The following is a letter from Matt Morrissey, head of the Economic Development Council in New Bedford, to members of the council, in regard to the upcoming public forum to discuss plans to improve Acushnet Avenue and the surrounding area:

Dear Council Members,

We would like to take this opportunity to invite all of our Council members to a public forum to join us for a discussion to advance Acushnet Avenue as an International Market Place.  This forum will take place on Monday, December 6^th at 6pm at Cotali Mar Restaurant at 1178 Acushnet Ave (please refer to the graphic below). Since 2008, during our planning and business development efforts, we have heard business owners and area residents repeatedly express a vision for a revitalized and safe commercial area that respects our heritage, has the atmosphere of an international marketplace that emphasizes independent shop owners, and is a gateway into New Bedford.  As we continue our strategic approach to bringing new energy to Acushnet Avenue, we have developed a plan with actions that we can begin to implement today, along with future initiatives that will create the international mar­ketplace as a must-see destination in New Bedford.   As always, your input and participation as Council members are valued as we look to move forward with early implementation actions for the spring.  Thank you for all you have done and we look forward to seeing you on December 6^th.

Please contact Angela Johnston at ajohnston@nbedc.org or 508.991.3122 x 123 with any questions and to confirm your attendance.

Best,

Matthew A. Morrissey

Restaurant Name: The Candleworks Restaurant

Location: 72 North Water Street, New Bedford, MA

Owner: Jared Morgado

How long have you been involved with The Candleworks Restaurant?

I started working here in 2000 as a chef.  I became executive chef in 2002 and owner on October 7, 2007.

What did you do before owning Candleworks?

Prior to Candleworks I was a corporate chef with Naked Fish Company out of Boston.  I was the sous chef at Waverly Grille, which opened in 1998 at Waverly Oaks Golf Club.  I also worked on Block Island serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner to over 1,500 people per day,

How would you describe the dining experience in your restaurant?

Candleworks dining is the casual affair with the upscale flair!  Great for a date, perfect for a business meeting and awesome for late night relaxed entertainment or dancing like its 1999.

What is the meaning behind your business name?

The building we occupy was originally a candle making factory back in the early 1800’s, and has been a historic landmark and trademark for more than 200 years.

Do you have a favorite chef?

I love Gordon Ramsey!!!  I tried out for Hell’s Kitchen.  I was told I was over-qualified.  The video was great but the outcome was better.  Gordon fears “Chef Jared Morgado”

What are the most popular dishes at Candleworks?

The most popular dishes are the Filet Al Chef and Pasta Modena but…if you’re going for the “lite” fair, try our Sashimi Tuna.  Its out of this world!

What kind of regular specials do you have?

Regular specials are for regular restaurants…we are not regular.  We always change what we are doing.  Come in every week to see what we are doing.

What big events do you have coming up?

Big events?  If you need a corporate or political event we are your #1 headquarters.  But wait and see what is coming for New Year’s Eve, January, and that forever special Valentine’s Day!  If your reservation is with us for Valentine’s Day we guarantee a great night that will provide lasting memories for a long time…

It happens to the best of us:  even the healthiest, most organically conscious person will at some point find themselves eating the most delicious slice of processed pizza of their life, at 3:00AM.

Usually how it happens is that you’ve had a great night out around New Bedford, Dartmouth, and Fairhaven, and your stomach starts rumbling.  You know with eating comes the threat of seeing everything else you consumed that evening come back up, but the urge to get some delicious late night food almost always wins out.

Maybe its breakfast food you’re looking for.  Maybe you would like some pizza or some other form delicious late night forbidden delicacy.  Of course everything is different the next morning but that’s for another article.  Now, on to the point: lets eat!!!

Golden Greek: 1103 Acushnet Avenue New Bedford, MA (508) 997-8811
Late Night Hours: Fri & Sat 11pm-2:30am
Delivery: pick up only
Specials: large menu best
Late night menu: yes
Special Info:  “Best restaurant in town.  If your not here by 2:30 you won’t find a seat. We’re jam packed!”

Minerva’s: 280 Union Street New Bedford, MA (508) 992-3344
Late Night Hours: Friday & Sat. 11pm- 3am
Delivery: Until 11pm
Specials: BBQ Chicken Pizza and Steak n cheese sub
Late night menu: Fresh pizza, steak n cheese, grilled chicken subs
Special Info: There is high demand for quality late night food and we are here to fill that void…. Open wed night!!! Thanksgiving EVE & New Years EVE!!!!

Sarducci’s: 640 Pleasant Street New Bedford, MA (508) 990-7827
Late Night Hours: Open Till 3am Every Night
Delivery: until 3am every night!
Specials: none
Late night menu: whole menu available

IHOP: 47 Faunce Corner Rd North Dartmouth, MA (508) 996-1999
Late Night Hours: Sun-Thurs 12 and Friday & Sat till 3am
Delivery: no
Specials: no
Late night menu: Full menu and Special dinner menu

Cobblestones: 7 South 6th Street New Bedford, MA (508) 999-5486
Late Night Hours: 11:30-4 Friday Sat.
Delivery: No
Specials: No
Late night menu: Breakfast and hamburgers chicken tenders and fries

Johny Ray’s Cafe: 623 Brock Ave. New Bedford, MA (508) 999-4800
Just opened for late night eats in the South End
Late Night Hours: Thursday-Saturday 10PM – 2AM
Specials: No
Delivery: No
Special Info: Last order taken at 1:45 AM. Check out this cool new place for great breakfast and luncheon. At night we transform the cafe’ into a lounge atmosphere with great music, light show, and of course fantastic food!  Its an awesome way to finish the night. We will be opening on New Year’s Eve at 12 midnight.

