Scheduled to open in late-May, Chilmark Tavern will serve as a much needed addition to Up Island's dining options, and Auffrey is expecting big things from the new restaurant.

From The Passionate Foodie:

Compounding the excitement is the arrival of Chilmark's executive chef, Paul O’Connell, whose acclaimed Chez Henri bistro in Cambridge, Massachusetts has racked up regional and national accolades for almost 15 years. O’Connell – leaving Chez Henri temporarily in the hands of his longtime chef de cuisine Mark Thompson – plans to open Chilmark Tavern at 9 State Road in late May.

Just weeks away from opening, new décor is being installed, staff is being trained, and O’Connell is testing the menu items he’ll be serving Up Islanders from late May until mid-October (like most island restaurants – service is seasonal)...

...Samples from the debut dinner menu include:
· New Bedford Style Baked Clams with sweetbreads and chorizo $15
· Ale-Braised Vealwurst with green tomatoes and brown bread $11
· Fulling Mill Farm Smoked Fish Platter $13
· Ceviche of Bay Scallops and Shrimp w/ avocado mousse, plantain chips $13
· Allen Farm Spring Lamb Two Ways $36
· Menemsha Harbor Catch of the Day MP
· Grilled NY Sirloin with Blue Cheese-Chive Butter $32
· Tuna Steak with Grapefruit BBQ Glaze and fennel-citrus salad $26
· Farm Cheese Tart with Lemon Cream and Blueberry Compote $9
· Passionfruit/Tangerine Creamsicle “Fribble” with sugar cookies $9

...I am a fan of Chef Paul O’Connell and Chez Henri so I expect his new endeavor will be just as good. If you are on the island this summer, it is well worth checking out the new Chilmark Tavern.

Well, it certainly sounds delicious. Check back in with us after Chilmark Tavern opens, and offer your review of the Vineyard's latest fine dining establishment.

Chilmark Tavern: New Restaurant on Martha's Vineyard [The Passionate Foodie]