The Best Restaurants Near Rockport, MA

The 9 Best Rockport MA Restaurants 

A $150 tab, without drinks, and you don’t even remember what you ate last night. We’ve all been there. Restaurants that were able to help you fend off starvation and hanger-related crimes, but were not very memorable.

Life’s too short for sub-par dining experiences. Not to worry, we have you covered. Here is a list of the 9 Best Restaurants near Rockport, MA. Read to the end, we may have thrown in a couple of bonus recommendations for our studious researchers. 

Feather and Wedge

A welcomed addition to the Rockport dining scene, Feather and Wedge offers a thoughtful, regularly updated menu that brings new life to a village often associated with seafood staples such as lobster rolls and fried clams.

The menu at Feather and Wedge is modest, but dishes run the gambit from fresh striped bass and seared tuna to Thai green curry and Pho. The creative culinary team has truly ensured that there is a dish to stimulate every palate.

Located a few doors down of the Shalin Liu Performance Center, Feather and Wedge is the perfect place to pop in before the show for dinner and drinks.

The ambiance in the restaurant is modern bordering on industrial with a playful nod to Rockport’s rich history as a quarry town. In fact, the restaurant takes its name from the simple hand tool that was used to split large granite blocks.

Feather & Wedge Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• Feather & Wedge offers a cozy atmosphere in a beautiful downtown Rockport location, perfect for a leisurely brunch or romantic dinner.
• The menu features a mix of traditional New England dishes and globally inspired cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
• Live music performances add to the restaurant’s charm and ambiance.
• They take their wine seriously and have a fantastic selection. 

Cons:

• Limited parking options may require guests to park further away and walk to the restaurant.
• During peak hours, the restaurant can get crowded, resulting in longer wait times.
• The restaurant can get a little noisy on busy nights. 

Feather and Wedge
5 Main Street
Rockport, MA 01966
https://www.featherandwedge.com

 

My Place By The Sea

If we were ranking our favorite local restaurants by location, My Place by the Sea would be the hands down winner. The restaurant is located at the end of Bearskin Neck and features a beautiful deck overlooking the ocean that provides diners a stunning view of Sandy Bay.

The restaurant has been owned and operated by Kathy Milbury and Barbara Stavropolous for over 23 years. It offers diners craving local New England seafood accessible dishes such as steamed lobster, barbecue shrimp, grilled lobster tacos, and baked scallops

The ambiance could be described as French farmhouse and it has a warm homey vibe. But the star of the show is definitely the al fresco dining.

My Place has both dinner and a limited lunch menu and we recommend making a reservation because it fills up quickly, especially in the Summer months.

My Place By The Sea Pros & Cons

Pros:

• My Place By The Sea offers breathtaking ocean views and a menu highlighting fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients.
• The restaurant’s cozy, intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for romantic dinners or small gatherings.
• Attentive staff members provide personalized service, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Cons:

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for window tables with ocean views.
• The Reservation process of making same day reservations in person or over phone can be challenging for customers
• The price of the food can be high for some customers 

My Place By The Sea
68 Bearskin Neck
Rockport, MA 01966
https://www.myplacebythesea.com

 

Talise

This casual upscale restaurant is located off the beaten path in an older residential neighborhood on the Annisquam river, and it’s an absolute hidden gem.

The nondescript shingled building, formerly a fish shack, oozes coastal New England charm and provides the perfect setting for this creative yet humble cuisine. The previous owners, Nico and Amelia Monday, got their start in Alice Water’s critically acclaimed, Chez Panisse. A couple of years ago they sold, what was previously called The Market, to their friends Joshua and Ariel Smith who took the reins and renamed it Talise. 

Joshua is a CIA trained chef who was most recently the Chef at Gloucester’s Short & Main. You can learn more about Joshua & Ariel here. 

The farm to table cuisine is primarily locally sourced from farms and fisherman on Cape Ann. The limited menu changes daily and allows for a new adventure with every visit.

Talise is seasonal and open from late spring to early fall each year and is one of the best fine dining options that Cape Ann has to offer. It’s easy to see why it made our list of the best restaurants near Rockport, MA. 

Talise Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Talise offers a refined dining experience, with a focus on contemporary American cuisine prepared with seasonal ingredients.
• The restaurant’s elegant decor and waterfront location provide a picturesque backdrop for special occasions.
• Knowledgeable staff members offer recommendations and ensure a seamless dining experience.

Cons:

• Reservations are highly recommended, as Talise tends to fill up quickly, particularly on weekends.
• Prices may be on the higher end, making it more suitable for upscale dining occasions.

Talise
33 River Road
Gloucester, MA 01930
https://www.taliserestaurant.com 

 

CK Pearl 

Located in the quaint coastal town of Essex, Massachusetts, just a short drive from Rockport, CK Pearl stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, drawing both locals and visitors alike to its charming waterfront setting. This hidden gem of a restaurant exudes a timeless charm, combining elegant decor with warm hospitality to create an inviting atmosphere that beckons guests to indulge in a memorable dining experience.

