While we enjoy bustling restaurants with casual settings, it’s always nice to get dressed up and head out for a wonderful dinner in a quiet and cozy setting. That’s just what you’ll find at the Captain Linnell House in Orleans, Massachusetts.
The restaurant setting is a romantic old mansion, once the home of Captain Ebeneezer Linnell. In spring, wisterias grow right up the side of the home, adding additional charm to an already quaint appeal. Combine that with impeccable service and delicious food and you have the makings of a wonderful evening.
Chef Bill Conway and his wife, Shelly, restored the home to its former grandeur, and then created a menu to match. Dishes skew continental and many draw on the bounty of our local fish and seafood. Appetizers include Wellfleet oysters done two ways, a traditional chowder, and (my pick!) escargot with mushroom in a rich stock with a touch of cream. There is also a nice selection of salads, including a great Caesar.
As you would expect for a restaurant located here, the fish and seafood entrees are standouts—a superb bouillabaisse is loaded with cod, shrimp, mussels, clams and scallops. A longtime favorite of diners is scrod in parchment, perfectly cooked with crabmeat and shrimp. The half duckling is lovely, as is the rack of lamb. Other entrees include a selection of meats, poultry and pastas. Really, everything the kitchen turns out is exceptional.
All desserts are made in-house and are scrumptious. You can also order an ice cream sundae from the kitchen’s seven yummy choices.
Captain Linnell House
137 Skaket Beach Road, Orleans, MA
Dining Tuesday – Sunday, from 5:00 p.m.
508-255-3400
Come stay with us at the Inn and you can not only enjoy dining at Captain Linnell House, but all the wonderful other cafes and shops in our Cape Cod area!