We called for a six o'clock reservation on a Monday night in October. In the summer several days notice is often needed, so plan ahead or be prepared to stand outside until a table is available. When we arrived just before opening time (six o'clock) only one other twosome had arrived, but as soon as the hostess opened the door, others joined us and the place was completely filled, including all the seats at the counter, within the first half hour. Although the night was chilly, two groups opted to eat in the patio, an ideal choice on a hot summer's night. The counter, behind which the two chefs were already busy cooking as patrons arrived, stretches one entire length of the room. Opposite the counter along the far wall in this long narrow room, are small tables for twos and fours. Each has a square patterned cloth diagonally arranged on the table, with a small candle. This is the one concession to elegant dining otherwise the room is identical to the breakfast setting. The two window tables looking out on the sidewalk had already been requested, but on that cold night, we were glad to be away from the door. With close placement of tables, we enjoyed conversation with table "mates" on either side of us; both parties were frequent patrons and raved about the food.

The waiter appeared immediately and offered to open the wine while presenting the menu and describing the specials for the night. We began with a crab egg roll with asparagus and fuji apple, and an Asian preparation of shrimp served over delicate noodles. Both were excellent. The shrimp dish was huge, ample enough for a complete entree, with every morsel mouth watering. The two entrees included the night's special, crusted halibut accompanied by mashed potato and monk fish served with jasmine rice, baby organic spinach and cocoanut curry accompaniment. Both exhibited the chef's special flair of making something unique of these two rather bland fish. Dessert followed with the highlight being the lemon sorbet, the best on the island, served with a thin pancake- like cookie that had been dipped in chocolate, an odd but interesting balance.

Other Observations:
Black Eyed Susan's deserves it reputation for fine food. We were impressed. Our concern relates to the limitations the setting offers; it is crowded, noisy, and definitely not a place where you are encouraged to linger over coffee and conversation. The meals are delivered almost as soon as they are ordered, despite the fact that most of the guests arrived within minutes of each other. The quality is not influenced by the speed, but this it not the place to relax and spend two hours or so at dinner. You can easily glance in any evening to judge for yourself. Black Eyed Susan's popularity speaks for itself.

Our Rating
Ambiance	Food	Service	Price $$$$
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		Directions
Tel: (508) 325-0308		10 India Street, , MA