Sea breeze, pink skies, a clinking wine glass, and a candle flicker—there’s nothing quite like a warm summer night spent dining alfresco. Here is a roundup of Northshore’s favorite outdoor dining establishments. These short New England summers cool down quickly, so grab your sweetheart or your best friends and visit one of these eateries before it’s too late!
The Market, Annisquam
Perched above Lobster Cove in Annisquam in a 100-year-old building, The Market is one of Cape Anne’s most beloved farm-to-table restaurants. Ingredients from local farmers, fishers, and bakeries make for a constantly changing menu. Not only is the food sustainable – enjoy it on a charming, breezy deck above the water.
Sea Level Oyster Bar, Newburyport
One of the newest additions to Newburyport’s Market Square, Sea Level, which opened last summer, boasts a brand-new patio from which to indulge in your specialty cocktails, colorful seafood dishes, and oysters. Luckily, Sea Level’s interior is just as bright, hip, and airy as its alfresco dining.
Finz, Salem
Not only does Finz’s outdoor patio overlook lively Salem Harbor, but the interior has stunning water views as well, with windows on three sides. Throw in a copper-topped bar, a fireside sofa lounge, and fresh seasonal seafood, and Finz is one of the hottest dining spots on the North Shore. Visit them at their Wharf Street location soon – they’ll be moving to a new Salem building before the summer is over!
The Landing, Marblehead
After suffering a flood from a storm surge in January, The Landing is newly renovated and open for business. The Landing cooks up New England favorites like oysters and clam chowder with an elegant spin. Enjoy ocean views from the dining rooms or get the alfresco dining experience well into the fall or winter on their four-season deck.
The Marina at the Wharf, Revere
Serving American food with an Italian influence, The Marina has a casual, cozy atmosphere and an outdoor patio with sea views. The restaurant has been family owned and operated since 1977. Watch the sunset over the harbor from the deck but remember The Marina’s catchphrase – “Where the food is even better than the view.”
C.K. Pearl, Essex
No alfresco roundup would be complete without C.K. Pearl, overlooking the serene Essex River. Owner and chef Patrick Shea grew up in Essex before apprenticing at a restaurant near Florence, Italy, and has come full circle in the past few years to open his own restaurant in his hometown. Get away from the bustle of harborside dining and spot fisherman and boaters coasting down the river, while savoring modern takes on New England seafood.