When it comes to going out to a restaurant, the atmosphere can oftentimes make just as big an impact -- if not more -- as the food. It’s all about the collective experience, turning the meal into something bigger than a quick bite to eat.
Being on the coast, Massachusetts benefits from incredible waterfront views, where diners can watch the calm waters or the rocky shores. After all, this is a state that loves its seafood.
We took a look at Yelp reviews to sort out some of the highest-rated waterfront restaurants in the state, with priority going to restaurants with high ratings among many reviews. Then we asked the MassLive staff to recommend their favorite spots, including some well-known favorites, some hidden gems and what makes the experience essential.
Essex County
Posted by Roy Moore Lobster Co. onTuesday, July 21, 2009
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/463 reviews
This lobster shack has an outdoor patio with some seating overlooking the beach. But if you take your food and walk a moment you can sit by the harbor with a fresh lobster roll.
“The lobster here are super fresh and the lobster roll is stuffed very generously.” - Tiffany D.
“Maybe the best steamed lobster I’ve had. I’m so tired of the rubbery and dry overcooked lobster that you end up with at supermarkets and fishmongers.” - Vincent R.
Posted by Clam Shack Salem Massachusetts onFriday, June 14, 2019
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/160 reviews
Located right at the water’s edge in Salem, this popular destination whips up a staple New England food, as if the name didn’t give enough of a hint.
“The sheer volume they put out from the tiny kitchen is impressive and the food is unbelievable.” - Carolyn M.
“There’s a roped off eating area for patrons that is well shaded. Its a nice spot situated within a chill park area on the water. How can you beat that?” - George B.
Suffolk County
The Marina Restaurant & Bar at the Wharf - Revere
Yelp rating - 4 stars/188 reviews
From seafood to burgers to pasta, there’s food for everyone at this Revere spot, including a Sunday brunch.
“If they had a 10 star rating, I would give it to them.Excellent food, fantastic staff (waitress Lisa was amazing) and warm loaf of bread to die for. Great drinks, entertainment, atmosphere, and reasonably priced.” - Deb U.
"Views that you don’t think you can get around these parts, boats and trains.” Derek W.
#memorialdayweekend
Posted by James Hook and Company onWednesday, May 29, 2019
Yelp rating - 4 stars/ 1,139 reviews
If you’ve ever driven down by the waterfront in Boston, you’ve likely seen this local staple, known for its iconic lobster statue. The restaurant lets you dig into a lobster dinner while catching sight of the harbor outside.
“I love that their rolls come with so much meat on them, and you can tell it’s fresh - like, out of the water fresh." - Catherine F.
“The lobster here is probably the freshest I’ve had yet. They definitely do not skimp on the lobster, and the roll is worth coming back for.” - Melissa K.
Posted by KO Catering & Pies onThursday, February 22, 2018
KO Pies at the Shipyard - Boston
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/295 reviews
A full selection of Australian food awaits as you hang by the shipyard. Forget chicken pot pie, these pies step it up a notch with selections like Irish beef stew and curried vegetable.
“The shipyard area feels hip and artsy, a bit of an undiscovered gem. A walk to the local park is very worth it - nice views of the city and a beautiful green space amongst the industrial surroundings.” - Karina R.
"Love their sausage rolls! The schnitzel burger is also delicious. Their meat pies are a classic of course.” - Emily L.
Posted by Anna's Harborside Grille onTuesday, July 17, 2012
Anna’s Harborside Grille - Plymouth
Yelp rating - 4 stars/208 reviews
Known for its Greek food, this restaurant has you overlooking the water when the weather is nice.
“Sail on over to Plymouth and discover Anna’s Harborside Grille it is sure to delight your palate with quite an array of cuisines.” - Deb G.
We ordered a number of appetizers and they were all fabulous. Quite honestly they were sufficient for us and we could have stopped there." - Kathleen L.
Franklin County
We're not really sure how you're supposed to celebrate Patriot's Day, but a meal on the deck sounds just about perfect...
Posted by The Alvah Stone onMonday, April 15, 2019
Yelp rating - 4 stars/174 reviews
Everyone agrees that The Alvah Stone is a gorgeous restaurant tucked away in Franklin County. Sit outside and you have a sight of a waterfall.
“f there were 10 stars to select, I’d give them all! Amazing atmosphere (sat outside near the waterfall). Food was incredible, as the sharing plates came out, each was better than the last- we didn’t want them to stop coming!” - Kimberly M.
“The setting is picturesque and peaceful. The staff is well-trained and passionate about providing a fine dining experience. And the chef seems to be a monster of creativity.” - Vincent L.
Berkshire County
MINT Indian Lakeside Dining & Bar - Lee
Dine at this Indian restaurant with a panoramic view of the water. Reviewers say the food is delicious and the portions are large.
“Nestled in the front door of an inn, you wouldn’t necessarily expect an amazing ambiance, but let me tell you, it’s stunning!” - Zane Z.
