Spring always brings a fresh wave of energy to the Martha’s Vineyard restaurant scene. Chefs shift kitchens, new talent arrives, and familiar spaces are reimagined. This year is no different — and if you’ve taken a stroll or drive down Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs, you’ve probably noticed one of the most intriguing changes yet: Esh has taken over the former home of Dos Mas. There's A New Restaurant Spark in Oak Bluffs: Esh Opens Its Doors

 

Over the winter, the Shai family set out to renovate Dos Mas, the popular taco and Mexican food restaurant. The original plan included updates like adding a fireplace, but somewhere along the way, the vision evolved. The space began to feel different — more refined, more relaxed, and undeniably more sophisticated. The fireplace idea was ultimately set aside, but what emerged in its place was something entirely new - Esh. 

 

A New Restaurant Spark in Oak Bluffs: Esh Opens Its Doors - Fire And Passion

 

So, what is Esh? “Esh” is the Hebrew word for fire or flame. Figuratively, it speaks to passion — and that’s exactly what this new concept aims to bring to the table. Esh is bringing passion to the food they're serving up. How? With their new chef, Michael Thomas. 

A big part of that energy comes from the kitchen. Esh welcomes Chef Michael Thomas, whose culinary background includes time in California’s dynamic dining scene. Notably, he was a founding force behind Swaygu, a concept known for its modern, elevated approach to Wagyu and ingredient-driven cuisine. And he has brought his talent to Esh.

A New Restaurant Spark in Oak Bluffs: Esh Opens Its Doors - Let's Take A Taste

 

At Esh, you will find elevated American cuisine with some dishes having a little California twist. There are a number of things that are different about Esh. For starters, it has brunch! Yes, there you have a spot to enjoy brunch on Circuit Avenue. There are favorites like Have It Your Way - two eggs any style, potatoes, choice of meat or avocado with sourdough, whipped butter and house jam; pancakes; their signature Smash Burger; salads and so much more.

 

When I went, I had to try a signature brunch dish, though pancakes or a burrito sounded good too. I ordered You Quack Me Up - duck confit hash, Miso pork belly, two eggs sunny side up and sourdough with whipped butter and house jam. Doesn't that sound delicious? It was very rich - all those bold flavors - especially the Miso. This was a fresh, fun twist on a traditional hash (note I had mine without the bread).

With brunch, you can enjoy coffee or soft drinks, mimosas, wine, cocktails and more. You can truly customize your brunch experience -- family-friendly or slow and lingering -- you can find it here.

 

The dinner menu at Esh offers a curated selection of dishes, with salads that are especially tempting. A friend of mine tried the Small Fry — pan-fried shrimp with arugula, pickled red onions, shaved fennel, queso fresco, and a cilantro-lime vinaigrette. She described it as light and flavorful — the kind of dish that feels just right for a warm summer evening.

 

In addition to salads, there are fun starters - including: a version of You Quack Me Up; Vegan Artichoke Bisque; Burrata Toast and more. Entrees include: Filet Mignon - with onion confit and gorgonzola pomme puree, crispy brussells sprouts, bone marrow croquette and a Bordeaux sauce (featured below); Alice & Willard Shortrib with cauliflower soubise, crispy onions, broccoli, A & W (root beer) nickel sauce (be sure to ask your server about this one); lobster pasta; half chicken; a smash burger and more. 

  

The current menus at Esh are the result of a fun, organic collaboration between the chef and the Shai family. As the season approaches, the offerings will continue to evolve and expand, with a focus on local and highly sought-after ingredients. Plans are also in the works for a Chef’s Tasting Menu and more, giving diners even more to look forward to.

 

Esh isn’t just a new name on the sign — it’s a new direction, one rooted in passion, flavor, and a fresh perspective on dining in Oak Bluffs. We can’t wait to see how Esh evolves over the season, and we’re especially looking forward to the creative updates to the second-floor outdoor dining space — a spot they’re lucky to have. And the bar? It has all the makings of a go-to place to relax after a long summer day.

 

Esh hours: Wednesday - Sunday, Brunch 9 AM - 3 PM; Dinner 5 PM - 9 PM; closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Hours may change.

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