Cape Cod Cocktails, the best of Woods Hole summertime concoctions
There’s certainly no shortage of places to sit down and enjoy Cape Cod cocktails in Woods Hole. However, given so many good options it can be a daunting task to choose the right beverage for you. Don’t fear! This past week, a couple friends joined me for a Cape Cod cocktail tour and we did the “work” for you. Below you will find our favorite drinks at each of the seven waterfront restaurants we visited – all of which are walking distance from each other. Hope you enjoy and remember to read responsibly.
LANDFALL
Drink of choice: Bloody Mary
Secret house recipe served with Spanish olives and celery.
Notes: If you’re waiting for the afternoon ferry and you need something to tide you over before dinner the Landfall is the place to go. Their Bloody Mary is the best around and its zesty, savory, and spicy flavors will keep your mouth entertained until the very last drop. It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere!
CAPTAIN KIDD
Drink of Choice: The Tarpaulin Brothel
House-made Privateer Spiced Rum, Angostura Bitters, Rinse of Absinthe, twist of orange
Notes: This drink is an adventure in a glass. If you’re feeling the winds of good fortune at your back and the call of the open seas then you’ve got to dive in. This bold drink from a watering hole that’s a self described “pirate bar” features Captain Kidd’s special house-made spiced rum and a dash of absinthe. Before long, it will have you wanting to chase buried treasure and hoist the main sail. If you’re looking for a drink to get you in touch with your inner Jack Sparrow then this drink is the “X” that marks the spot on Captain Kidd’s menu.
QUICKS HOLE TAVERN
Drink of Choice: Little Harbor Lavender
Muddled Raspberry, lavender infused Grey Goose, St Germain, and fresh lemon
Notes: Fresh, sweet, and modern like the new restaurant that serves it, this drink has a pleasing and relaxed flavor. Quicks Hole Tavern opened it’s doors last year and has quickly become a favorite with an innovative and imaginative menu. Looking to view the harbor as if from the prow of a ship? Sip your Little Harbor Lavender and watch your ship come in with the best view of the Martha’s Vineyard ferry in Woods Hole.
QUICKS HOLE TAQUERIA
Drink of Choice: House-made Sangria
Secret blend of red and white wines, fresh squeezed lemon and orange juice
Notes: One of my very favorite things to do in Woods Hole is to grab some friends and post up at the Quicks Hole Taqueria for some chips and salsa and their fantastic house-made sangria. They sell it by the pitcher and it’s the perfect complement to kicking back on a sunny afternoon and people-watching in the heart of Woods Hole. If you swing by on a Friday or Sunday evening, you can even catch one of the fantastic local bands that perform for free in the parking lot next to the restaurant.
PHUSION
Drink of Choice: Ruby Red Crush
Absolut Ruby Red Vodka, fresh mint, Combier Pamplemousse Grapefruit Liqueur, fresh lemon.
Notes: As this restaurant’s name would lead to you to believe, Phusion’s menu consistently presents interesting blends of different international flavors and styles. This French-influenced beverage features imported grapefruit liqueur and fresh mint that was picked from the restaurant’s in-house herb garden moments before it was added to our drink. The Ruby Red Crush is a light and refreshing drink that will have you crushing on summer and saying “au revior” to all your troubles.
FISHMONGER
Drink of Choice: Mongerita
Tequila, Cranberry Juice, Triple Sec, Fresh Lime juice, Agave Nectar
Notes: This drink is the Fishmonger’s Cape Cod twist on a classic margarita. The addition of cranberry juice fills this cocktail with the tart refreshment you need on a warm summer day. Also, if you happen to be in Woods Hole on a Thursday evening, Fishmonger is a must – thanks to their Thirsty Thursday free appetizer special and great selection of draft beers.
SHUCKERS:
Drink of Choice: Shucker’s Smash
Vodka, Dark Rum, fresh squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice, lemon, and Grenadine.
Notes: In addition to recently being featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, Shuckers boasts a world famous raw bar, sushi and a great waterfront location. We asked for something summery and I think they found a way to fit summer into a mason jar. This drink was just the right amount sweet with a fresh squeezed citrus twist to keep you feeling like you’re sippin’ on sunshine, Cape Cod cocktail style.