Minding Your Business- The Lanyard Restaurant

“I love looking up and seeing the place full of people that are enjoying the experience here,” says Matt Kelley, co-owner of the Lanyard Restaurant in Harwich, and that is definitely the vibe you feel when you walk into the newly renovated space on Route 28. There is such a familiar feeling you get when you walk into the Lanyard, like you’ve been going there your whole life. 

Kelley, who owns the restaurant with his wife Erin and his in-laws Kara and Lou Malzone, is a Harwich native. The Malzones also grew up locally in Dennis, and together with the Kelleys they are committed to capturing the hometown hospitality people have come to love about the Lanyard. Kelley grew up frequenting the old 400 Club with his parents every Friday night and has countless fond memories from that time. 

“There is a great history to this space. We evolve, not reinvent and and we’ve tried to stay true to who we were in terms of local taverns,” Kelley says. “I am as Harwich as they come. We really wanted to get back to our roots, in an environment where people feel comfortable.” Kelley adds, “It’s humbling when someone decides to come into your restaurant. From the time they walk in the door you should feel appreciated.”

The Lanyard menu has been updated to reflect all of the best offerings one would expect from a local Cape Cod tavern like crispy cod sandwiches, fish and chips, lobster rolls, burgers and turkey clubs. There are also several new fun elevated offerings on the menu like the smash burger club sandwich and the fried buttermilk chicken sandwich and rice bowls (Mexican, taco or burger bowls!). Kelley notes that many diners have enjoyed the roasted teriyaki salmon and the seafood cioppino. There is a fantastic array of appetizers on the menu and delicious salads with over eight protein toppings to add.

The Lanyard, which employs around 40 people, was recently given a fantastic upgrade with an elevated look and feel including cool coastal signage, a freshly updated logo and gorgeous exposed brick throughout. Be on the lookout for nostalgic nods to Harwich throughout! The entire space is welcoming and family friendly, which is a huge draw for locals and summer visitors alike. With an enormous bar area and oversized dining room, the Lanyard can easily accommodate groups of all sizes. The outdoor patio will open up again in the next few weeks and will feature high top tables, fire towers, a big TV and eventually a raw bar. The Lanyard is also excited to have live music booked every Saturday and Sunday afternoon through September as well as music bingo on Tuesday nights, which has been a big draw. 

“If you’re going to be a part of the community, you’ve got to show up,” Kelley says. “People have a lot of choices where they go out to eat and it is important for us to create an environment where people feel comfortable.” 

The fantastic thing about the Lanyard is that whether you’re a summer visitor or a year-round local, there’s always a warm feeling you get every time you dine there. Be sure to stop in to the Lanyard for a drink at the bar or dinner with friends or family — you won’t regret it!

429 Route 28, Harwich Port, MA 02646

508-430-0404