Cape Cod is synonymous with fresh seafood, offering a paradise for food lovers who crave the flavors of the ocean. From buttery lobster rolls to fresh oysters and clams, Cape Cod’s seafood culture is rich with tradition, and the region’s coastal waters provide an endless supply of high-quality, fresh seafood. If you’re staying near South Dennis, this guide will introduce you to the Cape’s seafood specialties, the best local markets, and even tips for catching or preparing your own delicious seafood feast.
Local Seafood Specialties
Cape Cod’s seafood is known for its freshness and flavor, drawing in foodies from all over. Here are a few must-try Cape Cod specialties:
- Lobster Rolls: A New England classic, the Cape Cod lobster roll is often served chilled with a bit of mayonnaise or warm with melted butter, all tucked into a toasted roll. Both styles are delicious and well worth a try.
- Oysters: Cape Cod oysters are renowned for their briny, slightly sweet taste. Try them raw on the half-shell, grilled, or baked.
- Clam Chowder: Creamy and rich, Cape Cod clam chowder is made with local clams, potatoes, and bacon, offering a comforting taste of the Cape’s coastal heritage.
- Fried Clams: Fresh clams are dipped in batter and fried to perfection. They’re crispy, salty, and a true Cape Cod staple.
- Scallops: Scallops from Cape Cod Bay are sweet and tender, perfect when grilled, seared, or added to pasta dishes.
Best Seafood Markets Near South Dennis
For those looking to buy fresh seafood to cook at home, Cape Cod has several excellent markets where you can find the catch of the day. Here are some top seafood markets near South Dennis:
Chatham Pier Fish Market (Chatham)
Located on the Chatham Fish Pier, this market offers a great selection of fresh, locally caught seafood. In addition to lobster, clams, and fish, they also sell cooked items, like lobster rolls and chowder, perfect for a quick lunch while you watch the boats unload the day’s catch.
- What to Buy: Fresh lobster, oysters, clams, and scallops
- Insider Tip: Visit in the late morning to see the local fishermen unloading their catch right at the dock.
Dennis Public Market (Dennis)
Dennis Public Market is a one-stop shop that carries fresh seafood, meats, and groceries. Known for its quality and local charm, this market is ideal if you’re looking to prepare a home-cooked meal with the freshest seafood Cape Cod has to offer.
- What to Buy: Scallops, local fish, littleneck clams, lobster
- Insider Tip: Call ahead to check on the catch of the day and ask for recommendations on what’s freshest.
Cape Fish and Lobster (Hyannis)
This market in Hyannis offers an impressive variety of fresh, local seafood along with prepared dishes. It’s a popular spot for locals who appreciate high-quality seafood, including live lobsters, shrimp, and clams.
- What to Buy: Lobster, clams, oysters, and scallops
- Insider Tip: Ask the staff for cooking tips; they’re knowledgeable about how to get the best flavor out of their fresh offerings.
The Lobster Trap (Bourne)
Located a bit further away but worth the trip, The Lobster Trap has an extensive seafood selection and an attached restaurant. It’s a great spot to buy fresh seafood or sit down for a delicious meal.
- What to Buy: Fresh lobster, clam chowder, and oysters
- Insider Tip: Grab a hot, buttery lobster roll from the restaurant if you’re looking for an authentic Cape Cod taste.
Cooking Cape Cod Seafood Classics
There’s nothing quite like cooking fresh Cape Cod seafood yourself. Here are some tips and simple recipes to bring the flavors of the Cape to your kitchen:
How to Cook Lobster
- Boiling: Fill a large pot with salted water, bring it to a boil, and add the lobsters. Boil for about 8-10 minutes for a 1-pound lobster, adjusting the time for larger sizes. Serve with melted butter and lemon wedges.
- Grilling: Halve the lobster, brush with garlic butter, and grill for about 5 minutes per side. This brings out a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender meat.
Perfectly Steamed Clams
- Ingredients: Fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and butter
- Method: Clean the clams by soaking them in cold water for 20-30 minutes to remove any sand. In a pot, sauté garlic in butter, add white wine, and bring to a simmer. Add clams, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes, or until they open.
Seared Scallops
- Ingredients: Fresh scallops, salt, pepper, butter, and a splash of lemon juice
- Method: Pat the scallops dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear in a hot pan with butter for 2-3 minutes per side. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Try Your Hand at Clamming and Fishing
One of the best ways to connect with Cape Cod’s seafood culture is to go clamming or fishing yourself. Here are some tips to get started:
Clamming on Cape Cod
Clamming is a popular activity on Cape Cod and is accessible for all ages. In South Dennis, you can head to Bass River or Corporation Beach, both of which are known for their clamming areas. Be sure to check with the local town hall for regulations and to obtain a shellfishing permit, as it’s required for recreational clamming.
- What You Need: A clamming rake, bucket, and shellfish gauge (to ensure clams meet size requirements).
- How to Clam: Wade into shallow water and rake through the sand to uncover clams. Collect your findings in a bucket, and be sure to follow size limits and daily catch limits.
Fishing on Cape Cod
Cape Cod offers a variety of fishing opportunities, from freshwater ponds to deep-sea fishing excursions. You can fish onshore along the Cape’s beaches or charter a boat for a day of saltwater fishing.
- Popular Catches: Striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and tuna.
- Where to Fish: For shore fishing, head to places like the Bass River or the mouth of the Herring River in Dennis. Several local companies also offer guided fishing trips for those interested in an off-shore adventure.
Tip: Always check local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits. Some areas require a saltwater fishing permit, which is easily obtained online or at local tackle shops.
Sustainable Seafood Practices on Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s seafood industry relies on sustainable practices to preserve its rich marine resources. As a visitor, consider supporting sustainable seafood choices by:
- Shopping Local: Purchase seafood from local markets and ask about sustainable sourcing practices.
- Following Catch and Size Limits: If you’re clamming or fishing, follow local regulations to protect the ecosystem.
- Eating Seasonally: Choosing seafood that is in season helps maintain healthy populations and supports local fisheries.
Hosting a Cape Cod Seafood Feast at The Blue Hydrangea
If you’re staying at The Blue Hydrangea in South Dennis, you can easily turn your fresh seafood haul into a delicious feast. The property’s well-equipped kitchen makes it easy to prepare and enjoy classic Cape Cod dishes with family and friends. Consider setting up an outdoor dining experience for a true Cape Cod-style gathering:
- Seafood Boil: Create a classic Cape Cod seafood boil with lobster, clams, corn, and potatoes. It’s a fun, hands-on way to enjoy a variety of local flavors.
- Lobster Bake: Bake fresh lobsters in foil packets with garlic, butter, and herbs, then serve with local corn on the cob and seasonal veggies.
- Oyster Tasting: Host an oyster tasting with different varieties from around Cape Cod, paired with a selection of sauces or mignonettes.
Plan Your Seafood-Filled Stay at The Blue Hydrangea
Whether you’re a passionate foodie or just love fresh seafood, Cape Cod offers a dining experience like no other. From exploring local markets to trying your hand at clamming, you’ll find plenty of ways to savor the Cape’s iconic seafood dishes. The Blue Hydrangea is the perfect home base for your seafood adventures, offering comfort, convenience, and all the amenities needed for a Cape Cod culinary experience.
Ready to experience Cape Cod’s rich seafood culture? Book your stay at The Blue Hydrangea and get ready to dive into a world of fresh flavors and local specialties.
