Something new is cooking on the waterfront at Mile Marker One Restaurant at Cape Ann’s Marina Resort.
New, clear igloos have been erected outside that allow diners to see panoramic views, whether is it the water or the expansive sky, night or day.
At a recent Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting, many locals saw up close its Igloo Village.
Tobin Dominick, a managing partner, said the restaurant is not just a summer destination but a year-round one.
“When the umbrellas go down for the season at Mile Marker One’s outdoor Bridge Deck, the igloos go up,” she told the chamber gathering.
The igloos, now in their fifth season, have had a transformation, going from the opaque white shrink wrap to a shell made of of clear hexagonal shapes.
Tobin Dominick said she and her brother, Drew Dominick, had this vision and dream for many years but it was the COVID-19 pandemic that fueled the igloos’ first iteration.
“A lot of people were scared about going out and there was so much unknown at the time,” she recalled. “And the igloos provided something different to do when you couldn’t go out and about, and it gave people a place to go and to celebrate someone’s birthday or other event. The response from the public was very popular.”
She said the demand over the first four years led to the creation of an extra-large igloo to accommodate larger groups and parties.
“We are so excited to share this with the community,” Tobin Dominick said. “And they can be for more than dining. It can be a meeting space for nonprofits or business or celebrations. We’ve had engagements, showers and other parties.”
And for those who may not have a party or meal, there will be an extra-large “Igloo Lounge” on many pop-up days for anyone to stop by on their own for the experience. Mile Marker One’s website and social media will provide updates.
“When it starts snowing, it will feel like a snow globe,” Tobin Dominick said. “And for evening meals, it may be a starry night.”
Stephen Buckley, CEO of Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, applauded this innovation in the region’s dining sector.
“This is an exciting development for Mile Marker One, Gloucester, and Cape Ann as a whole,” he said. “It’s sure to become a highlight for visitors and a proud addition to our vibrant community. We’re already planning our next event in the igloos and look forward to seeing how they enhance the local dining scene.”