Compared to many historic New England towns, Plymouth is ancient. After all, the Pilgrims landed here in 1620—people in Los Angeles have avocado toast recipes older than that.
La Baia
$$ | (774) 283-4626 | WEBSITE
Travel brochures promise that every seaside restaurant has white tablecloths and waiters in crisp uniforms. But not at La Baia in Plymouth, and where every detail here is a Mediterranean breeze carrying the scent of olive oil and sea salt. This charming, waterfront haven of a dining spot is where you go when you’re tired of Plymouth’s predictable seafood shacks and need to taste something genuine. Or at the very least, something transportive.
There are comfortable tables on the terrace, a menu that doesn’t offer anything less than absolutely delicious, and a smiling owner who you’re certain is checking on every table. He is—and so are all the attentive staff members.
East Bay Grille
$$ | (508) 746-9751 | WEBSITE
If you spend an afternoon strolling along Plymouth’s waterfront and don’t stop at East Bay Grille, you’re just missing out—or perhaps even more regrettable, you’re overlooking one of the best seafood spots in town. This charming restaurant offers a lovely outdoor experience on sunny days with a welcoming atmosphere that feels both relaxed and inviting.
Meals include everything from perfectly cooked cod and fresh steamed clams to outstanding carrot cake that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished. It’s one of our favorite places for a quick, delicious lunch in a beautiful setting, and even if the fried clams aren’t life-changing, you’ll be more than satisfied with the friendly, efficient service and fresh seafood that arrives hot and free of sand.
Sandy’s
$ | (508) 747-5911 | WEBSITE
This Plymouth institution has been frying clams since who knows when, and therefore, is the recipient of our Best Place To Eat While Pretending You’re On Vacation Award. In truth, Sandy’s is filled mostly with beachgoers and food that hasn’t changed much since opening day, but if you leave here hungry, you can only blame yourself. The lobster rolls are some of our favorites in town, the bartender still crafts perfect cocktails.
Plus, there’s a hidden cash-only policy if things get serious with your beachside buzz.
Carmen’s Cafe Nicole
$ | WEBSITE
It takes one glance at the morning sun over Plymouth Harbor to realize that this cozy waterfront cafe is a main character in some pretty perfect New England mornings. Open since well before tourists discovered the Mayflower II, Carmen’s Cafe Nicole clearly doesn’t have the most elaborate breakfast in town, but if you’re coming here for avant-garde brunch creations, you’ve got the wrong place.
You’re here because the coffee is hottest and the homey dining room is always one sip away from someone pointing out a passing sailboat. And you better believe the ocean views here like to get a little breathtaking.
Surfside Smokehouse
$$ | (508) 927-4111 | WEBSITE
A while back, Surfside Smokehouse opened its doors with a promise of BBQ classics and harbor views, and the results have been solid. But you know who loves a waterfront spot even more than we do? Summer crowds. The moment you walk into this welcoming Plymouth Harbor restaurant, you can already picture families and friends gathering for rehearsal dinners. Or maybe that was them.
Either way, find a table by the window, order some burnt ends or a lobster roll, and wait for the next sunset to paint the sky over the water.
Rock Bottom Seafood
$$ | (508) 888-6678 | WEBSITE
This legendary seafood spot in Plymouth has been serving the community for years, but the place itself has recently undergone a transformation—all the way to a brand-new look under fresh ownership. Needless to say, these walls now reflect a lively, welcoming vibe, and if you settle in for some perfectly fried cod with excellent fries and coleslaw or a 1/4 lb lobster roll that’s obviously fresh, you’ll feel it too.
The fried scallops and clams are as good as any fried seafood joint in New England, with fair prices that make it a reliable choice year-round. Recent visitors have raved about the terrific chowder and flavorful fish tacos, while the live lobster—a must-try for those heading to the ferry—reinforces the restaurant’s reputation.
With generous portions, friendly staff, and a consistent high quality, Rock Bottom Seafood is a popular spot for both quick visits and relaxing meals, making it a go-to for seafood lovers in the area.
The CabbyShack
$$ | (508) 746-5354 | WEBSITE
If you have the appetite for seafood in a colorful waterfront shack in Plymouth harbor, we imagine being surrounded by painted sea creatures must be a delight for you. Rest assured, you’re gonna find something lively here. The casual spot has several different seating options—including an equally energetic roof deck—but if you’re coming for dinner, you’ll eat at The CabbyShack, a big tiled dining area with typical seafood stuff like lobster roll and chowder in a bread bowl.
Expect water views, live music some nights, and a friendly atmosphere waiting to charm you.
The Blue-Eyed Crab Caribbean Grill & Rum Bar
$$ | (508) 747-6776 | WEBSITE
On any given afternoon at this Plymouth favorite, you’ll see families, local fishermen, and various tourists who just can’t give up the flavors—both classic and Caribbean. The place feels like a vacation escape and is essentially a series of interconnected dining areas with tropical décor, colorful walls, and dozens of framed nautical photos. Several of those folks are enjoying rum cocktails nightly, to be sure. As for food, don’t get cute.
