for real, authentic BBQ cuisine.
Serving lunch and dinner from 11:30 am to 8 pm, the restaurant sports a cozy ambiance with cowboy-ish decor and a casual vibe.
Red River has seating in the dining room and at their gorgeous wooden bar.
The staff at Red River is clearly experienced and very hardworking, and the chef works closely with local farmers to source fresh ingredients, which is proven through the quality of the food.
The menu has a wide array of small plates, large plates, sides, and a changing nightly selection of desserts.
For small plates, the hush puppies and fried green tomatoes are both amazing. If you want a lighter appetizer, the watermelon and cojita cheese salad is vibrant and yummy.
For large plates, the brisket is tender and smoky and the rack of ribs falls off the bone. Each large plate also comes with a generous portion and includes cornbread, coleslaw, and your choice of side, whether that’s cheddar mac and cheese or cowboy beans!
If you aren’t craving one of their larger plates, the restaurant also offers items like juicy smash burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, and pulled pork shoulder sandwiches.
Red River even has menu offerings like fish and chips and their crispy shrimp basket if you do want seafood!
Red River BBQ is also a great place to dine if you’re looking for some entertainment! There is live music Tuesdays and Fridays as well as events every so often like Trivia Night.
Additionally, Thursday night is smoked prime rib night, so make sure to arrive early while the meat lasts, because trust me–it actually melts in your mouth.
BBQ is one of my favorite cuisines and Red River does not disappoint! Certainly, check this place out if you need a seafood break or have a BBQ craving!
10. The Lanyard Bar & Grill
The Lanyard Bar & Grill is a spot I have frequented many times over the years.
The restaurant has lunch and dinner, serving classic American food along with seafood fare and an amazing selection of craft beers.
The Lanyard vibes are casual and pub-esque, with classic decor and walls adorned with various signs and memorabilia.
While there is plenty of seating inside, there is also ample space at the bars in and outdoors, as well as tables on the patio. If you’re looking to catch a game, try snagging a seat at the bar!
The food at the Lanyard is tavern styled while still including quintessential seafood classics. I usually start with the loaded nachos or smoked chicken wings, along with one of their delicious cocktails.
The Cape Cod Reuben is a tasty lunch choice, featuring crispy cod instead of the usual corn beef. Lanyard also has great burgers and a veggie burger alternative.
If you want a traditional seafood dish, the stuffed quahogs and fish and chips are amazing if available.
The Lanyard has nightly specials, which are usually posted on their Facebook page if you wish to check them out prior to your visit.
They also have a kid’s menu and are very family-friendly! There is even outdoor live music some nights.
Check out The Lanyard Bar & Grill if you want to enjoy a casual, fun meal in a relaxing and welcoming environment!
11. Hot Stove Saloon
Hot Stove Saloon is an exciting, lively spot located in Harwich Port Village. The restaurant is a sports-pub-styled place adorned with vintage baseball decor and thirteen flat-screen TVs, providing assurance that you won’t miss your team playing.
Hot Stove Saloon is a cozy spot perfect for a fun night out or lunch and dinner with the family. The friendly staff even offers a complimentary handful of baseball cards to kids as they look over the children’s menu!
There are two bars within the saloon, as well as a dining room area. The bars are fully stocked with beers on tap and a lengthy wine list. The food at Hot Stove Saloon can be described as elevated ball-park food with Cape Cod flare.
For starters, the homemade potato chips are crisp and salty and the chili is packed with flavor. You can also get an order of their delicious chicken wings, which have unique sauce choices, like pesto parmesan and teriyaki.
If you want pizza, the Saloon’s thin-crust style pies are crisp and topped with their housemade tomato sauce. You can also substitute gluten-free crust upon request!
For entrees, look out for the daily specials! Additionally, looking at the regular menu, the steak tip dinner is flavor-filled and the baked cod with Ritz cracker crust is delectable.
My go-to is the cod tacos, for something refreshing and light!
If you want dessert, snag a rootbeer float and soak in the nostalgia!
Hot Stove Saloon does not take reservations but they do have a happy hour! They are also open from 11:30 am to 1 am!
12. Brax Landing
Brax Landing is a spot well-known to most who’ve spent any time in Harwich. The restaurant is located on Saquatucket Harbor, giving patrons a lovely water view.
The large outdoor deck has plenty of tables for anyone wanting to enjoy the scenery (try to get a seat outside if you’re eating during the sunset–it’s gorgeous!).
There is also ample seating at the bar and tables indoors, surrounded by the rustic, nostalgic decor that lines Brax Landing’s walls.
Brax has a large selection of craft beers on tap and a huge cocktail menu with many frozen drinks, like the Brax Pina Colada, which I highly recommend!
When it comes to food, there are daily specials offered and a good kid’s menu for the young ones. The regular menu itself is quite substantial.
