The Black Whale
A contemporary bar and eatery on New Bedford's waterfront, celebrating local seafood heritage with innovative dishes and harbor views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Black Whale
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A contemporary bar and eatery on New Bedford's waterfront, celebrating local seafood heritage with innovative dishes and harbor views.
Reservations Recommended
Book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to secure your spot at this popular spot.
Happy Hour Oysters
Don't miss the $1 oyster specials during happy hour for an unbeatable deal on fresh oysters.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Seafood with Harbor Views
Indulge in the freshest oysters, sushi, and signature seafood dishes while enjoying scenic views of New Bedford harbor.
Signature Fisherman Stew
A must-try hearty Portuguese fish stew that diners rave about, packed with exceptional flavor.
Dollar Oyster Happy Hour
Score incredible deals with $1 oyster specials during happy hour, a favorite among locals and visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Recommended
Book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to secure your spot at this popular spot.
Happy Hour Oysters
Don't miss the $1 oyster specials during happy hour for an unbeatable deal on fresh oysters.
Opt for Off-Peak Hours
Visit during less busy times for a more relaxed dining experience and to avoid feeling rushed.
Enjoy the Waterfront Ambiance
Consider outdoor seating for picturesque views of the waterfront while enjoying your meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Recommended
Book in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to secure your spot at this popular spot.
Happy Hour Oysters
Don't miss the $1 oyster specials during happy hour for an unbeatable deal on fresh oysters.
Opt for Off-Peak Hours
Visit during less busy times for a more relaxed dining experience and to avoid feeling rushed.
Enjoy the Waterfront Ambiance
Consider outdoor seating for picturesque views of the waterfront while enjoying your meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Black Whale is celebrated for its high-quality, fresh seafood and vibrant waterfront atmosphere. Diners frequently praise the expertly prepared dishes, especially the oysters and signature Fisherman Stew, alongside attentive service. However, some find the prices to be on the higher side, and occasional mentions of overcooked or under-seasoned dishes suggest minor inconsistencies.
"Stopped in for a quick lunch and bellied up to the bar. The place is clean and staff is wicked friendly. While I just got Sushi and Raw oysters, I was peeping the heaping plates of other entrees going by and they're quality looking and smelling dishes. The sushi tasted fresh and delicious. The oysters weren't bad for $3 a pop. Also, I was stoked they had multiple options for NA beers as it pairs well with food guilt free for the sober patrons. Connor was an absolute gem. I can't wait to go back for their Happy hour with $1 oysters. Try this scenic spot out in historical downtown and you won't be upset."
Charles McNeil IV
"We had just returned from Nantucket by ferry. We were hungry so we were looking for somewhere convenient and close. We didn’t expect to find such a wonderful restaurant. It was fully booked but we were able to sit at the bar which serves the entire food menu. The vibe was upbeat and the food was fantastic. I had the seafood soup and my cousins had the chowder. Both were excellent but if I were to come back I would order the chowder, I just wanted to save in the calories. The oysters were super fresh and delicious. The desert was not memorable, too sweet. And I was surprised that they did not serve key lime pie which is a staple in any seafood restaurant’s menu."
Heba Barazi
"This place is a great place to dine. Would certainly recommend seeking reservations due to the bustling atmosphere. Nevertheless the food menu have quite a few good and hearty bites to eat. So yes come with a appetite. The Staff is very welcoming, and definitely will accommodate their guest. This place was on my go to list, glad I got the chance to experience "The BlackWhale" but I must come back again."
karlcamis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times like weekends and holidays, as the restaurant can get very busy.
The Fisherman Stew, raw oysters, lobster rolls, and various sushi dishes are frequently praised by diners.
Yes, The Black Whale offers a happy hour with popular $1 oyster specials, making it a great time to visit.
Yes, the restaurant is known to have gluten-free options and attentive staff who can accommodate dietary needs.
The restaurant offers scenic views of New Bedford harbor, and outdoor seating is available for an enhanced waterfront dining experience.
They offer a full bar with cocktails, including martinis and margaritas, as well as a selection of beers on tap.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
A Guide to Living in New Bedford, Mass.
The Black Whale restaurant, in downtown New Bedford, offers an ample variety of seafood.Credit...Christine Chitnis for The New York Times
Caviar Food Delivery & Takeaway
A great choice from their extensive menu that can't be beat. The Shaggy Dog has only the freshest, exceptional quality ingredients you expect at a 5 star establishment. You can taste the freshness & it's professionally prepared...One of my faves. Never disappoints.". "The scallop roll was well stuffed with six large scallops perfectly cooked....the rest of the presentation? Needs improvement....soggy toasted bun, brown lettuce and less than a tablespoon of tartar sauce. The Piri Piri Octopus?
About Downtown New Bedford | Schools, Demographics, Things to Do
There are dozens of places to eat in Downtown New Bedford, but one place that consistently gets top mention is The Black Whale. Situated with views of the Acushnet River, this restaurant focuses on local seafood heritage but also offers a bar for enjoying cool sips. And with Route 6 running through the center of town, it’s easy to reach everyday amenities like Down to Earth Natural Foods.
Coming soon to New Bedford’s State Pier: Restaurants and shopping?
They’re backed by some familiar New Bedford names: Steve Silverstein, who owns and operates several city restaurants, including Cisco Brewers and the Black Whale; Ed Washburn, the former director of the New Bedford Port Authority and now-managing director of Coast Line Transfers; and Cassie Canastra, director of operations at BASE.
11 Best Restaurants in New Bedford, MA for 2025 (Top Eats!)
106 MacArthur DrNew Bedford, MA 02740(508) 990-7100 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Located right in the heart of the New Bedford Waterfront Pier 3, The Black Whale is a modern bar and café with waterfront views that serves inventive seafood dishes including raw shellfish.
You spoke! New Bedford’s best restaurants according to residents
This was one of my favorite answers because they included the full spectrum of restaurants from a quick takeout window (Gary’s Best) to more of a fine dining experience (The Black Whale). Both places are great recommendations and serve different needs.
The Best 5 Seafood Restaurants in New Bedford, Massachusetts
This sleek spot showcases New Bedford’s seafood industry not only on its massive menu but also in the views from its prime location on the working waterfront. 104 Co-Op Wharf, Pier 3, New Bedford, 508-990-7100, theblackwhale.com.
Outdoor Dining? Here Are Your Favorites
The Black Whale also offers close-up views of the historic New Bedford harbor while serving a full menu of options, including a raw bar. Don’t miss sitting in their very Instagram-able over-sized chair!
Boats, Baleen, and Baby Seagulls: New Bedford, MA with Kids and Teens
With one kid still unable to be vaccinated, we focused on restaurants with outdoor seating this summer…but this ended up meaning a lot of restaurants right on the water, which is not a bad thing at all.
The 8 Best Gluten-Free Spots with Outdoor Seating in New Bedford
I have celiac disease I informed the waitress she was very knowledgeable and took care of me. I know they did things right when preparing my food. Went home that evening and had no issues.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit