For loyal customers, the heart and soul of Oak Bluffs has returned: Lola’s is back in business. On Friday night at 10 p.m., the parking lot was full, the music was playing and friends were dancing, rejoicing in the reopening of the restaurant. It was as if it never left.

“It’s like prohibition is over!” one customer declared. “Our Island is a happy place again,” said another.

Mermaid Farm meatballs, stuffed scallops with garlic, local beef pot roast, fresh vegetable lasagna, Morning Glory Farm corn and tomato salad, roasted beets, berry crisp, apple pie. Those were just a few of the mouthwatering dishes that filled the tables of the sixth annual Slow Food Martha’s Vineyard potluck dinner Tuesday night.

If Michael Brisson had the opportunity to serve God the perfect meal, he would make his spice crusted foie gras, étouffee of lobster, and his pistachio and limoncellocrèmebrûlée. He’s had 25 years on the Vineyard to perfect those recipes at his restaurant l’étoile in Edgartown, and has more energy than ever.

On a recent summer morning in Aquinnah, Daniel Sauer was tending to a tomato plant with one hand and holding the hand of his 18-month-old son, Amos, in the other. This was a typical day for Mr. Sauer, a balancing act of farming, cooking and family time.