Only the organized and practical have everything they need for a day at the beach before leaving the house. Most have their regular stops before getting there. This writer usually picks up something at Soigne, whether a veggie wrap, quesadillas from their deli cooler, or a chocolate cupcake. But there are plenty of other spots for that quick stop. Here are a few suggestions.
Most restaurants offer takeout, but there are several specialty sandwich shops, such as Big Dipper Ice Cream and Cafe in Oak Bluffs, and Skinny’s Fat Sandwiches in Oak Bluffs and Edgartown. Pick from one of Skinny’s Classics, Specialties, or Healthy Wraps. Big Dipper is family owned by Dawn and Richard Combra, and his son Richard Combra Jr., and his wife Jen. Katie Rivers, who used to run the deli at Tony’s Market, manages the deli. The cafe offers a combination of their own sandwiches, ice cream, and baked goods with Cape Cod Bagels — shipped daily — and Humphrey’s (or Dippin’) donuts. One of their most popular sandwiches is the Perfect Panini: turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, roasted red peppers, onion, pickles, honey Dijon mustard, and mayo ($8.95).
Edgartown Pizza has subs with plenty of cold cuts to choose from, and specialties such as Chicken and Cheese, or Tomato Mozzarella. Just down the street is Shiretown Meats, next door to Shop and Shop (which has a deli). In addition to beef, pork, lamb, veal, and organic Bell and Evans poultry, Shiretown have a huge sub selection, such as the homemade meatball sub with marinara and provolone cheese.
If South Beach is your destination, the closest take-out is Right Fork Diner. There, find classics such as a Reuben ($10), Fish Sandwich ($11), and a Lobster Roll ($17).
Also close is the Katama General Store and Morning Glory Farm. Check morninggloryfarm.com for their daily soup specials. The salad bar features farm lettuce and freshly harvested vegetables. The Katama General has a deli, pre-made sandwiches, baked goods, and all the snacks you need for the beach.
In town, MacPhail’s Corner Café and Espresso Love are favorite quick stops for sandwiches. At MacPhail’s, get your choice of sandwich made on fresh-baked ciabatta bread, made daily. At Espresso Love, voted Best Sandwich Shop by the 2009 Cape Cod Life Magazine, choose one of almost 20 sandwiches, from The Mama (homemade veggie burger, avocado, lettuce, tomato, sprouts, and honey mustard on a bulky roll, $9.99) to the Menemsha (white albacore tuna, celery, onion, tomato, capers, basil, and mayo on a bulky roll, $7.99).
In Oak Bluffs, Giordano’s Take-Out boasts a large menu, consisting of delicious fried food and pizza.
At Tony’s Market, order something hot, such as a burger and fries, or see what they have pre-made in the cooler, from Cobb salads to whole turkey dinners.
Humphrey’s, in both Vineyard Haven and Edgartown, has good-sized sandwiches, pre-made salads, and sweet treats. Also in Vineyard Haven and great for sandwiches are Waterside Market, and Krista’s Gourmet Café across the street. Waterside has daily $5 specials, and Krista’s boasts a fresh variety of sandwich options.
Heading up-Island, get pizza, Panini, salads, and pre-made sandwiches at Fella’s, a wide variety of options at Scottish Bakehouse, and creative, fresh sandwiches at State Road Restaurant.