Well there you have it.  I hope you find this guide to late-night eateries helpful.  If I missed some places please let me know and I’ll be sure to add them.  In the mean time, have a great night out and about the New Bedford area, be safe, and maybe I’ll see you at one of these fantastic late night eateries!

Bar name: Kirby’s Irish Pub

Location: 818 Kempton Street, New Bedford, MA

How long has Kirby’s been open?

March 10, 2011 will be our three year anniversary.

What made you decide to get into the bar business?

Getting into the business was suppose to be a fun family adventure. However, after a tremendous amount of adversity and a completely reconstructed pub, it became a project of determination!

What did you do before owning Kirby’s?

Everyone involved had and continues to sustain a full time job.

What is your favorite part of running the business?

Enjoying time with family, friends, neighbors, and patrons. We are a true neighborhood pub!

How would you describe the dining experience in your bar?

Even though we have the appropriate license, we don’t have a kitchen so we don’t serve food. However, we have a great relationship with Solonika’s Pizza and the Grand Wok Chinese restaurant. Not only is ordering something from one of local restaurants permitted, it’s encouraged.

What is the meaning behind your business name?

Our name was chosen after much debate. We had several names to choose from and Kirby’s fit, as it (the building) was built by a Kirby (Bob), owned by a Kirby, and run by Kirby!

What kind of regular specials do you have?

We have Rolling Rock (after all it is a premium beer) for $1.50, $2.00 shots and weekly seasonal specials!

What big event do you have coming up?

We have a DJ on Thursday nights, Live music on Friday nights, and Free Juke Box on Saturday nights. Next week we have a blockbuster line up of events starting Tuesday(11/23/10) night with the NBHS Gridiron Hall of Fame post-party kicking off at 9pm. Wednesday night (11/24/10) we have DJ J. Krack spinning music and hosting Karaoke. That starts at 9pm immediately following the rally and bonfire. Thanksgiving morning we’re open at 8am for indoor tailgating! We’ll have Bloody Mary’s, Mimosas, Irish coffee, breakfast pastries, and Deep Fried Turkey catered!! We’ll close at 3pm and reopen at 7pm with Free Juke Box for everyone! We can’t wait to see you all there!!

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Business: Ice Chest Bar and Grille

Owner: Drew Tillett

Location: Fairhaven, MA

Open Since: July 2007

Why did you decide to get into the bar business?

I’ve spent an awful lot of time in and around bars.  I figured I should start investing in myself and maybe I could get a few of my friends to join me along the way.

What did you do before owning your business?

I owned a commercial construction company.

What is your favorite part about running your own business?

The parties…no really, the parties are great but it is very gratifying to implement your ideas and see how people react.  So far it’s been very positive.  The challenge is to maintain a standard, to keep things interesting and to always have some fun.

How would you describe your bar/restaurant’s dining experience?

The Ice Chest is a casual bar scene with great food and the occasional spontaneous party.  What more does one need?

What is the meaning behind your business’s name?

It’s all about the CHEST!

What sets you apart from other similar businesses?

We are a legitimate dining establishment but we’re 21 and over only, so no loud children, just loud adults. That fact both throws and thrills a lot of people. We have a truly diverse crowd: At any given time we’ll have people in here from 21 to 81, and that’s no exaggeration. It makes for a very interesting atmosphere. The cougars love it!

What is your best selling food?

That’s a hard question.  I can’t really name just one.  Our best sellers include Portuguese Egg Rolls, Clam Chowder, and the Reuben.  It depends on which axis you’re measuring.

What kind of regular specials do you have each week?

We have several specials on the blackboard every day.  Some recent specials include French Meat Pie, American Chop Suey, and Haddock & Chourico Cakes.  We try to change it up every week.

What big events do you have coming up?

We are starting a Second Sunday Blues Brunch Series with live blues featuring Neal McCarthy.  As you might imagine, we will have this on the Second Sunday of every month, starting on November 14th.  We also throw one helluva New Year’s Eve Party with The Relics.  It is reserved seating only and we definitely sell out early. And then there is Chest Fest but you’ll have to wait until next year for that incredible party.

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It’s that special time of year again where kids and adults alike get to dress up, carve jack-o’-lanterns, watch scary movies and attend costume parties. While Halloween (or All Hallows’ Eve) falls on 31 October each year, you will find costume parties and celebrations during the last week of October leading up to that special day. Our NewBedfordGuide.com staff spent some quality time on the phones putting together a detailed list of venues in and around New Bedford that are holding costume parties or other Halloween events. Post a reply to this article with details if you know of an Halloween party that we missed!