CK Pearl’s menu is a celebration of New England’s rich seafood bounty, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. From succulent oysters and plump littlenecks to perfectly grilled swordfish and decadent lobster rolls, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the natural flavors of the sea. Its picturesque waterfront location offers stunning views of the Essex River, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal with friends and loved ones. 

CK Pearl Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• CK Pearl combines a chic, modern aesthetic with a menu highlighting fresh seafood and innovative cocktails.
• The restaurant’s waterfront location and stylish ambiance make it a popular choice for special occasions and date nights.
• Attentive service and creative culinary offerings contribute to a memorable dining experience.

Cons:

• Reservations are recommended, as CK Pearl tends to be busy, particularly on weekends.
• Some diners may find the prices slightly higher, but the quality of food and service justifies the cost.

CK Pearl 
112 Main Street 
Essex, MA 01929
https://www.ckpearl.com 
 

Minglewood Harborside

If you’re looking for a relaxed place to knock back a few drinks, enjoy some live entertainment and camaraderie, then Mingelwood Harborside is a great place to spend an evening.

Minglewood features a spacious, centrally located bar, with concrete floors and oversized TVs that provide a comforting gastropub vibe. While the Dead-inspired décor delivers some welcomed flashbacks to the Haight heyday.

The restaurant has an ample selection of unique cocktails, the latest craft brews from local microbreweries, and the service is on point. The menu is accessible and diverse and includes everything from tasty pub fare (calamari, wings, roasted cauliflower, frickles, dumplings), to seafood dishes, to burgers and a full sushi menu.

Trust us, a few hours in this place will cure even the worst case of Minglewood Blues.

Minglewood Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• Varied Menu: The restaurant offers a diverse menu with options ranging from fresh seafood to hearty burgers, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
• Casual Atmosphere: Minglewood Harborside has a laid-back vibe, making it a great spot for casual dining with friends and family.
• Outdoor Seating: During warmer months, diners can enjoy al fresco dining on the outdoor patio, soaking in the views and fresh sea breeze.
• Live Entertainment: The restaurant frequently hosts live music and events, adding to the lively atmosphere and enhancing the dining experience.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Service: Some diners have reported inconsistent service at Minglewood Harborside, with occasional delays and lapses in attentiveness.
• Noise Levels: The restaurant can get noisy, especially during peak hours or when live music is playing, which may not be ideal for those seeking a quieter dining experience.

Minglewood Harborside
25 Rogers Street
Gloucester, MA 01930
https://minglewoodharborside.com/

 

Tonno

Located in the historic Blackburn building in Gloucester, Tonno offers diners seeking a diverse, creative menu centered around Italian seafood, a fantastic dining option.

The brick walls, and vibrant décor convey a stylish, yet accessible Bostonian vibe.

The menu is well-rounded and includes everything from fresh fish to pasta and meat dishes. You can whet your palate with Italian classics such as arancini and meatballs or raw bar mainstays such as oysters, cherrystones, and tuna tartare before moving onto the entrees.

From pasta and fresh fish, to pork, veal, and steak, Tonno has something to satisfy every craving. The restaurant is the perfect spot for a larger party to settle in for an enjoyable evening.

Tonno is guided by the capable hands of Chef-Owner Anthony Caturano, a Revere native, who presides over Prezza in Boston, and is also the new owner of Lynn’s beloved Blue Ox.

Tonno Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• Tonno specializes in fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes, showcasing the best of New England’s coastal cuisine.
• The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance, perfect for intimate dinners or casual gatherings.
• Exceptional service and attention to detail contribute to a memorable dining experience.

Cons:

• Limited vegetarian and vegan options may pose a challenge for non-seafood eaters.
• Due to its popularity, Tonno can get crowded, resulting in longer wait times, especially during peak hours.

Tonno
2 Main Street
Gloucester, MA 01930
https://www.tonnorestaurant.com

 

Fleur Cuisine

A new addition to the list, replacing the beloved Duckworth’s Bistro, is a brand new Rockport MA Restaurant called Fleur Cuisine. 

Located right in the heart of Rockport, Massachusetts (in the former Ellen’s Harborside Restaurant), Fleur Cuisine provides waterfront dining in a lively renovated, coastal setting. 

Owners, Daphne and Wanddy, strive to provide fresh, flavorful, locally sourced cuisine that is both creative and delicious. The menu seamlessly blends American and Caribbean flavors in a fresh and creative way.  

Start off with a delicious creamy clam chowder, some perfectly prepared coconut shrimp and some tasty fried plantains. If you are a wing fan, you will love their flavorful wings that have a delicious jerk-style seasoning. If you want to go big you can try their delicious ribeye or go with some more traditional seafood fare such as a fresh lobster roll tossed in tasty cajun mayo, a whole steamed lobster or you could opt for one of their tasty salads. We are excited to welcome this new Rockport MA restaurant.  

You can follow along with the latest happenings in Rockport and at Fleur Cuisine on their Facebook Page. 

Fleur Cuisine Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• Fleur Cuisine specializes in island inspired dishes prepared with a modern twist, showcasing bold flavors and exquisite presentation.
• The restaurant’s vibrant decor and attentive service create a fun & creative dining experience.
• Owners are present, attentive and engage with customers. 
• Outdoor seating is fantastic for warmer season dining. 

