Situated in Old Town Marblehead - quaint, charming and all that jazz. Parking is non existent. But it's worth a shot. You go here for the scenery; not the shopping or the food. The Landing - read the reviews. It's ok. It's the view that makes it what it is. The staff are nice, the food is ok - the location and view of Marblehead's harbor are what it is all about, Man. Despite the restrained good tast of those deep pocketed yankees - unlike over the top places like Beverly Hills - the sight of Marblehead's "Neck" neighborood (seen by distant onlooksers across the harbor) still makes you murmer that envious "wow." You could'nt live there if you saved up for 3 lifetimes. So, for that reason, you should go to the Landing, have a lobster roll and enjoy the view.
(3)
Ellen M.
Decent food, and the server was good but managing WAY too many tables. The major problem with this place is how long it takes to get a table and how long they tell you it will be to get a table. We waited about 20 minutes over our "30 minute" wait, but another group was told "25 minutes" and we aw them seated a full hour later. Back to the food, it's good, but not "holy cow" good. It's fresh seafood well prepared, if not with a bit too much butter and cream. I would go back here, but it wouldn't be my first choice.
(3)
Mallory S.
Bad service and mediocre food. We went to the Landing for a simple Mother's Day brunch. We were a large group of 14 (half kids/half adults) so we took up two tables in the dining room. Waitress service was fairly quick and friendly enough, but the food was just OK. I had the Lobster Melt - the lobster filling was good but the croissant was greasy and tasted only of butter. It also had too much cheese. Potatoes and fruit on the side weren't anything special either. I wish I had just ordered a regular lobster roll. The most memorable part of the experience comes at the end of our meal. We had just finished signing our credit card slips; the kids table had already been deserted so it was bused and turned. At this moment, the manager came over to request that we leave so he could give this table to another party.... even though there were many empty tables surrounding us, including the 8-top that the kids had vacated. So we leave... and I am stunned that we were asked to move and not given any other suggestion for a place to go. Had we wanted coffee and dessert we would have been out of luck unless we had shown ourselves to the bar on the other side. It was extremely rude and I don't plan on going back. Final notes: If the Landing is taking a large party, they should expect that large party to take longer to dine than a small group. Restaurant 101, I think...
(2)
Nichole V.
Consistently ok food, good service with a great atmosphere. My husband & I enjoy coming here in the summer just watching the boats etc. Not a huge fan of their fish dishes unless it's a special, but the meat is usually good.
(3)
Charles B.
We have eaten here several times. The food is always good. I just felt like the restaurant was running in "free fall" and the staff had no supervision and the customers needs were not being catered to. We checked the online menu and then called the restaurant to check that the dish we wanted "lobster stew", was available. We were told it was. When we got there to order it, the waiter told us that the online menu was the winter menu and that they were serving a summer menu. I told him that they have a responsibility to keep their website up to date and that they really let us down. I have to tell you that I would not be writing this review, if the waiter had a manger come over to speak with us about that. The waiter was very good but had way too many tables to serve. The appetizers and beverages took almost an hour to bring out. One member of our party has a gluten allergy and we were a bit worried about if they understood that it was more complicated than just no wheat flour. We were hungry but not in a rush so we asked if they had diner roll. It would have been nice if they included a gluten free selection as well. Typically, a manger brings the food over and assures us that they understand the scope of gluten issues, but we were left to the waiter's assurance. BTW it did work out just fine. Everything we ordered was very good. As I glanced around during the dinner service it appeared to me that no one was in charge. Not to say that I saw any particular problems, but I think a visible manager's presence is mandatory on a busy Saturday night and that a website is a projection of the business and has to be managed responsibly as well.
(3)
Graeme J.
Just was there for brunch today. Have been a few times before but today was by far the worse meal I have had in a long time anywhere. My burger was well done as opposed to mid rare as ordered plus it tasted like it was a day old and reheated. My wife's omelette was oily and had no flavor. Really greasy and unsightly. The home fries were crunchy black cubes that were obviously days old. Never had a wonderful meal at the Landing but it was always pretty decent. Hopefully, today was an anomaly.
(2)
James G.
Good food. Good service. Great view. Ate a fish sandwich which was tasty and I think the menu is priced well.
(4)
Megan H.
I don't think I ever want to go back. My experience here wasn't truly terrible, but I have expected much better! Likewise to many of the other reviews, this is the almighty tourtist trap. Being next to the sea, oily and soggy fried clams shouldn't have been so expensive. If I were to pay $20, I would have expected golden and crispy tender bites. That is not what I received. Upon ordering, my waiter was a cute old man... who asked me three times what I ordered two minutes later he walked away from my table. The scene is lovely. I'm sure the locals love it. But, this isn't my place for quality and service. I say, keep driving.
(2)
Kaitlin H.
My husband and I went here for dinner and I was literally blown away. I could not stop thinking about the lobster basilico I had. It was delicious. The sauce was so creamy but still light. It was my first time trying lobster so I wasn't sure what to expect but it was good. Our waiter was great-just the right level of attentive. They had a decent wine list, I got Poppy Hill & it was good with a generous pour. The only less than stellar part of our meal was my dessert. I got the chocolate mousse and it was very bitter. My friend was in town a few weeks later and we decided to go for a late lunch since I couldn't stop obsessing over my last meal. Unfortunately, the lunch menu was much more limited and didn't have the lobster basilico. I ordered a pasta dish with a basil cream sauce, thinking it would be similar. No such luck. It was really bland and didn't have much going for it. My friend wasn't pleased with her meal either, which was just a salad if I remember correctly. Our waiter was OK but took absolutely forever to bring us the bill. At least 20 minutes. I had a grumpy baby with me and we were so ready to leave! One bright spot was another server who saw my baby wasn't comfortable in the high chair and brought over some padding from another chair. I thought that was very sweet of him. All in all, 4 stars. I'm hoping I just caught the staff on an off day at a weird time on my second visit. Because really, I still can't stop thinking about the first visit!
(4)
Krysia K.
We stopped there for late lunch.This place was pretty busy. Nice decor inside, great view from the deck. The service was OK. The food...we ordered only Lobster Salad Roll ($18) which were served with fries and pickle. The lobster salad was good, the pickle to but the fries not so much. That tasted like they were fried in old oil.
(3)
Michael W.
Listen, the Northeast Coast is riddled with this type of place and they are great if you can exercise some restraint. Here it is my Yelping friends....do NOT order anything except chowder, clams and other fried seafood....The clam chowder here is wonderful, silky smooth, not laced with flour and full of clams and potatoes with strong hints of bacon as it should be. The clams were large, perfectly fried and delicious....but the tartar sauce was bland and only served to detract from the clams. The fish sandwich was fresh, with a good crunch and tender moist white fish inside. The roll it was served on was nothing to speak of and the french fries were seasoned but not particularly good. The price was typically high because this is a wharf side place in Marblehead and not the food court at the local mall....oh and don't forget....if you go to a clam shack style place and you order the filet mignon you're an idiot and do not deserve the sublime pleasure of a perfectly fried clam.
(3)
Bogee B.
Great location, but that's about it. The food was nothing special; our waiter Kevin (I think that's his name) should not be in the service industry. The place has a lot of attitude and is overrated!
(2)
Rafael R.
Located in what is perhaps one of the most quaint seaside villages in MA, The Landing, on Front Street in Marblehead strongest dining option is that of its clam chowder. Peppery and so thick you can stand a spoon in it, it reminded me more of gravy for biscuits, than a chowder, but regardless of its viscosity, it was delicious. My dinner, which consisted of the seafood casserole ($20.00) was a simple dish of an assortment of seafood with rice and vegetables. For dessert, I ordered the highly touted Strawberry Shortcake and while it won't win first place at the county fair, the freshly baked cake was warm with spoonfuls of strawberry's on top. I had overheard another table ask a server if it was homemade and was told that everything is made "on premises", however, when the customer inquired about the whipped topping, the server curtly replied no, as the cook already has enough to do. Honestly, had the dessert had homemade whipped cream, the overall dish would have been much better and oddly enough, homemade whipped topping should be a staple, there are only a few ingredients - fresh cream and vanilla involved, how difficult would that be to whip up? The young waiters and hostesses add an awkwardness to the overall dining experience, as their lack of experience in the food industry clearly shows, with gents often being served before the ladies, head scratching and opening the patio door with their feet. While this is a rather casual restaurant, as one of the only ones right on the water, a diners overall experience would be enhanced if they were better trained, however, given the laid back vide, perhaps no one cares.
(3)
ME G.
We had a memorable night there this winter. The waiter was superb. he told the kid jokes and got us our stuff, and was helpful helpful helpful. You look like you have been doing this a long time, and he said he had. the food was good to excellent. But, you were left with the impression that this place is high variance. some nights, like our night, it was on. But, it could be off. if we had had a dud waiter, it would have been a dud night, or if a dish was made by a second cook, it could have been quite bad. hope to go back.
(3)
Jim W.
Visited the place with friends visiting from out-of-town last week, Tuesday for dinner. We had the worst meal of my life! My wife was spitting her food our into her napkin (no joke) and that was the same dish the manager (I think) recommended: pan seared/roasted haddock. My seafood and pasta tasted like they poured an entire bottle of oregano into it....and can you really screw up fish 'n chips? Yes. Our waiter was nice, but the food was horrible. I've been to the 'pub' before and liked it--only had the drinks. Anyway, the food there is a joke. Will never be back. Gross.
(1)
Mark B.
Another great trip to the pub today. Loved the chowder, and all the rest.
(4)
Ashlee W.
This was recommended by some locals for good New England Clam Chowder however, I was disappointed. I was visiting from Texas and had some high hopes for good chowder. It was spicy to me (which is saying something since I love Mexican food). It had A LOT of corn in it and not a lot of clams. It was so so.
(2)
Kathie W.
After making reservations (with deck preference) several days in advance, in anticipation of my husband's birthday, we arrived about 10 minutes early, checked in with the hostess,(who didn't look old enough to have working papers, let alone working around alcohol) and asked how soon a deck seat might be ready. We were told as soon as a party paid their check, and the table reset. We were told to sit outside at the public dock (icky, stinky smell, dead fish and diesel fumes) and they would come get us. While watching them reset the table and watching it sit idle for 20 minutes and no one came to retrieve us, we left! People looking for tables were told by the hostess (after she took their names) were told to wait outside. The place is so disorganized, no management, in site, wait staff with no leader or direction. The last time I was there (a few years ago to meet old classmates for drinks) sewer flies were spotted in at the bar (Appitizers?) I had vowed never to go back, but that's where hubby wanted to go for his birthday dinner, I agreed with trepidation. I was RIGHT! We should've gone to Maddie's instead, and that's where we ended up. Having grown up in M'head and remembering when The Landing & Bull & Finch Pub (yes the original name) opened, I was extremely diappointed. Bob Simonetti needs to find a competent manager, who knows how to run a resturant. A call to "Resturant Stakeout", "Mystery Diners" or better yet "Bar Rescue" is clearly in order! Plus where the hell can you park...... Can't comment on the food never got that far....
(1)
Lia M.
I would give The Landing 2.5 stars, if possible. We ate in the bar area on a quiet Sunday night. Service was attentive & friendly. The lobster mac n' cheese was really good, as were the fries. But the chicken sandwich was just awful, especially because there was some sweet sauce on it that was not supposed to be there. My friend's band sometimes plays here, so I would probably only head back for drinks if he was playing.
(3)
Benjamin A.
Summary: A textbook tourist trap that locals avoid, with hugely overpriced food that I wouldn't feed to my dog. Situation: Went here with my wife for dinner on a Friday and sat on the waterfront outside deck. Food: 1/10 The scallops were described in the menu as "pan seared". To me, this means large diver scallops, seared on high heat in a pan until caramelized on the outside. To them, it means tiny bay scallops intended for a seafood casserole, broiled, mixed in with mozzarella balls of the same size, and put in chef boyardee sauce over overcooked noodles. Skimping on the scallops and substituting mozzarella literally made me laugh. I sent this dish back. It looked gross, tasted worse. Lobster salad consisted of a standard salad with a ice cream scooper blumpkin of shredded soggy lobster in heavy mayonaise. $18 Service: 1/5 Our waitress forgot about us, or just wasnt interested. After I returned my meal, she didnt even come back. The hostess took our bill. No, I wasnt rude, I politely explained that I lost my appetite after seeing the meal and didnt want something else. Yes, they took it off the bill. But no apology from manager or waitress or staff. My guess is that this is a common occurrence. Ambience: 2/5 It gets 2 points for being on the water, but falls flat elsewhere. It tries for the kitschy nautical vibe of an old seafood stand-by, but instead feels outdated and dirty. The problem arises when you compound this with very high prices. Not worth it. Value: 0/5 Everything is overpriced by 30-50%. Composite Score: 4/25 Go here instead for same price or cheaper: 5 corners kitchen, 3 cod tavern, palmers
(1)
Lucia A.
Our last visit to "The Landing" was on October 8th. Our meal was not memorable: my husband's burger was overcooked, my Musseles Marseille - just OK. But the day was beautiful and the view from the deck breathtaking. I presented gift certificate from Restautant.com , but it was not honored - it was Columbus Day holiday and I didn't read small print. A few days latter I received e-mail from Restaurant.com asking me about my experience at "The landing" and gift certificate disappeared from a list of unused certificates. Apparently, Restaurant.com was contacted by stuff on the day of our visit. I went to The Landing ( I live a few miles away) and talked to restaurant manager Sue Stevens. She was extremely nice and promised to get in touch with me and resolve this issue. She never did. Too bad, I had a lot of good memories from previous visits... Lucia
(1)
Valeria H.
OK, i am giving this a 2 rating for one reason only. The menu! For a restaurant located on the water in Marblehead you would think their menu would be all about fish right? Well, unfortunately, it wasn't. It had 1 main course fish dish.. wth? Not even fish n chips! huh? The location was real nice, private feel on the pier, and they had a deck. The waiter we had was, well, a little scary. heh He was a great waiter, but, he was focused on my children too much for my taste. Every time he came to the table it was about them, joking and funny then not so funny at the end...(he said something to the affect: now girls if you see me in public with a cute puppy giving out candy, what are you going to do?) My husband and I were real upset about that, even though we knew he prob meant it in good faith to say stay away from strangers, well, it was just out right creepy. The drinks we ordered were great. My husband loved his beer, which was a local brew.. and I got a sauv blanc. THe atmosphere was dark in the interior, but you could see the kitchen when the doors swung open and it was clean. I ended up ordering the haddock dinner, the one that comes with the tomato stew/lyonnaise potatoes.. it was real good. Definitely would go back for my dinner and the kids dinner(fish n chips, which oddly enough they didnt offer for adults.. whatever) I prob won't go out of my way to drive up there, but if we are at thebeaches up that way looking for a spot for good beer, and a deck..we'd go.
(2)
Sean J.
This is a fun little bar right on the water with a great view of the harbor. The inside is decorated with your standard nautical nick-knacks and the owner is very friendly. He was there having a few drinks with his wife and the band which had been playing. Apparently it's not uncommon for him to be there late at night shooting the shit with the regulars, which I think is excellent. I did not get to eat as the kitchen had closed by the time we arrived, but I will definitely consider going there again for a drink and bite to eat next time I'm in MH.
(4)
Claire W.
Wanted a drink with a view at 4 or 4:30 pm as we showed some out of town relatives some of coastal MA. The bar at our usual haunt (The Barnacle) was packed, and while there were tables in the restaurant, they have a policy that you can only sit there if you are eating a meal and we were stuffed from a late lunch of Thanksgiving leftovers. We wandered down to The Landing and asked if we could sit in the water view area with just a drink. They said they weren't serving, but were willing to let us sit there, directing us to the pub to get our drinks as there were no servers available. In the bar, the staff was equally friendly (and 2 of us wanted to stay in the pub, and if we hadn't been driving back to Boston we might have stayed for the band that was playing that night. )Multiple staff members were friendly and accommodating to our several special requests. Suspect in part the atmosphere reflected that it is November and not the tourist season; the place had a more local feel. Will definitely be back.
(4)
Karen B.
We had eaten there once before and liked it so, we had our son's rehearsal dinner there last week. The owners of the restaurant were very hospitable and accommodating. They worked with us to make a special smaller menu to meet the special food needs for the party of 50. They printed it up, and the food was great. Many raved about the chowder. The setting was beautiful and the staff really exceptional. We could not have been happier.
(4)
Rose F.
3 stars for location and their bar. They usually have live music that is pretty good in the bar and Dark and Stormys! Totally delicious Ginger beer and Gosslings rum. Boo ya! It's delicious! Today I went for lunch and had a sangria (good) and crab cake ( under cooked, not good) and my companion had a beer and burger (good) and Amazing hand cut French fries. View is awesome. You can sit outside or inside with huge windows overlooking the harbor. So... If you want a local bar with good music this is your place. If you are here for the culinary expierence you will be dissapointed.
(3)
Len S.
Met another couple for dinner there tonight (Sunday). We ate outside on the deck. Parking in the area is close to impossible (parking lot is for the boat landing shared with private boat owners and those going on short sunset cruises). Two waiters crashed into each other resulting in 2 clam chowders hitting the other couple and the waiters. I did get a little on my foot, but the other guy had it all up and down his leg and his Wife had a clam in her hair! Accidents happen but no accommodation was offered (or requested by the other couple although they were silently pissed about it). They did give us a damp cloth to wipe it away. Food was good, but nothing special. My Seafood Festival ($24) was bland and lots of pepper and some salt didn't save it. I like spicy, but this dish (mussels, scallops, shrimp and lobster in a white sauce with pasta) just had no real flavor to it. My Wife's Salmon Penobscot ($20) was good and fairly flavorful. The cup of clam chowder ($6) again was bland . . . I've tasted a lot better in many places. The most common seafood dishes aren't on the menu here. If I'm in that area again some day, I'd look to try another restaurant before I'd return here.
(2)
Jo Ann B.
Four stars for the service. Drinks were large and good, didn't try the food. Nice dive bar.
(4)
Bill K.
As a local I've always wished this place would change mgt, and materially change the way they operate. They have the best locale in M'head, next to the Barnacle, but equally bad (and more expensive) food than the Barnacle (where at least the bar crowd has a view). They should swap the bar and restaurant around to take advantage of the view, and go for a simpler tavern menu. You get half the view sitting at restaurant tables (obscured), and none from the bar. Very strange. Could be great, but it simply isn't - just like the Barnacle!!!
(2)
Gene K.
I'm a Marbleheader for over 3 decades and have been frequenting the Landing most of my adult life. It's always been a wonderful experience and a great way to enjoy old town! Additionally, I've never complained at a restaurant and am generally overly friendly to all waitstaff. Unfortunately my experience there last night was rather overwhelming. It was 4th of July and we went into the restaurant around 7pm knowing that it would be busy and we would need to be extra patient on the holiday. Our waitress came to us promptly and took our drink order. Half an hour passed before our drinks came and we began the long wait to place our order. Our waitress did not come come back w/bread or to check on us until 7:45. In the meantime, the tables around us (several of whom were seated after us) were each helped 4 or 5 times. I spoke to our waitress but she still did not come back to our table to take our order. With our drinks empty for over half an hour, and with no service, I decided to bring this to the attention of the manager on duty, Steve. I explained that our waitress was making appearances to the tables around us and completely ignoring my pregnant wife, sister, and me. I explained to Steve that we had been sitting there for 45 minutes and were wondering why we hadn't been helped. He brushed me off and said that it was a busy night and that the waitress is trying as hard as possible (ignoring the fact that she had been helping tables all around us), and that he would make sure to check in on us and bring our bread and drinks in the meantime. He never checked in with us again. Keep in mind our entrees ranged in price between 27 and 32 dollars a piece, so this is not just a casual night out. We finally ordered our entrees and a re-fill on our drinks around 8:20, an hour and 20 minutes after we entered the restaurant. Within that time, tables around us came in, placed their orders, paid their bills, and went out to enjoy the beauty of old town Marblehead. Our food was finally brought out to us at 8:50 by someone from the kitchen but unfortunately they forgot a portion of it. I brought this to their attention immediately but they never came back with the missing portion of our order. My sister's steak was not properly cooked, our side dishes were cold, we didn't have our complete meals, and neither our waitress or Steve, the manager on duty, came to check on us. I spoke with another waiter, who also ignored our request for help. When our bill finally came I asked to speak with the manager again and calmly expressed our dissatisfaction with the experience. Steve would not accept responsibility for the problem and generally brushed us off as being difficult. He did not believe that the tables around us had come and gone before we had the opportunity to place our order. The Landing did pick up the cost for most of the meal, which I appreciate, but the experience left us all bewildered. I would suggest that the owners of the Landing review their management training and would encourage Steve to take customers concerns seriously. Perhaps checking in on us once during the two hours after my initial concerns were raised would have been enough.
(1)
The Hungry American E.
The Landing has various attributes for a old port town American cusine restaurant. But in the end, it's the food that brings you back. The American has dined here twice ('02, '10) and the food is as good as the day is long. On both ocassions the server was in excellent spirits, attentive and accurate. Now many may say the staff in general can be cranky (due to tight quarters) and the place has a slight fragrence to it (true). But, The Landing has atmosphere and reasonable lunch prices - and most of all the food is better the expected. Plus you are right on the water in Marblehead, Mass.
(3)
Scott B.
Went here for drinks last Saturday night. It was a nice place they'll make you any kind of drink you want and have a nice selection of beers on tap. Unlike other reviewers on here I have no problem with being asked if I'm there for food or the bar. Why make the waiter/waitress make another trip to return the menus. If that bothers you you'd probably be better off going to Morton's or The Capital Grille and not a local establishment in a small town. I wish I hadn't gone to a Rodizio beforehand because I LOVE Clam Chowder and I'd really like to try it here. I know I'll have a second trip and I will update my review then.
(3)
Capt. C.
We love The Landing Pub ... the BEST Dark & Stomy ever (yeah... Marblehead beats Bermuda). Angus burger was outrageous, fries deliciously BYMO (burn-your-mouth-off perfection ... hot food needs to be hot (and fresh) and they nailed it!). Fish&Chips, Clam Chowder were both "A-freakin +". Lisa (great smile and personality, btw) gave us just the right amount of attention served with competence and pleasantness. This return visit was a great all-around experience (food, service & atmosphere)... and isn't that what we pay for?
(4)
Jatte B.
Went there with my wife for our wedding anniversary.... and were a bit bummed out. Started with cups of chowder which were good, but, massively overloaded with black pepper. Could not taste anything but the pepper with no sign of the clams, corn, etc. on our taste buds. I got the steak/shrimp combo. I ordered my steak medium/rare and got it well done. First two shrimp of four were nice... but by #3, the white sauce on the shrimp was overbearing with due to intense saltiness. My wife's bay scallop dish was OK -- more like something we'd toss together at home than "special/restaurant-quality". Perhaps it was a busy night with a new cook... but for the price, I'd say skip it. The view and seaside atmosphere saved this from a one-star review.
(2)
Sigalle B.
As a New Yorker visiting Massachusetts I felt the need to have all things New England when I ordered. So I ordered the clam chowder to start and it was delicious - rich, hearty, and pleasantly spicy. I also ordered the fish n' chips which were fried crispy and not at all greasy. Sat outside, by the water, and watched the boats go by. Staff was friendly and the vibe was relaxed. Oh and try the baked brie with raspberry sauce - so awesome.
(4)
Beth R.
I went to The Landing with my colleagues last week when the weather was great and sat on the deck. What a spectacular view of Marblehead harbor and State Street wharf. The food was fresh and delicious. I had a steak tip salad and my steak was cooked perfectly over fresh greens. My colleagues enjoyed their meal as well. We had excellent service from Felix, our waiter.
(5)
Stephanie H.
I went here last night with my husband because I bought the Local Ginger coupon for The Landing. As we have pretty much eaten at every place in Salem atleast twice we are trying to venture out to the neighboring communities occasionally to see what they have to offer. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive, and the location of The Landing being on the water, having outdoor seating (which I am sure is nice we be didn't take the Host up on when he offered as it is January) and view are all 5 stars. The food was more like 3 or 3.5 stars. Average food, a little pricey but portions were good size so worth it. My husband started with the French Onion soup which was decent size and very onion-y according to him. He got the landing stuffed filet for his entree. It was stuffed with Asparagus and lobster tail meat and had a side of garlic mashed potatoes (eh ok as he let me try some) and brocollini....I got the Scallops Margarita. It was decent enough. Something I could have made at home but as the husband does not eat Scallops I try and order them when I am out. We were so full from dinner we had no room for dessert. Parking was ok but again we were there on a snowy saturday in January. I could see in the Summer how Parking could be hard to come by. We may go back here for more of a special occasion as the prices are kind of on the pricey side.