23 October (Saturday)

Rose Alley Halloween Harvest – Costume Contest for a Cure

Location: 94 Front St New Bedford, MA 02740 – 508.858.5123

Cork Wine & Tapas; 90 Front St New Bedford, MA 02740-7262 (508) 994-9463

Date/Time: October 23^th 2010, 2:00PM- 11:00PM

Entertainment: Craig DeMelo; J. Kelley Band; Members of Bob’s Day Off; Neal McCarthy and Friends

Costume Contest & Prizes: Prizes for best costume, $500

Cover Charge: $15 All proceeds go to American Cancer Society

Drink & Food Specials: There’s going to be all of your favorite October and Pumpkin style beers, as well as hot spiked apple cider and some other drink specialties from Rose Alley Ale House and Cork! For food, Rose Alley Ale House, Cork, and Pizan’s will have all of your favorites available for purchase both outside and inside. Full details can be found here.l-

28 October (Thursday)

Bar 908 – Class of 2011 Halloween College Massacre

Location: 908 Purchase St New Bedford, MA 02740-6234 – (508) 992-8888

Date/Time: 28 Oct,  9 PM-close

Entertainment: Class of 2011 Halloween College Massacre

Costume Contest & Prizes: $250- 1^st place, $150-2^nd place, $100-3^rd place prizes for best costumes

Cover Charge: Yes

Drink Specials: $3 Smirnoff Cherry Bombs, $1 Kamikazis & shot menu, $2 Soco Lime shots, $2 Bud/Bud Lite/Bud Select 16oz Drafts, $4 16oz Blood Clot drinks (Soco, Grenadine and 7up)

–

Freestone’s City Grill

Location: 41 William St New Bedford, MA 02740-6224 (508) 993-7477

Date/Time: 28 Oct, 8PM-12AM

Entertainment: J. Kelly

Costume Contest & Prizes: Costume Prizes and Random Give-aways

Cover Charge: None

Drink Specials: $1.99 Freestone’s Lite Pint, Seasonal Pumpkin Beers

–

29 October (Friday)

Black Watch Pub – Freakfest Halloween Party

Location: 266 Dartmouth St New Bedford, MA 02740-2007 (508) 997-0023

Date/Time: 29 Oct, 9PM – 2AM

Entertainment: Freakfest Halloween Party ; DJ Benny T, and music by Risky Biz

Costume Contest & Prizes: Prizes for best costume in different categories

Cover Charge: $8 advance, $10 Door

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Seaport Inn and Marina Ball Room – Zombiewood Halloween Costume Party and Zombie Show

Location: 110 Middle St, Fairhaven, MA (508) 997-1281

Date/Time: 29 Oct, 10- 11 PM

Entertainment: Sounds provided by DJ Dick G and Scottie X from 10pm to 2am.

Costume Contest & Prizes: Cash Prizes for most original, sexiest, scariest costumes.

Cover Charge: Tickets $10.00 in advance and $15.00 at the door.

–

30 October (Saturday)

Hibernia Irish Pub – Halloween Video Lounge

Location: 109 William St, New Bedford MA 02740 508- 984-4423

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9 PM to close

Entertainment: Halloween Video Lounge

Costume Contest & Prizes: Costume Contest with Prizes and give aways

Cover Charge: Never a cover charge

–

No Problemo – Horror Business & the O’Toole’s

Location: 813 Purchase St # 805 New Bedford, MA 02740-6345 (508) 984-1081

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 11:30 PM to close

Entertainment: Horror Business & the O’Toole’s

Costume Contest & Prizes: none

Cover Charge: $5

Drink Specials: Special Mexican Craft Brew’s

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The Pour Farm Tavern – Neal McCarthy Halloween Jams

Location: 780 Purchase St, New Bedford, MA (508) 990-1123

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9 PM to close

Entertainment: Neal McCarthy

Costume Contest & Prizes: Best costume gets Boston Bruins vs. Tampa Bay Lightning tickets – 2nd place $50.00 gift certificate to PFT- 3rd place shot of Rumple Minze.

Cover Charge: Never a cover charge

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Sky Lounge – The Tower Of  Terror Halloween Party

Location: 30 Third Street Fall River MA 02720 508-674-1117

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 10 PM to close

Entertainment: DJ G.M.  “The Tower Of  Terror Halloween Party”

Costume Contest & Prizes: prizes for best costumes

Cover Charge: $5 After 11

Drink Specials: Halloween Cocktails

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Mikey Doyles – Dumb Drunk Acoustic Show

Location: 390 Rhode Island Ave, #4, Fall River, MA (508) 324-4646

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 7PM – 2AM

Entertainment: Dumb Drunk Acoustic Show

Costume Contest & Prizes: Costume Contest with prizes for best costumes

Cover Charge: None

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Ice Chest

Location: 136 Huttleston Ave Fairhaven, MA 02719-4614 (508) 992-2337

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9 PM – 1 AM

Entertainment: Funktapus

Costume Contest & Prizes: Prizes for Most Original Costume, Sexiest Costume and Best Couple/Group Costume.

Cover Charge: None

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Kirby’s Irish Pub

Location: 818 Kempton St New Bedford, MA 02740-2545 – (508) 992-1999

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9PM – 2AM

Entertainment: NA

Costume Contest & Prizes: Prizes for best 50’s Style costume,  $100

Cover Charge: None

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Strikers Sport Bar

Location: 66 Hathaway Road New Bedford, MA 02746 508-993-1746

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 8PM – 2AM

Entertainment: Out of Control; and Halloween Party in the Lounge

Cover Charge: None

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Knuckleheads Bar and Grille

Location: 85 Macarthur Dr New Bedford, MA 02740-7217 (508) 984-8149

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 10 PM – 2 AM

Entertainment: Boneshaker

Costume Contest & Prizes: Ca$h prizes for best costume, including Sexiest costume!