“Why is it that the best Indian restaurants are either 45 minutes or 90 minutes away from us, and the worst is in our hometown?? In any case, this IS worth a drive!” - Bibi S.
Barnstable County
Posted by CERALDI onThursday, June 9, 2016
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/102 reviews
Chef Michael Ceraldi and his team use locally-sourced ingredients to bring you something new every night. Patrons all agree, the waterfront view can’t be beat.
“During our visit, the menu was thoughtfully tailored not only to feature the best local ingredients of the day, but also for the time of year and even the weather of the day.” - Jon B.
“The food, presentation, staff and atmosphere were all amazing. This is like watching a show of well choreographed artists working in a small space and producing great food. This is a must do for any foodie.” - Duane B.
STOP in for dinner or drinks! We’re #open in #woodshole #openinwoodshole #stopin #pondview #dusk #capesunsets...
Posted by Water Street Kitchen onSunday, September 23, 2018
Water Street Kitchen - Falmouth
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/93 reviews
Water Street Kitchen focuses on sustainably fished and farmed ingredients. Kick back with a big meal and gaze over the Woods Hole Harbor.
“The atmosphere was very inviting, with dim candle lighting, soft background music and a cool ocean breeze coming through the windows. The food itself was incredible.” - Thomas M.
“Absolutely spectacular! Incredible views of the Woods Hole Harbor and perfect ambience matched with a sophisticated menu with fresh seafood offerings, impeccable service, and an all around incredible experience.” - Mike F.
Posted by The Mews Restaurant and Cafe onThursday, May 15, 2014
The Mews Restaurant and Cafe - Provincetown
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/471 reviews
The Mews is no stranger to famous faces. People like Vice President Al Gore, Whoopi Goldberg and Ethan Hawke have dined here. It doesn’t get much closer to the water than this.
“By far the freshest oysters I have had in a very long time. Each oyster was expertly shucked.” - Jason S.
“We were seated upstairs at the window overlooking the water. The table was perfect - a half circle so that we could both look outside and watch the sun set during dinner.” - Jody W.
Posted by The Canteen onMonday, July 15, 2019
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/947 reviews
The team at The Canteen comes from near and far, “from as close as Bradford Street to as far away as Jamaica, Bulgaria and Serbia.” Seating out back gives you a prime look at the ocean.
“Do not sit in the shop. Do not. Head to the back, because there is prime seating of beautiful, serene oceans just 15 steps away!!!!” - Maggic C.
Dukes County
#larsen's fish market in Menemsha #marthasvineyard. Some of best seafood I've ever had & really cheap pic.twitter.com/7cgQPoyjyF
— (((Henry Rearden))) (@hankrearden77) August 1, 2014
Larsen’s Fish Market - Chilmark
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/150 reviews
One of the tougher places to reach on this list, Larsen’s Fish Market on Martha’s Vineyard offers locally caught seafood as you look over the ocean.
“Best place to get fresh seafood while at Menemsha Beach.” Diana G.
“I recommend you grab yourself a lobster dinner if you stop by the beach at sunset.” - Jim B.
Worcester County
Come enjoy dinner on the deck while the weather lasts!! 🌞#Views from #AlicanteMendon
Posted by Alicante Restaurant & Lounge onSunday, August 27, 2017
Alicante Restaurant & Lounge - Mendon
Yelp rating - 4.5 stars/255 reviews
For those who don’t want to take a trek to the coast, there are other options, such as Alicante Restaurant & Lounge, located right by Nipmuc Pond.
“This is definitely a top restaurant in this area, and worthy of the 4.5-star average Yelp rating. We’ll round up to five stars for our very enjoyable dining experience.” - Alan B.
“The bolognese sauce is one of the best I have ever had. Great portion. Beautiful views of the lake while you enjoy dinner.” - Brianna M.
Middlesex County
View from table 2 😍🍔🍟
Posted by The Dudley Chateau onWednesday, October 26, 2016
The Dudley Chateau - Cochituate
Yelp rating: 4 stars/188 reviews
Overlooking Dudley Pond, this nautical-themed spot with a “chat” atmosphere is known for its burgers. Grab some food, watch some sports and play some darts at this hangout spot.
“All the burgers are cooked fresh to order and they have a solid selection of interesting kinds.” - Julie N.
“The Chat! Ambience, townie. Nice view out the window of ice fishers on the frozen lake. It’s looks like a house after you drive down a residential street. Nothing elegant about this place!” - P. M. W
Staff Picks
Hi, I'm here for the Lobster Roll? #boston #winthrop #summer (@ Belle Isle Seafood) pic.twitter.com/MsnW0mIiq8
— Ratty (@HeyRatty) August 14, 2016
Melissa Hanson - Belle Isle Seafood, Winthrop
"At Belle Isle Seafood in Winthrop, the dining is casual without the food lacking any flavor. Nestled in an inlet, diners can see exactly where their catch came from.
The salmon and haddock are incredibly fresh, paired with a bright slice of lemon. The menu also boasts lobster, oysters, clams, shrimp and swordfish. Airy rice pilaf pairs well with baked fish. The fried dinners are accompanied by french fries and onion rings.