(4)
Jeff I.
Clearly The Landing was having a bad Friday night. Very understaffed in the pub and the nachos were a soggy amateur mess. We are regulars here but this was their worst night ever! Not rushing to return.
(2)
Elizabeth B.
Last time I was here, my boyfriend and I walked in, went straight to the host station and was rudely asked, "do you want to eat?" I thought, No we just came in to stare at you... Our experience was followed with unmemorable food, practically frozen Boston Cream Pie followed by being rushed out of the restaurant. We have not returned.
(1)
Brian R.
I went with my girlfriend to the Landing one random tuesday night. The place was empty, but I had my $25 "gift certificate" from restaurant.com . (I paid like $3 for it.) We had an awesome waiter, very nice. We were seated in the pub are as they were hosting a meeting of some sort in the dining area. I had the Calamari and Crab Cakes and my g/f had the baked shrod. I loved my food, she liked her. Pro's: -Good food. A little pricey for the norm, but this is Marblehead so it's expected. -Waitstaff is polite and on top of things. -The host at the door was very curtious to me and I didn't experience any of the problems Elizabeth B had. -$25 off of a $45 bill (20% tip included) is nice. Con's: -Not much parking. -Reminds you that it's a pub with a dining section attached. I like pubs, but I wanted to sit in the dining section. No biggie, I made the best of it. I'd clearly recommend this to anyone I know.
(4)
s g.
Amazing food (clam chowder with roasted corn, swordfish), service and location. The water side table during a sunset accompanied by the excellent food and service will make sure we come back next time in town. Highly recommended!
(5)
Rafi S.
So, some restaurants just give you awesome food and ok service. My server understood that a restaurant isn't just selling food, but a full experience. I received regular, but not overbearing attention and got the sense that they knew the menu well. As for the food, I had the baked haddock, and truthfully, I haven't had fish that well cooked in a while. It was the type of meal that makes you want to take small bites and take the time to taste all the flavors. I'd come back here in a heartbeat.
(5)
Susan K.
The food was excellent, but what made my first (but certainly not last) dinner here so amazing were 1) the lovely harbor views from deck (with very effective overhead heaters as it was a chilly night) and 2) the amazing service. I am recovering from shoulder surgery so only can use one hand. Instead of having to forego the lobster I really wanted, the server dismantled it for me with equal parts kindness and humor. Delicious food, lovely harbor view, and the kindness of strangers made this an evening I'll not forget.
(5)
Gabrielle B.
If I could give negative stars I would. We traveled from boston bc we were looking for a restaurant with a view and great seafood. We asked to be seated outside and they said we could wait for one with shade, so we waited 15 mins for a seat and they sat my husband in the shade and I just got scorched by the sun. It was less than enjoyable. So we asked to move to a seat with shade and they said it was going to be taken so we said it was ok. Meanwhile there was another open table that was empty, in the shade, and they didn't move us. We waited until we couldn't bear it anymore and went inside. As far as the food, we ordered chowder and oysters for apps. The chowder was pretty good, the oysters on the other hand were not edible. They were disgusting. Barely any meat, ripped apart and just a waste of our money. We also ordered a lobster roll and chicken salad. Lobster roll was ok. Too much mayo and not enough flavor. It was so messy and just placed on top of the bun rather than in it. The chicken salad was just blah. The french fries were battered and terrible. Fries are my favorite food and I have to say, that these were one of worst. With all that being said, the food was anything but fresh and they think they are fooling people with their "grass fed" beef and "free range" chicken, but I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone. It's a tourist trap. An amazing location with less than mediocre food. Waste of a $90 lunch bill. Save your money and go somewhere else. And as a side note, the 16 yr boys that waited at that place were the most miserable unfriendly waite staff. Maybe they could try smiling and using their manners, may help the reviews for this place. Actually, no it wouldn't.
(1)
Chris F.
Great view and in a cool location. Only problem was that we sat outside and trucks were dropping off old fish or something nearby and it smelled terrible. They had great clam chowder. If you are in the mood for some chowder than come here. Their special recipe has roasted corn in it. Very tasty. Also ordered their fish tacos. The tacos were okay. The fish was a bit thin and heavily breaded. The corn tortillas were actually pretty good but other than that they weren't anything special. Nothing fancy here but good for a quick stop to eat or drink at a cool location.
(3)
Dave C.
The best thing about this restaurant is the view. The somewhat small deck has amazing views of the harbor that are tough to beat. However, the food is mediocre at best. Fried clams were just ok and served with lukewarm, stale tasting fries. The lobster mac n' cheese was soupy and in need of a makeover. Lastly, our server didn't seem very knowledgeable about the menu and was put off when we asked her to check the ingredients on a dish. Overall, this is a five star view with one star food and two star service.
(2)
Edward R.
The Landing is a piece of Marblehead not to be missed. Located at the public landing in town, it is perfect for people watching and boat watching. The food is outstanding. An eclectic menu featuring many options and highlighted by locally-caught fish and sea food enhanced by a wine list one would expect only from a larger establishment. The lobster roll and swordfish club have become our particular favorites. The lobster mac and cheese is amazing, plenty of lobster, but be forewarned, it's a big dish and will fill you up! The service is also first rate and all of the staff are welcoming, efficient, and willing to find a way to let you sit on the deck even during peak season in the summer. Not to be missed!
(5)
Richard C.
Remember in the Wizard of Oz when the Wizard said "Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain?" Well, the spectacular ocean view is Oz and the restaurant is the man behind the curtain! As long as you keep paying attention to the view, you'll enjoy your visit. The food is classic American fare from the 70's and 80's. The menu is large and could really, really use some serious updating. It's like the guest cast of the Love Boat: you fondly remember them, but enjoyed them more twenty years ago. I've found that if you stick to basic grill items (burgers, tips, ribs) you'll do OK. The regular Mac and cheese is fantastic as is the fried fish plates. Remember, you're here for some basic food and the view. Parking can be a big problem, as the lot is small and there's not much allocated street parking nearby. You're better off parking up a few blocks and walking down. Don't expect fine dining, modern touches, or light fare. Get ready to clog an artery with some golden oldies from decades past (this could be a step-sister to the Continental Restaurant). Grab a burger, have a beer, and enjoy the view! And work off your meal as you walk back to your car.
(3)
Meizi H.
The service could be slow when they were busy. We ordered fried fish sandwich and Cajun chicken but the kitchen totally forgot the tix. We had to wait 45 min for our meals but manager came to apologize and offered free beers and chowder, which was nice. Both foods were tasty and I def would go back again!!
(3)
Ryan W.
BRUNCH REVIEW: #1 This place is an excellent option if you don't feel like waiting in line at the Driftwood Cafe. I hate lines. #2. They have a waterside patio which is awesome. OK I'm done with #'s. I had the: The Landing "Biscuit Scramble": A large freshly baked buttermilk biscuit split and filled with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, maple sausage and bacon then topped with cheddar cheese sauce and scallions. Accompanied by cottage fries and fresh fruit. 12 It was pretty delicious, although not quite what I was expecting. I was expecting something a little more along the lines of biscuits and gravy (grew up on The Cracker Barrel...) and this was a little more like a biscuit and egg sandwich, which is actually what the description reads. Either way I endorse this dish if you are not on a diet or suffering pre-existing health conditions such as Heart Disease, Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure etc. My wife got the omelet du jour (omelet of the day), which was a vegetable omelet. It was pretty much your standard omelet. Nothing to get excited or mad about. Our waitress was on the ball and awesome. We could not have been more pleased with our service and her delightful attitude about service! The Landing is one of the better options for any kind of food in Marblehead.
(4)
Aubyn K.
Good view, decent wine list and nice staff. And the chowder is good. But, here's where my praise ends. The food is just not good. Everything is fried and super dated. Can another Boston chef please come up here and rescue this town? We've got one good sit down restaurant...can we make it two? Please?
(3)
Jow O.
2 stars is being generous. We came here over Labor Day Weekend. The restaurant was maybe 30-40% full for lunch. Service was TERRIBLE -1 star, waitress did not do a good job period. Feel bad bashing her but she was not good. Sorry. Table of 6 should not be rocket science to manage. And it took about 30 min till she even asked us if we wanted the check AFTER she cleared our plates.. Food was not that great for the price -1 star and some of our orders were incorrect. I didnt even change anything, It was just prepared wrong! location is the only thing keeping this place alive. +1 star for location I wanted to like this place, but I just cant.
(1)
Phil B.
I love this place, especially Eric the bartender. Food is very good with a large but not overwhelming selection. Outdoor dining is superb and the pub is a great spot to have a beer and bite any night of the week.
(4)
David S.
After spending a bit of time and effort to find a place to park, we headed in for a late dinner. (Alas, it was so dark by the time arrived that there was no ocean view to enjoy.) We were seated within three minutes and were attended to by Rory. Drinks appeared relatively quickly and the clam chowder soon followed though the bread lagged behind. Chowder was rich and creamy with a good number of clams. Bread was hot out the oven, crispy in the outside and soft on the inside--worth the wait. I then had thr sole français which smelled and tasted a bit too fishy; the egg coating was also a bit heavy so that as the dish cooled it became mushy. The accompalnying asparagus was moderately overcooked but the pilaf was fine. My sweetheart ordered ths grilled salmon, which appeared to be the better choice--cooked well and not fishy. The mashed potatoes and mixed veggies were reported to be "okay." Given the final bill, I am not sure if dinner is a good value: a bit too much for an unremarkable meal. Overall our dining experience was reasonable enough that we'd give the place another try, most probably for lunch when the fare is more basic, the prices are more reasonable, and the few can better appreciated.
(3)
Chris P.
Got seated indoors on a relatively quiet Sunday afternoon. Wait staff seemed severely understaffed. Waited 15min and never got greeted or seen by the wait staff. Promptly left and walked to the Barnacle.
(1)
Rebecca D.
We loved everything we ordered -- the french onion soup, lobster roll, prime rib special, oysters on the half shell, and cheesecake dessert. The wild mushroom crostini was just out of this world. The service was extraordinary - accommodating, super friendly, and knowledgable about the menu. A little pricey for my taste, but worth it for the occasion.
(4)
Jeff L.
I always forget that it's best to stick to the basics when dining at the Landing. Burgers, nachos, fries, clam chowder, and sandwiches are done ok. Whenever I forget and try to order anything "tarted-up", I always regret it. This time I had the duck. Chef Ramsey would have blown a gasket and probably threw it out the window. It looked like a dog's dinner and the chef managed to BOTH overcook it AND keep it greasy. I tried to order it medium-rare and the waitress came back and said, "no one has ever ordered it medium-rare before. The chef cooks it medium. It came out medium-well.
(2)
Lavender L.
The building is amazingly beautiful! The children's mac and cheese was very good, the clam chowder was brilliant, and the seafood casserole was good but not as much lobster as I would have liked but it was good. The clams where very fresh and tasted wonderfully! The homemade bread was warm, fresh, and lovely. The cheesecake was beautiful as well as delicious, but the chocolatini was just ok. The service was wonderful. I had a event earlier this week and the waitress named Windy ( who was an amazing server) gladly made me a special drink and wonderful evening. The bathrooms where clean and neat and there was salt scrub for your hands. Being a traveler you want to have a great experience everywhere that you go and The Landing gave me an experience and view that I will never forget. I do recommend this restaurant for family and friends as well as just single people; I would return here if I wasn't from out of town!!
(4)
Greg K.
I give it 4 stars for their chowder, tap list and patience with my kids. I wish they'd pay more attention to the rest of the menu, but so long as you know what you're getting when you go there, it's a good spot.
(4)
Karen C.
Sure you can book a function, just not in the Summer.. Totally ridiculous.. Before you make it like you can have a function there, state NOT IN THE SUMMER..
(1)
Larry S.
We stayed in Marblehead at a local B&B and the recommended this place for its location. Yes, it has a view of the harbor but also the working parking lot where they offload lobster boats and have cranes to lift boats. Nice but not spectacular. I liked the fact the had heaters to enjoy the deck on the cooler days/nights but they really needed two more to make every seat at least a bit warmer. A big plus, very pleasant service staff. Go for a kick-back meal not a a top notch dining event. Don' be in rush.
(3)
John S.
Love this place... The food is great and they have a nice beer selection. Service is always great. Be warned: parking is tough, especially in the winter but its worth it.
(5)
Gay P.
I really hate writing a negative review, BUT....when it's deserved, I suppose it's best just to be honest so that others aren't disappointed. Ordered char-broiled swordfish well done. Got a salmon dinner. It went back. Waited minimally 3/4 of an hour, and finally, a swordfish dinner came out....no grill marks, appeared to be microwaved, raw in the center. RAW...not rare. Sent it back. Got a lobster roll....no seasoning....bland with lots of lettuce. Dessert seemed to be reheated from frozen. When I received a note about not using my loyally card, I wrote back the above to the owner. Did you hear from him? Neither did I. If I owned a restaurant, I'd rush to correct the slight....damage control, if nothing else. So I guess the loyalty card should be fed to the shredder.
(1)
Misty S.
I can't believe today was the first time I've been to the landing! Hubby and I had the day off and it was beautiful out and we wanted somewhere different (read not in Salem) and on the water so we decided to go here. The deck is adorable, and I loved watching the fishing boats coming in. They have a decent selection of beers on tap including a few locals (Ipswich, Long trail). For lunch, I got a sandwich called the "Big Kahuna'. It was a seafood burger- Scallops, lobster and shrimp, breaded and seared on a bun. it came with a fresh pickle (yum) and seasoned fries. Hubby got a turkey club wrap. He said that it was one of the best he's ever had because they added pesto. Nice way to spend the afternoon!
(3)
Mindy L.
Update: I have now had dinner here 3x (we can't stop coming back). I had the Tuna Piccata (delicious) and the Seafood Festival (awesome). They brought out Key Lime Pie with a candle for my birthday. Our waiter looked a little like Zac Efron and carded me on my 32nd birthday...he gets props for both those things. The Key Lime Pie was tart and refreshing. They also have mug clubs for beer and wine and also a Dark'n'Stormy club (drink 8 - please not all at once - and get 1 free). OR you can join the Captain's Club and get bigger pours on all the aforementioned drinks! The Pub pro-rates the entrance fee so you can get in for basically half the cost for the rest of the year. Cha-ching!
(4)
Star C.
Had my birthday dinner here. Calamari was awful...fishy and under-fried. Mussels were awful and not fresh. Steak tips on Caesar was like spicy over cooked leather on lettuce even though they were ordered medium. My surprise birthday dessert, an old stale biscuit sliced in half and squirted with whipped cream and a few slices of strawberries in flavored corn syrup. Water glasses were never filled. Tons of bus boys working but standing in a corner chatting so you had to flag them down for every little thing. Terrible birthday dinner. Rory tried to make it festive but couldn't save the night.
(1)
Tykie M.
This restaurant sits right on the water. The view is beautiful. The scallions/ bacon appetizer is to die for. I ordered the stuffed fillet - it was close to perfection. The steak was cooked perfectly but the lobster tail was a little rubbery. Because the steak was so good I really didn't care. The wait staff is very attentive and polite. I ate out almost every night while on vacation and in my opinion The Landing was the best. They also have a bar in a separate room. It was clean with a pleasant atmosphere. The drinks and company were lovely.
(5)
Martha K.
The fish chowder was wonderful. I wish I stopped there but the seafood festival was over cooked and under seasoned. The lobster basilico was swimming in some heavy white sauce with pasta that was overcooked. I won't be back.
(2)
Ani C.
2.5 Stars in reality... I came here while visiting Boston on the drive to Salem. Hotel recommended them. We looked around the town for other options (which was a very cute lil town!) but it was SO COLD- and everything was closed! I'm from California, 30 degrees and rain is cold! So, we just settled on The Landing! It was empty... usually a bad sign. But not terrible Decor is shabby chic (a euphemism for old) Time warp into the '80s. Think banquet chairs. Nice view. The bathroom did have a great scrub- plus 1 star! The award winning Chowda was really very good. Probably the best I had while in Boston. Service was attentive and friendly too-although it was empty inside. My Lobsta roll (gotta say with a Boston accent) was ok. $2 extra for no mayo- odd. BF's food was good. Not fabulous, but good. In all, I think I just have a really refined palette coming from a foodie town like San Francisco- not to sound arrogant. But we eat great seafood all the time. So, I wasn't impressed with the baked clams casino (very Diner-ish to me) But the chowda was good! I'm sure its touristy, but I was a tourist...
(3)
Amy H.
My experience was more like a two-parter, one a 4 star experience and the other a 2 star experience. When we first arrived, we sat in the restaurant and enjoyed the nice view. Our server was so friendly and the pierogies were amazing. We then transitioned to the pub, where the service was far less attentive. It averaged out to a 3-star experience, which just goes to show how much service influences your opinion of a restaurant.
(3)
Kristine C.
We wanted to get out of jam packed Salem for a nice dinner so we headed to Marblehead and stumbled upon The Landing. We are so glad we did. Although it is Oct it was a beautiful night and we were offered the outdoor area where they had the big heat lanterns on (which we didnt even need) The view was gorgeous on the water. Rory, our server, was spectacular. He was always right on top of things and had a wonderful sense of humor. Our food was delicious. Scallops wrapped in bacon with a maple glaze...so good. My husband had the prime rib, cooked to perfection piled high with mushrooms and onions ($2 extra) I had the Sole Franchaise over a very flavorful rice with tender asparagus, delicious. The bar makes a mean dirty martini and our cheesecake and key lime pie....the perfect ending to our great meal. Next time I am in town I will re-visit this great find. Not to be missed!!
(5)
Fred M.
With all the boats, sail and fishing, coming & going, makes this a 10 for relaxing and enjoying dinner. My fried clams were real fresh Ipswich clams, cooked perfect! It was their Special for the day. The view and salt air made it all good! It's hard to find clams this good anywhere in NE!
(4)
S H.
Went here today with my 2 kids & Hubby. I had the lobster roll and it was very good! Not too much mayo and seasoned perfectly. My hubby had the fish cakes, I had a bite of that and it was very good. My son said this was the best Mac & cheese he has ever had! My daughter had the lobster Mac & cheese and she said it was really good! Both Mac & cheese dishes were very good size portions, which neither one finished. Great view of the harbor and sails coming and going. We had a great time!!
(4)
Dosia S.
The Landing does have pretty yummy food, so I was on the border between three and four stars. I have tried many different dishes here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and I am usually satisfied, for the most part. Service is fine, but have never had any memorable interactions with any of the staff. My last time at this location was yesterday-I came in with one other person and while they were greeted by the hostess (in the extremely short skirt! A little much for such a classy place), I was not acknowledged whatsoever. I have worked in this type of business and acknowledge the importance of greeting every customer individually and if you do not even look at one person in the party at all, well, they are not going to feel very happy about being there from the get-go. Besides that, our waiter was very friendly with the biggest smile on his face at all times! *The only complaint that I had about my experience was the overly seasoned dish of "award winning" clam chowder. Had the soup's main ingredient not been pepper, I would have probably given the soup itself five stars, as I recognize the other ingredients' combination was delicious. However, the entire bowl of soup was speckled with dots of pepper so that there were dozens in one spoonful. No, I am not exaggerating, as the couple we befriended sitting next to us, there for their anniversary, shared the same dish and opinion as us. It was a bizarre recipe, or a mistake by the kitchen; I will never know, but I do not plan on finding out a second time. (Plenty of other things to choose from on the menu!)
(3)
J A.
I live in Marblehead and haven't eaten in the front restaurant in several years. Stick to the bar area usually. I was at a fun raiser for Care Dimensions (formerly North Shore Hospice) tonight. It was a great event with great service provided by The Landing. I ordered the scallops provencal. The scallops were fresh and cooked well but I have to say everything else was pretty pedestrian. The tomato and basil (pesto) was more like a salsa. The tomatoes were your winter variety white with no flavor. The sides were plain brown rice and steamed yellow squash, zucchini and carrots. Like I said pretty pedestrian. I felt like I was out to dinner with my parents 40 years ago. I thought the interior is getting pretty tired looking. For a waterfront restaurant I always thought they should do a complete makeover and put the bar near the water with tables around it. I've always loved the bar side at the Landing and I'll look to put in a review next time I eat over there.
(2)
Jill M.
My boyfriend and I stayed in Marblehead last weekend and loved this place! We came here out first night and ate inside. I had the swordfish and he had the lobster basilica, both were delicious! My boyfriend had the cheesecake which I snuck a few bites of because it was just that good. We came here again for brunch before heading back to NYC and it was great. It was a nice day so we sat outside, it's right on the water and the view is beautiful. If I ever travel to Marblehead again I will definitely be eating here!
(4)
Alan N.
Clam chowder with corn maybe the best. Ever. Yes, I go back just for that. Excellent crab cakes too. Margaritas so-so.
(4)
Emma M.
We waited 30 mins before our waitress came to take our order. The restaurant was fairly busy but they seemed to have plenty of staff about 4 waiters and 3 bussers so I'm not sure what the problem was. The chowder was gelatinous and the lobster salad did not taste fresh. The food was also a bit overpriced considering the quality.
(2)
Henry K.
Sit inside. The gasoline smell from the boat fuel station is horrible when you're eating. Mac and Cheese was really good! The calamari appetizer, not so much. The Cajun chicken was not bad at all. Perfect amount of marinade and flavor
(3)
Crystal B.
I can't get enough of The Landing. I go at least once a week. Lunch, Dinner, the Pub, all awesome. Every staff member I have spoken to has been wonderful. The burgers are delicious, the fish and chips are as well. Two words: Peddler Fries. YUM! Don't forget the Cheesecake. I am so in love with this place.
(5)
Alicia B.
From the perspective of a charming 3 year-old beauty: I like The Landing because of... + Daddy! took me out to lunch here + Daddy! ordered me a mixed juice - cran w/ orange + A friendly lady brought me crayons + I got a fun activity sheet to color on + Daddy! helped me count the lobsters on the activity sheet + Daddy! ordered me chicken fingers and french fries + The cook fired up the fryer fast for my hungry belly + I got a plate full of food served minutes after Daddy! ordered + I had plenty of ketchup for my fries, thanks to Daddy's GF + I discovered crayons roll easily off the table and make me laugh + Daddy! gave me the receipt to write on and keep + I wrote on the receipt with a pen! + We got a double-bagged doggy bag for me to help carry + I had plenty of left overs for dinner + We were a short walk to the park, where I love to play and climb rocks!
(4)
Sean S.
We ate in the "pub" side of the restaurant. Great clam chowder. BEWARE: some of the picky eaters in the group may not like that it includes corn, but I asked a particularly picky eater if he noticed the ingredients and he said "no" (if he had known it included corn he probably would not have ordered), but said it tasted great and was glad he didn't know ahead of time.
(4)
Tim R.
Great (5 stars each): Being on the water, the outdoor seating, the hostess(es), wait staff and manager. Good (3 stars): The clam chowder. Bad (0 stars): The meal I ordered. I'm not a regular at The Landing--I've been just once. But my food was so bad and so expensive, that I felt I had to write a review. Entering the dining room, I was greeted by three very lovely, friendly and kind hostesses. Our waiter was right on top of everything throughout the meal. The manager made sure we were warm and comfortable out on the dining deck on a cool, late spring night. If I had read the Yelp reviews, I'd have ordered the chowder and mac 'n' cheese and probably been pretty happy. Instead, I was in the mood for a fine dinner so I went for the night's special; a $25 entree of grilled tuna steak which I ordered very rare. What I got was an old, pale, dry tuna steak that was over cooked, gristly and completely lacking seasoning, served over a tiny serving of wild rice with a bay leaf along for the ride. It was as if the dinner went straight from the Sysco truck to the plate. Just awful and I felt like I had been robbed like a tourist. I'll go again -- for the location, outdoor seating, very lovely hostesses, terrific wait staff, thoughtful managers, and the chowder and mac 'n' cheese.
(2)
Betty P.