This is the kind of place where you eat big portions of Crab and Lobster Spicy Creole and several orders of Coconut Shrimp.
The Mea Thai Cuisine
$ | (978) 763-3044 | WEBSITE
Drawing food lovers since its opening, this cozy Thai spot is a place where you’ll find flavors that probably used to dance in Bangkok back in the day. The intimate space has been frequented by many satisfied diners, so whichever night you go, you’ll likely be savoring something memorable—even if you can’t pronounce it. As for the food, it’s in the name: Thai cuisine with some Laotian touches.
Enjoying authentic dishes, eating portions generous enough to share, and feeling the warmth of friendly staff who are probably just trying to make your day—it’s no wonder this place gets busy often. Be sure to grab a reservation if you’re planning a visit.
71 West Atlantic Steakhouse
$$$ | (508) 830-0001 | WEBSITE
Built as a waterfront establishment with classic New England bones and converted into its current form with modern elegance, 71 West Atlantic Steakhouse is a spacious seafood restaurant overlooking Plymouth Harbor, and a place where appetites can truly stretch their legs (the perfectly cooked filet mignon and stuffed lobster topped with shrimp probably help).
The atmosphere is admittedly pretty upscale, and the food isn’t much better than anything you’d find at other quality seafood spots in the area, but at the end of the day, a comfortable meal with waterfront views is a fun meal. So order a creamy clam chowder and an oversauced mushroom cream chicken over risotto and join the party.
42º North Restaurant
$$ | (508) 224-1500 | WEBSITE
With a menu that features Atlantic Cioppino, Barcelonan Seafood Paella, and lobster corn chowder with big lobster chunks, 42º North Restaurant is the most compelling seafood spot in Plymouth. If you’re in the mood for something similar, head to 42º North. The classic seafood-focused restaurant might not possess those exact elements, but it does boast an older design with low ceilings that, at least for a few hours, will make you believe you’re dining in a bustling coastal tavern.
It also counts friendly and kind staff as regulars, so watch your noise—and the generous portions.
Bramhall’s Country Store
$$ | (508) 746-1844 | WEBSITE
Compared to the many storied seafood spots on this list, Bramhall’s Country Store is in its infancy as a restaurant. But don’t let the country store appearance fool you, the locals are flocking. And how could they not? The first thing you see walking in is a live lobster tank—excuse us, a vibrant display of local produce and dairy products. Homemade apple cider and teas are close by.
The food is whatever, but you’re here to sit in Adirondack chairs on the grassy picnic area and feel your shoulders relax after swearing that unreal-looking produce glowed while your head was turned.
Tavern on the Wharf
$$ | (508) 927-4961 | WEBSITE
It’s common knowledge that the sea air makes everything taste better, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself lingering longer than planned at Tavern on the Wharf. This Plymouth staple has been welcoming visitors for years, and these days feels like the dining deck of a weathered fishing boat that’s seen its share of nor’easters.
There are cozy wooden tables filled with steaming plates of shrimp scampi and fish tacos, friendly servers weaving through the bustle, and the constant hum of satisfied chatter. It’s a classic New England seafood experience and one that will only be enhanced by the salty breeze drifting through the windows.
Dillon’s Local
$$ | (774) 404-7913 | WEBSITE
Maybe it’s the way the clam chowder arrives steaming in its bowl, or the attentive server guiding a guest through the gluten-free options, but the vibe at Dillon’s Local has always felt genuinely welcoming. In the likely event you’re craving that Cuban Sandwich, don’t expect to wait long, however, because you won’t—this Plymouth seafood spot is praised for its prompt service and responsive staff, and that sandwich isn’t sitting under a heat lamp for anybody.
So just settle in and offer your appetite some bourbon from their selection and a bite of that pork special. That’s what it came back for anyway.
Marshland Restaurants & Bakeries
$ | (508) 224-9400 | WEBSITE
As a hidden gem tucked away in Plymouth, we’d be surprised if Marshland Restaurants & Bakeries didn’t have a history of comforting, delicious meals. And sure enough, with its quaint diner atmosphere, cozy booths, and warm lighting, this frozen-in-time seafood spot could stand in for one of those welcoming local joints you stumble upon after a long day by the shore.
The friendly, attentive staff making you feel like a regular and the generous portions of homemade desserts only add to the inviting energy. We should tell you, though—the most delightful thing about Marshland is still the food. Brace yourself for delectable lobster rolls piled high with meat and $12 strawberry shortcakes that taste like summer.
Plymouth Public House
$$ | (774) 413-9263 | WEBSITE
Plymouth Public House is a Plymouth institution, and if you think a few menu updates over the years have deterred the regulars from getting in on the action, you’re obviously unaware of just how much locals love this place. And honestly, can you blame them? The portions are generous, the service is finally consistent, and the food hasn’t changed much since they first opened.
It’s a triple-threat scenario for seafood lovers, so as you’re digging into some better-than-expected fish and chips, stay alert—there are likely some hungry families looking to snag a table.
