The new Martha’s Vineyard Museum is really quite special. This new, larger space has allowed for the MVM to spread its wings, so to say, with its collections. However, the MVM is even more than a collection of our past and the stewards of that to future generations, it is now a place where you will find a pretty awesome spot to eat. First Light Cafe is Vineyard Haven’s hidden foodie gem.
You don’t need to go through the Martha’s Vineyard Museum or be a member to visit First Light Cafe, however, members do get a discount.
There are so many reasons to visit: There is parking! There is wifi! There is an incredible view (Vineyard Haven Harbor which is beautiful no matter the weather)! The space is so lovely and last but not least, the food is delicious.
First Light Cafe Is Vineyard Haven’s Hidden Foodie Gem – The Food
Art Cliff owner and friend to the museum, Gina Stanley, is the cafe’s manager. I know I was excited too when I learned that. What does this mean? It means great food! Gina is an incredible chef and loves yummy things. She is also very community-minded.
At the cafe, you will not only find daily specials from Gina herself, like the soup and meat pie when I went, but she is partnering with a number of other great food purveyors.
You will find fresh-made salads and sandwiches from the Black Sheep and treats from the Scottish Bakehouse. Cheese and bread (soon) from The Grey Barn, calzones from Rocco’s Pizza, Kombucha from Katama Brewing and more! It’s a cornucopia of yummy Island food!
Gina’s soup du jour was butternut squash and apples — all local! This is one of my all time favorite soups. Freedom, the lovely person who works at the cafe, offered a variety of toppings for my soup. Pumpkin oil, toasted pecans, cinnamon, but I had it just as is. Soooooo good and fresh. I could eat it daily.
Then for my main course, I tried the meat pie, such an unappealing name, but the crust on this thing was incredible. Not to mention the shredded chicken and roasted veggies hiding inside! I meant to only eat a portion of it but it magically disappeared.
An added bonus for your food experience is that with Gina at the helm, you are in for some fun plates or cups. She is a Chicken Alley, vintage finder extraordinaire, with a sense of humor. When I got to the end of my soup, I definitely was all smiles.
Not to worry if you’re not there for a meal, there are locally made fresh baked goods, gourmet chocolate bars, fruit, COFFEE, and even super special hot chocolate.
First Light Cafe Is Vineyard Haven’s Hidden Foodie Gem – The Space
I am not sure if it’s the cool, modern design of First Light Cafe, the beacon of safety of the fresnel lens, or the stunning water view, but this space is so soothing. I find myself just letting go and looking out to the water.
If you haven’t been through the new Martha’s Vineyard Museum itself, that is quite a discovery on its own. Here’s our video visit for the Martha’s Vineyard Bucket List.
Also, walking into the cafe from the parking lot is a small adventure. You can check on the status of the Rose Styron garden featuring stonework by Lew French, marvel in the new beauty of the this once neglected property, and of course savor the view.
First Light Cafe is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Be sure to stop by soon, and look for other fun foodie happenings at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Don’t forget that on Tuesday evenings, admission is free for all individuals from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in the off-season, and 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the summer.
Thanks to you for reading On Point. You can learn more about the Martha’s Vineyard Museum’s cafe and events on Facebook. Don’t forget to “Like” Point B Realty on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Linked In, Pinterest, Youtube and Instagram.
Author’s Note: The Grey Barn’s fresh-baked bread is an amazing addition to the foodie scene on MV. Their bakery is fast becoming a must-visit, click here for the story.
congratulations Gina