We use this place a lot for our client luncheons when they do Marblehead tours. My staff always write and tell me about the awesome clam chowder here so roomie and I finally had to try it for ourselves. On a recent trip, Rory our waiter, the hostess, and Angela the events person were all super friendly. (The GM, Robert, is also so easy to deal with when we plan functions.) This is the type of place where you have to know what to order. I would def recommend the chowdah as it is the best I have ever had. The calamari and fried clams had the same batter and were okay. The clams were bigger than others I have sampled elsewhere but the breading could use some improvement. But the staff were so nice that when I told them who I was, they comp'd all of our alcoholic bevs and apps! Even before I told them my company uses the restaurant for functions, everybody was eager to find us the best seat at the house. The pub seemed lively and I bet this place is happening in the summer. I like that this place is equally welcoming to locals and tourists, and they also are active in community events and fundraisers. Def. head up north and give it a try. In the summer, the patio is a nice spot to sit!
(4)
Nish N.
The Landing seems to be that place in Marblehead where both tourists and locals mix pretty easily. There is plenty of room in the Pub for a lite meal or beer, and the restaurant section has a nice outdoor patio for overlooking the water. Their lobster roll is done just right, with the right amount of mayo, buttered hot dog roll and all. The fries were only ok.
(4)
Keith A.
Stopped in for a quick bite before a show at the Me & Thee. The service was pleasant and efficient, and the soups (French onion and seafood chowder) were good. But for a supposed seafood restaurant, and a pricey one at that, the crab cakes and calamari were inexcusably flavorless.
(2)
Kylie H.
My NEW FAVORITE place!!!! My first experience here was magical. My fiance's father had been here awhile ago and we just moved to Beverly. He recommended that the entire fam come here for lunch one Sunday afternoon. The overall experience was excellent, even though we couldn't dine outside. I got the shepard's pie, which was cooked perfectly. The french fries here are great and our little one ordered a grilled cheese that was made on sourdough with chedder. Absolutely delicious... A few weeks later my fiance and I came here for a "romantic" dinner and we ate outside. The night was beautiful and a CELEBRITY was actually eating at the table next to us!!!! I feel uncomfortable saying who he is (I'm sure he comes here a lot), but he has been in a series of television shows and movies. I ordered the filet mignon and it was delicious... we also had the bruschetta, which was also amazing! A week later I brought my mother and grandmother here for lunch (they are from Western Mass). We ate outside sipped on mimosas. I ordered the caesar wrap, which was none the less also delicious. However, my mother ordered the mac and cheese and it was the best I've ever had. Four cheeses and zuchinni and squash on top. Large portions I ate her left overs for a day! This place is really great overall.
(5)
Aboud Y.
Really a shame. The location is beautiful but both the food and service were bad, bad, bad. Go elsewhere.
(2)
Melanie F.
i had french onion soup, it was awesome!!! i should of have another bowl. then i ordered a southwestern burger, ordered rare. it was definitely rare. it had fresh guacamole, and the fries that came with it were outstanding, i wish i had a whole plate of those. it was delicious, i look forward to having a brunch meal there sometime. the setting is beautiful. the service was good, he never kept us waiting. we had four very young children with us, and he was very accommodating. every other adult i was with was also equally as happy with what they ordered.
(4)
David S.
Nothing fancy here, but really, really solid food with a wonderful view from the deck. Had the best prepared haddock on our entire MA trip here at the Landing. Service was very smooth and friendly. The atmosphere, primarily sailing enthusiasts, is relaxed and fun. Finding this place, if you're an out of towner, requires GPS. But finding it is well worth the effort.
(4)
Rebecca S.
The food here is usually pretty good- and you usually get a nice portion for your money. The traditionally baked cod/scrod is the best I have had. I am a big fan of their ceasar salad. Their cocktails are actually amazing... We had the artini...complex and yummy! Make sure to check out their pub next to the dining hall. Usually a little cheaper to eat on that side. Wednesdays is trivia night and a raffle. Really cute and really Marblehead. We really enjoyed ourselves last Wednesday night and are excited to make it a tradition. *overall always a positive experience. Food is good, drinks are really good and everyone is friendly.
(4)
Kevin B.
Like a lot of Marblehead, it could use some serious updating (how about really taking advantage of that waterfront?) but food is good and a good selection of beer.
(3)
Adam B.
Decent food. Really good desserts. View is beautiful. Staff was friendly and inviting.
(3)
Tim P.
We are semi-regular at this place, we visit the Landing probably once a month and when weather allows we try to be on the deck. It is a nice place, the prices are reasonable and we like the menu choices. The chef tries to experiment so the menu changes quite often, which is one of the reasons we liked the restaurant in the first place. Our favorites include Mussels marseillaise, baked Scrod and, when available, Lobster Casserole. The kids like mac and cheese which is quite good (as an earlier reviewer mentioned). Your waiter will suggest the daily special which is typically more expensive than the regular choices but we have rarely been disappointed. The parking and the wait could be an issue, particularly on more popular nights. 4/5, recommended.
(4)
sarah s.
2.5 stars, actually. This place is right on the water, and even though I went in March, the view was still beautiful. This place is super-casual, and looked like locals frequented it. I had the lobster roll, which was good, had some nice chunks of lobster in it- wasn't all a shredded mess. Although I think the Black Dog in the Vineyard has the best lobster roll I've ever tasted (although I'm not a New Englander, so I'm no expert!). I digress. Anyway, my hubby had the fried Ipswich clams, which he said were ok. All fried things kind of taste alike. The kicker- he came down with violent food poisoning a few hours later! That was all we had eaten that day, so we know the Landing was the culprit. And hello, clams are notorious for food poisoning. I called the restaurant later to report it, and the manager was very nice and stated that it was probably the clams because in their off-season, some of their items don't "move as quickly and may have been sitting around." I know mistakes happen, and the manager was very nice, but hello, if you're a seafood restaurant you should be serving the freshest items possible, off-season or not! And you should be extra-vigilant serving seafood. Now, like I said, accidents happen and I don't want to vilify the Landing- this could have happened anywhere. But everything was just average-that, coupled with my husband's experience, mean I probably wouldn't frequent this place again.
(2)
Charoline D.
This place is known for one thing, and one thing alone in my book. The macaroni and cheese. Baked in a cast iron skillet, topped with breadcrumbs and fresh steamed vegetables, it doesn't get much better than this. I like it best when it's greenbeans. You can also order Dark & Stormy's here to your heart's content as they actually carry ginger beer and Goslings Bermuda Black Seal Rum. I wound up here while assisting some friends with a Snowboarding promo and we were subject to free food. All else I tried failed to satisfy.The clientele in this place is not really my bag. Mostly preppy locals in their boat shoes and Dockers, I've also heard tell of it being a Swinger's Bar. I'm not sure how accurate it is, but I'm sure in a town as small as Marblehead, you're probably all dating each other anyways. I don't even mean that in a crass way, I mean it in a "I used to live in a fairly small town before and felt like I had met everyone in the tri-county area kinda-way" We typically sit at the bar, staff is VERY friendly, but not always terribly attentive. Expect to meet the yacht club crowd here.
(3)
Ali K.
Ahh the Landing in wonderful Marblehead, i don't know if i'm being biased because it was my first time visiting but i thought this place was pretty good. Right out near the water with a view of the harbor and some out door seating and the fresh smell of seafood ahh what's not to love. Went here with my girlfriend to meet up with two of her really good friends and were wonderfully helped out by the staff on both the restaurant and the bar side while we were waiting. Nice small cozy hometown feel of a place, only gripe i had was after we started talking we were ignored by the staff, we had to wait forever to get an order in, i understand your busy but we were there before many people showed up, but no worries. The girls seemed to enjoy there meals and i ordered the Mussels Marseille which i shared with my girlfriend and they were pretty good, got to love the white wine sauce. My gf's Amaretto Sour drink was pretty damn good to. Decently priced, good seafood, nice ambiance and right on the harbor, what's not the love about his place.
(5)
Mike K.
Fairly new in town but go to the Landing somewhat frequently since it is one of a few places on the water to eat in town. The food is average. They try to be fancy and generally screw it up. If you stick with something simple you will be ok (can be said about most places in town). Went for brunch yesterday. Why not have some basic breakfast plates? I ordered french toast with all the extra fancy things on the side (fruit and chocolate). Good thing because the fruit wasn't very appealing. Paid $10 for 3 pieces of french toast. Very disappointing. Have a drink at the bar and order the clam chowder, fish sandwich and you will be pleased. The bar is done well, a drinker's bar! Lots of good beers on tap.
(2)
all seeing E.
I have been to the Landing twice and each time was a good experience. I would reccomend this palce to anyone. The food has been great both times the service was good and the view FANTASTIC. I wish they had a larger parking area but it is Marblehead so parking is really hit or miss. I would like to be there on a day when I could sit on the patio. I will go back next time I am in Marblehead.
(5)
Whit B.
We live in the neighborhood and are not fond of the Landing. We have eaten there a few times and have not been impressed. I'd like to say that they have a decent tavern menu, but they don't. The quality of the food is sub-par, especially gien their prices. I'd have to say that this place qualifies as a tourist trap. Even though it is on the waterfront, the view is nothing to write home about.
(2)
John V.
You have 2 choices when entering The Landing, either the nice restaurant area, or the Pub area. (or the deck so I guess it's 3 depending on the time of year) I recommend the Pub. You can get the same food, just in a more relaxed atmosphere. There is nothing outstanding about the food here, it's good. but not amazing. The place has a nice view of the Harbor and great service. The Pub has plenty of TVs and they always have sports on. It is a little pricey, but what isn't in Marblehead? I used to live here, so I know what to expect, now that I come and visit frequently, I usually eat here and enjoy myself, however I've had better Pub food in my time. I recommend the Fish Fry and the mussels, and the Guinness (for some reason) just seems to taste the closer you get to Ireland.
(3)
S O.
We drove up from Boston with a friend visiting form out of town in search of a great seafood meal with a water view. The food flavor and prep was disappointing. My husband and I shared a clam chowder which was dominated by cream, we could not taste the clam and other ingredients. For entree, I ordered the Lobster Basilica which was way too heavy, and the lobster was overcooked. I just felt nauseous with every bite, and had to end my meal halfway. My husband ordered the sole, and the batter was mushy and tasteless. Our friend ordered the red snapper which was also overcooked. The serviceperson was very unnatural and rehearsed although she did her best for a busy Saturday night. Were it not for the waterview, the Landing would not be much to speak of. Not to mention my husband had a terrible stomach ache as soon as we got home. Try somewhere else especially if you have a guest with you!
(1)
Allison L.
great place to hang with your friend on a sunny day ..... who would wanna sit inside??!!! go for the patio!
(4)
Thomas N.
Nice place with water views and outside seating which some folks did try out today after the sun came out....the food was ok, my lamb burger was very good, the fried clams were tasty but some were way to chewy, the calamari was ok but looked like it came from frozen....drinks were good but smallish....there is a pub in the front, away from the water that looked interesting, service was friendly.....ok place.
(3)
Gillian L.
New to Marblehead and spent the last weekend trying to get a feel for the local culinary scene. My boyfriend and I visited the Landing on Sunday night and sat at the bar. Food was good, good beer selection but the bartender was a jerk. He ignored us for the majority of the evening- too busy talking to the regulars and acted like a jerk when we tried to get our check. Cool place with a unique feel to it but the bartenders' attitude left us with a bad taste in our mouth. Think the Barnacle will be our go-to-spot from here on out.
(2)
Russ P.
My wife and went here the other night for a drink and some apps. This was not our first time here and it was about what we expected. It was really just ok. We really came for the view and a chance to sit outside on a beautiful night. I'll say that the service we had was very good and very efficient. That is always appreciated. We had cocktails that were good, but nothing great. We shred two apps and a salad. The escargot was good until my last one. That one had some serious grit to it. Yuck. We also had the mussels and they were good, but the broth was a little bland. The best thing was the caesar salad with fried calamari. In a town with lots of great restaurants there are better choices, but if you want nice outside setting on the harbor, then this place is good. Just don't expect amazing food.
(2)
Mike B.
Inspired views ... with uninspired food. I've been here a number of times -- I worked in Marblehead for a few years, so this was one of the few go-to lunch places -- and the food simply isn't that good. I want it to be, because the views are so good and the people are nice, but it's just not happening. My wife and I ate at The Landing today to cap off a trip down memory lane (she used to work up there, too) and started with the fried calamari. Bland, tasteless, flabby. Blech. For entrees, we went with scrod and scallops, two of our favorites, but spent most of the time scraping off the over-seasoned bread crumbs. When we finally go to the seafood, it wasn't worth the effort. It was cooked well, but there wasn't much taste. (I mean, the restaurant is on the ocean. I can see the waves while I eat. Where's the fresh taste?) Again, the service was good and the views are really gorgeous, but unfortunately that's where the good news stops. If you're in search of delicious food in Marblehead, keep searching. Don't land on The Landing.
(2)
shelby o.
If you want a warm reception and helpful hostesses, go elsewhere... In fact you may even be dissuaded from attempting to eat here and therefore, never have a chance to actually experience the restaurant. While it's true My husband and I often opt for more foodie locales with a higher price tag- I am not sure that are expectations are actually insurmountably high. So, in an effort to demonstrate our optimism, We headed to the pub where we also struggled To get served despite table service. My husband headed to the bar and bought us drinks. After one drink, and after the 5pm hour, my husband checked in on our wait list status (it's important to note that we were put on the wait list as the sole members because we were told that being retrieved from the bar could not be counted on and we should actually attempt to make our way back to Check), of course when he did, he was met with bewilderment and needed to remind the hostess of who he was and what he was looking for (this was 20 minutes later). He was redirected to the pub to wait. We then relinquished our patio wishes and began the ordeal of ordering from the pub and establishing a relationship with table service (which prior to this was not successful). When we did get her attention, she was quite nice- a welcome departure from our hostesses. One thing I will say was that the homemade potato chips were pretty good... After an hour at the bar, the unthinkable happened (truly we had given up based on the hostess service)- we were called from The bar to a table, but at that point- we cut our losses and left shortly thereafter to go out for dinner...
(1)
s g.
Amazing food (clam chowder with roasted corn, swordfish), service and location. The water side table during a sunset accompanied by the excellent food and service will make sure we come back next time in town. Highly recommended!
(5)
Gabrielle B.
If I could give negative stars I would. We traveled from boston bc we were looking for a restaurant with a view and great seafood. We asked to be seated outside and they said we could wait for one with shade, so we waited 15 mins for a seat and they sat my husband in the shade and I just got scorched by the sun. It was less than enjoyable. So we asked to move to a seat with shade and they said it was going to be taken so we said it was ok. Meanwhile there was another open table that was empty, in the shade, and they didn't move us. We waited until we couldn't bear it anymore and went inside. As far as the food, we ordered chowder and oysters for apps. The chowder was pretty good, the oysters on the other hand were not edible. They were disgusting. Barely any meat, ripped apart and just a waste of our money. We also ordered a lobster roll and chicken salad. Lobster roll was ok. Too much mayo and not enough flavor. It was so messy and just placed on top of the bun rather than in it. The chicken salad was just blah. The french fries were battered and terrible. Fries are my favorite food and I have to say, that these were one of worst. With all that being said, the food was anything but fresh and they think they are fooling people with their "grass fed" beef and "free range" chicken, but I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone. It's a tourist trap. An amazing location with less than mediocre food. Waste of a $90 lunch bill. Save your money and go somewhere else. And as a side note, the 16 yr boys that waited at that place were the most miserable unfriendly waite staff. Maybe they could try smiling and using their manners, may help the reviews for this place. Actually, no it wouldn't.
(1)
Chris F.
Great view and in a cool location. Only problem was that we sat outside and trucks were dropping off old fish or something nearby and it smelled terrible. They had great clam chowder. If you are in the mood for some chowder than come here. Their special recipe has roasted corn in it. Very tasty. Also ordered their fish tacos. The tacos were okay. The fish was a bit thin and heavily breaded. The corn tortillas were actually pretty good but other than that they weren't anything special. Nothing fancy here but good for a quick stop to eat or drink at a cool location.
(3)
Dave C.
The best thing about this restaurant is the view. The somewhat small deck has amazing views of the harbor that are tough to beat. However, the food is mediocre at best. Fried clams were just ok and served with lukewarm, stale tasting fries. The lobster mac n' cheese was soupy and in need of a makeover. Lastly, our server didn't seem very knowledgeable about the menu and was put off when we asked her to check the ingredients on a dish. Overall, this is a five star view with one star food and two star service.
(2)
Edward R.
The Landing is a piece of Marblehead not to be missed. Located at the public landing in town, it is perfect for people watching and boat watching. The food is outstanding. An eclectic menu featuring many options and highlighted by locally-caught fish and sea food enhanced by a wine list one would expect only from a larger establishment. The lobster roll and swordfish club have become our particular favorites. The lobster mac and cheese is amazing, plenty of lobster, but be forewarned, it's a big dish and will fill you up! The service is also first rate and all of the staff are welcoming, efficient, and willing to find a way to let you sit on the deck even during peak season in the summer. Not to be missed!
(5)
Richard C.
Remember in the Wizard of Oz when the Wizard said "Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain?" Well, the spectacular ocean view is Oz and the restaurant is the man behind the curtain! As long as you keep paying attention to the view, you'll enjoy your visit. The food is classic American fare from the 70's and 80's. The menu is large and could really, really use some serious updating. It's like the guest cast of the Love Boat: you fondly remember them, but enjoyed them more twenty years ago. I've found that if you stick to basic grill items (burgers, tips, ribs) you'll do OK. The regular Mac and cheese is fantastic as is the fried fish plates. Remember, you're here for some basic food and the view. Parking can be a big problem, as the lot is small and there's not much allocated street parking nearby. You're better off parking up a few blocks and walking down. Don't expect fine dining, modern touches, or light fare. Get ready to clog an artery with some golden oldies from decades past (this could be a step-sister to the Continental Restaurant). Grab a burger, have a beer, and enjoy the view! And work off your meal as you walk back to your car.
(3)
Meizi H.
The service could be slow when they were busy. We ordered fried fish sandwich and Cajun chicken but the kitchen totally forgot the tix. We had to wait 45 min for our meals but manager came to apologize and offered free beers and chowder, which was nice. Both foods were tasty and I def would go back again!!
(3)
Phil B.
I love this place, especially Eric the bartender. Food is very good with a large but not overwhelming selection. Outdoor dining is superb and the pub is a great spot to have a beer and bite any night of the week.
(4)
Ryan W.
BRUNCH REVIEW: #1 This place is an excellent option if you don't feel like waiting in line at the Driftwood Cafe. I hate lines. #2. They have a waterside patio which is awesome. OK I'm done with #'s. I had the: The Landing "Biscuit Scramble": A large freshly baked buttermilk biscuit split and filled with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, maple sausage and bacon then topped with cheddar cheese sauce and scallions. Accompanied by cottage fries and fresh fruit. 12 It was pretty delicious, although not quite what I was expecting. I was expecting something a little more along the lines of biscuits and gravy (grew up on The Cracker Barrel...) and this was a little more like a biscuit and egg sandwich, which is actually what the description reads. Either way I endorse this dish if you are not on a diet or suffering pre-existing health conditions such as Heart Disease, Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure etc. My wife got the omelet du jour (omelet of the day), which was a vegetable omelet. It was pretty much your standard omelet. Nothing to get excited or mad about. Our waitress was on the ball and awesome. We could not have been more pleased with our service and her delightful attitude about service! The Landing is one of the better options for any kind of food in Marblehead.
(4)
Aubyn K.
Good view, decent wine list and nice staff. And the chowder is good. But, here's where my praise ends. The food is just not good. Everything is fried and super dated. Can another Boston chef please come up here and rescue this town? We've got one good sit down restaurant...can we make it two? Please?
(3)
Rafi S.
So, some restaurants just give you awesome food and ok service. My server understood that a restaurant isn't just selling food, but a full experience. I received regular, but not overbearing attention and got the sense that they knew the menu well. As for the food, I had the baked haddock, and truthfully, I haven't had fish that well cooked in a while. It was the type of meal that makes you want to take small bites and take the time to taste all the flavors. I'd come back here in a heartbeat.
(5)
Susan K.
The food was excellent, but what made my first (but certainly not last) dinner here so amazing were 1) the lovely harbor views from deck (with very effective overhead heaters as it was a chilly night) and 2) the amazing service. I am recovering from shoulder surgery so only can use one hand. Instead of having to forego the lobster I really wanted, the server dismantled it for me with equal parts kindness and humor. Delicious food, lovely harbor view, and the kindness of strangers made this an evening I'll not forget.
(5)
Jow O.
2 stars is being generous. We came here over Labor Day Weekend. The restaurant was maybe 30-40% full for lunch. Service was TERRIBLE -1 star, waitress did not do a good job period. Feel bad bashing her but she was not good. Sorry. Table of 6 should not be rocket science to manage. And it took about 30 min till she even asked us if we wanted the check AFTER she cleared our plates.. Food was not that great for the price -1 star and some of our orders were incorrect. I didnt even change anything, It was just prepared wrong! location is the only thing keeping this place alive. +1 star for location I wanted to like this place, but I just cant.
(1)
David S.
After spending a bit of time and effort to find a place to park, we headed in for a late dinner. (Alas, it was so dark by the time arrived that there was no ocean view to enjoy.) We were seated within three minutes and were attended to by Rory. Drinks appeared relatively quickly and the clam chowder soon followed though the bread lagged behind. Chowder was rich and creamy with a good number of clams. Bread was hot out the oven, crispy in the outside and soft on the inside--worth the wait. I then had thr sole français which smelled and tasted a bit too fishy; the egg coating was also a bit heavy so that as the dish cooled it became mushy. The accompalnying asparagus was moderately overcooked but the pilaf was fine. My sweetheart ordered ths grilled salmon, which appeared to be the better choice--cooked well and not fishy. The mashed potatoes and mixed veggies were reported to be "okay." Given the final bill, I am not sure if dinner is a good value: a bit too much for an unremarkable meal. Overall our dining experience was reasonable enough that we'd give the place another try, most probably for lunch when the fare is more basic, the prices are more reasonable, and the few can better appreciated.
(3)
Chris P.
Got seated indoors on a relatively quiet Sunday afternoon. Wait staff seemed severely understaffed. Waited 15min and never got greeted or seen by the wait staff. Promptly left and walked to the Barnacle.
(1)
Rebecca D.
We loved everything we ordered -- the french onion soup, lobster roll, prime rib special, oysters on the half shell, and cheesecake dessert. The wild mushroom crostini was just out of this world. The service was extraordinary - accommodating, super friendly, and knowledgable about the menu. A little pricey for my taste, but worth it for the occasion.
(4)
Lavender L.
The building is amazingly beautiful! The children's mac and cheese was very good, the clam chowder was brilliant, and the seafood casserole was good but not as much lobster as I would have liked but it was good. The clams where very fresh and tasted wonderfully! The homemade bread was warm, fresh, and lovely. The cheesecake was beautiful as well as delicious, but the chocolatini was just ok. The service was wonderful. I had a event earlier this week and the waitress named Windy ( who was an amazing server) gladly made me a special drink and wonderful evening. The bathrooms where clean and neat and there was salt scrub for your hands. Being a traveler you want to have a great experience everywhere that you go and The Landing gave me an experience and view that I will never forget. I do recommend this restaurant for family and friends as well as just single people; I would return here if I wasn't from out of town!!
(4)
Greg K.
I give it 4 stars for their chowder, tap list and patience with my kids. I wish they'd pay more attention to the rest of the menu, but so long as you know what you're getting when you go there, it's a good spot.
(4)
Karen C.
Sure you can book a function, just not in the Summer.. Totally ridiculous.. Before you make it like you can have a function there, state NOT IN THE SUMMER..
(1)
Larry S.
We stayed in Marblehead at a local B&B and the recommended this place for its location. Yes, it has a view of the harbor but also the working parking lot where they offload lobster boats and have cranes to lift boats. Nice but not spectacular. I liked the fact the had heaters to enjoy the deck on the cooler days/nights but they really needed two more to make every seat at least a bit warmer. A big plus, very pleasant service staff. Go for a kick-back meal not a a top notch dining event. Don' be in rush.
(3)
John S.
Love this place... The food is great and they have a nice beer selection. Service is always great. Be warned: parking is tough, especially in the winter but its worth it.
(5)
Gay P.