Cons:

• It can be a little loud when busy, and parking like anywhere in Rockport can be a challenge. 
• Flavors can be a little nontraditional which may not appeal to some palates. 

Fleur Cuisine
1 T-Wharf 
Rockport, MA 01966
https://www.fleurcuisine.com

 

Lobsta Land

Just before you hit the island, you will see Lobsta Land on the left-hand side of Route 128. It may not look like much, but for almost 30 years, this Gloucester staple has been catering to New Englanders crustacean cravings.

The vibe in Lobsta Land is reminiscent of a classic seafood shack that you may remember from childhood. The casual restaurant is adorned with wood paneling replete with nautical nods, a large raucous bar and cozy wooden booths.

The Lobsta Land menu is an eclectic mix of New England seafood staples and more creative dishes. If you’re looking to get your chowder, lobster, steamer fix, Lobsta Land has you covered. But more adventurous eaters can also indulge in dishes like Sole Meuniere, Pepper Crusted Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl or Portuguese Style Haddock with Mussels and Clams.

If you’re looking for a casual comfortable restaurant to enjoy some delicious seafood, as a couple or as a family, Lobsta Land is a great stop.

Lobsta Land Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Lobsta Land is a quintessential seafood shack, serving up classic New England favorites in a casual, family-friendly setting.
• Generous portion sizes and reasonable prices make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Outdoor seating overlooking the water offers a relaxed dining experience during warmer months.

Cons:

• The restaurant’s popularity can result in long lines, especially during peak tourist season.
• While the focus is on seafood, options for non-seafood eaters may be limited.

Lobsta Land
84 Causeway Street
Gloucester, MA 01930
https://www.lobstalandrestaurant.com

 

The Franklin Cafe

A boisterous gastropub vibe with delicious, creative food and excellent service. Located on Main Street in Gloucester, The Franklin Cafe has been providing a consistent, upscale/casual dining experience for many years. 

Dishes like Grilled Octopus, Crispy Duck Confit, and House-Made Butternut Squash Ravioli are sure to keep your palate engaged. Not feeling adventurous? Not to worry, The Franklin Cafe also offers some tasty chicken, steak, burgers, soups and salads.

If you’re looking to a great place to grab a well-built cocktail and dinner with friends, Franklin has you covered. It’s definitely one of the best Rockport MA Restaurants. 

Franklin Cafe Pros & Cons 

Pros:

• Franklin Cafe is a beloved neighborhood spot known for its comforting American fare and welcoming atmosphere.
• The restaurant’s casual vibe and affordable prices make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.
• Creative cocktails and a diverse beer selection complement the menu offerings.

Cons:

• Limited seating capacity may result in longer wait times, especially during peak dining hours.
• The menu may be somewhat limited compared to other restaurants in the area, but the quality of food is consistently excellent.

Franklin Cafe
118 Main Street
Gloucester, MA 01930 
https://www.franklincapeann.com

 

Bonus Pick: Oak To Ember 

Oak To Ember, in Gloucester, emerges as a culinary sanctuary, where innovative cuisine meets warm hospitality. With its rustic yet modern ambiance, the restaurant invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the vibrant flavors of locally sourced ingredients and creative culinary techniques.

The menu at Oak To Ember is a testament to the chef’s dedication to craftsmanship and creativity. Diners can expect to find a diverse array of dishes inspired by global flavors, from wood-fired pizzas topped with artisanal cheeses and seasonal produce to tender cuts of meat and seafood expertly grilled to perfection. Dishes like the wood-grilled calamari, and steak tartare with bone marrow aioli are sure to hit the spot! 

Oak To Ember Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Creative Cuisine: Oak To Ember offers innovative dishes that showcase a fusion of flavors, making dining an adventurous experience.
• Wood-Fired Grill: Dishes cooked over a wood-fired grill impart a unique smoky flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Locally Sourced Ingredients: Oak To Ember emphasizes the use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, supporting local farmers and ensuring freshness.

Cons:

• Busy Hours: During peak dining hours, the restaurant can get crowded, resulting in longer wait times for a table.
• Parking: Finding parking near Oak To Ember can be challenging, especially during busy times or on weekends.
• Reservation Availability: Securing a reservation at Oak To Ember may be difficult, as the restaurant tends to book up quickly, particularly on weekends.

Oak to Ember
9 Rogers Street 
Gloucester, MA 01930
https://www.oaktoember.com 
 

We hope that you found our guide of the 9 Best Restaurants near Rockport, MA helpful! We want to ensure that visitors to Rockport, Massachusetts, especially our Rockport, MA Hotel guests are able to find the best places to eat so we provided our favorite Rockport MA Restaurants to make it easy. 

Want to follow up your meal with some shopping? Check out our take on:  

OUR FAVORITE ROCKPORT MA SHOPS 

Or perhaps you are interested in slurping back some briny beauties? Check out our take on:

THE TOP 8 OYSTER BARS ON THE NORTH SHORE, MA

If you have any questions about any of the Rockport MA Restaurants on this list or the Cape Ann area, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to help!