It began on a bitterly cold day in 1969 with a stale donut and a disappointed Captain Robert Douglas. With no year‑round restaurant on the Vineyard, his meager meal inspired him to sketch a small gambrel‑roofed building on a napkin—an idea that grew into a waterfront restaurant at the head of Vineyard Haven Harbor, a place for locals and visitors to gather.

The Captain’s enthusiasm quickly spread. Townsfolk helped build and shingle the structure, and locals shared recipes for pies, chowders, and soups. When it was finished, he named it after his loyal dog, Black Dog.

Not much has changed since then. The view is still beautiful, and our chefs continue to craft breakfast, lunch, and dinner—year‑round—with the finest ingredients. The Black Dog Tavern also offers a charming waterfront setting for weddings, parties, luncheons, and special events.