I really hate writing a negative review, BUT....when it's deserved, I suppose it's best just to be honest so that others aren't disappointed. Ordered char-broiled swordfish well done. Got a salmon dinner. It went back. Waited minimally 3/4 of an hour, and finally, a swordfish dinner came out....no grill marks, appeared to be microwaved, raw in the center. RAW...not rare. Sent it back. Got a lobster roll....no seasoning....bland with lots of lettuce. Dessert seemed to be reheated from frozen. When I received a note about not using my loyally card, I wrote back the above to the owner. Did you hear from him? Neither did I. If I owned a restaurant, I'd rush to correct the slight....damage control, if nothing else. So I guess the loyalty card should be fed to the shredder.
(1)
Jeff L.
I always forget that it's best to stick to the basics when dining at the Landing. Burgers, nachos, fries, clam chowder, and sandwiches are done ok. Whenever I forget and try to order anything "tarted-up", I always regret it. This time I had the duck. Chef Ramsey would have blown a gasket and probably threw it out the window. It looked like a dog's dinner and the chef managed to BOTH overcook it AND keep it greasy. I tried to order it medium-rare and the waitress came back and said, "no one has ever ordered it medium-rare before. The chef cooks it medium. It came out medium-well.
(2)
Misty S.
I can't believe today was the first time I've been to the landing! Hubby and I had the day off and it was beautiful out and we wanted somewhere different (read not in Salem) and on the water so we decided to go here. The deck is adorable, and I loved watching the fishing boats coming in. They have a decent selection of beers on tap including a few locals (Ipswich, Long trail). For lunch, I got a sandwich called the "Big Kahuna'. It was a seafood burger- Scallops, lobster and shrimp, breaded and seared on a bun. it came with a fresh pickle (yum) and seasoned fries. Hubby got a turkey club wrap. He said that it was one of the best he's ever had because they added pesto. Nice way to spend the afternoon!
(3)
Mindy L.
Update: I have now had dinner here 3x (we can't stop coming back). I had the Tuna Piccata (delicious) and the Seafood Festival (awesome). They brought out Key Lime Pie with a candle for my birthday. Our waiter looked a little like Zac Efron and carded me on my 32nd birthday...he gets props for both those things. The Key Lime Pie was tart and refreshing. They also have mug clubs for beer and wine and also a Dark'n'Stormy club (drink 8 - please not all at once - and get 1 free). OR you can join the Captain's Club and get bigger pours on all the aforementioned drinks! The Pub pro-rates the entrance fee so you can get in for basically half the cost for the rest of the year. Cha-ching!
(4)
Star C.
Had my birthday dinner here. Calamari was awful...fishy and under-fried. Mussels were awful and not fresh. Steak tips on Caesar was like spicy over cooked leather on lettuce even though they were ordered medium. My surprise birthday dessert, an old stale biscuit sliced in half and squirted with whipped cream and a few slices of strawberries in flavored corn syrup. Water glasses were never filled. Tons of bus boys working but standing in a corner chatting so you had to flag them down for every little thing. Terrible birthday dinner. Rory tried to make it festive but couldn't save the night.
(1)
Tykie M.
This restaurant sits right on the water. The view is beautiful. The scallions/ bacon appetizer is to die for. I ordered the stuffed fillet - it was close to perfection. The steak was cooked perfectly but the lobster tail was a little rubbery. Because the steak was so good I really didn't care. The wait staff is very attentive and polite. I ate out almost every night while on vacation and in my opinion The Landing was the best. They also have a bar in a separate room. It was clean with a pleasant atmosphere. The drinks and company were lovely.
(5)
Martha K.
The fish chowder was wonderful. I wish I stopped there but the seafood festival was over cooked and under seasoned. The lobster basilico was swimming in some heavy white sauce with pasta that was overcooked. I won't be back.
(2)
Ani C.
2.5 Stars in reality... I came here while visiting Boston on the drive to Salem. Hotel recommended them. We looked around the town for other options (which was a very cute lil town!) but it was SO COLD- and everything was closed! I'm from California, 30 degrees and rain is cold! So, we just settled on The Landing! It was empty... usually a bad sign. But not terrible Decor is shabby chic (a euphemism for old) Time warp into the '80s. Think banquet chairs. Nice view. The bathroom did have a great scrub- plus 1 star! The award winning Chowda was really very good. Probably the best I had while in Boston. Service was attentive and friendly too-although it was empty inside. My Lobsta roll (gotta say with a Boston accent) was ok. $2 extra for no mayo- odd. BF's food was good. Not fabulous, but good. In all, I think I just have a really refined palette coming from a foodie town like San Francisco- not to sound arrogant. But we eat great seafood all the time. So, I wasn't impressed with the baked clams casino (very Diner-ish to me) But the chowda was good! I'm sure its touristy, but I was a tourist...
(3)
Amy H.
My experience was more like a two-parter, one a 4 star experience and the other a 2 star experience. When we first arrived, we sat in the restaurant and enjoyed the nice view. Our server was so friendly and the pierogies were amazing. We then transitioned to the pub, where the service was far less attentive. It averaged out to a 3-star experience, which just goes to show how much service influences your opinion of a restaurant.
(3)
Kristine C.
We wanted to get out of jam packed Salem for a nice dinner so we headed to Marblehead and stumbled upon The Landing. We are so glad we did. Although it is Oct it was a beautiful night and we were offered the outdoor area where they had the big heat lanterns on (which we didnt even need) The view was gorgeous on the water. Rory, our server, was spectacular. He was always right on top of things and had a wonderful sense of humor. Our food was delicious. Scallops wrapped in bacon with a maple glaze...so good. My husband had the prime rib, cooked to perfection piled high with mushrooms and onions ($2 extra) I had the Sole Franchaise over a very flavorful rice with tender asparagus, delicious. The bar makes a mean dirty martini and our cheesecake and key lime pie....the perfect ending to our great meal. Next time I am in town I will re-visit this great find. Not to be missed!!
(5)
Fred M.
With all the boats, sail and fishing, coming & going, makes this a 10 for relaxing and enjoying dinner. My fried clams were real fresh Ipswich clams, cooked perfect! It was their Special for the day. The view and salt air made it all good! It's hard to find clams this good anywhere in NE!
(4)
Dosia S.
The Landing does have pretty yummy food, so I was on the border between three and four stars. I have tried many different dishes here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and I am usually satisfied, for the most part. Service is fine, but have never had any memorable interactions with any of the staff. My last time at this location was yesterday-I came in with one other person and while they were greeted by the hostess (in the extremely short skirt! A little much for such a classy place), I was not acknowledged whatsoever. I have worked in this type of business and acknowledge the importance of greeting every customer individually and if you do not even look at one person in the party at all, well, they are not going to feel very happy about being there from the get-go. Besides that, our waiter was very friendly with the biggest smile on his face at all times! *The only complaint that I had about my experience was the overly seasoned dish of "award winning" clam chowder. Had the soup's main ingredient not been pepper, I would have probably given the soup itself five stars, as I recognize the other ingredients' combination was delicious. However, the entire bowl of soup was speckled with dots of pepper so that there were dozens in one spoonful. No, I am not exaggerating, as the couple we befriended sitting next to us, there for their anniversary, shared the same dish and opinion as us. It was a bizarre recipe, or a mistake by the kitchen; I will never know, but I do not plan on finding out a second time. (Plenty of other things to choose from on the menu!)
(3)
J A.
I live in Marblehead and haven't eaten in the front restaurant in several years. Stick to the bar area usually. I was at a fun raiser for Care Dimensions (formerly North Shore Hospice) tonight. It was a great event with great service provided by The Landing. I ordered the scallops provencal. The scallops were fresh and cooked well but I have to say everything else was pretty pedestrian. The tomato and basil (pesto) was more like a salsa. The tomatoes were your winter variety white with no flavor. The sides were plain brown rice and steamed yellow squash, zucchini and carrots. Like I said pretty pedestrian. I felt like I was out to dinner with my parents 40 years ago. I thought the interior is getting pretty tired looking. For a waterfront restaurant I always thought they should do a complete makeover and put the bar near the water with tables around it. I've always loved the bar side at the Landing and I'll look to put in a review next time I eat over there.
(2)
Jill M.
My boyfriend and I stayed in Marblehead last weekend and loved this place! We came here out first night and ate inside. I had the swordfish and he had the lobster basilica, both were delicious! My boyfriend had the cheesecake which I snuck a few bites of because it was just that good. We came here again for brunch before heading back to NYC and it was great. It was a nice day so we sat outside, it's right on the water and the view is beautiful. If I ever travel to Marblehead again I will definitely be eating here!
(4)
Alan N.
Clam chowder with corn maybe the best. Ever. Yes, I go back just for that. Excellent crab cakes too. Margaritas so-so.
(4)
S H.
Went here today with my 2 kids & Hubby. I had the lobster roll and it was very good! Not too much mayo and seasoned perfectly. My hubby had the fish cakes, I had a bite of that and it was very good. My son said this was the best Mac & cheese he has ever had! My daughter had the lobster Mac & cheese and she said it was really good! Both Mac & cheese dishes were very good size portions, which neither one finished. Great view of the harbor and sails coming and going. We had a great time!!
(4)
Emma M.
We waited 30 mins before our waitress came to take our order. The restaurant was fairly busy but they seemed to have plenty of staff about 4 waiters and 3 bussers so I'm not sure what the problem was. The chowder was gelatinous and the lobster salad did not taste fresh. The food was also a bit overpriced considering the quality.
(2)
Henry K.
Sit inside. The gasoline smell from the boat fuel station is horrible when you're eating. Mac and Cheese was really good! The calamari appetizer, not so much. The Cajun chicken was not bad at all. Perfect amount of marinade and flavor
(3)
Crystal B.
I can't get enough of The Landing. I go at least once a week. Lunch, Dinner, the Pub, all awesome. Every staff member I have spoken to has been wonderful. The burgers are delicious, the fish and chips are as well. Two words: Peddler Fries. YUM! Don't forget the Cheesecake. I am so in love with this place.
(5)
shelby o.
If you want a warm reception and helpful hostesses, go elsewhere... In fact you may even be dissuaded from attempting to eat here and therefore, never have a chance to actually experience the restaurant. While it's true My husband and I often opt for more foodie locales with a higher price tag- I am not sure that are expectations are actually insurmountably high. So, in an effort to demonstrate our optimism, We headed to the pub where we also struggled To get served despite table service. My husband headed to the bar and bought us drinks. After one drink, and after the 5pm hour, my husband checked in on our wait list status (it's important to note that we were put on the wait list as the sole members because we were told that being retrieved from the bar could not be counted on and we should actually attempt to make our way back to Check), of course when he did, he was met with bewilderment and needed to remind the hostess of who he was and what he was looking for (this was 20 minutes later). He was redirected to the pub to wait. We then relinquished our patio wishes and began the ordeal of ordering from the pub and establishing a relationship with table service (which prior to this was not successful). When we did get her attention, she was quite nice- a welcome departure from our hostesses. One thing I will say was that the homemade potato chips were pretty good... After an hour at the bar, the unthinkable happened (truly we had given up based on the hostess service)- we were called from The bar to a table, but at that point- we cut our losses and left shortly thereafter to go out for dinner...
(1)
Russ P.
My wife and went here the other night for a drink and some apps. This was not our first time here and it was about what we expected. It was really just ok. We really came for the view and a chance to sit outside on a beautiful night. I'll say that the service we had was very good and very efficient. That is always appreciated. We had cocktails that were good, but nothing great. We shred two apps and a salad. The escargot was good until my last one. That one had some serious grit to it. Yuck. We also had the mussels and they were good, but the broth was a little bland. The best thing was the caesar salad with fried calamari. In a town with lots of great restaurants there are better choices, but if you want nice outside setting on the harbor, then this place is good. Just don't expect amazing food.
(2)
Mike B.
Inspired views ... with uninspired food. I've been here a number of times -- I worked in Marblehead for a few years, so this was one of the few go-to lunch places -- and the food simply isn't that good. I want it to be, because the views are so good and the people are nice, but it's just not happening. My wife and I ate at The Landing today to cap off a trip down memory lane (she used to work up there, too) and started with the fried calamari. Bland, tasteless, flabby. Blech. For entrees, we went with scrod and scallops, two of our favorites, but spent most of the time scraping off the over-seasoned bread crumbs. When we finally go to the seafood, it wasn't worth the effort. It was cooked well, but there wasn't much taste. (I mean, the restaurant is on the ocean. I can see the waves while I eat. Where's the fresh taste?) Again, the service was good and the views are really gorgeous, but unfortunately that's where the good news stops. If you're in search of delicious food in Marblehead, keep searching. Don't land on The Landing.
(2)
C R.
Situated in Old Town Marblehead - quaint, charming and all that jazz. Parking is non existent. But it's worth a shot. You go here for the scenery; not the shopping or the food. The Landing - read the reviews. It's ok. It's the view that makes it what it is. The staff are nice, the food is ok - the location and view of Marblehead's harbor are what it is all about, Man. Despite the restrained good tast of those deep pocketed yankees - unlike over the top places like Beverly Hills - the sight of Marblehead's "Neck" neighborood (seen by distant onlooksers across the harbor) still makes you murmer that envious "wow." You could'nt live there if you saved up for 3 lifetimes. So, for that reason, you should go to the Landing, have a lobster roll and enjoy the view.
(3)
Ellen M.
Decent food, and the server was good but managing WAY too many tables. The major problem with this place is how long it takes to get a table and how long they tell you it will be to get a table. We waited about 20 minutes over our "30 minute" wait, but another group was told "25 minutes" and we aw them seated a full hour later. Back to the food, it's good, but not "holy cow" good. It's fresh seafood well prepared, if not with a bit too much butter and cream. I would go back here, but it wouldn't be my first choice.
(3)
Mallory S.
Bad service and mediocre food. We went to the Landing for a simple Mother's Day brunch. We were a large group of 14 (half kids/half adults) so we took up two tables in the dining room. Waitress service was fairly quick and friendly enough, but the food was just OK. I had the Lobster Melt - the lobster filling was good but the croissant was greasy and tasted only of butter. It also had too much cheese. Potatoes and fruit on the side weren't anything special either. I wish I had just ordered a regular lobster roll. The most memorable part of the experience comes at the end of our meal. We had just finished signing our credit card slips; the kids table had already been deserted so it was bused and turned. At this moment, the manager came over to request that we leave so he could give this table to another party.... even though there were many empty tables surrounding us, including the 8-top that the kids had vacated. So we leave... and I am stunned that we were asked to move and not given any other suggestion for a place to go. Had we wanted coffee and dessert we would have been out of luck unless we had shown ourselves to the bar on the other side. It was extremely rude and I don't plan on going back. Final notes: If the Landing is taking a large party, they should expect that large party to take longer to dine than a small group. Restaurant 101, I think...
(2)
Nichole V.
Consistently ok food, good service with a great atmosphere. My husband & I enjoy coming here in the summer just watching the boats etc. Not a huge fan of their fish dishes unless it's a special, but the meat is usually good.
(3)
Charles B.
We have eaten here several times. The food is always good. I just felt like the restaurant was running in "free fall" and the staff had no supervision and the customers needs were not being catered to. We checked the online menu and then called the restaurant to check that the dish we wanted "lobster stew", was available. We were told it was. When we got there to order it, the waiter told us that the online menu was the winter menu and that they were serving a summer menu. I told him that they have a responsibility to keep their website up to date and that they really let us down. I have to tell you that I would not be writing this review, if the waiter had a manger come over to speak with us about that. The waiter was very good but had way too many tables to serve. The appetizers and beverages took almost an hour to bring out. One member of our party has a gluten allergy and we were a bit worried about if they understood that it was more complicated than just no wheat flour. We were hungry but not in a rush so we asked if they had diner roll. It would have been nice if they included a gluten free selection as well. Typically, a manger brings the food over and assures us that they understand the scope of gluten issues, but we were left to the waiter's assurance. BTW it did work out just fine. Everything we ordered was very good. As I glanced around during the dinner service it appeared to me that no one was in charge. Not to say that I saw any particular problems, but I think a visible manager's presence is mandatory on a busy Saturday night and that a website is a projection of the business and has to be managed responsibly as well.
(3)
Graeme J.
Just was there for brunch today. Have been a few times before but today was by far the worse meal I have had in a long time anywhere. My burger was well done as opposed to mid rare as ordered plus it tasted like it was a day old and reheated. My wife's omelette was oily and had no flavor. Really greasy and unsightly. The home fries were crunchy black cubes that were obviously days old. Never had a wonderful meal at the Landing but it was always pretty decent. Hopefully, today was an anomaly.
(2)
James G.
Good food. Good service. Great view. Ate a fish sandwich which was tasty and I think the menu is priced well.
(4)
Megan H.
I don't think I ever want to go back. My experience here wasn't truly terrible, but I have expected much better! Likewise to many of the other reviews, this is the almighty tourtist trap. Being next to the sea, oily and soggy fried clams shouldn't have been so expensive. If I were to pay $20, I would have expected golden and crispy tender bites. That is not what I received. Upon ordering, my waiter was a cute old man... who asked me three times what I ordered two minutes later he walked away from my table. The scene is lovely. I'm sure the locals love it. But, this isn't my place for quality and service. I say, keep driving.
(2)
Kaitlin H.
My husband and I went here for dinner and I was literally blown away. I could not stop thinking about the lobster basilico I had. It was delicious. The sauce was so creamy but still light. It was my first time trying lobster so I wasn't sure what to expect but it was good. Our waiter was great-just the right level of attentive. They had a decent wine list, I got Poppy Hill & it was good with a generous pour. The only less than stellar part of our meal was my dessert. I got the chocolate mousse and it was very bitter. My friend was in town a few weeks later and we decided to go for a late lunch since I couldn't stop obsessing over my last meal. Unfortunately, the lunch menu was much more limited and didn't have the lobster basilico. I ordered a pasta dish with a basil cream sauce, thinking it would be similar. No such luck. It was really bland and didn't have much going for it. My friend wasn't pleased with her meal either, which was just a salad if I remember correctly. Our waiter was OK but took absolutely forever to bring us the bill. At least 20 minutes. I had a grumpy baby with me and we were so ready to leave! One bright spot was another server who saw my baby wasn't comfortable in the high chair and brought over some padding from another chair. I thought that was very sweet of him. All in all, 4 stars. I'm hoping I just caught the staff on an off day at a weird time on my second visit. Because really, I still can't stop thinking about the first visit!
(4)
Krysia K.
We stopped there for late lunch.This place was pretty busy. Nice decor inside, great view from the deck. The service was OK. The food...we ordered only Lobster Salad Roll ($18) which were served with fries and pickle. The lobster salad was good, the pickle to but the fries not so much. That tasted like they were fried in old oil.
(3)
Michael W.
Listen, the Northeast Coast is riddled with this type of place and they are great if you can exercise some restraint. Here it is my Yelping friends....do NOT order anything except chowder, clams and other fried seafood....The clam chowder here is wonderful, silky smooth, not laced with flour and full of clams and potatoes with strong hints of bacon as it should be. The clams were large, perfectly fried and delicious....but the tartar sauce was bland and only served to detract from the clams. The fish sandwich was fresh, with a good crunch and tender moist white fish inside. The roll it was served on was nothing to speak of and the french fries were seasoned but not particularly good. The price was typically high because this is a wharf side place in Marblehead and not the food court at the local mall....oh and don't forget....if you go to a clam shack style place and you order the filet mignon you're an idiot and do not deserve the sublime pleasure of a perfectly fried clam.
(3)
Bogee B.
Great location, but that's about it. The food was nothing special; our waiter Kevin (I think that's his name) should not be in the service industry. The place has a lot of attitude and is overrated!
(2)
Rafael R.
Located in what is perhaps one of the most quaint seaside villages in MA, The Landing, on Front Street in Marblehead strongest dining option is that of its clam chowder. Peppery and so thick you can stand a spoon in it, it reminded me more of gravy for biscuits, than a chowder, but regardless of its viscosity, it was delicious. My dinner, which consisted of the seafood casserole ($20.00) was a simple dish of an assortment of seafood with rice and vegetables. For dessert, I ordered the highly touted Strawberry Shortcake and while it won't win first place at the county fair, the freshly baked cake was warm with spoonfuls of strawberry's on top. I had overheard another table ask a server if it was homemade and was told that everything is made "on premises", however, when the customer inquired about the whipped topping, the server curtly replied no, as the cook already has enough to do. Honestly, had the dessert had homemade whipped cream, the overall dish would have been much better and oddly enough, homemade whipped topping should be a staple, there are only a few ingredients - fresh cream and vanilla involved, how difficult would that be to whip up? The young waiters and hostesses add an awkwardness to the overall dining experience, as their lack of experience in the food industry clearly shows, with gents often being served before the ladies, head scratching and opening the patio door with their feet. While this is a rather casual restaurant, as one of the only ones right on the water, a diners overall experience would be enhanced if they were better trained, however, given the laid back vide, perhaps no one cares.
(3)
ME G.
We had a memorable night there this winter. The waiter was superb. he told the kid jokes and got us our stuff, and was helpful helpful helpful. You look like you have been doing this a long time, and he said he had. the food was good to excellent. But, you were left with the impression that this place is high variance. some nights, like our night, it was on. But, it could be off. if we had had a dud waiter, it would have been a dud night, or if a dish was made by a second cook, it could have been quite bad. hope to go back.
(3)
Jim W.
Visited the place with friends visiting from out-of-town last week, Tuesday for dinner. We had the worst meal of my life! My wife was spitting her food our into her napkin (no joke) and that was the same dish the manager (I think) recommended: pan seared/roasted haddock. My seafood and pasta tasted like they poured an entire bottle of oregano into it....and can you really screw up fish 'n chips? Yes. Our waiter was nice, but the food was horrible. I've been to the 'pub' before and liked it--only had the drinks. Anyway, the food there is a joke. Will never be back. Gross.
(1)
Mark B.
Another great trip to the pub today. Loved the chowder, and all the rest.
(4)
Ashlee W.
This was recommended by some locals for good New England Clam Chowder however, I was disappointed. I was visiting from Texas and had some high hopes for good chowder. It was spicy to me (which is saying something since I love Mexican food). It had A LOT of corn in it and not a lot of clams. It was so so.
(2)
Kathie W.
After making reservations (with deck preference) several days in advance, in anticipation of my husband's birthday, we arrived about 10 minutes early, checked in with the hostess,(who didn't look old enough to have working papers, let alone working around alcohol) and asked how soon a deck seat might be ready. We were told as soon as a party paid their check, and the table reset. We were told to sit outside at the public dock (icky, stinky smell, dead fish and diesel fumes) and they would come get us. While watching them reset the table and watching it sit idle for 20 minutes and no one came to retrieve us, we left! People looking for tables were told by the hostess (after she took their names) were told to wait outside. The place is so disorganized, no management, in site, wait staff with no leader or direction. The last time I was there (a few years ago to meet old classmates for drinks) sewer flies were spotted in at the bar (Appitizers?) I had vowed never to go back, but that's where hubby wanted to go for his birthday dinner, I agreed with trepidation. I was RIGHT! We should've gone to Maddie's instead, and that's where we ended up. Having grown up in M'head and remembering when The Landing & Bull & Finch Pub (yes the original name) opened, I was extremely diappointed. Bob Simonetti needs to find a competent manager, who knows how to run a resturant. A call to "Resturant Stakeout", "Mystery Diners" or better yet "Bar Rescue" is clearly in order! Plus where the hell can you park...... Can't comment on the food never got that far....
(1)
Lia M.
I would give The Landing 2.5 stars, if possible. We ate in the bar area on a quiet Sunday night. Service was attentive & friendly. The lobster mac n' cheese was really good, as were the fries. But the chicken sandwich was just awful, especially because there was some sweet sauce on it that was not supposed to be there. My friend's band sometimes plays here, so I would probably only head back for drinks if he was playing.
(3)
Benjamin A.