Cover Charge: None

–

Libad’s Bar and Grill

Location: 578 Brock Ave New Bedford, MA 02744-1540 – (508) 992-8474

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 10 PM – 2 AM

Costume Contest & Prizes: Ca$h prizes for best costume

Cover Charge: None

Drink Specials: Yes

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Bar 908 Halloween Bash #1

Location: 908 Purchase St New Bedford, MA 02740-6234 – (508) 992-8888

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9 PM to close

Entertainment: Halloween Bash #1 with DJ Bad Brian

Costume Contest & Prizes: $250- 1^st place, $150-2^nd place, $100-3^rd place prizes for best costumes

Cover Charge: Yes

Drink Specials: $3 Smirnoff Cherry Bombs, $1 Kamikazis & shot menu, $2 Soco Lime shots, $2 Bud/Bud LT/Bud Select 16oz Drafts, $4 16oz Blood Clot drinks (Soco, Grenadine, 7up)

–

Fathom’s

Location: 255 Popes Island New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 993-3400

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9PM – 2AM

Costume Contest & Prizes: Prizes for best costume, most creative

Cover Charge: None

Drink Specials: Halloween Cocktails

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Shooters Sports Bar

Location: 2691 Cranberry Hwy Wareham, MA 02571-1039 (508) 295-6666/ 360 Wareham Street, Middleboro, Massachusetts – (508) 946-4666

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9PM – 2AM

Entertainment: DJ

Costume Contest & Prizes: Prizes for best costume, $100 1^st, $50 2^nd

Cover Charge: None

Drink & Food Specials: Pizza & a Pitcher $9.99, Trick-or-Tini’s $6

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Millers Homeport

Location: 24 Cove RD, New Bedford, MA 02744 508-992-1311

Date/Time: 30 Oct, 9 PM – 2 AM

Entertainment: special giveaways will be given out throughout the night.

Costume Contest & Prizes: $500-1st Prize;  $300-2nd Prize; $100-3rd Prize

Cover Charge: $10 (includes 2 drink tickets) (to purchase tickets in advance please call (508-992-1311) or visit Miller’s Homeport for your tickets.

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October 31 (Sunday)

Bar 908 Halloween Bash #2

Location: 908 Purchase St New Bedford, MA 02740-6234 – (508) 992-8888

Date/Time: 31 Oct, 9 PM to close

Entertainment: Halloween Bash #2 with Special Guest DJ

Costume Contest & Prizes: $400- 1^st place, $200-2^nd place, $100-3^rd place, $50-4^th place prizes for best costumes

Cover Charge: Yes

Drink Specials: $3 Smirnoff Cherry Bombs, $1 Kamikazis & shot menu, $2 Soco Lime shots, $2 Bud/Bud LT/Bud Select 16oz Drafts, $4 16oz Blood Clot drinks (Soco, Grenadine, 7up)

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Catwalk Costume Karaoke

Location: 34 Union St, New Bedford MA 02740 508-994-3355

Date/Time: 31 Oct, 8 PM – 10 PM (band) , Karaoke 10:30-Close

Entertainment: Attack of the O’Toole’s. … Costume Karaoke (after band)

Costume Contest & Prizes: Costume Prizes and Give aways

Cover Charge: Never  A Cover Charge

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Editor’s note: this is an opinion piece and is filed until the “Rant” section of our site!

That’s right. I believe many of you people out there don’t deserve the luxury of driving. You’re bad drivers and the worst part is you don’t know it. You think your a good driver because you’ve never had a speeding ticket or never have had an accident (that was your fault).  Or even worse, you think you’re a really good driver!

I don’t care if you drive fast. I do. I don’t care if you don’t know the amount of specific fines.  I don’t. I don’t care if you eat while you drive sometimes. I have.

I care if you’re paying attention and that you actually KNOW the general rules of the road.

Why are there lanes on the high ways?

When can you turn left on a red light?

What does a yellow light mean?

Who’s supposed to yield when coming onto the high way?

What does yield mean!!!??

When are you supposed to stop and let people cross the street?

Yes, that’s my point, you don’t know.

Lanes are for controlling the speed and flow of traffic.  The far left lane is for PASSING.  So if you’re not passing someone, I don’t care if you’re driving 65mph or 100mph, GET OUT OF THE FAR LEFT LANE!  The Middle lane(s) (if there are any) are for the fast drivers.  The far right lane is for the people who want to drive the speed limit or slower and for entering/exiting the highway.

You can go right on red when you are turning from a one way street onto another one way street.

The car that is supposed to yield when coming onto the high way is….. THE CAR COMING ONTO THE HIGH WAY! The people on the high way are driving faster than you, and are not suppose to stop.  If it’s not safe for you to get onto the high way, you don’t speed up and make the person on the highway slow down. YOU DO, YOU STOP and proceed with caution and MERGE into traffic. (I’m not even going to get started on how to merge properly, I don’t want to confuse you any more than you already probably are).

And hey, that’s what yield means, to slow down and proceed with caution, and STOP if necessary, that’s why there are red and stop-sign-LIKE.

And a yellow light is there for two reasons.  First, to let you know the light is about to turn red, so you don’t need to slam on your brakes when the light goes from green to red.  Second, you are supposed to slow down and come to a stop when the light turns yellow, not speed up and try to make it through the light before it turns red.  The amount of stupid people I see on a daily basis running red lights as soon as they go from yellow to red is astonishing.  And yes you can be ticketed for running a yellow light.

Congratulations, you’re now hopefully a better informed driver, you’re still not a good driver, but hopefully your starting to see why you suck at driving.

I’m outta here.  Keep checking back for more rants; God knows I have so much more to complain about.

–R.R.

