What should I order at The Black Whale?
The Black Whale
Blue Fin Tuna Nachos
Mentioned as an incredible appetizer with perfectly balanced flavors and a pop from cilantro and scallions. It is noted as quite a bit of food for two people.
Lobster Thermidor
Recommended multiple times as an outstanding dish with melt-in-your-mouth lobster, highly anticipated for a return visit.
Fisherman Stew
Described as 'to die for' and a favorite go-to dish, highlighting its exceptional quality.
Raw Oysters
Frequently praised for freshness and flavor, with special mention of $1 oyster happy hour and consistently great quality.
Sushi
Noted for being fresh and delicious, with gorgeous sushi making for an excellent meal experience.
Smoked Salmon Dip
Complimented for its delicious taste and unique twist compared to basic bread and butter, served with crackers.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Called amazing and recommended as a must-try appetizer by several reviewers.
Lobster Rolls
Mentioned as great in flavor though a bit chewy, considered a highlight despite being pricey.
Pan Seared Scallops
Described as delicious and perfectly cooked.
Fried Fisherman’s Platter
Praised for great portions and nicely fried, although one reviewer noted it could use more seasoning.
Steak Frites
Noted as tender and perfectly cooked, receiving compliments for quality.
Surf and Turf
Mentioned as delicious and highly recommended.
Blackened Swordfish
Loved by reviewers for its flavorful preparation.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
About The Black Whale
Contemporary bar & eatery serving innovative seafood dishes & raw shellfish amid harbor views.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Drive-through
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is The Black Whale known for?
It is best known for seafood dishes like the lobster roll, clam chowder, oysters, and sushi, plus harbor views over New Bedford’s waterfront. Reviewers also call out fresh fish entrées such as halibut, salmon, tuna, and swordfish for being well prepared and generously portioned.
What dishes are most recommended at The Black Whale?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the lobster roll, clam chowder, blue fin tuna nachos, truffle fries, and the sesame-crusted seared tuna. Other frequently praised plates include lemon pesto halibut, blackened swordfish, bacon-wrapped scallops, fried scallops, and sushi rolls.
What is the atmosphere like at The Black Whale?
The vibe is a mix of casual and upscale, with a cozy, romantic feel and a bar area that works well for solo diners. Reviewers say it suits groups, date nights, business lunches, and families, especially when seated in the dining room or outdoor area with harbor views.
Is The Black Whale good value, and what is the price range?
The listed price range is $20 to $70, and reviewers often say the meal is worth the price because portions are generous and the seafood is fresh. One dinner for two with two drinks, an appetizer, and two entrées came to $130 after tip, which fits the restaurant’s mid-to-higher-end seafood pricing.
When is the best time to visit The Black Whale?
Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner, and the place is usually busy, though some diners have been seated quickly when arriving without one. Sunset is a popular time because the back of the restaurant has clear harbor and fishing boat views, and happy hour is also mentioned for $1 oysters.
Is parking available at The Black Whale?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does The Black Whale have vegetarian options?
Yes, The Black Whale offers vegetarian options.
Is The Black Whale kid-friendly?
Yes, The Black Whale is good for kids.
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