Summary: A textbook tourist trap that locals avoid, with hugely overpriced food that I wouldn't feed to my dog. Situation: Went here with my wife for dinner on a Friday and sat on the waterfront outside deck. Food: 1/10 The scallops were described in the menu as "pan seared". To me, this means large diver scallops, seared on high heat in a pan until caramelized on the outside. To them, it means tiny bay scallops intended for a seafood casserole, broiled, mixed in with mozzarella balls of the same size, and put in chef boyardee sauce over overcooked noodles. Skimping on the scallops and substituting mozzarella literally made me laugh. I sent this dish back. It looked gross, tasted worse. Lobster salad consisted of a standard salad with a ice cream scooper blumpkin of shredded soggy lobster in heavy mayonaise. $18 Service: 1/5 Our waitress forgot about us, or just wasnt interested. After I returned my meal, she didnt even come back. The hostess took our bill. No, I wasnt rude, I politely explained that I lost my appetite after seeing the meal and didnt want something else. Yes, they took it off the bill. But no apology from manager or waitress or staff. My guess is that this is a common occurrence. Ambience: 2/5 It gets 2 points for being on the water, but falls flat elsewhere. It tries for the kitschy nautical vibe of an old seafood stand-by, but instead feels outdated and dirty. The problem arises when you compound this with very high prices. Not worth it. Value: 0/5 Everything is overpriced by 30-50%. Composite Score: 4/25 Go here instead for same price or cheaper: 5 corners kitchen, 3 cod tavern, palmers
(1)
Thomas N.
Nice place with water views and outside seating which some folks did try out today after the sun came out....the food was ok, my lamb burger was very good, the fried clams were tasty but some were way to chewy, the calamari was ok but looked like it came from frozen....drinks were good but smallish....there is a pub in the front, away from the water that looked interesting, service was friendly.....ok place.
(3)
Lucia A.
Our last visit to "The Landing" was on October 8th. Our meal was not memorable: my husband's burger was overcooked, my Musseles Marseille - just OK. But the day was beautiful and the view from the deck breathtaking. I presented gift certificate from Restautant.com , but it was not honored - it was Columbus Day holiday and I didn't read small print. A few days latter I received e-mail from Restaurant.com asking me about my experience at "The landing" and gift certificate disappeared from a list of unused certificates. Apparently, Restaurant.com was contacted by stuff on the day of our visit. I went to The Landing ( I live a few miles away) and talked to restaurant manager Sue Stevens. She was extremely nice and promised to get in touch with me and resolve this issue. She never did. Too bad, I had a lot of good memories from previous visits... Lucia
(1)
Valeria H.
OK, i am giving this a 2 rating for one reason only. The menu! For a restaurant located on the water in Marblehead you would think their menu would be all about fish right? Well, unfortunately, it wasn't. It had 1 main course fish dish.. wth? Not even fish n chips! huh? The location was real nice, private feel on the pier, and they had a deck. The waiter we had was, well, a little scary. heh He was a great waiter, but, he was focused on my children too much for my taste. Every time he came to the table it was about them, joking and funny then not so funny at the end...(he said something to the affect: now girls if you see me in public with a cute puppy giving out candy, what are you going to do?) My husband and I were real upset about that, even though we knew he prob meant it in good faith to say stay away from strangers, well, it was just out right creepy. The drinks we ordered were great. My husband loved his beer, which was a local brew.. and I got a sauv blanc. THe atmosphere was dark in the interior, but you could see the kitchen when the doors swung open and it was clean. I ended up ordering the haddock dinner, the one that comes with the tomato stew/lyonnaise potatoes.. it was real good. Definitely would go back for my dinner and the kids dinner(fish n chips, which oddly enough they didnt offer for adults.. whatever) I prob won't go out of my way to drive up there, but if we are at thebeaches up that way looking for a spot for good beer, and a deck..we'd go.
(2)
Sean J.
This is a fun little bar right on the water with a great view of the harbor. The inside is decorated with your standard nautical nick-knacks and the owner is very friendly. He was there having a few drinks with his wife and the band which had been playing. Apparently it's not uncommon for him to be there late at night shooting the shit with the regulars, which I think is excellent. I did not get to eat as the kitchen had closed by the time we arrived, but I will definitely consider going there again for a drink and bite to eat next time I'm in MH.
(4)
Claire W.
Wanted a drink with a view at 4 or 4:30 pm as we showed some out of town relatives some of coastal MA. The bar at our usual haunt (The Barnacle) was packed, and while there were tables in the restaurant, they have a policy that you can only sit there if you are eating a meal and we were stuffed from a late lunch of Thanksgiving leftovers. We wandered down to The Landing and asked if we could sit in the water view area with just a drink. They said they weren't serving, but were willing to let us sit there, directing us to the pub to get our drinks as there were no servers available. In the bar, the staff was equally friendly (and 2 of us wanted to stay in the pub, and if we hadn't been driving back to Boston we might have stayed for the band that was playing that night. )Multiple staff members were friendly and accommodating to our several special requests. Suspect in part the atmosphere reflected that it is November and not the tourist season; the place had a more local feel. Will definitely be back.
(4)
Karen B.
We had eaten there once before and liked it so, we had our son's rehearsal dinner there last week. The owners of the restaurant were very hospitable and accommodating. They worked with us to make a special smaller menu to meet the special food needs for the party of 50. They printed it up, and the food was great. Many raved about the chowder. The setting was beautiful and the staff really exceptional. We could not have been happier.
(4)
Rose F.
3 stars for location and their bar. They usually have live music that is pretty good in the bar and Dark and Stormys! Totally delicious Ginger beer and Gosslings rum. Boo ya! It's delicious! Today I went for lunch and had a sangria (good) and crab cake ( under cooked, not good) and my companion had a beer and burger (good) and Amazing hand cut French fries. View is awesome. You can sit outside or inside with huge windows overlooking the harbor. So... If you want a local bar with good music this is your place. If you are here for the culinary expierence you will be dissapointed.
(3)
Len S.
Met another couple for dinner there tonight (Sunday). We ate outside on the deck. Parking in the area is close to impossible (parking lot is for the boat landing shared with private boat owners and those going on short sunset cruises). Two waiters crashed into each other resulting in 2 clam chowders hitting the other couple and the waiters. I did get a little on my foot, but the other guy had it all up and down his leg and his Wife had a clam in her hair! Accidents happen but no accommodation was offered (or requested by the other couple although they were silently pissed about it). They did give us a damp cloth to wipe it away. Food was good, but nothing special. My Seafood Festival ($24) was bland and lots of pepper and some salt didn't save it. I like spicy, but this dish (mussels, scallops, shrimp and lobster in a white sauce with pasta) just had no real flavor to it. My Wife's Salmon Penobscot ($20) was good and fairly flavorful. The cup of clam chowder ($6) again was bland . . . I've tasted a lot better in many places. The most common seafood dishes aren't on the menu here. If I'm in that area again some day, I'd look to try another restaurant before I'd return here.
(2)
Jo Ann B.
Four stars for the service. Drinks were large and good, didn't try the food. Nice dive bar.
(4)
Gillian L.
New to Marblehead and spent the last weekend trying to get a feel for the local culinary scene. My boyfriend and I visited the Landing on Sunday night and sat at the bar. Food was good, good beer selection but the bartender was a jerk. He ignored us for the majority of the evening- too busy talking to the regulars and acted like a jerk when we tried to get our check. Cool place with a unique feel to it but the bartenders' attitude left us with a bad taste in our mouth. Think the Barnacle will be our go-to-spot from here on out.
(2)
Bill K.
As a local I've always wished this place would change mgt, and materially change the way they operate. They have the best locale in M'head, next to the Barnacle, but equally bad (and more expensive) food than the Barnacle (where at least the bar crowd has a view). They should swap the bar and restaurant around to take advantage of the view, and go for a simpler tavern menu. You get half the view sitting at restaurant tables (obscured), and none from the bar. Very strange. Could be great, but it simply isn't - just like the Barnacle!!!
(2)
Scott B.
Went here for drinks last Saturday night. It was a nice place they'll make you any kind of drink you want and have a nice selection of beers on tap. Unlike other reviewers on here I have no problem with being asked if I'm there for food or the bar. Why make the waiter/waitress make another trip to return the menus. If that bothers you you'd probably be better off going to Morton's or The Capital Grille and not a local establishment in a small town. I wish I hadn't gone to a Rodizio beforehand because I LOVE Clam Chowder and I'd really like to try it here. I know I'll have a second trip and I will update my review then.
(3)
Capt. C.
We love The Landing Pub ... the BEST Dark & Stomy ever (yeah... Marblehead beats Bermuda). Angus burger was outrageous, fries deliciously BYMO (burn-your-mouth-off perfection ... hot food needs to be hot (and fresh) and they nailed it!). Fish&Chips, Clam Chowder were both "A-freakin +". Lisa (great smile and personality, btw) gave us just the right amount of attention served with competence and pleasantness. This return visit was a great all-around experience (food, service & atmosphere)... and isn't that what we pay for?
(4)
Jatte B.
Went there with my wife for our wedding anniversary.... and were a bit bummed out. Started with cups of chowder which were good, but, massively overloaded with black pepper. Could not taste anything but the pepper with no sign of the clams, corn, etc. on our taste buds. I got the steak/shrimp combo. I ordered my steak medium/rare and got it well done. First two shrimp of four were nice... but by #3, the white sauce on the shrimp was overbearing with due to intense saltiness. My wife's bay scallop dish was OK -- more like something we'd toss together at home than "special/restaurant-quality". Perhaps it was a busy night with a new cook... but for the price, I'd say skip it. The view and seaside atmosphere saved this from a one-star review.
(2)
Gene K.
I'm a Marbleheader for over 3 decades and have been frequenting the Landing most of my adult life. It's always been a wonderful experience and a great way to enjoy old town! Additionally, I've never complained at a restaurant and am generally overly friendly to all waitstaff. Unfortunately my experience there last night was rather overwhelming. It was 4th of July and we went into the restaurant around 7pm knowing that it would be busy and we would need to be extra patient on the holiday. Our waitress came to us promptly and took our drink order. Half an hour passed before our drinks came and we began the long wait to place our order. Our waitress did not come come back w/bread or to check on us until 7:45. In the meantime, the tables around us (several of whom were seated after us) were each helped 4 or 5 times. I spoke to our waitress but she still did not come back to our table to take our order. With our drinks empty for over half an hour, and with no service, I decided to bring this to the attention of the manager on duty, Steve. I explained that our waitress was making appearances to the tables around us and completely ignoring my pregnant wife, sister, and me. I explained to Steve that we had been sitting there for 45 minutes and were wondering why we hadn't been helped. He brushed me off and said that it was a busy night and that the waitress is trying as hard as possible (ignoring the fact that she had been helping tables all around us), and that he would make sure to check in on us and bring our bread and drinks in the meantime. He never checked in with us again. Keep in mind our entrees ranged in price between 27 and 32 dollars a piece, so this is not just a casual night out. We finally ordered our entrees and a re-fill on our drinks around 8:20, an hour and 20 minutes after we entered the restaurant. Within that time, tables around us came in, placed their orders, paid their bills, and went out to enjoy the beauty of old town Marblehead. Our food was finally brought out to us at 8:50 by someone from the kitchen but unfortunately they forgot a portion of it. I brought this to their attention immediately but they never came back with the missing portion of our order. My sister's steak was not properly cooked, our side dishes were cold, we didn't have our complete meals, and neither our waitress or Steve, the manager on duty, came to check on us. I spoke with another waiter, who also ignored our request for help. When our bill finally came I asked to speak with the manager again and calmly expressed our dissatisfaction with the experience. Steve would not accept responsibility for the problem and generally brushed us off as being difficult. He did not believe that the tables around us had come and gone before we had the opportunity to place our order. The Landing did pick up the cost for most of the meal, which I appreciate, but the experience left us all bewildered. I would suggest that the owners of the Landing review their management training and would encourage Steve to take customers concerns seriously. Perhaps checking in on us once during the two hours after my initial concerns were raised would have been enough.
(1)
The Hungry American E.
The Landing has various attributes for a old port town American cusine restaurant. But in the end, it's the food that brings you back. The American has dined here twice ('02, '10) and the food is as good as the day is long. On both ocassions the server was in excellent spirits, attentive and accurate. Now many may say the staff in general can be cranky (due to tight quarters) and the place has a slight fragrence to it (true). But, The Landing has atmosphere and reasonable lunch prices - and most of all the food is better the expected. Plus you are right on the water in Marblehead, Mass.
(3)
Sigalle B.
As a New Yorker visiting Massachusetts I felt the need to have all things New England when I ordered. So I ordered the clam chowder to start and it was delicious - rich, hearty, and pleasantly spicy. I also ordered the fish n' chips which were fried crispy and not at all greasy. Sat outside, by the water, and watched the boats go by. Staff was friendly and the vibe was relaxed. Oh and try the baked brie with raspberry sauce - so awesome.
(4)
Beth R.
I went to The Landing with my colleagues last week when the weather was great and sat on the deck. What a spectacular view of Marblehead harbor and State Street wharf. The food was fresh and delicious. I had a steak tip salad and my steak was cooked perfectly over fresh greens. My colleagues enjoyed their meal as well. We had excellent service from Felix, our waiter.
(5)
Stephanie H.
I went here last night with my husband because I bought the Local Ginger coupon for The Landing. As we have pretty much eaten at every place in Salem atleast twice we are trying to venture out to the neighboring communities occasionally to see what they have to offer. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive, and the location of The Landing being on the water, having outdoor seating (which I am sure is nice we be didn't take the Host up on when he offered as it is January) and view are all 5 stars. The food was more like 3 or 3.5 stars. Average food, a little pricey but portions were good size so worth it. My husband started with the French Onion soup which was decent size and very onion-y according to him. He got the landing stuffed filet for his entree. It was stuffed with Asparagus and lobster tail meat and had a side of garlic mashed potatoes (eh ok as he let me try some) and brocollini....I got the Scallops Margarita. It was decent enough. Something I could have made at home but as the husband does not eat Scallops I try and order them when I am out. We were so full from dinner we had no room for dessert. Parking was ok but again we were there on a snowy saturday in January. I could see in the Summer how Parking could be hard to come by. We may go back here for more of a special occasion as the prices are kind of on the pricey side.
(4)
Jeff I.
Clearly The Landing was having a bad Friday night. Very understaffed in the pub and the nachos were a soggy amateur mess. We are regulars here but this was their worst night ever! Not rushing to return.
(2)
Elizabeth B.
Last time I was here, my boyfriend and I walked in, went straight to the host station and was rudely asked, "do you want to eat?" I thought, No we just came in to stare at you... Our experience was followed with unmemorable food, practically frozen Boston Cream Pie followed by being rushed out of the restaurant. We have not returned.
(1)
Brian R.
I went with my girlfriend to the Landing one random tuesday night. The place was empty, but I had my $25 "gift certificate" from restaurant.com . (I paid like $3 for it.) We had an awesome waiter, very nice. We were seated in the pub are as they were hosting a meeting of some sort in the dining area. I had the Calamari and Crab Cakes and my g/f had the baked shrod. I loved my food, she liked her. Pro's: -Good food. A little pricey for the norm, but this is Marblehead so it's expected. -Waitstaff is polite and on top of things. -The host at the door was very curtious to me and I didn't experience any of the problems Elizabeth B had. -$25 off of a $45 bill (20% tip included) is nice. Con's: -Not much parking. -Reminds you that it's a pub with a dining section attached. I like pubs, but I wanted to sit in the dining section. No biggie, I made the best of it. I'd clearly recommend this to anyone I know.
(4)
Alicia B.
From the perspective of a charming 3 year-old beauty: I like The Landing because of... + Daddy! took me out to lunch here + Daddy! ordered me a mixed juice - cran w/ orange + A friendly lady brought me crayons + I got a fun activity sheet to color on + Daddy! helped me count the lobsters on the activity sheet + Daddy! ordered me chicken fingers and french fries + The cook fired up the fryer fast for my hungry belly + I got a plate full of food served minutes after Daddy! ordered + I had plenty of ketchup for my fries, thanks to Daddy's GF + I discovered crayons roll easily off the table and make me laugh + Daddy! gave me the receipt to write on and keep + I wrote on the receipt with a pen! + We got a double-bagged doggy bag for me to help carry + I had plenty of left overs for dinner + We were a short walk to the park, where I love to play and climb rocks!
(4)
Sean S.
We ate in the "pub" side of the restaurant. Great clam chowder. BEWARE: some of the picky eaters in the group may not like that it includes corn, but I asked a particularly picky eater if he noticed the ingredients and he said "no" (if he had known it included corn he probably would not have ordered), but said it tasted great and was glad he didn't know ahead of time.
(4)
Tim R.
Great (5 stars each): Being on the water, the outdoor seating, the hostess(es), wait staff and manager. Good (3 stars): The clam chowder. Bad (0 stars): The meal I ordered. I'm not a regular at The Landing--I've been just once. But my food was so bad and so expensive, that I felt I had to write a review. Entering the dining room, I was greeted by three very lovely, friendly and kind hostesses. Our waiter was right on top of everything throughout the meal. The manager made sure we were warm and comfortable out on the dining deck on a cool, late spring night. If I had read the Yelp reviews, I'd have ordered the chowder and mac 'n' cheese and probably been pretty happy. Instead, I was in the mood for a fine dinner so I went for the night's special; a $25 entree of grilled tuna steak which I ordered very rare. What I got was an old, pale, dry tuna steak that was over cooked, gristly and completely lacking seasoning, served over a tiny serving of wild rice with a bay leaf along for the ride. It was as if the dinner went straight from the Sysco truck to the plate. Just awful and I felt like I had been robbed like a tourist. I'll go again -- for the location, outdoor seating, very lovely hostesses, terrific wait staff, thoughtful managers, and the chowder and mac 'n' cheese.
(2)
Betty P.
We use this place a lot for our client luncheons when they do Marblehead tours. My staff always write and tell me about the awesome clam chowder here so roomie and I finally had to try it for ourselves. On a recent trip, Rory our waiter, the hostess, and Angela the events person were all super friendly. (The GM, Robert, is also so easy to deal with when we plan functions.) This is the type of place where you have to know what to order. I would def recommend the chowdah as it is the best I have ever had. The calamari and fried clams had the same batter and were okay. The clams were bigger than others I have sampled elsewhere but the breading could use some improvement. But the staff were so nice that when I told them who I was, they comp'd all of our alcoholic bevs and apps! Even before I told them my company uses the restaurant for functions, everybody was eager to find us the best seat at the house. The pub seemed lively and I bet this place is happening in the summer. I like that this place is equally welcoming to locals and tourists, and they also are active in community events and fundraisers. Def. head up north and give it a try. In the summer, the patio is a nice spot to sit!
(4)
Kylie H.
My NEW FAVORITE place!!!! My first experience here was magical. My fiance's father had been here awhile ago and we just moved to Beverly. He recommended that the entire fam come here for lunch one Sunday afternoon. The overall experience was excellent, even though we couldn't dine outside. I got the shepard's pie, which was cooked perfectly. The french fries here are great and our little one ordered a grilled cheese that was made on sourdough with chedder. Absolutely delicious... A few weeks later my fiance and I came here for a "romantic" dinner and we ate outside. The night was beautiful and a CELEBRITY was actually eating at the table next to us!!!! I feel uncomfortable saying who he is (I'm sure he comes here a lot), but he has been in a series of television shows and movies. I ordered the filet mignon and it was delicious... we also had the bruschetta, which was also amazing! A week later I brought my mother and grandmother here for lunch (they are from Western Mass). We ate outside sipped on mimosas. I ordered the caesar wrap, which was none the less also delicious. However, my mother ordered the mac and cheese and it was the best I've ever had. Four cheeses and zuchinni and squash on top. Large portions I ate her left overs for a day! This place is really great overall.
(5)
Aboud Y.
Really a shame. The location is beautiful but both the food and service were bad, bad, bad. Go elsewhere.
(2)
Melanie F.
i had french onion soup, it was awesome!!! i should of have another bowl. then i ordered a southwestern burger, ordered rare. it was definitely rare. it had fresh guacamole, and the fries that came with it were outstanding, i wish i had a whole plate of those. it was delicious, i look forward to having a brunch meal there sometime. the setting is beautiful. the service was good, he never kept us waiting. we had four very young children with us, and he was very accommodating. every other adult i was with was also equally as happy with what they ordered.
(4)
David S.
Nothing fancy here, but really, really solid food with a wonderful view from the deck. Had the best prepared haddock on our entire MA trip here at the Landing. Service was very smooth and friendly. The atmosphere, primarily sailing enthusiasts, is relaxed and fun. Finding this place, if you're an out of towner, requires GPS. But finding it is well worth the effort.
(4)
Rebecca S.
The food here is usually pretty good- and you usually get a nice portion for your money. The traditionally baked cod/scrod is the best I have had. I am a big fan of their ceasar salad. Their cocktails are actually amazing... We had the artini...complex and yummy! Make sure to check out their pub next to the dining hall. Usually a little cheaper to eat on that side. Wednesdays is trivia night and a raffle. Really cute and really Marblehead. We really enjoyed ourselves last Wednesday night and are excited to make it a tradition. *overall always a positive experience. Food is good, drinks are really good and everyone is friendly.
(4)
Kevin B.
Like a lot of Marblehead, it could use some serious updating (how about really taking advantage of that waterfront?) but food is good and a good selection of beer.
(3)
Adam B.
Decent food. Really good desserts. View is beautiful. Staff was friendly and inviting.
(3)
Nish N.
The Landing seems to be that place in Marblehead where both tourists and locals mix pretty easily. There is plenty of room in the Pub for a lite meal or beer, and the restaurant section has a nice outdoor patio for overlooking the water. Their lobster roll is done just right, with the right amount of mayo, buttered hot dog roll and all. The fries were only ok.
(4)
Tim P.
We are semi-regular at this place, we visit the Landing probably once a month and when weather allows we try to be on the deck. It is a nice place, the prices are reasonable and we like the menu choices. The chef tries to experiment so the menu changes quite often, which is one of the reasons we liked the restaurant in the first place. Our favorites include Mussels marseillaise, baked Scrod and, when available, Lobster Casserole. The kids like mac and cheese which is quite good (as an earlier reviewer mentioned). Your waiter will suggest the daily special which is typically more expensive than the regular choices but we have rarely been disappointed. The parking and the wait could be an issue, particularly on more popular nights. 4/5, recommended.
(4)
sarah s.
2.5 stars, actually. This place is right on the water, and even though I went in March, the view was still beautiful. This place is super-casual, and looked like locals frequented it. I had the lobster roll, which was good, had some nice chunks of lobster in it- wasn't all a shredded mess. Although I think the Black Dog in the Vineyard has the best lobster roll I've ever tasted (although I'm not a New Englander, so I'm no expert!). I digress. Anyway, my hubby had the fried Ipswich clams, which he said were ok. All fried things kind of taste alike. The kicker- he came down with violent food poisoning a few hours later! That was all we had eaten that day, so we know the Landing was the culprit. And hello, clams are notorious for food poisoning. I called the restaurant later to report it, and the manager was very nice and stated that it was probably the clams because in their off-season, some of their items don't "move as quickly and may have been sitting around." I know mistakes happen, and the manager was very nice, but hello, if you're a seafood restaurant you should be serving the freshest items possible, off-season or not! And you should be extra-vigilant serving seafood. Now, like I said, accidents happen and I don't want to vilify the Landing- this could have happened anywhere. But everything was just average-that, coupled with my husband's experience, mean I probably wouldn't frequent this place again.
(2)
Charoline D.
This place is known for one thing, and one thing alone in my book. The macaroni and cheese. Baked in a cast iron skillet, topped with breadcrumbs and fresh steamed vegetables, it doesn't get much better than this. I like it best when it's greenbeans. You can also order Dark & Stormy's here to your heart's content as they actually carry ginger beer and Goslings Bermuda Black Seal Rum. I wound up here while assisting some friends with a Snowboarding promo and we were subject to free food. All else I tried failed to satisfy.The clientele in this place is not really my bag. Mostly preppy locals in their boat shoes and Dockers, I've also heard tell of it being a Swinger's Bar. I'm not sure how accurate it is, but I'm sure in a town as small as Marblehead, you're probably all dating each other anyways. I don't even mean that in a crass way, I mean it in a "I used to live in a fairly small town before and felt like I had met everyone in the tri-county area kinda-way" We typically sit at the bar, staff is VERY friendly, but not always terribly attentive. Expect to meet the yacht club crowd here.
(3)
Ali K.
