Martha's Vineyard Food Tour: Best Lobster Rolls, Breakfast and Every Must-Eat (2026)
Martha's Vineyard food guide: ranked lists for best lobster roll, breakfast, pizza, burger, and ice cream. Town-by-town tours and BYOB tips for 2026.
Nomans at 15 Island Inn Road in Oak Bluffs is the only biergarten-style outdoor gathering spot on Martha's Vineyard — part restaurant, part social hub, frequently compared to Cisco Brewery on Nantucket. Counter-service dining, house-branded rum, lawn games, live music, and a free shuttle from the ferry terminal.
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From Lola's to Nomans
The space was Lola's Southern Seafood for roughly 25 years — beloved for late-night dancing until 1 AM, gospel brunches, and cajun fare. In September 2018, it sold for $2.3 million. After extensive renovations, Nomans opened June 2019 under owner Doug Abdelnour Jr. (whose family has run Nancy's on the harbor since 1960). The name references Nomans Land, the uninhabited island off MV's south shore.
Counter-service only — find your table, walk inside to order, pick up at the window. Most items $9–$20:
- Pickle-brined fried chicken sandwich — $16 (top pick per Vineyard Gazette)
- Lobster roll — $34 (hot with butter or cold with mayo)
- Short rib tacos — $16 (salsa, cotija, crema, avocado)
- Tuna tartare — $20
- Nomans queso and chips — $12
All cocktails $14, featuring house Nomans Rum distilled at Triple 8 Distillery on Nantucket. Draft beers $7–$9.
The Outdoor Experience
Large patio/lawn with cornhole, giant Jenga, Connect Four, firepits, outdoor TV, and reservable "Rum Huts" (cabanas seating 10, bookable 30 days in advance). Dog-friendly — they call dogs "VIDs" (Very Important Dogs). Live music and DJ Smooth B Friday nights.
2026 Season
Reopening May 2026 (7th season). Hours: Sun–Thu 11 AM–9 PM, Fri–Sat 11 AM–10 PM. No reservations — walk-in only. Two free shuttles: OB ferry terminal → Nomans (12 PM–close, every 30 min) and Little Bridge → Nomans (5 PM–close).
For more Oak Bluffs dining and nightlife, see our Complete Oak Bluffs Guide (2026) or plan your trip with our car-free travel guide.
Island Tip of the Day — Timing
Call Larsen's Fish Market in the morning (508-645-2680) to pre-order lobster for the Menemsha sunset. Show up after noon without pre-ordering and it's often sold out.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general guidance only and was accurate at the time of writing. Beach conditions, hours, prices, lifeguard schedules, ferry fares, and business operations change frequently and without notice. Ocean swimming carries inherent risks including rip currents, undertow, and cold water shock. Always verify current conditions with official local sources before your visit. MV Vacation assumes no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience resulting from the use of this information. Swim only where lifeguards are on duty, supervise children at all times near water, and follow all posted safety signs.