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If you live in New Bedford or South Coast, Massachusetts you have an opportunity to travel to some of the most treasured places the United States,  places where movies stars and Presidents enjoy their summer vacations; Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket and Cuttyhunk Islands.  There are two ways to get there: by air and by sea.  Here is a list of the best ways to travel to these islands.

Travel by Air:

Cape Air

• 1475 Airport Road, New Bedford, MA 02746 – (508) 991-6160 (click here for directions)
• 660 Barnstable Road, Hyannis, MA – (508) 790-1980 (click here for directions)
• 71 Airport Road, Vineyard Haven, MA – (508) 693-2210 (click here for directions)

www.flycapeair.com

Time Spent in the air: Less than 20 minutes (when leaving from the New Bedford Airport)

Ticket prices:

Martha’s Vineyard- $48.20 one way

Nantucket- $44.50 – $89.50 one way

Flight Times: From New Bedford Airport, hourly flights departing between 6AM-7PM during peak season and three flights a day during the off season. Don’t want to leave your car at the airport? Need an alternate source of transportation? There are many taxi services you can use but to ride in style here is a local drive company that will be happy to escort you. Try Regal Transit 774-202-7229.

BY SEA:

Taking a ferry will allow you the most options for getting to Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Cuttyhunk islands.  Here are the local ferry services.

New Bedford Fast Ferry:

49 State Pier, New Bedford, MA 02740 – (866) MV-FERRY (683-3779) (click here for directions)

www.nefastferry.com

Time spent on ferry: Approximately 1 hour (55 min).

Ticket Prices to:

Martha’s Vineyard:

• Adult- $35 one way
• Child- $20 one way
• Senior- $31 one way
• Bike- $6 one way

Commuter 10 trip book- $275 (it is transferable)

Ferry Times: The ferry runs from April through November. Hours and times change seasonally but during peak season, the ferry runs approximately 9 round-trips to the Vineyard, 6 round-trips during early fall and spring, and 3 round-trips during the winter.  The ferry always runs between 6:30AM and 9:30PM.

The Seastreak is the fastest ferry trip you can take to the Vineyard and there is a parking lot located close to the dock. Don’t be late. Ticket holders not checked in at least 10 minutes before departure are subject to losing their seat to people on the standby list!

Falmouth Fast Ferry:

278 Scranton Ave. Falmouth MA 02540 – (508) 584-9400 (click here for directions)

www.falmouthferry.com

Time Spent on Ferry: Approximately 30 min to Vineyard Haven / 1 hour to Edgar Town

Ticket Prices to:

Martha’s Vineyard, Vineyard Haven:

• Adult- $12.50 one way
• Child- $7.50 one way
• Bike- $5 one way
• Commuter 10 trip book: $60 per Child or $100 per Adult

Martha’s Vineyard, Edgar Town:

• Adult- $25 one way
• Child- $15 one way
• Bike- $5 one way
• Commuter 10 trip boo: $120 per Child or $200 per Adult

Ferry Times: The ferry’s schedule changes seasonally, but during peak season it runs approximately 4 round-trips running everyday, 3 round-trips during spring (Friday-Sunday), and 2 round-trips during the fall( Friday-Sunday). There is a parking lot located near ferry but parking rates do apply ($15-$25/ Day)

Falmouth Island Queen Ferry:

75 Falmouth Heights RD, Falmouth, MA 02540 – (508) 548-4800 (click here for directions) www.islandqueen.com

Time Spent on Ferry: Approximately 35 minutes

Ticket Prices to:

Martha’s Vineyard:

• Adult- $18 round trip
• Child- $9 round trip
• Bike- $6 round trip
• Kayak- $12 round trip

Ferry Times: During the summer the ferry runs 7 round-trips a day, 9 round-trips from Friday-Sunday.  Fall and spring the ferry runs only 2 round-trips on weekdays and 5 round-trips from Friday-Sunday. Please arrive 45 minutes before departure.  Parking is available with long term rates available.  They ONLY accept CASH and traveler’s cheques, no credit cards.  They do allow some pets, however its a good idea to call ahead and check first.

Woods Hole Steamship Authority Ferry:

1 Crowdy RD, Woods Hole, MA 02543- (508) 477-8600 (click here for directions)

www.steamshipauthority.com

Time Spent on Ferry:

Martha’s Vineyard: Approximately 45 minutes

Ticket Prices to:

Martha’s Vineyard:

• Adult- $7.50 one way
• Child- $4 one way
• Active Military- $4 one way
• Bike/Surfboard/Wind Surfer-$3 one way
• Auto Under 17’- $42.50-$67.50 (depending on time of year)
• Auto Over 17’, less than 20’- $52.5-$77.50 (depending on time of year)
• Motorcycle- $17-$35 (depending on time of year)
• Moped/Scooter- $10-$15 (depending on time of year)

Information on discount coupon books for people and autos, click here.

Ferry Times: From June through January the ferry runs 14 round-trips between 6AM and 9:45PM, stopping at Vineyard Haven & Oak Bluffs only during summer and fall.

This is the only way to bring your car, motorcycle, moped/scooter, to and from the islands!