Ahh the Landing in wonderful Marblehead, i don't know if i'm being biased because it was my first time visiting but i thought this place was pretty good. Right out near the water with a view of the harbor and some out door seating and the fresh smell of seafood ahh what's not to love. Went here with my girlfriend to meet up with two of her really good friends and were wonderfully helped out by the staff on both the restaurant and the bar side while we were waiting. Nice small cozy hometown feel of a place, only gripe i had was after we started talking we were ignored by the staff, we had to wait forever to get an order in, i understand your busy but we were there before many people showed up, but no worries. The girls seemed to enjoy there meals and i ordered the Mussels Marseille which i shared with my girlfriend and they were pretty good, got to love the white wine sauce. My gf's Amaretto Sour drink was pretty damn good to. Decently priced, good seafood, nice ambiance and right on the harbor, what's not the love about his place.
(5)
Mike K.
Fairly new in town but go to the Landing somewhat frequently since it is one of a few places on the water to eat in town. The food is average. They try to be fancy and generally screw it up. If you stick with something simple you will be ok (can be said about most places in town). Went for brunch yesterday. Why not have some basic breakfast plates? I ordered french toast with all the extra fancy things on the side (fruit and chocolate). Good thing because the fruit wasn't very appealing. Paid $10 for 3 pieces of french toast. Very disappointing. Have a drink at the bar and order the clam chowder, fish sandwich and you will be pleased. The bar is done well, a drinker's bar! Lots of good beers on tap.
(2)
all seeing E.
I have been to the Landing twice and each time was a good experience. I would reccomend this palce to anyone. The food has been great both times the service was good and the view FANTASTIC. I wish they had a larger parking area but it is Marblehead so parking is really hit or miss. I would like to be there on a day when I could sit on the patio. I will go back next time I am in Marblehead.
(5)
Whit B.
We live in the neighborhood and are not fond of the Landing. We have eaten there a few times and have not been impressed. I'd like to say that they have a decent tavern menu, but they don't. The quality of the food is sub-par, especially gien their prices. I'd have to say that this place qualifies as a tourist trap. Even though it is on the waterfront, the view is nothing to write home about.
(2)
John V.
You have 2 choices when entering The Landing, either the nice restaurant area, or the Pub area. (or the deck so I guess it's 3 depending on the time of year) I recommend the Pub. You can get the same food, just in a more relaxed atmosphere. There is nothing outstanding about the food here, it's good. but not amazing. The place has a nice view of the Harbor and great service. The Pub has plenty of TVs and they always have sports on. It is a little pricey, but what isn't in Marblehead? I used to live here, so I know what to expect, now that I come and visit frequently, I usually eat here and enjoy myself, however I've had better Pub food in my time. I recommend the Fish Fry and the mussels, and the Guinness (for some reason) just seems to taste the closer you get to Ireland.
(3)
Keith A.
Stopped in for a quick bite before a show at the Me & Thee. The service was pleasant and efficient, and the soups (French onion and seafood chowder) were good. But for a supposed seafood restaurant, and a pricey one at that, the crab cakes and calamari were inexcusably flavorless.
(2)
S O.
We drove up from Boston with a friend visiting form out of town in search of a great seafood meal with a water view. The food flavor and prep was disappointing. My husband and I shared a clam chowder which was dominated by cream, we could not taste the clam and other ingredients. For entree, I ordered the Lobster Basilica which was way too heavy, and the lobster was overcooked. I just felt nauseous with every bite, and had to end my meal halfway. My husband ordered the sole, and the batter was mushy and tasteless. Our friend ordered the red snapper which was also overcooked. The serviceperson was very unnatural and rehearsed although she did her best for a busy Saturday night. Were it not for the waterview, the Landing would not be much to speak of. Not to mention my husband had a terrible stomach ache as soon as we got home. Try somewhere else especially if you have a guest with you!
(1)
Allison L.
great place to hang with your friend on a sunny day ..... who would wanna sit inside??!!! go for the patio!
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Music : Live Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : No Best Nights : Wed, Sat, Sun Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Paid Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
C R.
Situated in Old Town Marblehead - quaint, charming and all that jazz. Parking is non existent. But it's worth a shot. You go here for the scenery; not the shopping or the food. The Landing - read the reviews. It's ok. It's the view that makes it what it is. The staff are nice, the food is ok - the location and view of Marblehead's harbor are what it is all about, Man. Despite the restrained good tast of those deep pocketed yankees - unlike over the top places like Beverly Hills - the sight of Marblehead's "Neck" neighborood (seen by distant onlooksers across the harbor) still makes you murmer that envious "wow." You could'nt live there if you saved up for 3 lifetimes. So, for that reason, you should go to the Landing, have a lobster roll and enjoy the view.
(3)Ellen M.
Decent food, and the server was good but managing WAY too many tables. The major problem with this place is how long it takes to get a table and how long they tell you it will be to get a table. We waited about 20 minutes over our "30 minute" wait, but another group was told "25 minutes" and we aw them seated a full hour later. Back to the food, it's good, but not "holy cow" good. It's fresh seafood well prepared, if not with a bit too much butter and cream. I would go back here, but it wouldn't be my first choice.
(3)Mallory S.
Bad service and mediocre food. We went to the Landing for a simple Mother's Day brunch. We were a large group of 14 (half kids/half adults) so we took up two tables in the dining room. Waitress service was fairly quick and friendly enough, but the food was just OK. I had the Lobster Melt - the lobster filling was good but the croissant was greasy and tasted only of butter. It also had too much cheese. Potatoes and fruit on the side weren't anything special either. I wish I had just ordered a regular lobster roll. The most memorable part of the experience comes at the end of our meal. We had just finished signing our credit card slips; the kids table had already been deserted so it was bused and turned. At this moment, the manager came over to request that we leave so he could give this table to another party.... even though there were many empty tables surrounding us, including the 8-top that the kids had vacated. So we leave... and I am stunned that we were asked to move and not given any other suggestion for a place to go. Had we wanted coffee and dessert we would have been out of luck unless we had shown ourselves to the bar on the other side. It was extremely rude and I don't plan on going back. Final notes: If the Landing is taking a large party, they should expect that large party to take longer to dine than a small group. Restaurant 101, I think...
(2)Nichole V.
Consistently ok food, good service with a great atmosphere. My husband & I enjoy coming here in the summer just watching the boats etc. Not a huge fan of their fish dishes unless it's a special, but the meat is usually good.
(3)Charles B.
We have eaten here several times. The food is always good. I just felt like the restaurant was running in "free fall" and the staff had no supervision and the customers needs were not being catered to. We checked the online menu and then called the restaurant to check that the dish we wanted "lobster stew", was available. We were told it was. When we got there to order it, the waiter told us that the online menu was the winter menu and that they were serving a summer menu. I told him that they have a responsibility to keep their website up to date and that they really let us down. I have to tell you that I would not be writing this review, if the waiter had a manger come over to speak with us about that. The waiter was very good but had way too many tables to serve. The appetizers and beverages took almost an hour to bring out. One member of our party has a gluten allergy and we were a bit worried about if they understood that it was more complicated than just no wheat flour. We were hungry but not in a rush so we asked if they had diner roll. It would have been nice if they included a gluten free selection as well. Typically, a manger brings the food over and assures us that they understand the scope of gluten issues, but we were left to the waiter's assurance. BTW it did work out just fine. Everything we ordered was very good. As I glanced around during the dinner service it appeared to me that no one was in charge. Not to say that I saw any particular problems, but I think a visible manager's presence is mandatory on a busy Saturday night and that a website is a projection of the business and has to be managed responsibly as well.
(3)Graeme J.
Just was there for brunch today. Have been a few times before but today was by far the worse meal I have had in a long time anywhere. My burger was well done as opposed to mid rare as ordered plus it tasted like it was a day old and reheated. My wife's omelette was oily and had no flavor. Really greasy and unsightly. The home fries were crunchy black cubes that were obviously days old. Never had a wonderful meal at the Landing but it was always pretty decent. Hopefully, today was an anomaly.
(2)James G.
Good food. Good service. Great view. Ate a fish sandwich which was tasty and I think the menu is priced well.
(4)Megan H.
I don't think I ever want to go back. My experience here wasn't truly terrible, but I have expected much better! Likewise to many of the other reviews, this is the almighty tourtist trap. Being next to the sea, oily and soggy fried clams shouldn't have been so expensive. If I were to pay $20, I would have expected golden and crispy tender bites. That is not what I received. Upon ordering, my waiter was a cute old man... who asked me three times what I ordered two minutes later he walked away from my table. The scene is lovely. I'm sure the locals love it. But, this isn't my place for quality and service. I say, keep driving.
(2)Kaitlin H.
My husband and I went here for dinner and I was literally blown away. I could not stop thinking about the lobster basilico I had. It was delicious. The sauce was so creamy but still light. It was my first time trying lobster so I wasn't sure what to expect but it was good. Our waiter was great-just the right level of attentive. They had a decent wine list, I got Poppy Hill & it was good with a generous pour. The only less than stellar part of our meal was my dessert. I got the chocolate mousse and it was very bitter. My friend was in town a few weeks later and we decided to go for a late lunch since I couldn't stop obsessing over my last meal. Unfortunately, the lunch menu was much more limited and didn't have the lobster basilico. I ordered a pasta dish with a basil cream sauce, thinking it would be similar. No such luck. It was really bland and didn't have much going for it. My friend wasn't pleased with her meal either, which was just a salad if I remember correctly. Our waiter was OK but took absolutely forever to bring us the bill. At least 20 minutes. I had a grumpy baby with me and we were so ready to leave! One bright spot was another server who saw my baby wasn't comfortable in the high chair and brought over some padding from another chair. I thought that was very sweet of him. All in all, 4 stars. I'm hoping I just caught the staff on an off day at a weird time on my second visit. Because really, I still can't stop thinking about the first visit!
(4)Krysia K.
We stopped there for late lunch.This place was pretty busy. Nice decor inside, great view from the deck. The service was OK. The food...we ordered only Lobster Salad Roll ($18) which were served with fries and pickle. The lobster salad was good, the pickle to but the fries not so much. That tasted like they were fried in old oil.
(3)Michael W.
Listen, the Northeast Coast is riddled with this type of place and they are great if you can exercise some restraint. Here it is my Yelping friends....do NOT order anything except chowder, clams and other fried seafood....The clam chowder here is wonderful, silky smooth, not laced with flour and full of clams and potatoes with strong hints of bacon as it should be. The clams were large, perfectly fried and delicious....but the tartar sauce was bland and only served to detract from the clams. The fish sandwich was fresh, with a good crunch and tender moist white fish inside. The roll it was served on was nothing to speak of and the french fries were seasoned but not particularly good. The price was typically high because this is a wharf side place in Marblehead and not the food court at the local mall....oh and don't forget....if you go to a clam shack style place and you order the filet mignon you're an idiot and do not deserve the sublime pleasure of a perfectly fried clam.
(3)Bogee B.
Great location, but that's about it. The food was nothing special; our waiter Kevin (I think that's his name) should not be in the service industry. The place has a lot of attitude and is overrated!
(2)Rafael R.
Located in what is perhaps one of the most quaint seaside villages in MA, The Landing, on Front Street in Marblehead strongest dining option is that of its clam chowder. Peppery and so thick you can stand a spoon in it, it reminded me more of gravy for biscuits, than a chowder, but regardless of its viscosity, it was delicious. My dinner, which consisted of the seafood casserole ($20.00) was a simple dish of an assortment of seafood with rice and vegetables. For dessert, I ordered the highly touted Strawberry Shortcake and while it won't win first place at the county fair, the freshly baked cake was warm with spoonfuls of strawberry's on top. I had overheard another table ask a server if it was homemade and was told that everything is made "on premises", however, when the customer inquired about the whipped topping, the server curtly replied no, as the cook already has enough to do. Honestly, had the dessert had homemade whipped cream, the overall dish would have been much better and oddly enough, homemade whipped topping should be a staple, there are only a few ingredients - fresh cream and vanilla involved, how difficult would that be to whip up? The young waiters and hostesses add an awkwardness to the overall dining experience, as their lack of experience in the food industry clearly shows, with gents often being served before the ladies, head scratching and opening the patio door with their feet. While this is a rather casual restaurant, as one of the only ones right on the water, a diners overall experience would be enhanced if they were better trained, however, given the laid back vide, perhaps no one cares.
(3)ME G.
We had a memorable night there this winter. The waiter was superb. he told the kid jokes and got us our stuff, and was helpful helpful helpful. You look like you have been doing this a long time, and he said he had. the food was good to excellent. But, you were left with the impression that this place is high variance. some nights, like our night, it was on. But, it could be off. if we had had a dud waiter, it would have been a dud night, or if a dish was made by a second cook, it could have been quite bad. hope to go back.
(3)Jim W.
Visited the place with friends visiting from out-of-town last week, Tuesday for dinner. We had the worst meal of my life! My wife was spitting her food our into her napkin (no joke) and that was the same dish the manager (I think) recommended: pan seared/roasted haddock. My seafood and pasta tasted like they poured an entire bottle of oregano into it....and can you really screw up fish 'n chips? Yes. Our waiter was nice, but the food was horrible. I've been to the 'pub' before and liked it--only had the drinks. Anyway, the food there is a joke. Will never be back. Gross.
(1)Mark B.
Another great trip to the pub today. Loved the chowder, and all the rest.
(4)Ashlee W.
This was recommended by some locals for good New England Clam Chowder however, I was disappointed. I was visiting from Texas and had some high hopes for good chowder. It was spicy to me (which is saying something since I love Mexican food). It had A LOT of corn in it and not a lot of clams. It was so so.
(2)Kathie W.
After making reservations (with deck preference) several days in advance, in anticipation of my husband's birthday, we arrived about 10 minutes early, checked in with the hostess,(who didn't look old enough to have working papers, let alone working around alcohol) and asked how soon a deck seat might be ready. We were told as soon as a party paid their check, and the table reset. We were told to sit outside at the public dock (icky, stinky smell, dead fish and diesel fumes) and they would come get us. While watching them reset the table and watching it sit idle for 20 minutes and no one came to retrieve us, we left! People looking for tables were told by the hostess (after she took their names) were told to wait outside. The place is so disorganized, no management, in site, wait staff with no leader or direction. The last time I was there (a few years ago to meet old classmates for drinks) sewer flies were spotted in at the bar (Appitizers?) I had vowed never to go back, but that's where hubby wanted to go for his birthday dinner, I agreed with trepidation. I was RIGHT! We should've gone to Maddie's instead, and that's where we ended up. Having grown up in M'head and remembering when The Landing & Bull & Finch Pub (yes the original name) opened, I was extremely diappointed. Bob Simonetti needs to find a competent manager, who knows how to run a resturant. A call to "Resturant Stakeout", "Mystery Diners" or better yet "Bar Rescue" is clearly in order! Plus where the hell can you park...... Can't comment on the food never got that far....
(1)Lia M.
I would give The Landing 2.5 stars, if possible. We ate in the bar area on a quiet Sunday night. Service was attentive & friendly. The lobster mac n' cheese was really good, as were the fries. But the chicken sandwich was just awful, especially because there was some sweet sauce on it that was not supposed to be there. My friend's band sometimes plays here, so I would probably only head back for drinks if he was playing.
(3)Benjamin A.
Summary: A textbook tourist trap that locals avoid, with hugely overpriced food that I wouldn't feed to my dog. Situation: Went here with my wife for dinner on a Friday and sat on the waterfront outside deck. Food: 1/10 The scallops were described in the menu as "pan seared". To me, this means large diver scallops, seared on high heat in a pan until caramelized on the outside. To them, it means tiny bay scallops intended for a seafood casserole, broiled, mixed in with mozzarella balls of the same size, and put in chef boyardee sauce over overcooked noodles. Skimping on the scallops and substituting mozzarella literally made me laugh. I sent this dish back. It looked gross, tasted worse. Lobster salad consisted of a standard salad with a ice cream scooper blumpkin of shredded soggy lobster in heavy mayonaise. $18 Service: 1/5 Our waitress forgot about us, or just wasnt interested. After I returned my meal, she didnt even come back. The hostess took our bill. No, I wasnt rude, I politely explained that I lost my appetite after seeing the meal and didnt want something else. Yes, they took it off the bill. But no apology from manager or waitress or staff. My guess is that this is a common occurrence. Ambience: 2/5 It gets 2 points for being on the water, but falls flat elsewhere. It tries for the kitschy nautical vibe of an old seafood stand-by, but instead feels outdated and dirty. The problem arises when you compound this with very high prices. Not worth it. Value: 0/5 Everything is overpriced by 30-50%. Composite Score: 4/25 Go here instead for same price or cheaper: 5 corners kitchen, 3 cod tavern, palmers
(1)Lucia A.
Our last visit to "The Landing" was on October 8th. Our meal was not memorable: my husband's burger was overcooked, my Musseles Marseille - just OK. But the day was beautiful and the view from the deck breathtaking. I presented gift certificate from Restautant.com , but it was not honored - it was Columbus Day holiday and I didn't read small print. A few days latter I received e-mail from Restaurant.com asking me about my experience at "The landing" and gift certificate disappeared from a list of unused certificates. Apparently, Restaurant.com was contacted by stuff on the day of our visit. I went to The Landing ( I live a few miles away) and talked to restaurant manager Sue Stevens. She was extremely nice and promised to get in touch with me and resolve this issue. She never did. Too bad, I had a lot of good memories from previous visits... Lucia
(1)Valeria H.
OK, i am giving this a 2 rating for one reason only. The menu! For a restaurant located on the water in Marblehead you would think their menu would be all about fish right? Well, unfortunately, it wasn't. It had 1 main course fish dish.. wth? Not even fish n chips! huh? The location was real nice, private feel on the pier, and they had a deck. The waiter we had was, well, a little scary. heh He was a great waiter, but, he was focused on my children too much for my taste. Every time he came to the table it was about them, joking and funny then not so funny at the end...(he said something to the affect: now girls if you see me in public with a cute puppy giving out candy, what are you going to do?) My husband and I were real upset about that, even though we knew he prob meant it in good faith to say stay away from strangers, well, it was just out right creepy. The drinks we ordered were great. My husband loved his beer, which was a local brew.. and I got a sauv blanc. THe atmosphere was dark in the interior, but you could see the kitchen when the doors swung open and it was clean. I ended up ordering the haddock dinner, the one that comes with the tomato stew/lyonnaise potatoes.. it was real good. Definitely would go back for my dinner and the kids dinner(fish n chips, which oddly enough they didnt offer for adults.. whatever) I prob won't go out of my way to drive up there, but if we are at thebeaches up that way looking for a spot for good beer, and a deck..we'd go.
(2)Sean J.
This is a fun little bar right on the water with a great view of the harbor. The inside is decorated with your standard nautical nick-knacks and the owner is very friendly. He was there having a few drinks with his wife and the band which had been playing. Apparently it's not uncommon for him to be there late at night shooting the shit with the regulars, which I think is excellent. I did not get to eat as the kitchen had closed by the time we arrived, but I will definitely consider going there again for a drink and bite to eat next time I'm in MH.
(4)Claire W.
Wanted a drink with a view at 4 or 4:30 pm as we showed some out of town relatives some of coastal MA. The bar at our usual haunt (The Barnacle) was packed, and while there were tables in the restaurant, they have a policy that you can only sit there if you are eating a meal and we were stuffed from a late lunch of Thanksgiving leftovers. We wandered down to The Landing and asked if we could sit in the water view area with just a drink. They said they weren't serving, but were willing to let us sit there, directing us to the pub to get our drinks as there were no servers available. In the bar, the staff was equally friendly (and 2 of us wanted to stay in the pub, and if we hadn't been driving back to Boston we might have stayed for the band that was playing that night. )Multiple staff members were friendly and accommodating to our several special requests. Suspect in part the atmosphere reflected that it is November and not the tourist season; the place had a more local feel. Will definitely be back.
(4)Karen B.
We had eaten there once before and liked it so, we had our son's rehearsal dinner there last week. The owners of the restaurant were very hospitable and accommodating. They worked with us to make a special smaller menu to meet the special food needs for the party of 50. They printed it up, and the food was great. Many raved about the chowder. The setting was beautiful and the staff really exceptional. We could not have been happier.
(4)Rose F.
3 stars for location and their bar. They usually have live music that is pretty good in the bar and Dark and Stormys! Totally delicious Ginger beer and Gosslings rum. Boo ya! It's delicious! Today I went for lunch and had a sangria (good) and crab cake ( under cooked, not good) and my companion had a beer and burger (good) and Amazing hand cut French fries. View is awesome. You can sit outside or inside with huge windows overlooking the harbor. So... If you want a local bar with good music this is your place. If you are here for the culinary expierence you will be dissapointed.
(3)Len S.
Met another couple for dinner there tonight (Sunday). We ate outside on the deck. Parking in the area is close to impossible (parking lot is for the boat landing shared with private boat owners and those going on short sunset cruises). Two waiters crashed into each other resulting in 2 clam chowders hitting the other couple and the waiters. I did get a little on my foot, but the other guy had it all up and down his leg and his Wife had a clam in her hair! Accidents happen but no accommodation was offered (or requested by the other couple although they were silently pissed about it). They did give us a damp cloth to wipe it away. Food was good, but nothing special. My Seafood Festival ($24) was bland and lots of pepper and some salt didn't save it. I like spicy, but this dish (mussels, scallops, shrimp and lobster in a white sauce with pasta) just had no real flavor to it. My Wife's Salmon Penobscot ($20) was good and fairly flavorful. The cup of clam chowder ($6) again was bland . . . I've tasted a lot better in many places. The most common seafood dishes aren't on the menu here. If I'm in that area again some day, I'd look to try another restaurant before I'd return here.
(2)Jo Ann B.
Four stars for the service. Drinks were large and good, didn't try the food. Nice dive bar.
(4)Bill K.
As a local I've always wished this place would change mgt, and materially change the way they operate. They have the best locale in M'head, next to the Barnacle, but equally bad (and more expensive) food than the Barnacle (where at least the bar crowd has a view). They should swap the bar and restaurant around to take advantage of the view, and go for a simpler tavern menu. You get half the view sitting at restaurant tables (obscured), and none from the bar. Very strange. Could be great, but it simply isn't - just like the Barnacle!!!
(2)Gene K.
I'm a Marbleheader for over 3 decades and have been frequenting the Landing most of my adult life. It's always been a wonderful experience and a great way to enjoy old town! Additionally, I've never complained at a restaurant and am generally overly friendly to all waitstaff. Unfortunately my experience there last night was rather overwhelming. It was 4th of July and we went into the restaurant around 7pm knowing that it would be busy and we would need to be extra patient on the holiday. Our waitress came to us promptly and took our drink order. Half an hour passed before our drinks came and we began the long wait to place our order. Our waitress did not come come back w/bread or to check on us until 7:45. In the meantime, the tables around us (several of whom were seated after us) were each helped 4 or 5 times. I spoke to our waitress but she still did not come back to our table to take our order. With our drinks empty for over half an hour, and with no service, I decided to bring this to the attention of the manager on duty, Steve. I explained that our waitress was making appearances to the tables around us and completely ignoring my pregnant wife, sister, and me. I explained to Steve that we had been sitting there for 45 minutes and were wondering why we hadn't been helped. He brushed me off and said that it was a busy night and that the waitress is trying as hard as possible (ignoring the fact that she had been helping tables all around us), and that he would make sure to check in on us and bring our bread and drinks in the meantime. He never checked in with us again. Keep in mind our entrees ranged in price between 27 and 32 dollars a piece, so this is not just a casual night out. We finally ordered our entrees and a re-fill on our drinks around 8:20, an hour and 20 minutes after we entered the restaurant. Within that time, tables around us came in, placed their orders, paid their bills, and went out to enjoy the beauty of old town Marblehead. Our food was finally brought out to us at 8:50 by someone from the kitchen but unfortunately they forgot a portion of it. I brought this to their attention immediately but they never came back with the missing portion of our order. My sister's steak was not properly cooked, our side dishes were cold, we didn't have our complete meals, and neither our waitress or Steve, the manager on duty, came to check on us. I spoke with another waiter, who also ignored our request for help. When our bill finally came I asked to speak with the manager again and calmly expressed our dissatisfaction with the experience. Steve would not accept responsibility for the problem and generally brushed us off as being difficult. He did not believe that the tables around us had come and gone before we had the opportunity to place our order. The Landing did pick up the cost for most of the meal, which I appreciate, but the experience left us all bewildered. I would suggest that the owners of the Landing review their management training and would encourage Steve to take customers concerns seriously. Perhaps checking in on us once during the two hours after my initial concerns were raised would have been enough.
