Opening for the 2019 season

Justine DeOliveira, left, and former year-round Islander visiting from Wisconsin, Jill Gault, enjoy a sunny afternoon at Coop de Ville. —Gabrielle Mannino

Martha’s Vineyard is starting to wake up; ferry rides will soon be packed to the gills, Circuit Avenue continues to grow busier, and mopeds are back.

But one sure sign of summer arriving on the Island is all the great restaurants opening up — some we look forward to every year, and others have just recently celebrated their grand opening.

Giordano’s Pizza takeout window is one joint that is highly anticipated every year. Islanders and preseason visitors alike lined up along the sidewalk this past Thursday to get a taste of that greasy goodness. Then, after enjoying their slice of pepperoni pizza (or clams and seafood, for which Gio’s is also famous), folks could head to the renowned Back Door Donuts for a sweet treat.

What other iconic Martha’s Vineyard food vendors are opening up soon? Well, we all know how delicious a freshly baked blueberry muffin from Morning Glory Farm is. Soon you will be able to bite into one; Morning Glory opens up on Friday, May 3.

Farm workers have already seeded pansies and violas for spring plant sales, and will be entering the season with six different varieties of strawberries.

Town Bar & Grill opened this past Monday, April 29, in Edgartown, delivering a kind and laid-back atmosphere, serving breakfast and dinner, along with weekend brunch. With 18 different draft beer lines and tasty spins on classics including pasta, seafood, and easy appetizers, Town is sure to be a hit this summer.

Head up the street a ways, and you’ll hit Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery. On Friday, May 3, enjoy a crisp, hoppy 508 IPA, or toss back a refreshingly bitter Martha’s Vineyard Ale. Have a few Martha’s Vineyard–made beers, or pick up a growler to have for parties with friends and family.

The Port Hunter is another great eatery and bar opening on Wednesday, May 8. With a state-of-the-art raw bar and an extensive menu by land and by sea, the Port Hunter has something for everyone. Not only that, but they make a mean mojito, and have a number of popular beer options.

Among the Flowers finally opened its doors for delicious breakfast and coffee in the morning, and will be serving dinner in late July after 2 pm, until October.

Are you looking forward to enjoying a cocktail and some quality seafood on the water while the sun sets over Oak Bluffs Harbor? The wait is almost over, as Nancy’s Snack Bar will be opening Thursday, May 23.

Right down the pier, Lobsterville, with its rich lobster mac and cheese, lobster grilled cheese, and famous lobster rolls (they sell normal lobster too — what a surprise), will be reopening sometime in mid-May.

Maybe you are more into some prime poultry for your first dinner on-Island. Look no further than Coop De Ville, which opened last week. Coop De Ville is arguably the best place on-Island for spicy buffalo wings, and it has some pretty great drinks and seafood options to satisfy any craving.

Dilly’s Taqueria opened Wednesday, May 1, in case you are trying to fulfill your taco fix. Many of the ingredients at Dilly’s are made fresh in-house, then crafted into traditional bites or signature eats that will send your taste buds on a journey south of the border.

Whether you like beer or tend to lean toward the shaken and stirred variety of beverages, 20byNine can fulfill all your cocktail needs. 20byNine, which opens Thursday, May 2, utilizes the freshest seasonal ingredients to create unique artisanal drink creations.

Your favorite beach bodega, the Katama General Store, will also be opening soon. So get ready for a perfect day at the beach, and enjoy some healthy and tasty snacks, sandwiches, salads, pastas, and baked goods while getting your tan on. Whether you are traveling to the beach by car, bike, or skateboard, make sure to stop in the Katama General Store and check out all their homemade goodies.

John’s Fish Market is now open, serving up fresh cuts of your favorite seafood, along with market-smoked fish that makes a delicious snack, dinner, or picnic addition. Whether it’s tuna salad made with fresh tuna filets you are craving, or a sizable dinner of swordfish, John’s is a great place to stop.

As the restaurants start to open, the Island begins to come alive, and we enter into another bustling summer season.

This article by Lucas Thors originally appeared on mvtimes.com.