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Welcome To or, The Whale
**About or, The Whale**Located in the heart of Nantucket at 38 Main St, "or, The Whale" combines a vibrant atmosphere with an innovative menu. This culinary gem specializes in unique lunch and brunch offerings, such as spicy Korean BBQ wings and duck carnitas, which have captivated patrons' palates. Guests praise the attentive service and charming outdoor patio, enhancing the overall dining experience. The commitment to accommodating dietary restrictions showcases the chef’s creativity, ensuring everyone enjoys a memorable meal. Each dish, from the tempura-fried calamari to the flavorful Korean BBQ bowl, embodies the restaurant's dedication to delicious, high-quality fare.
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Crudite
US$20.00Duck Carnitas for 2
US$82.00Asparagus Salad
US$22.00
Spring Salad
US$20.00Grilled Halibut
US$41.00Chicken Under a Brick
US$44.00
Spicy Rice Cakes
US$37.00Grilled New York Strip
US$48.00Korean Pork BBQ for 4-6
US$170.00 About
or, The Whale
Welcome to or, The Whale, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Nantucket. This vibrant eatery, located at 38 Main St, Nantucket, MA 02554, invites you to indulge in a delightful array of lunch and brunch offerings that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely day on the island or on a quick trip, this restaurant's inviting atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
At or, The Whale, each dish is crafted with purpose and creativity. Start your meal with the French Onion Soup, a comforting blend of caramelized onions and Swiss cheese topped with a crispy baguette crouton, or the vibrant Spring Salad, featuring mesclun greens and pickled rhubarb dressed in a passionfruit vinaigrette. For something a bit heartier, the Steak Frites is not to be missed, showcasing a beautifully grilled NY strip paired with handcut fries and a delightful green peppercorn sauce. Guests rave about the Korean BBQ Bowl, which combines slow-cooked pork and cucumber kimchi for a dish bursting with flavor.
The atmosphere here enhances the overall experience. Patrons have praised the lovely outdoor patio, an ideal setting, especially as the sun sets. With attentive service, or, The Whale ensures that every visit feels special. Reviewers like Tony Villa commend the friendly staff and the prompt service, noting how quickly their food arrived without sacrificing quality. Others, such as Carly Russell, have coined dishes like the duck carnitas and street corn as life-changing, exemplifying the restaurant's commitment to innovation in its menu.
This charming establishment not only focuses on delivering exceptional food but also prioritizes accommodating guests' dietary needs, as mentioned by Kyle D. The chef's willingness to adapt meals shows a deep understanding and respect for the values of the patrons. All in all, or, The Whale stands as a testament to what a restaurant should be—inviting, attentive, and above all, delicious. Whether you’re sharing a plate of the OTW Wings or savoring the crispy artichokes with yuzu aioli, the flavors are sure to linger long after your meal.
As you plan your next culinary adventure in Nantucket, be sure to include or, The Whale on your itinerary—it’s a dining experience that promises to delight every sense. For reservations, you can reach them at +1 508-825-5897. Dive into the cuisine and let your taste buds experience a journey like no other!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Just arrived in Nantucket for a day trip and had previously made a 1130 reservation. We arrived and we’re seated in a very lovely outdoor patio setting. I bet it would be even better in the evening. We were immediately greeted right away and our drink orders were taken. When I asked if we needed any help with the menu, we didn’t, and immediately placed our order. Very friendly staff and attentive service while we were there. The food arrived quickly, and each entree that we chose, we loved. No room for dessert so we paid our bill and we’re on with our day. I would highly recommend visiting this place as it has a lovely atmosphere and fantastic food and service. ”
“ The duck carnitas have officially changed my life!!! The street corn was also to die for. Loved the atmosphere on the patio & the service was very good. ”
“ The chef worked with my friends garlic and onion and vegetarian restrictions. Kudos. It is a bit limited menu so I suggest you review the choices beforehand. Server was amazing and all the staff for that matter. Aug2021 ”
“ What an amazing treasure! So beautiful restaurant I suggest you go early this way you'll get in and seated and not have to wait a while. Had the duck for two although a little pricey absolutely delicious I utilize the barbecue sauce served with the pork buns and it made the duck Taco over the top. This is a must try amazing service made a new friend would definitely go back! ”
“ Food was delicious and service was fantastic! The Korean bbq wings were awesome as an appetizer and the shrimp cake sandwich was awesome. Fries were also very good. Highly recommend! ”
“ When we first arrived it was so loud, we could hardly hear our friends across the table, but it did improve as the meal went on. Our waitress, Allie, was superb and tolerated my husband and friend's silly jokes. She really was one of the best waitresses I’ve ever had, but all of the staff was gracious, friendly and helpful. Location right downtown was perfect. ”
“ We had an amazing lunch here–everyone at the restaurant was so friendly and there was a good amount of space for our Lab, Luke. The drinks are pretty unique as well. We loved it here so much, we came back for dinner and were not disappointed. The duck tacos were incredible. Highly recommend when you're on the island! ”
“ Great downtown dining option. Largest bar in downtown Nantucket with many great drink options. Food is fabulous with an outside dinning option. Best part of the operation is The Blow Hole. A secret bar on the patio. ”