Hyannis, Steamship Authority Ferry:

65 South St, Barnstable Town, MA 02601- 508.495.3278 (click here for directions)

www.steamshipauthority.com

Time Spent on (Slow) Ferry:

Nantucket: Approximately 2 hours, 15 minutes

Ticket Prices to:

Nantucket:

• Adult- $16.50 one way
• Child- $8.50 one way
• Active Military- $8.50 one way
• Bike/Surfboard/Wind Surfer- $6 one way
• Auto Under 17’- $130.00-$190.00 (depending on time of year)
• Auto Over 17’, less than 20’- $150.00-$215.00 (depending on time of year)
• Motorcycle- $45-$60 (depending on time of year)
• Moped/Scooter- $28-$38 (depending on time of year)

Information on discount coupon books for people and autos, click here.

Ferry Times: This ferry is running from June to January. Times and trips change monthly, but during peak times the ferry runs 6 round-trips, and during off peak months it runs only 3 round-trips.

Time Spent on Fast Ferry:

Nantucket: Approximately 1 hour

Ticket Prices to:

Nantucket:

• Adult- $32.50 one way
• Child- $16.50 one way
• Active Military- $24.50 one way
• Bike/Surfboard/Wind Surfer- $6 one way

Information on discount coupon books for people and autos, click here.

Ferry Times: Ferry runs April to January.  Peak months running 5 round-trips between 8AM and 7:15PM.  During off peak months the ferry only runs 4 round-trips, between 8AM-4:30PM.

New Bedford to Cuttyhunk Ferry:

66B State Pier, South Bulkhead, New Bedford, MA 02740- 508.992.0200 (click here for directions)

www.cuttyhunkferryco.com

Time Spent on Ferry:

Cuttyhunk: Approximately 1 hour

Ticket Prices to:

Cuttyhunk:

• Adult- $40 round trip
• Child- $30 round trip
• Commuter Pass 10 Trips: $230 (transferable)

Ferry Times: This ferry runs all year, with the schedule changing seasonally.  During the peak season the ferry runs 1 round-trip during week days and 2 round-trips during weekends.  During off peak seasons running only  during weekends, 1-2 round trips.

Cuttyhunk Ferry offers a full bar (liquor, beer, wine), espresso, coffee, teas, and snacks.  It also offers Seal & Sunset Cruises.

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The NFL pre-season is coming to a close this Thursday with the first game of the NFL regular-season fast approaching.  On 9 September, the NFL will kick-off the first game of the season with a rematch of the 2009 NFC Championship game between the Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints. The game is next Thursday so start making your plans now!

The 2010 NFL season should be an exciting one.  Brett Favre is coming back for another year and the Terrel Owns/Chad Ocho Cinco show should be fun to watch in Cincinnati.  There is a great crop of young rookies in Sam Bradford, Tim Tebow, C.J. Spiller, Ryan Mathews and Dez Bryant.  These guys should make an immediate impact on their teams.

Where will you go to watch the 2010 NFL season?  If you are from New Bedford or the surrounding areas we’ve put together a nice lists of bars for you that offer incentives to watch the game at their venue.  Having a TV and cable is simply not enough to make this list! We’ve ranked these bars by a number of important factors; the number of High-Definition (HD) TVs and games that can be played at once, whether they have the NFL package and if they have great food and drink specials.  We’ve also tiered these by best bars and excellent bars.

Best Bars to Watch NFL Football

These bars are the best for NFL football and fantasy football fans due to the amount of TVs they have and excellent food/drink specials.

Strikers Sports Bar and Grille (Wonder Bowl): 66 Hathaway Road New Bedford, MA 02746 – (508)-993-1746

Number of TVs: 14 HD including 115” Projection
Number of games on at once: 14
Sports Packages:  NFL Ticket
Food Specials: yes
Drink Specials: Beer specials every month. Current: Leinenkugel 16oz $2.50/ Landshark $2.00
Capacity: 120
Comment: The only place where you have beer and food, watch sports, play pool and bowl!

Knucklehead’s Bar & Grill: 85 MacArthur Dr New Bedford, MA 02740 – (508) 984-8149

Number of TVs: 17 HD
Number of games on at once: 17
Sports Packages: NFL ticket
Food Specials: $5 Steak Dinner and $6 Tailgate Pan
Drink Specials: Bucket of beer: Domestic: $13.50 Foreign: $16.50
Capacity: 95
Comment: With the capability to display every NFL game at once this is a Fantasy Football must!

Rose Alley Ale House: 94 Front St. New Bedford, MA 02740 – (508) 858-5123

Number of TVs: Nine HD
Number of games on at once: Nine
Sports Packages: NFL ticket
Food Specials: All you can eat boneless wings for $5.95
Drink Specials: Beer pitcher specials
Capacity: 149
Comment: There is always a great variety of boneless wings and a large selection of beers.

Miller’s Homeport: 24 Cove Road, South Dartmouth, MA 02748 – (508) 992-1311

Number of TV’s:  12 HD
Number of games on at once: 12
Sports Packages: NFL Package
Food/Drink Specials: Pitcher of beer and eight wings for $12 each with additional wings only $0.25 each.  Buy two burgers and get an appetizer free.  Tailgate sampler with boneless chicken wings, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, fries, and cup of chili for $10.
Capacity: 99
Comment: Pricing is excellent and the food is top notch!

Excellent Bars to Watch NFL Football

These bars are limited on the number of games that can be watched, but have great atmosphere and good drink and/or food specials.

Rasputin’s Tavern: 122 Main Street, Fairhaven, MA 02719 – (508) 858-5490

Number of TVs: Eight HD
Number of games on at once: Eight
Sports Packages: NFL Ticket
Food Specials: Sunday Lunch Buffett – 11am until you are full
Drink Specials: $2 PBR 16oz can, $1.50 Drafts, $2 Mikes
Capacity: 99
Comment: Fairhaven’s newest and best neighborhood sports bar.

