You may be wondering why there haven't been any posts in a while. That's because we ventured way out of Akron (13 hours out to be specific) for business and while on our trip we were able to sample some of the restaurants around Plymouth Bay, Massachusetts. This review is on one of those places we checked out, and its probably the best restaurant we ate at while we were there. I would also like to take this opportunity to put a plug in for Plymouth's British Beer Company. They don't serve food, but will be happy to give you a bowl of Cheetos. They do let you order in, a fantastic option, because once you are there, you won't want to leave. They have the best beer and bartenders in town, plus free Wi-Fi, so you can't go wrong.
Anyway, back to the task at hand, Haddad's Ocean Cafe. Its located on Ocean Street in Marshfield. Its not much to look at, in fact, I wouldn't peg it as remotely attractive. There are two doors into the place, and every time I go, I forget to enter at the left. However, this place is always packed, and I mean packed. It is mostly a local hangout so the clientele is made up of just regular people looking for a good, simple meal. The decor isn't impressive or catchy. I think it might be time to retire the old fishing boat posters. But that in itself gives a nice small town charm. I like to think that this place is a favorite with the fisherman. Because they are right at sea level they've had a couple of floods over the years, but the place always bounces back and is very clean.
The menu is simple, with a variety of seafood options (fried, baked, or steamed, with emphasis on the fried) and Italian pasta dishes as well. They also have a cheaper Senior menu too. Once again, at first glance, its not impressive. But, wow, the food is amazing. Everything is incredibly fresh and tasty, no matter what you order. This time I got the Lobster Casserole, since lobster prices are at their lowest in years and, heck, we're in New England. It was amazing. The lobster was generous and large with a right off the boat taste. They didn't use any fillers like most places, just the lobster. Someone else in our party ordered the Seafood Casserole which had shrimp, lobster, haddock, and scallops, and they were as equally impressed with the freshness and quality. I would also like to add that the Clam Chowder was the best I've ever tasted, and the onion rings aren't bad either. Portions are just right for each order, except the pasta dishes tend to be huge. They also have a great local beer selection. It was the only place I ate at where I left completely satisfied with my food.
Service is very friendly and accommodating, especially with large groups. Presentation is so-so, but I wouldn't say it deterred me from eating there. The only downside is that you have to get there early if you want a seat. Definitely make reservations for parties 8 or more, they do not take them for groups smaller than that. All in all, a rewarding and authentic experience! By the way, it was voted best seafood in the Boston area in 2008! 4 out of 5 stars. $$$ (remember, it's seafood)
For more on Haddad's Ocean Cafe see Hidden Boston.
See this review at urbanspoon.
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