By Hannah Trumbo

There is no shortage of expensive, albeit delicious, restaurants dappling Commercial Street. However, sometimes you want something that’s not going to break your wallet but is still better than a soggy hot dog. The Canteen and business partners Loic Rossignon, Tom Pucci, and Rob Anderson’s new venture just next door, Happy Camper, are two of the few remaining spots in Provincetown for a quick but satisfying bite.

At The Canteen, lobsters, oysters, and fish are fresh everyday, with breads coming from Pain d’Avignon and Iggy’s. The roasted Brussel sprouts with fish sauce have achieved cult status at this ‘50s and nautical-inspired joint. The miso Caesar salad is generously portioned for the price, and is a healthier option after too many fried fish and chips. For something a little different, the grilled PB&J sandwich is truly special: featuring house-made peanut brittle and fresh strawberries, where else can you find such a unique twist on an American classic? They also have an impressive wine and beer list (with some local selections as well) for the restaurant’s small size. The outdoor picnic tables are perfect for people watching in this eclectic town, and if you want a cozy dining experience, The Canteen also has picnic tables in the back overlooking the bay.

Happy Camper is also a fresh addition (it opened this May 2015) to Commercial: it features an array of treats to satisfy every kind of sweet tooth. The popsicles have unique ingredients (i.e. lavender, or even aloe and hot peppers!), and if you want something a little more decadent, there is always ice cream. But what really sets Happy Camperapart from other Provincetown eateries are the house-made doughnuts. Yes, Provincetown finally has doughnuts. Forget Entenmann’s – here you will find classic and adventurous flavors such as Chocolate Peanut Butter, or Green Tea and Hibiscus. My favorite was the Coconut and Dark Chocolate, and they sure didn’t skimp on the rich coconut flakes that ended up all over my face. There’s just no pretty way to eat a doughnut, but maybe that’s the point.

If you need a caffeine boost before you hit the shops or the beach (let’s be real, vacation can be exhausting), Happy Camperalso has a coffee bar using Stumptown beans. Also try the affogato (Italian for “drowned”), a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream drenched in a shot of hot espresso. The staff at both locations is friendly and relaxed, which is refreshing from the rather frenetic atmosphere in other places in town. Visitors can dine on the lawn chairs and the kitchy faux grass outside; these businesses seem to be fostering a communal feel already. If you are planning to visit Provincetown while the weather is still lovely, both locations will be open, and the fall donut lineup is already here!

The Canteen and Happy Camper

225 and 227 Commercial Street

Provincetown MA 02657

11 AM-11 PM Everyday

(508) 487-3800

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