(1)The Hungry American E.
The Landing has various attributes for a old port town American cusine restaurant. But in the end, it's the food that brings you back. The American has dined here twice ('02, '10) and the food is as good as the day is long. On both ocassions the server was in excellent spirits, attentive and accurate. Now many may say the staff in general can be cranky (due to tight quarters) and the place has a slight fragrence to it (true). But, The Landing has atmosphere and reasonable lunch prices - and most of all the food is better the expected. Plus you are right on the water in Marblehead, Mass.
(3)Scott B.
Went here for drinks last Saturday night. It was a nice place they'll make you any kind of drink you want and have a nice selection of beers on tap. Unlike other reviewers on here I have no problem with being asked if I'm there for food or the bar. Why make the waiter/waitress make another trip to return the menus. If that bothers you you'd probably be better off going to Morton's or The Capital Grille and not a local establishment in a small town. I wish I hadn't gone to a Rodizio beforehand because I LOVE Clam Chowder and I'd really like to try it here. I know I'll have a second trip and I will update my review then.
(3)Capt. C.
We love The Landing Pub ... the BEST Dark & Stomy ever (yeah... Marblehead beats Bermuda). Angus burger was outrageous, fries deliciously BYMO (burn-your-mouth-off perfection ... hot food needs to be hot (and fresh) and they nailed it!). Fish&Chips, Clam Chowder were both "A-freakin +". Lisa (great smile and personality, btw) gave us just the right amount of attention served with competence and pleasantness. This return visit was a great all-around experience (food, service & atmosphere)... and isn't that what we pay for?
(4)Jatte B.
Went there with my wife for our wedding anniversary.... and were a bit bummed out. Started with cups of chowder which were good, but, massively overloaded with black pepper. Could not taste anything but the pepper with no sign of the clams, corn, etc. on our taste buds. I got the steak/shrimp combo. I ordered my steak medium/rare and got it well done. First two shrimp of four were nice... but by #3, the white sauce on the shrimp was overbearing with due to intense saltiness. My wife's bay scallop dish was OK -- more like something we'd toss together at home than "special/restaurant-quality". Perhaps it was a busy night with a new cook... but for the price, I'd say skip it. The view and seaside atmosphere saved this from a one-star review.
(2)Sigalle B.
As a New Yorker visiting Massachusetts I felt the need to have all things New England when I ordered. So I ordered the clam chowder to start and it was delicious - rich, hearty, and pleasantly spicy. I also ordered the fish n' chips which were fried crispy and not at all greasy. Sat outside, by the water, and watched the boats go by. Staff was friendly and the vibe was relaxed. Oh and try the baked brie with raspberry sauce - so awesome.
(4)Beth R.
I went to The Landing with my colleagues last week when the weather was great and sat on the deck. What a spectacular view of Marblehead harbor and State Street wharf. The food was fresh and delicious. I had a steak tip salad and my steak was cooked perfectly over fresh greens. My colleagues enjoyed their meal as well. We had excellent service from Felix, our waiter.
(5)Stephanie H.
I went here last night with my husband because I bought the Local Ginger coupon for The Landing. As we have pretty much eaten at every place in Salem atleast twice we are trying to venture out to the neighboring communities occasionally to see what they have to offer. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive, and the location of The Landing being on the water, having outdoor seating (which I am sure is nice we be didn't take the Host up on when he offered as it is January) and view are all 5 stars. The food was more like 3 or 3.5 stars. Average food, a little pricey but portions were good size so worth it. My husband started with the French Onion soup which was decent size and very onion-y according to him. He got the landing stuffed filet for his entree. It was stuffed with Asparagus and lobster tail meat and had a side of garlic mashed potatoes (eh ok as he let me try some) and brocollini....I got the Scallops Margarita. It was decent enough. Something I could have made at home but as the husband does not eat Scallops I try and order them when I am out. We were so full from dinner we had no room for dessert. Parking was ok but again we were there on a snowy saturday in January. I could see in the Summer how Parking could be hard to come by. We may go back here for more of a special occasion as the prices are kind of on the pricey side.
(4)Jeff I.
Clearly The Landing was having a bad Friday night. Very understaffed in the pub and the nachos were a soggy amateur mess. We are regulars here but this was their worst night ever! Not rushing to return.
(2)Elizabeth B.
Last time I was here, my boyfriend and I walked in, went straight to the host station and was rudely asked, "do you want to eat?" I thought, No we just came in to stare at you... Our experience was followed with unmemorable food, practically frozen Boston Cream Pie followed by being rushed out of the restaurant. We have not returned.
(1)Brian R.
I went with my girlfriend to the Landing one random tuesday night. The place was empty, but I had my $25 "gift certificate" from restaurant.com . (I paid like $3 for it.) We had an awesome waiter, very nice. We were seated in the pub are as they were hosting a meeting of some sort in the dining area. I had the Calamari and Crab Cakes and my g/f had the baked shrod. I loved my food, she liked her. Pro's: -Good food. A little pricey for the norm, but this is Marblehead so it's expected. -Waitstaff is polite and on top of things. -The host at the door was very curtious to me and I didn't experience any of the problems Elizabeth B had. -$25 off of a $45 bill (20% tip included) is nice. Con's: -Not much parking. -Reminds you that it's a pub with a dining section attached. I like pubs, but I wanted to sit in the dining section. No biggie, I made the best of it. I'd clearly recommend this to anyone I know.
(4)s g.
Amazing food (clam chowder with roasted corn, swordfish), service and location. The water side table during a sunset accompanied by the excellent food and service will make sure we come back next time in town. Highly recommended!
(5)Rafi S.
So, some restaurants just give you awesome food and ok service. My server understood that a restaurant isn't just selling food, but a full experience. I received regular, but not overbearing attention and got the sense that they knew the menu well. As for the food, I had the baked haddock, and truthfully, I haven't had fish that well cooked in a while. It was the type of meal that makes you want to take small bites and take the time to taste all the flavors. I'd come back here in a heartbeat.
(5)Susan K.
The food was excellent, but what made my first (but certainly not last) dinner here so amazing were 1) the lovely harbor views from deck (with very effective overhead heaters as it was a chilly night) and 2) the amazing service. I am recovering from shoulder surgery so only can use one hand. Instead of having to forego the lobster I really wanted, the server dismantled it for me with equal parts kindness and humor. Delicious food, lovely harbor view, and the kindness of strangers made this an evening I'll not forget.
(5)Gabrielle B.
If I could give negative stars I would. We traveled from boston bc we were looking for a restaurant with a view and great seafood. We asked to be seated outside and they said we could wait for one with shade, so we waited 15 mins for a seat and they sat my husband in the shade and I just got scorched by the sun. It was less than enjoyable. So we asked to move to a seat with shade and they said it was going to be taken so we said it was ok. Meanwhile there was another open table that was empty, in the shade, and they didn't move us. We waited until we couldn't bear it anymore and went inside. As far as the food, we ordered chowder and oysters for apps. The chowder was pretty good, the oysters on the other hand were not edible. They were disgusting. Barely any meat, ripped apart and just a waste of our money. We also ordered a lobster roll and chicken salad. Lobster roll was ok. Too much mayo and not enough flavor. It was so messy and just placed on top of the bun rather than in it. The chicken salad was just blah. The french fries were battered and terrible. Fries are my favorite food and I have to say, that these were one of worst. With all that being said, the food was anything but fresh and they think they are fooling people with their "grass fed" beef and "free range" chicken, but I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone. It's a tourist trap. An amazing location with less than mediocre food. Waste of a $90 lunch bill. Save your money and go somewhere else. And as a side note, the 16 yr boys that waited at that place were the most miserable unfriendly waite staff. Maybe they could try smiling and using their manners, may help the reviews for this place. Actually, no it wouldn't.
(1)Chris F.
Great view and in a cool location. Only problem was that we sat outside and trucks were dropping off old fish or something nearby and it smelled terrible. They had great clam chowder. If you are in the mood for some chowder than come here. Their special recipe has roasted corn in it. Very tasty. Also ordered their fish tacos. The tacos were okay. The fish was a bit thin and heavily breaded. The corn tortillas were actually pretty good but other than that they weren't anything special. Nothing fancy here but good for a quick stop to eat or drink at a cool location.
(3)Dave C.
The best thing about this restaurant is the view. The somewhat small deck has amazing views of the harbor that are tough to beat. However, the food is mediocre at best. Fried clams were just ok and served with lukewarm, stale tasting fries. The lobster mac n' cheese was soupy and in need of a makeover. Lastly, our server didn't seem very knowledgeable about the menu and was put off when we asked her to check the ingredients on a dish. Overall, this is a five star view with one star food and two star service.
(2)Edward R.
The Landing is a piece of Marblehead not to be missed. Located at the public landing in town, it is perfect for people watching and boat watching. The food is outstanding. An eclectic menu featuring many options and highlighted by locally-caught fish and sea food enhanced by a wine list one would expect only from a larger establishment. The lobster roll and swordfish club have become our particular favorites. The lobster mac and cheese is amazing, plenty of lobster, but be forewarned, it's a big dish and will fill you up! The service is also first rate and all of the staff are welcoming, efficient, and willing to find a way to let you sit on the deck even during peak season in the summer. Not to be missed!
(5)Richard C.
Remember in the Wizard of Oz when the Wizard said "Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain?" Well, the spectacular ocean view is Oz and the restaurant is the man behind the curtain! As long as you keep paying attention to the view, you'll enjoy your visit. The food is classic American fare from the 70's and 80's. The menu is large and could really, really use some serious updating. It's like the guest cast of the Love Boat: you fondly remember them, but enjoyed them more twenty years ago. I've found that if you stick to basic grill items (burgers, tips, ribs) you'll do OK. The regular Mac and cheese is fantastic as is the fried fish plates. Remember, you're here for some basic food and the view. Parking can be a big problem, as the lot is small and there's not much allocated street parking nearby. You're better off parking up a few blocks and walking down. Don't expect fine dining, modern touches, or light fare. Get ready to clog an artery with some golden oldies from decades past (this could be a step-sister to the Continental Restaurant). Grab a burger, have a beer, and enjoy the view! And work off your meal as you walk back to your car.
(3)Meizi H.
The service could be slow when they were busy. We ordered fried fish sandwich and Cajun chicken but the kitchen totally forgot the tix. We had to wait 45 min for our meals but manager came to apologize and offered free beers and chowder, which was nice. Both foods were tasty and I def would go back again!!
(3)Ryan W.
BRUNCH REVIEW: #1 This place is an excellent option if you don't feel like waiting in line at the Driftwood Cafe. I hate lines. #2. They have a waterside patio which is awesome. OK I'm done with #'s. I had the: The Landing "Biscuit Scramble": A large freshly baked buttermilk biscuit split and filled with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, maple sausage and bacon then topped with cheddar cheese sauce and scallions. Accompanied by cottage fries and fresh fruit. 12 It was pretty delicious, although not quite what I was expecting. I was expecting something a little more along the lines of biscuits and gravy (grew up on The Cracker Barrel...) and this was a little more like a biscuit and egg sandwich, which is actually what the description reads. Either way I endorse this dish if you are not on a diet or suffering pre-existing health conditions such as Heart Disease, Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure etc. My wife got the omelet du jour (omelet of the day), which was a vegetable omelet. It was pretty much your standard omelet. Nothing to get excited or mad about. Our waitress was on the ball and awesome. We could not have been more pleased with our service and her delightful attitude about service! The Landing is one of the better options for any kind of food in Marblehead.
(4)Aubyn K.
Good view, decent wine list and nice staff. And the chowder is good. But, here's where my praise ends. The food is just not good. Everything is fried and super dated. Can another Boston chef please come up here and rescue this town? We've got one good sit down restaurant...can we make it two? Please?
(3)Jow O.
2 stars is being generous. We came here over Labor Day Weekend. The restaurant was maybe 30-40% full for lunch. Service was TERRIBLE -1 star, waitress did not do a good job period. Feel bad bashing her but she was not good. Sorry. Table of 6 should not be rocket science to manage. And it took about 30 min till she even asked us if we wanted the check AFTER she cleared our plates.. Food was not that great for the price -1 star and some of our orders were incorrect. I didnt even change anything, It was just prepared wrong! location is the only thing keeping this place alive. +1 star for location I wanted to like this place, but I just cant.
(1)Phil B.
I love this place, especially Eric the bartender. Food is very good with a large but not overwhelming selection. Outdoor dining is superb and the pub is a great spot to have a beer and bite any night of the week.
(4)David S.
After spending a bit of time and effort to find a place to park, we headed in for a late dinner. (Alas, it was so dark by the time arrived that there was no ocean view to enjoy.) We were seated within three minutes and were attended to by Rory. Drinks appeared relatively quickly and the clam chowder soon followed though the bread lagged behind. Chowder was rich and creamy with a good number of clams. Bread was hot out the oven, crispy in the outside and soft on the inside--worth the wait. I then had thr sole français which smelled and tasted a bit too fishy; the egg coating was also a bit heavy so that as the dish cooled it became mushy. The accompalnying asparagus was moderately overcooked but the pilaf was fine. My sweetheart ordered ths grilled salmon, which appeared to be the better choice--cooked well and not fishy. The mashed potatoes and mixed veggies were reported to be "okay." Given the final bill, I am not sure if dinner is a good value: a bit too much for an unremarkable meal. Overall our dining experience was reasonable enough that we'd give the place another try, most probably for lunch when the fare is more basic, the prices are more reasonable, and the few can better appreciated.
(3)Chris P.
Got seated indoors on a relatively quiet Sunday afternoon. Wait staff seemed severely understaffed. Waited 15min and never got greeted or seen by the wait staff. Promptly left and walked to the Barnacle.
(1)Rebecca D.
We loved everything we ordered -- the french onion soup, lobster roll, prime rib special, oysters on the half shell, and cheesecake dessert. The wild mushroom crostini was just out of this world. The service was extraordinary - accommodating, super friendly, and knowledgable about the menu. A little pricey for my taste, but worth it for the occasion.
(4)Jeff L.
I always forget that it's best to stick to the basics when dining at the Landing. Burgers, nachos, fries, clam chowder, and sandwiches are done ok. Whenever I forget and try to order anything "tarted-up", I always regret it. This time I had the duck. Chef Ramsey would have blown a gasket and probably threw it out the window. It looked like a dog's dinner and the chef managed to BOTH overcook it AND keep it greasy. I tried to order it medium-rare and the waitress came back and said, "no one has ever ordered it medium-rare before. The chef cooks it medium. It came out medium-well.
(2)Lavender L.
The building is amazingly beautiful! The children's mac and cheese was very good, the clam chowder was brilliant, and the seafood casserole was good but not as much lobster as I would have liked but it was good. The clams where very fresh and tasted wonderfully! The homemade bread was warm, fresh, and lovely. The cheesecake was beautiful as well as delicious, but the chocolatini was just ok. The service was wonderful. I had a event earlier this week and the waitress named Windy ( who was an amazing server) gladly made me a special drink and wonderful evening. The bathrooms where clean and neat and there was salt scrub for your hands. Being a traveler you want to have a great experience everywhere that you go and The Landing gave me an experience and view that I will never forget. I do recommend this restaurant for family and friends as well as just single people; I would return here if I wasn't from out of town!!
(4)Greg K.
I give it 4 stars for their chowder, tap list and patience with my kids. I wish they'd pay more attention to the rest of the menu, but so long as you know what you're getting when you go there, it's a good spot.
(4)Karen C.
Sure you can book a function, just not in the Summer.. Totally ridiculous.. Before you make it like you can have a function there, state NOT IN THE SUMMER..
(1)Larry S.
We stayed in Marblehead at a local B&B and the recommended this place for its location. Yes, it has a view of the harbor but also the working parking lot where they offload lobster boats and have cranes to lift boats. Nice but not spectacular. I liked the fact the had heaters to enjoy the deck on the cooler days/nights but they really needed two more to make every seat at least a bit warmer. A big plus, very pleasant service staff. Go for a kick-back meal not a a top notch dining event. Don' be in rush.
(3)John S.
Love this place... The food is great and they have a nice beer selection. Service is always great. Be warned: parking is tough, especially in the winter but its worth it.
(5)Gay P.
I really hate writing a negative review, BUT....when it's deserved, I suppose it's best just to be honest so that others aren't disappointed. Ordered char-broiled swordfish well done. Got a salmon dinner. It went back. Waited minimally 3/4 of an hour, and finally, a swordfish dinner came out....no grill marks, appeared to be microwaved, raw in the center. RAW...not rare. Sent it back. Got a lobster roll....no seasoning....bland with lots of lettuce. Dessert seemed to be reheated from frozen. When I received a note about not using my loyally card, I wrote back the above to the owner. Did you hear from him? Neither did I. If I owned a restaurant, I'd rush to correct the slight....damage control, if nothing else. So I guess the loyalty card should be fed to the shredder.
(1)Misty S.
I can't believe today was the first time I've been to the landing! Hubby and I had the day off and it was beautiful out and we wanted somewhere different (read not in Salem) and on the water so we decided to go here. The deck is adorable, and I loved watching the fishing boats coming in. They have a decent selection of beers on tap including a few locals (Ipswich, Long trail). For lunch, I got a sandwich called the "Big Kahuna'. It was a seafood burger- Scallops, lobster and shrimp, breaded and seared on a bun. it came with a fresh pickle (yum) and seasoned fries. Hubby got a turkey club wrap. He said that it was one of the best he's ever had because they added pesto. Nice way to spend the afternoon!
(3)Mindy L.
Update: I have now had dinner here 3x (we can't stop coming back). I had the Tuna Piccata (delicious) and the Seafood Festival (awesome). They brought out Key Lime Pie with a candle for my birthday. Our waiter looked a little like Zac Efron and carded me on my 32nd birthday...he gets props for both those things. The Key Lime Pie was tart and refreshing. They also have mug clubs for beer and wine and also a Dark'n'Stormy club (drink 8 - please not all at once - and get 1 free). OR you can join the Captain's Club and get bigger pours on all the aforementioned drinks! The Pub pro-rates the entrance fee so you can get in for basically half the cost for the rest of the year. Cha-ching!
(4)Star C.
Had my birthday dinner here. Calamari was awful...fishy and under-fried. Mussels were awful and not fresh. Steak tips on Caesar was like spicy over cooked leather on lettuce even though they were ordered medium. My surprise birthday dessert, an old stale biscuit sliced in half and squirted with whipped cream and a few slices of strawberries in flavored corn syrup. Water glasses were never filled. Tons of bus boys working but standing in a corner chatting so you had to flag them down for every little thing. Terrible birthday dinner. Rory tried to make it festive but couldn't save the night.
(1)Tykie M.
This restaurant sits right on the water. The view is beautiful. The scallions/ bacon appetizer is to die for. I ordered the stuffed fillet - it was close to perfection. The steak was cooked perfectly but the lobster tail was a little rubbery. Because the steak was so good I really didn't care. The wait staff is very attentive and polite. I ate out almost every night while on vacation and in my opinion The Landing was the best. They also have a bar in a separate room. It was clean with a pleasant atmosphere. The drinks and company were lovely.
(5)Martha K.
The fish chowder was wonderful. I wish I stopped there but the seafood festival was over cooked and under seasoned. The lobster basilico was swimming in some heavy white sauce with pasta that was overcooked. I won't be back.
(2)Ani C.
2.5 Stars in reality... I came here while visiting Boston on the drive to Salem. Hotel recommended them. We looked around the town for other options (which was a very cute lil town!) but it was SO COLD- and everything was closed! I'm from California, 30 degrees and rain is cold! So, we just settled on The Landing! It was empty... usually a bad sign. But not terrible Decor is shabby chic (a euphemism for old) Time warp into the '80s. Think banquet chairs. Nice view. The bathroom did have a great scrub- plus 1 star! The award winning Chowda was really very good. Probably the best I had while in Boston. Service was attentive and friendly too-although it was empty inside. My Lobsta roll (gotta say with a Boston accent) was ok. $2 extra for no mayo- odd. BF's food was good. Not fabulous, but good. In all, I think I just have a really refined palette coming from a foodie town like San Francisco- not to sound arrogant. But we eat great seafood all the time. So, I wasn't impressed with the baked clams casino (very Diner-ish to me) But the chowda was good! I'm sure its touristy, but I was a tourist...
(3)Amy H.
My experience was more like a two-parter, one a 4 star experience and the other a 2 star experience. When we first arrived, we sat in the restaurant and enjoyed the nice view. Our server was so friendly and the pierogies were amazing. We then transitioned to the pub, where the service was far less attentive. It averaged out to a 3-star experience, which just goes to show how much service influences your opinion of a restaurant.
(3)Kristine C.
We wanted to get out of jam packed Salem for a nice dinner so we headed to Marblehead and stumbled upon The Landing. We are so glad we did. Although it is Oct it was a beautiful night and we were offered the outdoor area where they had the big heat lanterns on (which we didnt even need) The view was gorgeous on the water. Rory, our server, was spectacular. He was always right on top of things and had a wonderful sense of humor. Our food was delicious. Scallops wrapped in bacon with a maple glaze...so good. My husband had the prime rib, cooked to perfection piled high with mushrooms and onions ($2 extra) I had the Sole Franchaise over a very flavorful rice with tender asparagus, delicious. The bar makes a mean dirty martini and our cheesecake and key lime pie....the perfect ending to our great meal. Next time I am in town I will re-visit this great find. Not to be missed!!
(5)Fred M.
With all the boats, sail and fishing, coming & going, makes this a 10 for relaxing and enjoying dinner. My fried clams were real fresh Ipswich clams, cooked perfect! It was their Special for the day. The view and salt air made it all good! It's hard to find clams this good anywhere in NE!
(4)S H.
Went here today with my 2 kids & Hubby. I had the lobster roll and it was very good! Not too much mayo and seasoned perfectly. My hubby had the fish cakes, I had a bite of that and it was very good. My son said this was the best Mac & cheese he has ever had! My daughter had the lobster Mac & cheese and she said it was really good! Both Mac & cheese dishes were very good size portions, which neither one finished. Great view of the harbor and sails coming and going. We had a great time!!
(4)Dosia S.
The Landing does have pretty yummy food, so I was on the border between three and four stars. I have tried many different dishes here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and I am usually satisfied, for the most part. Service is fine, but have never had any memorable interactions with any of the staff. My last time at this location was yesterday-I came in with one other person and while they were greeted by the hostess (in the extremely short skirt! A little much for such a classy place), I was not acknowledged whatsoever. I have worked in this type of business and acknowledge the importance of greeting every customer individually and if you do not even look at one person in the party at all, well, they are not going to feel very happy about being there from the get-go. Besides that, our waiter was very friendly with the biggest smile on his face at all times! *The only complaint that I had about my experience was the overly seasoned dish of "award winning" clam chowder. Had the soup's main ingredient not been pepper, I would have probably given the soup itself five stars, as I recognize the other ingredients' combination was delicious. However, the entire bowl of soup was speckled with dots of pepper so that there were dozens in one spoonful. No, I am not exaggerating, as the couple we befriended sitting next to us, there for their anniversary, shared the same dish and opinion as us. It was a bizarre recipe, or a mistake by the kitchen; I will never know, but I do not plan on finding out a second time. (Plenty of other things to choose from on the menu!)
(3)J A.
I live in Marblehead and haven't eaten in the front restaurant in several years. Stick to the bar area usually. I was at a fun raiser for Care Dimensions (formerly North Shore Hospice) tonight. It was a great event with great service provided by The Landing. I ordered the scallops provencal. The scallops were fresh and cooked well but I have to say everything else was pretty pedestrian. The tomato and basil (pesto) was more like a salsa. The tomatoes were your winter variety white with no flavor. The sides were plain brown rice and steamed yellow squash, zucchini and carrots. Like I said pretty pedestrian. I felt like I was out to dinner with my parents 40 years ago. I thought the interior is getting pretty tired looking. For a waterfront restaurant I always thought they should do a complete makeover and put the bar near the water with tables around it. I've always loved the bar side at the Landing and I'll look to put in a review next time I eat over there.
(2)Jill M.
My boyfriend and I stayed in Marblehead last weekend and loved this place! We came here out first night and ate inside. I had the swordfish and he had the lobster basilica, both were delicious! My boyfriend had the cheesecake which I snuck a few bites of because it was just that good. We came here again for brunch before heading back to NYC and it was great. It was a nice day so we sat outside, it's right on the water and the view is beautiful. If I ever travel to Marblehead again I will definitely be eating here!
