Located among the streets of downtown Nantucket, Via Mare has established itself as a notable restaurant since opening its doors in Spring 2019. Housed within the Greydon House boutique hotel, this Venetian-inspired small plates restaurant has quickly become an island favorite, offering an innovative approach to “garden & sea” cuisine. The latest venture from the team behind Ventuno Restaurant and Pizzeria Gemelle, Via Mare brings a touch of Venetian style to Nantucket’s dining scene.
The Unique Twist at Via Mare
What sets Via Mare apart is its unique interpretation of the Venetian tradition of bacari—taverns where small plate dining and drinking create an atmosphere of connection and culinary exploration. The restaurant’s name, loosely translated as “by way of the sea,” captures its focus on maritime inspiration and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Visitors and locals have embraced the restaurant’s relaxed yet refined approach to dining, where sharing plates and stories go hand in hand against the backdrop of Nantucket’s downtown district.
Via Mare’s menu can best be described as “Italian-ish”—a creative fusion that pays homage to Venice’s role in historic spice trades. The culinary team follows these trade routes in crafting their eclectic offerings, resulting in dishes that surprise with unexpected flavor combinations while maintaining roots in traditional Italian cuisine. From delicate seafood crudo to vegetable-forward small plates, each offering tells a story of cultural exchange and culinary innovation, mirroring Venice’s history as a crossroads of global influences.
The Drink Menu
The restaurant’s drink program continues this theme of exploration, featuring a carefully curated selection of wines that showcase both Italian classics and lesser-known varieties. The cocktail menu draws inspiration from Venetian traditions while incorporating modern techniques and unexpected ingredients.
Signature drinks often feature housemade infusions and syrups that complement the restaurant’s food offerings, creating harmonious pairings that enhance the overall dining experience. This thoughtful approach to both food and beverage reflects Via Mare’s commitment to creating a complete culinary experience for its guests.
The Atmosphere
The physical space of Via Mare is as carefully designed as its menu, thanks to the vision of the interior design firm Roman & Williams. The restaurant offers multiple distinct seating options, each creating a different ambiance while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The living-room-style bar area invites casual socializing with its comfortable seating and lively atmosphere, while the intimate dining room provides a more traditional restaurant experience with views overlooking Broad Street that showcase Nantucket’s downtown.
For those who prefer outdoor dining, Via Mare offers an inviting open-air porch where guests can enjoy the island’s summer breezes and people-watch. Additionally, street-side cafe-style seating provides a European dining experience, allowing patrons to feel transported to a piazza in Venice while remaining on Nantucket’s historic streets. This variety of seating options makes Via Mare suitable for everything from casual drinks to special celebrations, adapting to the needs and preferences of its diverse clientele.