Really, anything you would hope to be good at a casual Cape Cod spot is good at Brax. From the lobster rolls to the burgers to the oysters, all of the food is fresh and delicious.
Whether you want a whole steamed lobster with melted butter or a full rack of baby-back ribs, Brax Landing has you covered!
Personally, I recommended trying their fish and chips or crab cake sandwich if you have a seafood craving!
Brax Landing is open seven days a week from 11:30 am to 1 am, making it a great spot for lunch, dinner, or some late-night fun! They also offer brunch on Sundays and sometimes have deals where burgers and appetizers are half-priced!
The restaurant does not accept reservations, and there can sometimes be a wait for dinner, but in my experience, the staff is pretty efficient at moving the wait along.
But if you do have to wait, there is a beautiful fire pit with chairs right over the harbor, perfect for sitting and sipping on a pre-dinner cocktail.
Head to Brax Landing if you want a casual, fun, family-friendly experience filled with good food and yummy drinks!
13. 400 East
400 East is another clean, casual spot with a tavern vibe that is perfect for a family lunch or dinner. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, offering American comfort food and local seafood cuisine.
There is ample seating within the restaurant’s dining room as well as at their full-service TV-filled bar. 400 East is very family-friendly and accommodating to larger parties of diners. The staff is also very friendly and kind!
400 East has fresh ground burgers with fun options like the Tennessee BBQ burger or the cheesy patty melt.
Additionally, the menu has salads, sandwiches, seafood, and grilled thin-crust pizza, which can be made with a cauliflower crust! If you want an appetizer, the buffalo wings are spicy and well-cooked.
Personally, I have enjoyed the Cobb salad as well as the salmon burger. And, if it’s not too hot of a day, the French onion soup is one of the best I’ve ever had.
The restaurant is also known for its perfectly crisp french fries, which I can attest, are delicious.
Furthermore, 400 East has a great kid’s menu and daily specials, which can be found posted on the restaurant’s website!
While 400 East does not accept reservations, they do have call-ahead seating!
14. 3 Monkeys Street Bar + Kitchen
3 Monkeys Street Bar + Kitchen is a unique, modern spot serving a combo of East Asian, Japanese, and American-styled cuisine right on Main Street in Harwich Port.
The restaurant promotes an “open air” concept along with quirky decor, and brightly painted, fun, graffiti-esque walls that add to the dining experience.
There is outdoor seating on the patio, tables inside, and two bars! The drinks are tiki-inspired and umbrella-clad, contributing to the overall vibe of the place.
The beverage menu has an extensive Japanese whiskey list, as well as many frozen classics, draft beers, and sake. I personally would go for the Monkey Mai Thai or Ninja Punch!
Looking at 3 Monkey’s food offerings, the menu has a wide variety of choices. From ramen to bao buns, to pad thai, to sushi, there are options for every craving.
For starters, I suggest the popcorn shrimp or edamame. For your main meal, I recommend the salmon poke bowl or spicy tuna cucumber roll. Their California Roll also features real blue crab (not imitation!).
All of the fish is incredibly fresh and flavorful. If you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian alternative, the Tofu Tots and Veg Head Rolls are both delicious.
If you’re craving Asian Fusion in a casual, exciting environment, 3 Monkeys Street Bar + Kitchen is the place to go!
The restaurant does not accept reservations, so make sure to plan accordingly, or try and snag some seats at the gorgeous bar!
15. The Port Restaurant + Bar
The Port is a well-known, lively spot along Main Street in Harwich Port. Serving dinner seven days a week and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, The Port maintains an elegant, upscale vibe with plenty of seating.
Inside, you’ll find a modern, almost Boston-esque atmosphere with black leather booths and a gorgeous bar.
In contrast, outside you’ll experience a much more casual, relaxing environment, filled with corn hole, ring toss, and an outdoor bar sporting nautical, beachy decor.
For food, start with the raw bar! The Port has one-dollar fresh and chilled oysters from 3 to 5 pm. I also recommend the Caesar salad as an appetizer–this place has one of the best Caesar’s I’ve had in a long time.
For dinner, the Portuguese stew is loaded with seafood and linguica sausage. The roasted chicken is a hearty, tasty option if you want something a little more basic for your meal.
I also urge you to try the lobster rasta pasta filled with butter-poached lobster and a parmesan cream sauce over penne pasta. If you have room for dessert, try the bananas fosters for two!
The Port Restaurant + Bar does accept reservations, which I would be sure to make, especially on the weekends in the Summer season.
While the restaurant can accommodate children, I find the atmosphere to be much more suited to adults of all ages.
And…. for young adults, or anyone wanting to stay up late, The Port doesn’t close until 1 am, making it a place perfect to relax, play some games, and have some fun! Score!
