On a typical morning, the rich scent of the local Beanstock Coffee Roasters French Roast fills the air to accompany the aroma of breakfast sandwiches cooking on the griddle, as an oyster fisherman relays the daily outlook on the sea conditions to an enquiring visitor. Looking for that quintessential old-time, Cape Cod experience with a flair for local and artisanal selections? You have it in the center of downtown Cotuit. There is a reason that this place is featured on PBS's New England Chronicle entitled "Selling Community in Cotuit," the Cape Cod Times, and Cape Cod Magazine: It is the real deal.
Owners Megan and Seth Burdick have created an exceptional local market that anchors the town with a unique and local experience bringing the fisherman, the European tourist, the summer resident and the local resident together. For a smaller market (this ain't no Stop and Shop) the space affords a selection for any shopping list that embraces breadth--Pain De Avignon (local French Bakery) Croissants? Check. White Lion Baking Company fresh granola? Check. Black River Organic Ground Beef? Check. J Daniel BBQ sauce? Check. Deli-sliced meats and cheeses for the picnic? Check. Toilet paper for that weekly rental? Check. Some apparel that embosses the town name of Cotuit for gifts for the grandchildren? Check.--and depth (They have never run out of a half-gallon carton of milk on me, even during this whole Covid-19 mayhem). And speaking of Covid-19, if you are reading this during the Pandemic, they do offer curbside service--just call ahead with your order.
I first stumbled upon this gem years ago, but after Megan and Seth took over the management and then later, ownership of store, I saw incremental improvements that have led to its current hometown feel and flair. Megan has a knack for curating the right mix of local, artisanal, and general staples to create a classic Cape Cod experience, steeped in traditional and provincial spirit. At the check-out counter you might find hand-crafted doggie treats or locally made, individually wrapped carrot cake with cream cheese icing. On any given day, the shop features a full-service deli to conjure up anything from a great steak and cheese, to their excellent take on an Italian sub and an assortment of homemade side dishes. A daily selection of soups is always available including the award-winning local, Captain Parker's Clam Chowder.
They also offer a nightly homemade dinner during weeknights (warning, order ahead because they do sellout). Currently, these include Monday's wholesome meatloaf dinner, Tuesday's scrumptious chicken-pot pies, Thursday's Italian night with veg and meat lasagna, and Friday's huge racks of BBQ ribs. The meals are made from scratch, often with an accompanying side, and they are delicious--I have eaten every option on multiple occasions.
Need a recommendation on best place to hike locally, or an off-the beaten path area to sunbathe? Ask anyone there. The staff--Tim, Shane, Megan, Seth, etc.--have over the years made recommendations for a unique hiking trail, or favorite beach area to me, and they have never led me astray. These folks know the Cape. In summation, it is one of my favorite places to mingle, eat, get groceries, and meet interesting out-of-towners. It is a special place in Cotuit that deserves a thousand stars. read more