Summer is in full swing on Martha’s Vineyard, and waterfront dining is at the top of everyone's list. While stunning harbor views are always a draw, many visitors and Islanders are also looking for fresh seafood. After all, we're surrounded by the Atlantic, so enjoying local seafood with a view seems like the best way to enjoy a meal that is special to the Island.

 

As you stroll along Oak Bluffs Harbor, you may notice that the space formerly known as Lobsterville has undergone a stylish update. The refreshed restaurant, now called Jetty Beach House, offers a more elevated coastal atmosphere, complete with inviting outdoor seating, beautifully crafted cocktails, and a welcoming vibe that encourages guests to linger a little longer.

 

Jetty Beach House combines harbor front views with a menu inspired by coastal flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you're stopping in for a leisurely lunch, meeting friends for sunset cocktails, or settling in for dinner by the water, the restaurant delivers the kind of relaxed sophistication that fits perfectly with summer on Martha's Vineyard. Their tagline says it all: Coastal eats. Craft cocktails. Golden hour energy you'll plan your whole day around.

The Jetty Beach House Experience

What makes Jetty Beach House especially unique is that it's really three distinct experiences wrapped into one destination, each unfolding throughout the day while taking full advantage of its harbor front setting.

 

Sun & Salt (11 a.m. – 4 p.m.) is all about relaxed daytime dining. Think fresh seafood, raw bar favorites, lobster rolls, handhelds, signature splits, and refreshing cocktails. It's the perfect place to settle in after a morning at the beach, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or simply sip a drink while watching the boats come and go in the harbor.

 

As afternoon transitions into evening, Golden Hour (4 p.m. – 9 p.m.) takes center stage. The energy begins to build, the music sets the mood, and the setting sun casts a golden glow across the water. This is the time for seafood towers, caviar service, craft cocktails, and a lively social atmosphere. It's the kind of place where one drink turns into dinner and dinner turns into an unforgettable evening.

 

Then comes Into the Night. The sun has dipped below the horizon, the harbor breeze cools the air, and the DJ takes over. The atmosphere shifts once again, creating a vibrant late-night scene that feels both sophisticated and effortlessly fun. With the water sparkling nearby, the harbor littered with boat lights and music filling the air, it's easy to see why you would want to be here for Island nights.

Dining at Jetty Beach House 

I visited Jetty Beach House for a late lunch on an overcast afternoon, and despite the gray skies, the restaurant was buzzing with guests enjoying themselves. No matter the weather, it's clear that people are drawn to the combination of harbor views, fresh seafood, and the welcoming atmosphere.

 

The space feels lighter, brighter, and decidedly coastal chic. The yellow-and-white umbrellas lining the porch create an inviting setting to escape the summer heat—or a passing rain shower—while enjoying a cocktail and a bite to eat. Inside, a striking new copper bar immediately catches your eye. It's both elegant and approachable, serving as the centerpiece of the restaurant while bartenders craft an impressive lineup of signature cocktails.

 

Head upstairs and you'll discover one of Jetty Beach House's standout features: a large raw bar showcasing the largest selection of oysters in Oak Bluffs. Depending on the day, guests can choose from five to ten varieties, including selections from Martha's Vineyard and Cape Cod waters. Beyond the oysters, the raw bar offers an impressive spread of Colossal Shrimp, Jumbo Jonah Crab Claws, lobster tail, and littlenecks. And perhaps most exciting for seafood enthusiasts, you can now enjoy a seafood tower in Oak Bluffs on the harbor. Piled high with the freshest shellfish and seafood, it's a feast designed for sharing and savoring.

 

I was lucky enough to get a table outside with excellent water views, and even more lucky to get Kaptan (pronounced Captain) as my server. He was welcoming and enthusiastic about sharing his recommendations. I felt as though I had to have a signature Jetty Beach House Spritz, and he recommended the Jetty Spritz - fresh squeezed grapefruit, prosecco, rosemary and Aperol. His suggestion was perfect. This may be the drink of the Summer.

 

For appetizers, there were great options but I decided on the Fried Point Judith Calamari with banana peppers and the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice with a soy glaze. Both were delicious and the perfect start to my meal. The calamari was breaded perfectly and the banana peppers are a nice pop of spice. The crispy rice is addictive. I feel like I could eat this everyday. A perfect bite that's not too heavy for hot days.

 

 

Choosing a main dish was tricky. The Baja Fish Tacos, the Crispy Haddock Sandwich and the Lobster Roll were the top contenders though I was intrigued by the Bocadillo De Calamares which is a Meditereanen style calamari sandwich.  But since I had calamari, it was the Lobster Roll, hot & buttered, with fries that I decided on. Of course it was delicious and the fries with the perfect crispy texture. I really went for it and got a bump of caviar with the roll. It is authentic Polish Ostra Caviar, and it is truly delicious. A fun way to elevate your meal.

Owner Jordan Wallace suggested I try the Jetty Burger -- the American Prime Burger with a sesame seed bun, short rib blend, aged cheddar and fries or side salad. He says it's the best in town. And I quote: "If you are going to have a terrestrial menu on a seafood focused menu then it has to be the best." Sounds like I will be going back soon for a burger.

 

I have to admit, I am swooning a bit over this seafood focused menu. And the menu will continue to evolve as the season continues. Locally caught Branzino and Steak frites are coming to the menu soon and the menu will continue to evolve as the season continues.

 

One of the things that makes Jetty Beach House even more special isn't something you'll immediately notice on the menu—it's where many of the ingredients come from. A large portion of the vegetables featured in the dishes are grown by owner Jordan in his own Oak Bluffs garden. For a busy entrepreneur, tending the garden has become more than a way to source fresh produce. It's his therapy—a chance to unplug, roll up his sleeves, get his hands in the dirt, and reconnect with the simple pleasures of growing food.

 

That personal touch comes through on the plate. Knowing that many of the vegetables were harvested just steps from where they were grown adds another layer to the dining experience. It's a true farm-to-table philosophy, rooted right here on Martha's Vineyard.

 

Jetty Beach House is Oak Bluffs answer to relaxed, elevated cuisine on the harbor. Whether you're an oyster aficionado, or simply looking to indulge in the flavors of the sea, this restaurant delivers a memorable waterfront dining experience that makes you want to come back. Three experiences. One waterfront destination. Whether you're looking for a casual, elevated lunch or dinner, sunset cocktails with friends, or a lively evening by the harbor, Jetty Beach House is your destination.

 

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