One would think that after living on an island for 20+ years, you would have done pretty much everything. Especially if you are the type of person who enjoys eating out and listening to live music. However, I find that I am still discovering new things year after year. My next adventure: Chef Deon’s Kitchen – Experience Great Dining, Live Music And More At The VFW On Martha’s Vineyard
This Spring, on the advice of a friend, I decided it was time to visit the VFW in Oak Bluffs. I had been curious for a while, especially since I have always enjoyed Chef Deon’s food. I used to really enjoy The Cornerway in Chilmark back in the early 2000’s. So, recently on a Friday night, I invited a friend to come along and experience the VFW with me.
When we entered, we were immediately greeted by Deon. He always has the best smile for his guests – whether you are a first time diner or a long time friend, Deon makes you feel welcome. Chef Deon’s Kitchen (and his catering) operates out of the VFW. He said that now is a good time of year to visit his restaurant, since soon the space will be jammed packed for the season. Since we had just walked in, we told him we’d be back in a bit to order dinner. First we wanted to experience the VFW side of the space.
Chef Deon’s Kitchen – Experience Great Dining, Live Music And More At The VFW On Martha’s Vineyard – Good Drinks And Games
Ani, a familiar and beloved Island bartender was working the evening we went. We bellied up to the bar, ordered beverages and enjoyed the camaraderie of the patrons around us. We also decided to try Keno. Apparently it is a very popular game. So we wagered $5.00, picked our numbers, and then watched the screen for any winnings. Surprisingly we won $2.00 back! It was fun, and just one more of the new things done that evening!
Chef Deon’s Kitchen – Experience Great Dining, Live Music And More At The VFW On Martha’s Vineyard – Listen To The Music
One of the big draws at the VFW is the intimate live music space, and there is live music there often. If you want to see who is playing, visit the VFW Facebook page. It was so much fun to hang out with a number of locals from all over the Island and enjoy the music. The VFW is a combination of the PA Club and The Ritz. It’s really quite the experience. My friend and I had a great time, and we ran into a number of people we knew. It felt like a fun locals night.
When we were there, Rick Padilla, Don Groover, and Jonah Miller were the Friday night live music band for the evening and the crowd was definitely there for them! Lots of dancing and singing along. What fun! Who knew that this was going to be such a scene!
Chef Deon’s Kitchen – Experience Great Dining, Live Music And More At The VFW On Martha’s Vineyard – The Food
We were there for more than chatting with people and for live music. We were also there for Chef Deon’s food! While I love conch, which Deon is well known for, I was in the mood for good jerk chicken. Deon’s Authentic Jerk Chicken is just that. It is so good and authentic. It comes with rice & beans, green veggies and plantains. What an incredible dish. Having just come back from the Cayman Islands, it was so nice to have a taste of the Caribbean on Martha’s Vineyard.
It’s always so nice to see Deon. And while he is always dishing out kindness, he is quite the culinary master and creates amazing food. Next time I go to Deon’s, I have to get the Buttermilk Fried Chicken. You can also get takeout from Chef Deon’s Kitchen, click here to learn more or to order dinner for tonight!
If you are looking for live music (Fridays & Sundays) and a meal with Caribbean flair and lots of authentic flavor, then grab your friends and stop by The VFW. The The VFW & Chef Deon’s Kitchen are open to the public. The restaurant’s current hours are Sunday & Monday: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM (TAKE-OUT ONLY), Tuesday-Friday: 3:00 P – 9:30 PM (Dine-In/Take-Out) and closed on Saturdays. These hours will change later in the Spring/Summer.
Thank you for reading On Point MV, a blog about Island happenings. If you have blog ideas or things you’d like us to write about, email guinevere@pointbrealty.com.