Summer Shanty

Close to all those major cities of the northeast, Cape Cod is a prime vacation destination. Lobster reigns supreme here, but it shares its throne with the clam.

The places where you can enjoy "lobster roll," "clam chowdah," and other "quahogs" are countless and their quality is pretty hit or miss. In the middle of it all, nestled on the peninsula, you'll find a little gem: Summer Shanti.

No pretentious gastronomy here. You wait (and wait) before getting a table, but at least you've got a drink in hand.

The view is magnificent and, as luck would have it, the sun treats you to a sunset right at your feet. You're served on cardboard plates by waitresses who glide between the tables with smiles on their faces, but the products are fresh and delicious … it's indulgent and simply good.

The vibe is pleasantly loud and lively, the crowd is mixed and laid-back, the guys from The McMurphy's handle the soundtrack (obviously live) … anyway, you're in America, it's vacation time, and it's damn fantastic.