Ice Chest Bar & Grille: 136 Huttleston Ave, Fairhaven MA, 02719 – (508) 992-BEER

Number of TVs: Six HD
Number of games on at once: Six
Sports Packages: NFL Ticket
Food Specials: Buy one burger get one burger free, buy one Pizza get one pizza free for Monday night football
Drink Specials: No
Capacity: 196
Comment:

Applebee’s: 500 State Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747 – (508) 997-3957

Number of TVs: Seven total HD TVs (Five in bar, two in dining room)
Number of games on at once: Three
Sports Packages: NFL package
Food Specials: $.25 wings during Pat’s games
Drink Specials: $3.50 Coors Light Draft & others
Capacity: 210
Comment: Outstanding service and always a fun atmosphere!

Hibernia Irish Pub: 109 William Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 – (508) 984-4423

Number of TV’s: Four HD with one large projections screen
Number of games on at once: Four
Sports Packages:  NFL Package (Comcast)
Food Specials: $0.25 Cent Wings
Drink Specials: Regular specials: $8 pitcher of PBR and Rolling Rock
Capacity: 99
Comment:  A great place to watch the Pats game with friends!

It’s summer time in the south coast of Massachusetts.  New Bedford is one of the main hubs and attractions in south coast Massachusetts and one of the major launching points to Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket and the Islands.  Each year, we only have a few precious months to enjoy the sun, beaches and my favorite part of living in New England (especially New Bedford) dining and drinking outdoors.

Let me say this plainly; I love having a nice cold beer. The only thing that’s more enjoyable than having good food and a cold drink inside my favorite bar is enjoying them outdoors.  I’ve put together a small list of some of the New Bedford’s best places to eat and drink alcoholic beverages outside.  I’ve also listed a few within a few miles of New Bedford and listed them in order of distance from the new Fairfield Inn, Marriot (for all you outta-towna’s).

Best Outdoor Bars In New Bedford:

Waterfront Grille: 36 Homers Wharf, New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 997-7010.
www.waterfrontgrille.com (112 feet)

You can’t get much closer to the Fairfield Inn than this!  The Waterfront Grille is conveniently located almost directly out the Marriot’s front door and has quality food and drinks.  Visitors can enjoy the wonderful summer time air on one of the two outdoor patio areas.  Sit back with some refreshing drinks and enjoy the boating traffic that makes New Bedford’s fishing port the busiest in the country.  Waterfront Grille has entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays, and Patio Parties and brunch on Sundays.  Click here for walking directions (or just walk out the front door of the Fairfield Inn).

Catwalk Bar and Grille: 34 Union Street, New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-3355.
www.catwalkbars.com (0.2 miles)

For a great view of the waterfront, personal roof deck bar, a chance to bask in the sun and catch a nice buzz, visit the Catwalk Bar and Grille for the only outdoor eating and drinking area roof deck.  Located approximately 25 feet above the sidewalk, Catwalk’s prized view is a must for all, but there’s no elevator or escalator to the top, so you’re going to have to haul cookies up two staircases to get there.  There is great entertainment almost every night of the week.  Click here for walking directions.

Candleworks Restaurant: 72 North Water Street, New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 997-1294. www.thecandleworksrestaurant.com (0.3 miles)

Candleworks Restaurant in historic downtown is one of New Bedford’s more historic buildings/restaurants.  The building is called Candleworks because it is the actual location where workers made candles from whale oil that was once so treasured.  The restaurant is located just minutes from new Fairfield Inn, Marriot. This classy restaurant is also the only place where you can eat and drink outside around beautiful fire-pits that will make those chilly summer evenings more comfortable. Check out the food specials and nightly entertainment Wednesday-Saturday.  Click here for walking directions.

Cotali Mar Restaurante: 1178 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA 02746. (508) 990-0066
www.cotalimarrestaurante.com (1.8 miles)

Cotali Mar Restaurante is the only place on this list that I haven’t been a customer at, but after visiting it I was truly taken back. The outdoor area is beautiful and the largest outdoor bar area that I’ve seen in New Bedford. There’s a bar located outdoors (that seems to be open only on the weekends) and a fire place at one end.  I’ve never had the food at Cotali Mar, but when I talked to customers I knew eating outside they insisted that the food was “really good.”  Cotali Mar Restaurante looks amazing and has a beautful outdoor dining and drinking area.  Click here for driving directions.

Davy’s Locker: 1480 East Rodney French Boulevard, New Bedford, MA 02744. (508) 992-7359.
www.davyslockerrestaurant.com (2.2 miles)

Davy’s Locker has been voted best seafood 11 years in a row and has two outdoor seating areas.  There is a covered area attached to the main building, so you’ll be protected from the elements.  Approximately 50 yards from the main building is the famous Tiki Hutt and is located directly on the water.  The Tiki Hutt is truly a  place to hang out and get the most of those summer rays.  Davy’s Locker and Tiki Hutt are motorcycle friendly with private motorcycle parking spots. The bars are located right next to New Bedford’s south end beaches and historic Fort Taber.  Click here for driving directions.

