As the saying goes, you’d have to be living under a rock lately to not hear all the juicy gossip and appraise over the recently released Netflix series The Perfect Couple, adapted from Elin Hilderbrand’s novel of the same name. If you haven’t yet watched it, stop whatever you’re doing and turn it on now! We love the shout-outs to local businesses (The Downeyflake and The Islander, to name a few) but most of all, we enjoy playing a fly on a wall to an impossibly rich family as scandalous activity (and murder) disrupts the wedding of “the perfect couple.” If this makes you want to read more Elin Hilderbrand novels, you’re not alone; crowned long ago as the queen of beach reads, the New York Times Bestselling author is as quintessentially synonymous with Nantucket as, say, cobblestone streets and clam chowder. Immerse yourself even further into the world of Elin-mania by following along as we explore a few real-life Nantucket locations Elin has plugged into her impressive plethora of novels.
Galley Beach Restaurant
In what is rumored to be one of Elin’s best books, The Blue Bistro was loosely based on Galley Beach restaurant, and for good reason. It could be argued that no other restaurant on island offers such an incredible location- situated literally on the beach – and offers such a high-end, delicious menu. This dining experience is an absolute must for any visitor or resident alike.
The Nantucket Hotel
As if you needed another reason to visit The Nantucket Hotel, you can add to your list the fact that it was, of course, Elin’s inspiration for the book The Hotel Nantucket. That may be where the parallels begin and end, as there’s zero real life drama here… in fact, we find it rather relaxing to have a seat in their chic and newly redecorated lounge, or a drink at their warm and welcoming bar. It’s truly fun to walk up those grand entryway stairs and pretend you’re one of Elin’s fabulous characters.
Bartlett’s Farm, 167 Raw, Sayle’s Seafood, & Henry Jr. Sandwich Shop
Any fan of Elin’s writing will know that food oftey makes its way into her novels (in fact, Blue Bistro was FULL of food) but we love the endearing shout-outs to these casual yet amazing island vendors. From a love interest having Henry Jr sandwich wrappers in his car to a sexy heroine buying shrimp from Sayle’s, we love the way our everyday stomping grounds play an important part in all of her books.
Brant Point Lighthouse
Elin has often said that she loves to include the experience of someone arriving on Nantucket in each and every one of her Nantucket-based novels, and who can not relate to that overwhelming and emotional experience of arriving somewhere so beautiful? Be sure to look for mentions of Brant Point Light, The Steamship Authority car ferries, and that sweet, bumpy ride up the cobblestones of Main Street just after driving off the boat.
Elin, thank you so very much for your lovely words about our favorite place on earth.