by Madeline Smith
While walking by the many attractions Oak Bluffs Harbor has to offer, a handful of interesting sights are easily noticed People floating on their boats is a common scene, listening to music with cool drinks in hand enjoying the scenic view in front of them.
Crowds of people strolling the boardwalk after a long day at the beach or at sea begin to gather at the many restaurants that rest right along the harbor. Among them is Coop de Ville. Here you are likely to find the most lively crowd of all, especially if there is a soccer game on.
Gathered under a colorful awning, an enthusiastic crowd interacts with one another in a way that is rarely found anymore. The “Coop,” as it is affectionately known by locals, is a neighborhood joint disguised as a restaurant for tourists. It’s where locals meet visitors and friendships are formed. The “Coop” is known for its tasty, tangy wings and HUGE selection of beer on tap. But its real claim to fame occurs every Tuesday when the “Coop” hosts it weekly “Lobster Fest.” Steamed lobster and corn on the cob flow from the kitchen to every table for the unbeatable price of just $14.99, while supplies last.
Owner Petey Berndt spoke with This Week, while keeping a watchful eye to make sure his customers were happy, about what makes the Coop stand out.
This Week: Do you live on the island year-round?
Petey Berndt: Yes I do. And I love it. I always have something to do and I keep busy all year.
TW: What’s the story behind the Coop de Ville and you becoming the owner?
PB: This place was for sale and I told my father he had to buy it because I wanted to make it my own. We call it the “Coop de Ville” because when soccer season comes around, everyone comes here to watch the matches. We are the only soccer bar on the island. Everyone is standing in one space and it looks just like a chicken coop. It’s really cool, actually.
What is your favorite dish here and why?
PB: Well of course, we are popular for our chicken wings. But the Peel ‘n Eat Baltimore-Style Shrimp is hands down my favorite dish here. The shrimp is cooked in my favorite Old Bay seasoning and it’s just great. Since I am from Baltimore, I decided to bring a little piece of the city here with me to show my customers how the people of Baltimore eat!
TW: How would you describe the atmosphere of this place?
PB: Very casual and very family friendly. I have about four people that have been working here with me for some 20 years now. That’s not something you see a lot in the restaurant business. We all appreciate each other and what we do for the restaurant. That really goes a long way. That’s what makes being here so special.
TW: It appears as though you have added on The shuck shack right next to the restaurant here. Are you excited about the new addition?
PB: Of course. It just means more room for more business. It used to be a hot dog place. Now I’ve expanded my restaurant to do more raw food that is being served at the shack. It’s a perfect spot to eat a couple of oysters, have a few drinks, and watch the harbor straight ahead. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Coop de Ville has earned a coveted reputation as “a locals’ place for tourists”. It’s the perfect spot to gather with friends, eat some wings, have a few drinks, and if you’re lucky enough to come on the right night, watch a soccer game. See you at the “Coop!”
MORE INFORMATION
On the Harbor
12 Circuit Avenue Ext
Oak Bluffs
(508) 693-3420
coopdevillemv.com