Airport Grille: 1569 Airport Road, New Bedford, MA 02746. (508) 858-5295.
www.airportgrille.com (4.1 miles)

The Airport Grille is a wonderful little hot spot and is located at the New Bedford Airport that has constant flights to Cape Cod and the Islands.  Forget Legal Seafood because this spot puts them to shame.  This restaurant was once one of New Bedford premier dining establishments before it closed its doors. The good news is the restaurant is open again and better than ever!  With a new dining area has removable windows that turns this indoor dining area to a wonderful outdoor style seating area with all the coverage needed to tackle New England’s constant change in weather.   Personal fans above every table and a private outdoor bar help make this indoor/outdoor spot very desirable and make waiting for your flight to the Cape and Islands a breeze. Click here for driving directions.

Fathoms Bar and Grill: 255 Popes Island. 1 (508) 993-3400

Located on the water at 255 Popes Island, has become an integral part of New Bedford’s diverse collections of eateries. Known for its rich culture and historical fishing industry, New Bedford set the stage for Fathoms Bar & Grille to be the place where people can gather for great food and drink in a relaxed waterfront environment, where the conversations always run deep.

Best Outdoor bars just Outside of New Bedford:

The Ice Chest: 136 Huttleston Avenue Fairhaven, MA 02719. (508) 992-2337.
www.icechestbar.com (2.0 miles)

The Ice Chest is one of the areas busiest bar and grilles.  It’s a fun bar that serves great food.  The Ice Chest provides a wonderful outside deck patio located directly off the main bar room where you can enjoy ice cold beer, great food specials every day, live entertainment and nothing is overpriced.  The Ice Chest is extremely biker friendly.  Click here for driving directions.

The Pasta House: 100 Alden Road Fairhaven, MA 02719. (508) 993-9913
www.thepastahouse.net (2.3 miles)

Fairly new to the outside dining patio club is the Pasta House in Fairhaven.  The restaurant has great home-made pasta, food specials, and great drinks that you can enjoy on their outdoor patio.  The umbrellas provide shade and make this spot even more attractive.  Business casual dining, is the best way to describe the atmosphere at The Pasta House.  Whether you’re out with family and friends or just flyin’ solo, you’ll feel comfortable and at home on The Pasta House patio.  Click here for driving directions.

Black Bass Bar & Grille:  3 Water Street, South Dartmouth, MA 02748. (508) 999-6975
www.blackbassma.com (4.2 miles)

Located in the small, beautiful and wealthy town of Padanaram, South Dartmouth lays the Black Bass Bar & Grille.  The front of the building faces the Padanaram harbor and the interior is very small and quaint.  In the back is a large outdoor seating area.  Plastic chairs and tables that rest on crushed white shells and covered by a white tent, allow patrons the chance to enjoy the outdoors and relax with an almost beach like feeling. Click here for driving directions.  While you’re there make sure you take the time to walk around and take in this neat little town.

Down the Hatch: 56 Goulart Memorial Drive, Fairhaven, MA 02719. (508) 993-3434.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fairhaven-MA/Down-the-Hatch/98929694946 (6.8 miles)

Out of all the bars and restaurants on the list, Down the Hatch is the only truly seasonal establishment.  At the end of summer this bar shuts down, closes its doors and re-opens the following spring.  Down the Hatch is truly a beach bar with nothing indoor;  patrons simply eat, drink and play under a tin roof that covers the front area.  While the bar is out of the way, the drive is nice and the food and drinks are worth it.  There is live entertainment at different times of the week.  Click here for driving directions.

Turks Seafood: 83 Marion Road, Mattapoisett, MA 02739. (508) 758-3113.
www.turksseafood.com (9.5 miles)

Turks Seafood in Mattapoisett, has absolutely the freshest sushi and seafood around with a great indoor/outdoor patio.  This great little establishment also has live entertainment on Monday nights.  Click here for driving directions.

Wasabi: 747 State Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747. (508) 990-9588.
No Website (9.6 miles)

Good sushi and Asian cuisine with a very large menu, Sadly, Wasabi has a very small (and underused) outdoor deck/patio area. Click here for driving directions.

The Wave Restaurant & Bar: 210 Spring Street, Marion, MA 02738. (508) 748-2986.
www.thewaverestaurant.com (12.1 miles)

Located directly off the highway, The Wave is an easy spot to get to on the way to or from Cape Cod.  The bar has entertainment on weekend nights and a large patio to sit out on. The patio only open 7 days/nights a week during the late Spring, Summer, and into the Fall.  Their HDTV’s are perfect for sports fans. Click here for driving directions.

Gateway Tavern & Grille: 371 Marion Road, Wareham, MA 02571. (508) 291-6040.
www.thegatewaytavern.com (14.6 miles)

Gateway Tavern & Grille is Wareham’s greatest little secret with outstanding food, large portions and great prices. It’s a local spot that faces west right on the edge of a marsh (where its huge covered back deck is located). At dusk this is arguably one of the most beautiful scenes on earth.  The Gateway Tavern & Grille has no entertainment; just good service, food and drinks.  Click here for driving directions.

Hawthorne Country Club: 970 Tucker Road, Dartmouth, MA 02747. (508) 997-3377
http://www.hawthornecountryclub.com/

The Hawthorne Country club reopened under new management on August 1st, 2012. There is now a restaurant with a full bar that has an amazing view of the golf course. The bar provides patrons service in the restaurant or to visitors that want to relax outside with new fire-pit seating that provides fresh air and a view of the greens. A new outside deck addition to the function hall provides easy access to the the outside bar area. The upgrade to the facility now allows for live entertainment, so expect live music in the future.

What are your favorite bars that provide outdoor seating in and around New Bedford? Post a comment and share this article!