Typically when one thinks of beach-side eateries in New England- they think of lobster shacks by the docks or maybe a burger place on a bustling boardwalk- and they’re not wrong. Those places are common and usually delicious- but if you find yourself craving freshly made street tacos, an energizing smoothie bowl, or even a refreshing cold brew- I have to point you towards one of my favorite little stops in Rye, New Hampshire.
1191 Ocean Boulevard has been home to a couple of former takeout businesses over the years- including but not limited to an ice cream parlor and a Tiki-inspired seafood spot- but none of them have made food *as* good or have remodeled the small building to truly capture a retro Summer aesthetic (my favorite!) quite like Kooks Cafe & Beach Shop has. Established fairly recently, it didn’t take long at all for me to fall in love with Kooks- and I always make it a point to swing by there when I’m in the area this time of year for a quick bite and some shopping.
Not only does Kooks offer affordable and delicious breakfast and lunch (or snack!) options- but they also have an indoor seating area and a store that carries really cute bathing suits, beach gear and accessories among plenty of other things. You can also arrange surfing and paddle board lessons with them, too- so it has a little something for everybody- whether you’re a tourist or a local alike.
My most recent trip to Kooks was this past weekend when I practiced social distancing while grabbing a couple of street corn chicken tacos (the absolute best) and a fresh lemonade during a break from driving back home after a mid-day venture to/from Portsmouth. I managed to find a table outside in the shade- and everything hit the spot the way it always does. I cannot stress how delicious their food is. I’m already so eager to go back.
That being said- catching a sunrise at the beach is on my “to do” list for Summer 2020- and I can’t think of a better place to get breakfast afterwards!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 