The Black Whale

In the heart of the historic port of New Bedford, USA, lies a place that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Atlantic — the modern seafood restaurant The Black Whale. Located right on Pier 3, this establishment offers guests not only exquisite cuisine but also breathtaking views of the working harbor, where authentic fishing vessels sway on the waves.

The restaurant was created by locals with deep respect for the region's rich maritime heritage. The interior harmoniously combines the style of an elegant bar and a cozy dining room, creating an atmosphere equally pleasant for a family evening or a special event. The Black Whale takes pride in the exceptional freshness of its products, which arrive in the kitchen directly from the fishing boats.

Here, culinary traditions of the past meet the innovations of "New American cuisine." Thanks to the impeccable quality of local seafood and its unique location at the water's edge, the restaurant has become a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the true taste of life on the Massachusetts coast.

For those planning to visit The Black Whale and wishing to book a table or clarify menu details, the current contact information is provided below. It is recommended to contact the staff in advance, especially on weekends when the establishment's popularity among locals and tourists increases significantly.

A visit to this establishment is, above all, an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Guests can order dishes from the raw bar, including the freshest oysters, mussels, and legendary platters with lobster and king crab. Fans of Asian notes should check out the signature sushi, while connoisseurs of the classics will enjoy the steaks or the signature bacon-wrapped scallops with cauliflower puree.

A special pleasure comes from watching the active port life through the panoramic windows. In the warmer months, the outdoor terrace becomes the perfect place to enjoy a cool drink to the cries of seagulls. Don't forget to stop by the bar during happy hour (Monday to Thursday), when special offers apply to popular menu items, making your visit even more pleasant.

The restaurant is also an excellent venue for private events: the covered and heated deck allows for celebrations with a water view year-round. The display of fresh seafood on ice at the entrance immediately sets the right mood, promising guests an authentic taste of the ocean.

Finding the restaurant is easy: it is located at 104 Co Op Wharf, right on the grounds of Pier 3. This spot is in close proximity to the city center, making it part of a convenient walking route. If you are coming from the famous Whaling Museum, a stroll along the waterfront will take only about 10–15 minutes.

For those arriving by car, parking is available directly at the wharf or at neighboring Wharf lots. Travelers from other cities can easily reach the area by intercity buses from Boston or Providence (the trip takes about an hour). If you plan to take a taxi from the center, the ride will take just a few minutes.

The nearest air hub is New Bedford Regional Airport (EWB), but many tourists also use T.F. Green Airport in Providence, located 45 minutes away. The convenient location in the Working Waterfront area allows you to combine your restaurant visit with an exploration of fishing vessels and port infrastructure.

The name of the restaurant, The Black Whale, directly references the glorious past of the city, which in the 19th century was considered the whaling capital of the world. The owner, Steve Silverstein, represents the fourth generation of a family that has been doing business in the region since 1900. This deep connection to the city and its traditions is felt in every detail of the establishment's design.

The culinary strategy is led by Chef Matthew Barros, a local native and graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. After working at top restaurants in Miami and Boston, he returned home, bringing ethnic influences and modern techniques to the local scene, creating a unique dialogue between history and modernity in every dish.

The building is located on the historic Pier 3, where the spirit of the maritime industry is most palpable. Thus, the restaurant is not just a gastronomic destination, but a kind of monument to the work of generations of local fishermen, continuing the long-standing tradition of supplying the city with the finest gifts of the ocean.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and exquisite cuisine of The Black Whale, we recommend planning for a visit of 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time for a leisurely dinner, including appetizers from the raw bar, main courses, and dessert, as well as time to admire the harbor views.

If your visit coincides with happy hour or you plan to just have a quick bite at the bar, one hour might be enough. However, the relaxed pace of seaside relaxation often encourages a longer stay, especially in the company of friends accompanied by local drinks and the sound of the surf.

The establishment maintains a convenient operating schedule, welcoming guests daily. From Monday to Thursday, as well as on Sunday, the restaurant's doors are open from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the venue stays open an hour longer — until 10:00 PM, allowing you to enjoy a late dinner in the atmosphere of the nighttime port.

For those seeking the best deals, happy hour is typically held from Monday to Thursday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This is an excellent time to appreciate the chef's craftsmanship and the freshness of the seafood at special prices.

The area surrounding The Black Whale is steeped in history, and exploring it will certainly enrich your travel experience. Its proximity to the working port offers an insider's look at maritime life, while numerous historic landmarks within walking distance complete the picture of the region's cultural heritage.

We recommend setting aside time to visit sites related to the golden age of sailing to deeply feel the atmosphere of this unique port city.