Belle Isle Seafood has minimal industrial decor. The restaurant is filled with picnic tables, making for a comfortable and cozy setting to enjoy dinner with friends and family.
For quality food without any unnecessary frills, while still enjoying a waterfront view, Belle Isle Seafood is a good pick."
Posted by Chart Room onTuesday, July 16, 2019
John Beattie - Chart Room, Cataumet
The Chart Room in Cape Cod might be easier to find by sea than by land, but if you can get there, reward yourself with a mudslide or 4 on the shells as the sun sets over the marina. Inside you’ll want to start with some stuffed quahogs as you dine in a structure steeped in history with a lively crowd and a great ‘old Cape Cod’ feel.
Posted by Polcaris Bridgwaye Inn onMonday, December 22, 2014
Hayley Johnson - Polcari’s Bridgwaye Inn, Marshfield
“The family-owned Polcari’s Bridgwaye Inn in Marshfield is a great summer spot. Enjoy seafood and Italian options with a view of the South River, just a short walk away from Humarock Beach. The baked stuffed scallops are always cooked to perfection, sprinkled with savory breadcrumb topping. Other popular menu items include the New England clam chowder, broiled Boston scrod and the B-Wayes Famous Chicken Caesar Pizza. Whether you want to get a drink at the bar or bring your children, the Bridgwaye has lunch and dinner options for everyone.”
Posted by Tides Nahant Beach onSaturday, March 17, 2012
John Karalis - Tides, Nahant
"Tides sits on Little Nahant Island and boasts an unobstructed view of Nahant bay. The view is spectacular from almost anywhere inside, but the outdoor seating is essentially right on the beach. It’s not a huge place, so parking will be challenging on a busy day, but a meal there overlooking the open ocean is worth it.
It’s a casual place, with plenty of sports on TV and Keno if that suits you (I’m a sports writer, so it suits me perfectly). The menu is big, so there are plenty of options for people who are health-conscious or anyone enjoying a cheat day. I’d recommend the seafood platter, which is big enough to be shared by two people for dinner or brought to the table as an appetizer for a group.
As a lifelong New Englander, Tides is a great representation of all the beachside joints I’ve eaten in for 40 years. It’s got all the hits (little necks, chowder, fried seafood) plus some finer touches (a raw bar, ahi tuna), and a great bar. There’s not much better than indulging in a little bit of each on their deck on a sunny day."
Posted by The Gloucester House onSunday, June 23, 2019
Noah Bombard - The Gloucester House, Gloucester
“The Gloucester House has some stiff competition in town with some venerable waterfront restaurants to choose from. But if you’re looking to experience some fine dining harborside, Gloucester House has some of the best seats around. Get a table out on the deck and you are sitting right along Harbor Cove and just a pebble toss to the water and docked boats (don’t toss pebbles at the boats). Fishing vessels sit alongside recreational watercraft and you get the feel of a real, working harbor. Because it is. Gloucester House has the great fresh seafood menu you’d expect from the home of the Gloucester Fisherman’s Memorial, but the lobster roll, lobster pie and fish and chips are always a hit. Not too fancy and not too casual it’s a great place to head to after taking in one of the city’s many whale watches.”
Posted by The Black Whale onSaturday, January 21, 2017
Michael Bonner - The Black Whale, New Bedford
“It’s one of - if not the best - seafood places in the Whaling City. Add water views and it’s difficult to top. This is a unique waterview, though. Don’t expect sandy beaches, but a horde of fishing vessels lining the port that’s been the country’s top fishing port 17 years running. Because of that the fish and shellfish can’t get any fresher. They come off the boat and into the Black Whale.”
Just a few short weeks until our patio reopens! #May #warmweathercomeoutandplay
Posted by Fathoms Bar & Grill, Inc. onThursday, April 18, 2019
Michael Bonner - Fathom’s Bar and Grille, New Bedford
“Fathom’s provides one of the most unique waterfront views along the South Coast. Sit outside and watch the fishing vessels cruise through New Bedford Harbor and use the rotating bridge to cross into the northern part of the harbor. The food and drink match the one-of-a-kind views. It’s another hidden gem to venture to.”
Posted by Finz Seafood and Grill onTuesday, February 26, 2019
Kristin LaFratta - Finz Seafood and Grill
“Finz in Salem is another fabulous summertime North Shore foodie destination. Overlooking Salem Harbor, this restaurant offers lots of seasonal outdoor patio dining and a fire pit area for the evening. It’s anchored by a 40-seat bar that connects the dining room and lounge areas. Shellfish lovers are in for a treat with the open-style kitchen design that offers a full sushi and raw bar. Finz also places an emphasis on local arts, evidenced by the panoramic, hand-painted mural of a lobster and octopus that hangs over the lounge area.”
You can follow Tim Jones on Twitter at @TimJonesML.
Like MassLive’s Facebook page and Instagram Account for more.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
