Many of us were saddened and surprised when we heard that the Black Dog Tavern was shutting down for renovations this past Winter. What would happen to this iconic restaurant that’s been open since the 70’s?
And with Black Dog and the Art Cliff Diner closed for a while at the same time, there were fewer places for breakfast and lunch in Vineyard Haven, in what is usually my favorite breakfast town. It was a little tough for a while.
However, things are back to normal. The Black Dog opened its doors again on March 29th. For those of you who were worried that the tavern would change too much, that’s not the case. The dining area on the inside looks like it did before, but a lot cleaner. It got a mean Spring cleaning.
I have to admit that I was a little worried. After all, the Black Dog Tavern is one of those places that has stood the test of time here on the Vineyard, and it has a character all its own — one that can’t be recreated in a month or two. So, I was glad to see it stay the same.
The big changes happened in the kitchen where you’ll notice a lot of nice, new shiny equipment, like new refrigerators, and of course, a beautiful new stove that I bet Chef Jeffrey Heflin adores cooking on!
The other big, big, change is that outdoor dining space, which will add quite a few more tables for diners during the warmer months. However, this area is still under construction. Plans are to have it opened in May, just in time for Summer. I can’t wait to eat outside in the space, especially breakfast. There will be so much sunshine to enjoy!
Also, the tavern got new shingles along the top portion that faces the water, and after many seasons use – the new ones look great and are starting to weather nicely.
It’s nice to have the Black Dog open again. I like knowing that I can have “One Sweet World” any morning, seven-days-a-week and take in the stunning view of Vineyard Haven Harbor.
Don’t forget that this May, the filming for the new Vineyard based “reality” TV show, The Vineyard, begins at the Black Dog Tavern. This should be interesting. Stay tuned for more details.
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