Grabbing a burger and a beer is one thing; enjoying a burger, a bourbon, and handmade potato chips is next level. And we can now do all three at The Attic, a restaurant and bar in the former La Soffitta space (above Waterside Market) in Vineyard Haven. Completely renovated and reopened in June 2023, the space is modern and cozy with a distinctive speakeasy vibe. The space is split in half: one half is a large bar area, the other is a cozy dining area with soft lighting. There are windows throughout as well.
Owned by Stephen Bowen and Bill Hart, the Attic is part of the Just One Bite Restaurant Group that includes Waterside Market and Fish MV. Bill heads up the kitchen. The menu is extensive, with starters and salads, entrées, a kid’s menu, and their wildly delicious burgers, all served by a very welcoming front of house team. Linger over the craft cocktail (and mocktail) menu, and take note that the Attic has the largest bourbon collection on the Vineyard - and a nice scotch collection, too.
With something for everyone, the Attic is perfect for every occasion: family night, date night, a birthday celebration, or just a Thursday night with friends. The Attic is open year-round too, making it a great change of scenery during the winter doldrums. And this time of year, they run dinner specials Sunday through Tuesday, as well as half-priced appetizers daily from 4 to 6 p.m. (dine-in only).
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Though it’s hard to narrow down favorites on the menu, we’ve come up with a list of five favorites we think you don’t want to miss.
1. Mac & Cheese ($18)
Comfort food is only comforting when it’s done right, and the Attic has mastered mac & cheese. I prefer the old-school classic — creamy and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs — but you can add one of five extras to make it next-level (short ribs or lobster, anyone?).
2. Hoisin Glazed Salmon Rice Bowl ($32)
Choosing a lighter menu option can sometimes feel less satisfying, but not at the Attic. Their rice bowl is bursting with flavor and texture: lightly sauced salmon, creamy avocado, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies.
It’s a go-to for any time of year.
3. Attic Smash Burger ($22)
There are plenty of burgers on the Island, but this is hands-down my favorite. Perfectly seasoned and surrounded by a fluffy brioche bun, topped with “special sauce,” you’ll need more than one napkin before the meal is over.
Be sure to get the hand-cut fries along with it.
4. Crispy Sweet Chili Brussel Sprouts ($16)
I can’t pass up a plate of these sweet and perfectly spiced lightly-fried Brussels sprouts.
Be ready to fight over the last one!
5. Roasted Beet Salad ($16)
What makes this beet salad so delicious is the dollop of whipped goat cheese and the local honey drizzled on top. It’s the perfect way to kick off a meal.
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The Attic
82 Main Street, Vineyard Haven (above Waterside Market)
508-687-9448
Cash & credit cards
Online ordering available
Open Sunday-Thursday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Reservations accepted for 8 or more only
@theatticwaterside
Laura Holmes Haddad is a frequent contributor to The Vine.
All photos by Ray Ewing.
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