We here in Massachusetts are blessed with miles of stunning coastline, and some of the best dining in the state is located along the water. There are plenty of places that are tried and true favorites, but there is no shortage of amazing dining spots still waiting to be discovered. Check out these spectacular coastal restaurants that will be your new favorites.
Please note: these restaurants are simply listed, not ranked.
1. The Causeway Restaurant, Gloucester
The mussels here are to die for. They will sail to your table in a huge metal bowl filled with pounds of the tasty shellfish. The chowder is pretty killer as well. This place is also BYOB and wine only, so make sure to bring along your preferred libations. (78 Essex Avenue, Gloucester)
2. Turtle Cove Bar and Grille, Marblehead
This chic little spot is just one of many amazing seaside restaurants in Marblehead, but it's worth a visit. Don't miss the lobster lettuce rolls, and savor the unusual blue champagne. Though you'd be remiss not to sample their seafood tower, the steak here is definitely worthy of your time as well. (165 Pleasant Street,
Marblehead)
3. Port 305, Quincy
Port 305 features plenty of outdoor seating, sumptuous seafood and splendid service. An unexpected menu superstar is the french onion soup, and their beer selection is extensive. This place also offers a spectacular view of the Boston skyline. (305 Victory Road, Quincy)
4. Tony's Clam Shop, Quincy
This family-run seafood shop is built right on Wollaston Beach. For a taste of the local flavor, try the seafood platter – fish, clams, scallops, shrimp, calamari, all incredibly fresh and perfectly fried. They also make a killer raspberry lime rickey, which is a perfectly refreshing way to wash down the fresh fare. (861 Quincy Shore Drive,
Quincy)
5. The Red Parrot, Hull
This restaurant is a Nantasket Beach landmark. It's hard to imagine this stretch of shoreline without the Red Parrot's delicious seafood offerings. Try the lobster panini or the blackened cod tacos. Grab a seat on the deck during the summer, or watch the winter waves from their indoor seating. (1 Hull Shore Drive, Hull)
6. Anna’s Harborside Grille, Plymouth
Do yourself a favor and order the Aegean fries (pictured) from this Greek and American grille by the sea. The calamari is always a good bet, and the stuffed grape leaves will leave you wanting more. The waterfront locale is beautiful, especially around sunset. (145 Water Street, Plymouth)
7. Marshside Restaurant, East Dennis
This is truly a unique restaurant. Overlooking scenic Sesuit creek and only minutes from the ocean, this place is the perfect blend of coastal beauty and inland Cape Cod charm. Try the classic lobster roll, and a throw in one of their lovely mimosas for good measure. (28 Bridge Street,
East Dennis)
8. The 41-70, Woods Hole
You'll have to travel to the very tip of the Cape's "elbow" for this seaside treasure, but it's worth it. The atmosphere here is more on the high-end side, and the food is carefully crafted. Try the stuffed quahog, or the chowder with pork belly and clams. (71 Water Street,
Woods Hole)
9. The Sail Loft, Dartmouth
The cute seafood joint is great in all seasons, but you'll want to drop by during the warmer months to spend some time on the sunny, waterfront deck. The atmosphere is somewhere between pub-style and clam shack. If you're in the mood for some jazzed-up comfort food, go ahead and indulge in the truffle fries. (246 Elm Street, Dartmouth)
Looking for more waterfront gems? Take a look at these six amazing restaurants that are right on the river.
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