Tucked along South Water Street in Edgartown is the latest Lark Hotel venture, the Christopher (formerly the Victorian Inn). Described as “the Vineyard meets St. Barts,” the Christopher injects you with a boost of happiness the moment you set foot inside. Bright decorations, exclusively designed wallpaper, and gorgeous Chilmark Pottery bowls on display shine a special light on this area of Edgartown.
As a guest of the Christopher, I had a chance to experience their small curated plates for breakfast, as well as get a private tour of the property. All I have to say is “Wow!” If you were ever inside the Victorian Inn before, you’re in for a shocking experience. Breezy blues, purples, and pops of coral make up the hotel’s color scheme, giving it a calming coastal feel. If you’re traveling to Martha’s Vineyard as a couple or with friends, this is the place to be. Thirty seconds from Main Street, Edgartown, puts you right in the center of the action, steps away from incredible restaurants, shops, and more.
But let’s talk about breakfast, and the complimentary small curated plates. Baked fresh daily by innkeepers Marla and Julie Accursio-Gibbs, there was a little of everything on display: potato and cheese frittata, tropical fruit salad, banana-split overnight oats, herb focaccia and brie cheese, blueberry bread, muffins, and scones, along with freshly brewed coffee and orange juice. The dishes all have a hint of tropicality to them, like the fresh mangoes and pineapple, without forgetting New England staples like tart-sweet blueberries in the bread. Whether you like waking up to sweet or savory items, Marla and Julie do a fantastic job of serving up a feast every morning. Sunday’s inspiration, it seems, is even stronger, as they show me previous recipes like buttered gnocchi served as a special brunch item.
Marla, originally from Birmingham, Ala., and her wife Julie from Argentina both have copious experience in corporate hotels, and were looking for a new adventure, which brought them to Martha’s Vineyard. “We want to recreate what we personally like to experience when we travel,” Julie said. With only 15 rooms, it’s easier to accommodate guests and their needs. Whether it’s an allergy or a special request, Marla and Julie, as well as the entire staff, work together to make guests feel welcome. The focus on personalization and attention to detail is observed throughout the hotel, even to the smallest detail of the staff not wearing name tags. “Belief in personalized service is what guides us,” Marla said.
Take advantage of their grand opening special that includes 20 percent off room rates and a $25 dining credit to l’Etoile resturant by booking online at thechristophermv.com/special-offers/.
P.S.: A stay at the Christopher isn’t just for tourists and visitors. Book a room this summer if you need to treat yourself — because we all know that summer burnout is inevitable. Try to relax, even if it’s just in the next town over. It’s called a staycation for a reason.
