On the island of Nantucket, where salt-tinged breezes meet sandy shores, a weekend vacation in 1978 unexpectedly blossomed into one of the area’s most beloved seafood establishments. What began as a simple fishing trip has evolved into 167 Raw, a multi-faceted seafood business that embodies Nantucket’s maritime culture while serving up some of the freshest catches around. This is the story of how a passion for fishing transformed into a community staple that has satisfied locals and visitors alike for over four decades.
From Fishing Trip to Island Institution
In a place where seafood businesses come and go with the tides, 167 Raw has solidified its status as an enduring fixture in Nantucket’s culinary scene. From its humble beginnings to its current reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers, the business illustrates how entrepreneurial spirit, quality offerings, and authentic island character can create something truly remarkable. Let’s explore the journey of this Nantucket seafood icon.
The Birth of a Business: East Coast Provisions & Seafood Co.
What was intended as a brief getaway to Nantucket in 1978 turned into a life-changing adventure for Bill Sandole. An avid fisherman, Sandole spent his evenings surf casting along Nantucket’s renowned south shore beaches during that fateful trip. His fishing excursions proved so successful that he found himself with a surplus of Striped Bass and an unexpected entrepreneurial opportunity.
Improvising with what he had, Sandole began filleting his catch on picnic tables and going door-to-door to downtown restaurants, offering his fresh-caught seafood. This spontaneous venture marked the beginning of East Coast Provisions & Seafood Co., the precursor to what would eventually become one of Nantucket’s most cherished seafood establishments.
The Evolution Into a Nantucket Icon
The business evolved organically over the years, responding to the island’s needs and Sandole’s growing vision. The pivotal moment came in 1995 when he established a permanent retail location at 167 Hummock Pond Road. This address would not only serve as the company’s home base but also inspire its now-familiar name: 167 Raw.
The transition from a mobile fish vendor to a fixed location allowed the business to develop deeper roots in the community, expanding its offerings while maintaining the commitment to freshness and quality that had been its hallmark since those first impromptu sales. What began as a weekend that extended into 45 years had transformed into a true Nantucket institution with a dedicated following.
Bringing Fresh Seafood to the Streets: The 167 Raw Food Truck
Today, 167 Raw operates as a vibrant enterprise that extends far beyond its original scope as a fish market. At the core of its modern operations is the popular food truck, a casual dining option that perfectly aligns with Nantucket’s laid-back beach culture.
This mobile extension of the business offers visitors the chance to enjoy everything from quick fish tacos to indulgent lobster rolls without sacrificing the fresh-from-the-ocean quality that has become synonymous with the 167 Raw name. The food truck serves as an accessible entry point to the brand, allowing beachgoers to simply “roll up straight from the beach” in their sandy attire and savor exceptional local seafood in an approachable setting.
Beyond the food truck, 167 Raw has expanded its presence through a partnership with Cisco Brewery, where it operates a raw bar that has become a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The business has also developed its Market Garden space, a versatile outdoor venue that serves dual purposes.
Not only does it provide a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying the food truck’s offerings, but it also functions as an event space available for private bookings. This multi-use area allows 167 Raw to host everything from casual gatherings to more formal private events, offering clients “an authentic Nantucket experience” that capitalizes on the island’s natural beauty and the business’s reputation for quality seafood and hospitality. Set to reopen for the 2025 season in May, the Market Garden continues to evolve as an integral part of 167 Raw’s diverse operations.
