The Canteen — Restaurant in Provincetown

We are locals in Provincetown and have been coming to Canteen since the first week they opened. The food, service and atmosphere are all consistently 5 stars. Today was unusual. We went to the back and couldn’t find a table. Not because there weren’t empty tables but because the entire section under the deck was “reserved”. The entire bar was empty, so we sat down. There was no one tending bar. Then Andrew showed up. He could clearly see that we had already ordered our food as we had our number out on the bar. Andrew asked if we were ordering from him. We replied with “no thanks we already ordered”. Andrew replied “well if you aren’t ordering from me, you can’t sit at the bar, you need to find a table.” I replied that we were waiting for a table. He then stated that we couldn’t wait at the bar, “that’s how I earn my money”. I replied that we had been coming to Canteen for years and sat at the bar many times. No one had ever told us that. Andrew explained that he was the bar manager and we needed to get up and leave. My response was quite simple: “We have been coming here for years and never been treated this rudely.” He responded: “My name is Andrew, if you have a complaint take it up with my boss.” So we did go inside to speak to Katie. She said “you can sit at the bar or any other seat at Canteen as long as you purchased your food and beverage at Canteen”. Okay, Andrew, this is your chance to explain why you are treating...

Absolutely the best seafood around! I had the pleasure of meeting a local gentleman who’s been in PTown since ‘87, and he insisted we try The Canteen. I was thrilled to snag a table for six in the cozy rounded corner with a huge window. The decor gives off a camp-like vibe, but don’t be fooled, the food is a culinary delight! The entire experience was fantastic, with a super sweet and engaging waitstaff. They even surprised me with a range of drink options, including alcohol, wine, and a delightful frosé. Since it was an evening in October, we decided to dine in, but I was told the deck out back offers incredible bay views - something to look forward to next time!

The food was perfection - crispy, hot, with flaky and light fish. The oil used for frying is exceptionally light, leaving no noticeable fry taste. Impressive! Both my partner and I opted for the fish sandwich, and at $15, it was not only a generous portion but also a delicious choice. The side of pickles and onions was sweet and vinegary, making it the perfect complement to the meal. The best part is that you can come as you are; this dining experience is ideal for a post-beach meal. The constant flow of diners coming and going is a testament to the staff’s efficient operation. Bravo to the team! We’ll definitely be back. Peace out PTown! See...

I was excited to see cauliflower fritters on the menu. As a vegetarian we are always looking for good options. I never imagined though that what I ordered would not be what was described.

When we speak to fritters, they are usually more distinguishable bits of vegetable or fruit mixed with a batter and deep fried or pan fried. This is NOT what these were.

Instead they were croquettes. A totally different yet similar item that too is deep fried. Yet on the outside is a sort of hard crust with the interior being a more mashed potato like filling.

I think when you market your product on the menu, it needs to be a reflection of what you say it is. A fritter is not a croquette.

That said, the Cauliflower Fritter was horrible!!! It had a greasy flavor with a mushy inside that was cold and didn't even taste proper. I couldn't even finish it for the flavor and texture was so off!

Be mindful that folks want was it mentioned on the menu, not a recreated idea or a take on a classic. Let's call things what they are.

IF you want to make fritters then do that but if you're making croquettes, let's be clear about that on the menu.

That way folks like myself, won't spend their money on something that isn't what they want, and aren't left with a bad taste in their mouth about...