Summer Vacation and Dining "In the Rough"

We had just unloaded the car of a week's worth of luggage, coolers and beach gear (this after sitting in the car for over three hours in traffic) when it dawned on us that we had hungry mouths to feed. It was our first day of vacation - our first family vacation on Cape Cod - and instead of slaving in the kitchen, we were eager to check out some local eateries. Props to my brother-in-law for the suggestion, we loaded the boys back in the car and made the short drive to Mac's Seafood at Wellfleet pier for dinner.

Our oasis after the afternoon from hell

Described as a "glorified clam shack," Mac's Seafood was just what we needed: feet-in-the-sand seating, a beach for the boys to explore (after being stuck in the car all afternoon), a diverse menu, and a perfect view of the sunset.

Take-out window before the lengthy lines started to form

Mac's is what you would expect from a New England clam shack -- no-frills fried seafood you order at the window and pick-up on plastic trays. What we didn't expect was the menu selection -- grilled fish, sushi, burritos, vegetarian options and wraps. Every summer we treat ourselves to a fried seafood platter, so this was no exception. We ordered the fish and chips and clam roll (whole bellied clams of course).

Picnic tables on the sand overlooking the bay

We grabbed an empty picnic table and the boys took off to explore the beach while we waited for our food.

Mayo Beach just steps away

It wasn't long until our number was called for us to pick-up our dinner at the window. The boys were starving and had little patience as I snapped a photo of the fish and chips platter.

Fish n' Chips

Mac's Fish 'n Chips includes breaded fresh native codfish, cole slaw and fries. The fish was delicate and delicious. The fries were a little soggy but that didn't stop the boys from inhaling them. The cole slaw was fresh and lightly dressed - a nice balance from all the fried goodness I was about to consume. A bit pricey ($16.50), but probably some of the freshest fried fish I've ever had.

The clam roll was also a hit with the boys and umdaddy (I didn't even get a chance to snap a photo). And for $8, a pretty good deal for seafood caught within five miles of the joint. My only regret was not ordering a grilled fish dinner. A couple joined our picnic and feasted on grilled salmon, herbed rice, steamed veggies and ponzu dipping sauce. It looked delicious and tried my best not to drool on their food. To top off the evening, we went back to the window and ordered ice cream and frappes.

Mac's Seafood Market in Eastham, MA

Mac's is so popular, they've opened a fine dining establishment down the road (Mac's Shack) and run several markets selling fresh fish and shellfish. We purchased mussels, steamers and lobsters from their Eastham location during our vacation. If you're looking for solid, fresh seafood for the family, Mac's Seafood is an institution that can't be missed.

Mac's Seafood Market & Grill
265 Commercial Street
Wellfleet, MA 02667
(508) 349-9611