(4)Alan N.
Clam chowder with corn maybe the best. Ever. Yes, I go back just for that. Excellent crab cakes too. Margaritas so-so.
(4)Emma M.
We waited 30 mins before our waitress came to take our order. The restaurant was fairly busy but they seemed to have plenty of staff about 4 waiters and 3 bussers so I'm not sure what the problem was. The chowder was gelatinous and the lobster salad did not taste fresh. The food was also a bit overpriced considering the quality.
(2)Henry K.
Sit inside. The gasoline smell from the boat fuel station is horrible when you're eating. Mac and Cheese was really good! The calamari appetizer, not so much. The Cajun chicken was not bad at all. Perfect amount of marinade and flavor
(3)Crystal B.
I can't get enough of The Landing. I go at least once a week. Lunch, Dinner, the Pub, all awesome. Every staff member I have spoken to has been wonderful. The burgers are delicious, the fish and chips are as well. Two words: Peddler Fries. YUM! Don't forget the Cheesecake. I am so in love with this place.
(5)Alicia B.
From the perspective of a charming 3 year-old beauty: I like The Landing because of... + Daddy! took me out to lunch here + Daddy! ordered me a mixed juice - cran w/ orange + A friendly lady brought me crayons + I got a fun activity sheet to color on + Daddy! helped me count the lobsters on the activity sheet + Daddy! ordered me chicken fingers and french fries + The cook fired up the fryer fast for my hungry belly + I got a plate full of food served minutes after Daddy! ordered + I had plenty of ketchup for my fries, thanks to Daddy's GF + I discovered crayons roll easily off the table and make me laugh + Daddy! gave me the receipt to write on and keep + I wrote on the receipt with a pen! + We got a double-bagged doggy bag for me to help carry + I had plenty of left overs for dinner + We were a short walk to the park, where I love to play and climb rocks!
(4)Sean S.
We ate in the "pub" side of the restaurant. Great clam chowder. BEWARE: some of the picky eaters in the group may not like that it includes corn, but I asked a particularly picky eater if he noticed the ingredients and he said "no" (if he had known it included corn he probably would not have ordered), but said it tasted great and was glad he didn't know ahead of time.
(4)Tim R.
Great (5 stars each): Being on the water, the outdoor seating, the hostess(es), wait staff and manager. Good (3 stars): The clam chowder. Bad (0 stars): The meal I ordered. I'm not a regular at The Landing--I've been just once. But my food was so bad and so expensive, that I felt I had to write a review. Entering the dining room, I was greeted by three very lovely, friendly and kind hostesses. Our waiter was right on top of everything throughout the meal. The manager made sure we were warm and comfortable out on the dining deck on a cool, late spring night. If I had read the Yelp reviews, I'd have ordered the chowder and mac 'n' cheese and probably been pretty happy. Instead, I was in the mood for a fine dinner so I went for the night's special; a $25 entree of grilled tuna steak which I ordered very rare. What I got was an old, pale, dry tuna steak that was over cooked, gristly and completely lacking seasoning, served over a tiny serving of wild rice with a bay leaf along for the ride. It was as if the dinner went straight from the Sysco truck to the plate. Just awful and I felt like I had been robbed like a tourist. I'll go again -- for the location, outdoor seating, very lovely hostesses, terrific wait staff, thoughtful managers, and the chowder and mac 'n' cheese.
(2)Betty P.
We use this place a lot for our client luncheons when they do Marblehead tours. My staff always write and tell me about the awesome clam chowder here so roomie and I finally had to try it for ourselves. On a recent trip, Rory our waiter, the hostess, and Angela the events person were all super friendly. (The GM, Robert, is also so easy to deal with when we plan functions.) This is the type of place where you have to know what to order. I would def recommend the chowdah as it is the best I have ever had. The calamari and fried clams had the same batter and were okay. The clams were bigger than others I have sampled elsewhere but the breading could use some improvement. But the staff were so nice that when I told them who I was, they comp'd all of our alcoholic bevs and apps! Even before I told them my company uses the restaurant for functions, everybody was eager to find us the best seat at the house. The pub seemed lively and I bet this place is happening in the summer. I like that this place is equally welcoming to locals and tourists, and they also are active in community events and fundraisers. Def. head up north and give it a try. In the summer, the patio is a nice spot to sit!
(4)Nish N.
The Landing seems to be that place in Marblehead where both tourists and locals mix pretty easily. There is plenty of room in the Pub for a lite meal or beer, and the restaurant section has a nice outdoor patio for overlooking the water. Their lobster roll is done just right, with the right amount of mayo, buttered hot dog roll and all. The fries were only ok.
(4)Keith A.
Stopped in for a quick bite before a show at the Me & Thee. The service was pleasant and efficient, and the soups (French onion and seafood chowder) were good. But for a supposed seafood restaurant, and a pricey one at that, the crab cakes and calamari were inexcusably flavorless.
(2)Kylie H.
My NEW FAVORITE place!!!! My first experience here was magical. My fiance's father had been here awhile ago and we just moved to Beverly. He recommended that the entire fam come here for lunch one Sunday afternoon. The overall experience was excellent, even though we couldn't dine outside. I got the shepard's pie, which was cooked perfectly. The french fries here are great and our little one ordered a grilled cheese that was made on sourdough with chedder. Absolutely delicious... A few weeks later my fiance and I came here for a "romantic" dinner and we ate outside. The night was beautiful and a CELEBRITY was actually eating at the table next to us!!!! I feel uncomfortable saying who he is (I'm sure he comes here a lot), but he has been in a series of television shows and movies. I ordered the filet mignon and it was delicious... we also had the bruschetta, which was also amazing! A week later I brought my mother and grandmother here for lunch (they are from Western Mass). We ate outside sipped on mimosas. I ordered the caesar wrap, which was none the less also delicious. However, my mother ordered the mac and cheese and it was the best I've ever had. Four cheeses and zuchinni and squash on top. Large portions I ate her left overs for a day! This place is really great overall.
(5)Aboud Y.
Really a shame. The location is beautiful but both the food and service were bad, bad, bad. Go elsewhere.
(2)Melanie F.
i had french onion soup, it was awesome!!! i should of have another bowl. then i ordered a southwestern burger, ordered rare. it was definitely rare. it had fresh guacamole, and the fries that came with it were outstanding, i wish i had a whole plate of those. it was delicious, i look forward to having a brunch meal there sometime. the setting is beautiful. the service was good, he never kept us waiting. we had four very young children with us, and he was very accommodating. every other adult i was with was also equally as happy with what they ordered.
(4)David S.
Nothing fancy here, but really, really solid food with a wonderful view from the deck. Had the best prepared haddock on our entire MA trip here at the Landing. Service was very smooth and friendly. The atmosphere, primarily sailing enthusiasts, is relaxed and fun. Finding this place, if you're an out of towner, requires GPS. But finding it is well worth the effort.
(4)Rebecca S.
The food here is usually pretty good- and you usually get a nice portion for your money. The traditionally baked cod/scrod is the best I have had. I am a big fan of their ceasar salad. Their cocktails are actually amazing... We had the artini...complex and yummy! Make sure to check out their pub next to the dining hall. Usually a little cheaper to eat on that side. Wednesdays is trivia night and a raffle. Really cute and really Marblehead. We really enjoyed ourselves last Wednesday night and are excited to make it a tradition. *overall always a positive experience. Food is good, drinks are really good and everyone is friendly.
(4)Kevin B.
Like a lot of Marblehead, it could use some serious updating (how about really taking advantage of that waterfront?) but food is good and a good selection of beer.
(3)Adam B.
Decent food. Really good desserts. View is beautiful. Staff was friendly and inviting.
(3)Tim P.
We are semi-regular at this place, we visit the Landing probably once a month and when weather allows we try to be on the deck. It is a nice place, the prices are reasonable and we like the menu choices. The chef tries to experiment so the menu changes quite often, which is one of the reasons we liked the restaurant in the first place. Our favorites include Mussels marseillaise, baked Scrod and, when available, Lobster Casserole. The kids like mac and cheese which is quite good (as an earlier reviewer mentioned). Your waiter will suggest the daily special which is typically more expensive than the regular choices but we have rarely been disappointed. The parking and the wait could be an issue, particularly on more popular nights. 4/5, recommended.
(4)sarah s.
2.5 stars, actually. This place is right on the water, and even though I went in March, the view was still beautiful. This place is super-casual, and looked like locals frequented it. I had the lobster roll, which was good, had some nice chunks of lobster in it- wasn't all a shredded mess. Although I think the Black Dog in the Vineyard has the best lobster roll I've ever tasted (although I'm not a New Englander, so I'm no expert!). I digress. Anyway, my hubby had the fried Ipswich clams, which he said were ok. All fried things kind of taste alike. The kicker- he came down with violent food poisoning a few hours later! That was all we had eaten that day, so we know the Landing was the culprit. And hello, clams are notorious for food poisoning. I called the restaurant later to report it, and the manager was very nice and stated that it was probably the clams because in their off-season, some of their items don't "move as quickly and may have been sitting around." I know mistakes happen, and the manager was very nice, but hello, if you're a seafood restaurant you should be serving the freshest items possible, off-season or not! And you should be extra-vigilant serving seafood. Now, like I said, accidents happen and I don't want to vilify the Landing- this could have happened anywhere. But everything was just average-that, coupled with my husband's experience, mean I probably wouldn't frequent this place again.
(2)Charoline D.
This place is known for one thing, and one thing alone in my book. The macaroni and cheese. Baked in a cast iron skillet, topped with breadcrumbs and fresh steamed vegetables, it doesn't get much better than this. I like it best when it's greenbeans. You can also order Dark & Stormy's here to your heart's content as they actually carry ginger beer and Goslings Bermuda Black Seal Rum. I wound up here while assisting some friends with a Snowboarding promo and we were subject to free food. All else I tried failed to satisfy.The clientele in this place is not really my bag. Mostly preppy locals in their boat shoes and Dockers, I've also heard tell of it being a Swinger's Bar. I'm not sure how accurate it is, but I'm sure in a town as small as Marblehead, you're probably all dating each other anyways. I don't even mean that in a crass way, I mean it in a "I used to live in a fairly small town before and felt like I had met everyone in the tri-county area kinda-way" We typically sit at the bar, staff is VERY friendly, but not always terribly attentive. Expect to meet the yacht club crowd here.
(3)Ali K.
Ahh the Landing in wonderful Marblehead, i don't know if i'm being biased because it was my first time visiting but i thought this place was pretty good. Right out near the water with a view of the harbor and some out door seating and the fresh smell of seafood ahh what's not to love. Went here with my girlfriend to meet up with two of her really good friends and were wonderfully helped out by the staff on both the restaurant and the bar side while we were waiting. Nice small cozy hometown feel of a place, only gripe i had was after we started talking we were ignored by the staff, we had to wait forever to get an order in, i understand your busy but we were there before many people showed up, but no worries. The girls seemed to enjoy there meals and i ordered the Mussels Marseille which i shared with my girlfriend and they were pretty good, got to love the white wine sauce. My gf's Amaretto Sour drink was pretty damn good to. Decently priced, good seafood, nice ambiance and right on the harbor, what's not the love about his place.
(5)Mike K.
Fairly new in town but go to the Landing somewhat frequently since it is one of a few places on the water to eat in town. The food is average. They try to be fancy and generally screw it up. If you stick with something simple you will be ok (can be said about most places in town). Went for brunch yesterday. Why not have some basic breakfast plates? I ordered french toast with all the extra fancy things on the side (fruit and chocolate). Good thing because the fruit wasn't very appealing. Paid $10 for 3 pieces of french toast. Very disappointing. Have a drink at the bar and order the clam chowder, fish sandwich and you will be pleased. The bar is done well, a drinker's bar! Lots of good beers on tap.
(2)all seeing E.
I have been to the Landing twice and each time was a good experience. I would reccomend this palce to anyone. The food has been great both times the service was good and the view FANTASTIC. I wish they had a larger parking area but it is Marblehead so parking is really hit or miss. I would like to be there on a day when I could sit on the patio. I will go back next time I am in Marblehead.
(5)Whit B.
We live in the neighborhood and are not fond of the Landing. We have eaten there a few times and have not been impressed. I'd like to say that they have a decent tavern menu, but they don't. The quality of the food is sub-par, especially gien their prices. I'd have to say that this place qualifies as a tourist trap. Even though it is on the waterfront, the view is nothing to write home about.
(2)John V.
You have 2 choices when entering The Landing, either the nice restaurant area, or the Pub area. (or the deck so I guess it's 3 depending on the time of year) I recommend the Pub. You can get the same food, just in a more relaxed atmosphere. There is nothing outstanding about the food here, it's good. but not amazing. The place has a nice view of the Harbor and great service. The Pub has plenty of TVs and they always have sports on. It is a little pricey, but what isn't in Marblehead? I used to live here, so I know what to expect, now that I come and visit frequently, I usually eat here and enjoy myself, however I've had better Pub food in my time. I recommend the Fish Fry and the mussels, and the Guinness (for some reason) just seems to taste the closer you get to Ireland.
(3)S O.
We drove up from Boston with a friend visiting form out of town in search of a great seafood meal with a water view. The food flavor and prep was disappointing. My husband and I shared a clam chowder which was dominated by cream, we could not taste the clam and other ingredients. For entree, I ordered the Lobster Basilica which was way too heavy, and the lobster was overcooked. I just felt nauseous with every bite, and had to end my meal halfway. My husband ordered the sole, and the batter was mushy and tasteless. Our friend ordered the red snapper which was also overcooked. The serviceperson was very unnatural and rehearsed although she did her best for a busy Saturday night. Were it not for the waterview, the Landing would not be much to speak of. Not to mention my husband had a terrible stomach ache as soon as we got home. Try somewhere else especially if you have a guest with you!
(1)Allison L.
great place to hang with your friend on a sunny day ..... who would wanna sit inside??!!! go for the patio!
(4)Thomas N.
Nice place with water views and outside seating which some folks did try out today after the sun came out....the food was ok, my lamb burger was very good, the fried clams were tasty but some were way to chewy, the calamari was ok but looked like it came from frozen....drinks were good but smallish....there is a pub in the front, away from the water that looked interesting, service was friendly.....ok place.
(3)Gillian L.
New to Marblehead and spent the last weekend trying to get a feel for the local culinary scene. My boyfriend and I visited the Landing on Sunday night and sat at the bar. Food was good, good beer selection but the bartender was a jerk. He ignored us for the majority of the evening- too busy talking to the regulars and acted like a jerk when we tried to get our check. Cool place with a unique feel to it but the bartenders' attitude left us with a bad taste in our mouth. Think the Barnacle will be our go-to-spot from here on out.
(2)Russ P.
My wife and went here the other night for a drink and some apps. This was not our first time here and it was about what we expected. It was really just ok. We really came for the view and a chance to sit outside on a beautiful night. I'll say that the service we had was very good and very efficient. That is always appreciated. We had cocktails that were good, but nothing great. We shred two apps and a salad. The escargot was good until my last one. That one had some serious grit to it. Yuck. We also had the mussels and they were good, but the broth was a little bland. The best thing was the caesar salad with fried calamari. In a town with lots of great restaurants there are better choices, but if you want nice outside setting on the harbor, then this place is good. Just don't expect amazing food.
(2)Mike B.
Inspired views ... with uninspired food. I've been here a number of times -- I worked in Marblehead for a few years, so this was one of the few go-to lunch places -- and the food simply isn't that good. I want it to be, because the views are so good and the people are nice, but it's just not happening. My wife and I ate at The Landing today to cap off a trip down memory lane (she used to work up there, too) and started with the fried calamari. Bland, tasteless, flabby. Blech. For entrees, we went with scrod and scallops, two of our favorites, but spent most of the time scraping off the over-seasoned bread crumbs. When we finally go to the seafood, it wasn't worth the effort. It was cooked well, but there wasn't much taste. (I mean, the restaurant is on the ocean. I can see the waves while I eat. Where's the fresh taste?) Again, the service was good and the views are really gorgeous, but unfortunately that's where the good news stops. If you're in search of delicious food in Marblehead, keep searching. Don't land on The Landing.
(2)shelby o.
If you want a warm reception and helpful hostesses, go elsewhere... In fact you may even be dissuaded from attempting to eat here and therefore, never have a chance to actually experience the restaurant. While it's true My husband and I often opt for more foodie locales with a higher price tag- I am not sure that are expectations are actually insurmountably high. So, in an effort to demonstrate our optimism, We headed to the pub where we also struggled To get served despite table service. My husband headed to the bar and bought us drinks. After one drink, and after the 5pm hour, my husband checked in on our wait list status (it's important to note that we were put on the wait list as the sole members because we were told that being retrieved from the bar could not be counted on and we should actually attempt to make our way back to Check), of course when he did, he was met with bewilderment and needed to remind the hostess of who he was and what he was looking for (this was 20 minutes later). He was redirected to the pub to wait. We then relinquished our patio wishes and began the ordeal of ordering from the pub and establishing a relationship with table service (which prior to this was not successful). When we did get her attention, she was quite nice- a welcome departure from our hostesses. One thing I will say was that the homemade potato chips were pretty good... After an hour at the bar, the unthinkable happened (truly we had given up based on the hostess service)- we were called from The bar to a table, but at that point- we cut our losses and left shortly thereafter to go out for dinner...
(1)s g.
Amazing food (clam chowder with roasted corn, swordfish), service and location. The water side table during a sunset accompanied by the excellent food and service will make sure we come back next time in town. Highly recommended!
(5)Gabrielle B.
If I could give negative stars I would. We traveled from boston bc we were looking for a restaurant with a view and great seafood. We asked to be seated outside and they said we could wait for one with shade, so we waited 15 mins for a seat and they sat my husband in the shade and I just got scorched by the sun. It was less than enjoyable. So we asked to move to a seat with shade and they said it was going to be taken so we said it was ok. Meanwhile there was another open table that was empty, in the shade, and they didn't move us. We waited until we couldn't bear it anymore and went inside. As far as the food, we ordered chowder and oysters for apps. The chowder was pretty good, the oysters on the other hand were not edible. They were disgusting. Barely any meat, ripped apart and just a waste of our money. We also ordered a lobster roll and chicken salad. Lobster roll was ok. Too much mayo and not enough flavor. It was so messy and just placed on top of the bun rather than in it. The chicken salad was just blah. The french fries were battered and terrible. Fries are my favorite food and I have to say, that these were one of worst. With all that being said, the food was anything but fresh and they think they are fooling people with their "grass fed" beef and "free range" chicken, but I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone. It's a tourist trap. An amazing location with less than mediocre food. Waste of a $90 lunch bill. Save your money and go somewhere else. And as a side note, the 16 yr boys that waited at that place were the most miserable unfriendly waite staff. Maybe they could try smiling and using their manners, may help the reviews for this place. Actually, no it wouldn't.
(1)Chris F.
Great view and in a cool location. Only problem was that we sat outside and trucks were dropping off old fish or something nearby and it smelled terrible. They had great clam chowder. If you are in the mood for some chowder than come here. Their special recipe has roasted corn in it. Very tasty. Also ordered their fish tacos. The tacos were okay. The fish was a bit thin and heavily breaded. The corn tortillas were actually pretty good but other than that they weren't anything special. Nothing fancy here but good for a quick stop to eat or drink at a cool location.
(3)Dave C.
The best thing about this restaurant is the view. The somewhat small deck has amazing views of the harbor that are tough to beat. However, the food is mediocre at best. Fried clams were just ok and served with lukewarm, stale tasting fries. The lobster mac n' cheese was soupy and in need of a makeover. Lastly, our server didn't seem very knowledgeable about the menu and was put off when we asked her to check the ingredients on a dish. Overall, this is a five star view with one star food and two star service.
(2)Edward R.
The Landing is a piece of Marblehead not to be missed. Located at the public landing in town, it is perfect for people watching and boat watching. The food is outstanding. An eclectic menu featuring many options and highlighted by locally-caught fish and sea food enhanced by a wine list one would expect only from a larger establishment. The lobster roll and swordfish club have become our particular favorites. The lobster mac and cheese is amazing, plenty of lobster, but be forewarned, it's a big dish and will fill you up! The service is also first rate and all of the staff are welcoming, efficient, and willing to find a way to let you sit on the deck even during peak season in the summer. Not to be missed!
(5)Richard C.
Remember in the Wizard of Oz when the Wizard said "Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain?" Well, the spectacular ocean view is Oz and the restaurant is the man behind the curtain! As long as you keep paying attention to the view, you'll enjoy your visit. The food is classic American fare from the 70's and 80's. The menu is large and could really, really use some serious updating. It's like the guest cast of the Love Boat: you fondly remember them, but enjoyed them more twenty years ago. I've found that if you stick to basic grill items (burgers, tips, ribs) you'll do OK. The regular Mac and cheese is fantastic as is the fried fish plates. Remember, you're here for some basic food and the view. Parking can be a big problem, as the lot is small and there's not much allocated street parking nearby. You're better off parking up a few blocks and walking down. Don't expect fine dining, modern touches, or light fare. Get ready to clog an artery with some golden oldies from decades past (this could be a step-sister to the Continental Restaurant). Grab a burger, have a beer, and enjoy the view! And work off your meal as you walk back to your car.
(3)Meizi H.
The service could be slow when they were busy. We ordered fried fish sandwich and Cajun chicken but the kitchen totally forgot the tix. We had to wait 45 min for our meals but manager came to apologize and offered free beers and chowder, which was nice. Both foods were tasty and I def would go back again!!
(3)Phil B.
I love this place, especially Eric the bartender. Food is very good with a large but not overwhelming selection. Outdoor dining is superb and the pub is a great spot to have a beer and bite any night of the week.
(4)Ryan W.
BRUNCH REVIEW: #1 This place is an excellent option if you don't feel like waiting in line at the Driftwood Cafe. I hate lines. #2. They have a waterside patio which is awesome. OK I'm done with #'s. I had the: The Landing "Biscuit Scramble": A large freshly baked buttermilk biscuit split and filled with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, maple sausage and bacon then topped with cheddar cheese sauce and scallions. Accompanied by cottage fries and fresh fruit. 12 It was pretty delicious, although not quite what I was expecting. I was expecting something a little more along the lines of biscuits and gravy (grew up on The Cracker Barrel...) and this was a little more like a biscuit and egg sandwich, which is actually what the description reads. Either way I endorse this dish if you are not on a diet or suffering pre-existing health conditions such as Heart Disease, Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure etc. My wife got the omelet du jour (omelet of the day), which was a vegetable omelet. It was pretty much your standard omelet. Nothing to get excited or mad about. Our waitress was on the ball and awesome. We could not have been more pleased with our service and her delightful attitude about service! The Landing is one of the better options for any kind of food in Marblehead.
(4)Aubyn K.
Good view, decent wine list and nice staff. And the chowder is good. But, here's where my praise ends. The food is just not good. Everything is fried and super dated. Can another Boston chef please come up here and rescue this town? We've got one good sit down restaurant...can we make it two? Please?
(3)Rafi S.
So, some restaurants just give you awesome food and ok service. My server understood that a restaurant isn't just selling food, but a full experience. I received regular, but not overbearing attention and got the sense that they knew the menu well. As for the food, I had the baked haddock, and truthfully, I haven't had fish that well cooked in a while. It was the type of meal that makes you want to take small bites and take the time to taste all the flavors. I'd come back here in a heartbeat.
(5)Susan K.
The food was excellent, but what made my first (but certainly not last) dinner here so amazing were 1) the lovely harbor views from deck (with very effective overhead heaters as it was a chilly night) and 2) the amazing service. I am recovering from shoulder surgery so only can use one hand. Instead of having to forego the lobster I really wanted, the server dismantled it for me with equal parts kindness and humor. Delicious food, lovely harbor view, and the kindness of strangers made this an evening I'll not forget.
(5)Jow O.
2 stars is being generous. We came here over Labor Day Weekend. The restaurant was maybe 30-40% full for lunch. Service was TERRIBLE -1 star, waitress did not do a good job period. Feel bad bashing her but she was not good. Sorry. Table of 6 should not be rocket science to manage. And it took about 30 min till she even asked us if we wanted the check AFTER she cleared our plates.. Food was not that great for the price -1 star and some of our orders were incorrect. I didnt even change anything, It was just prepared wrong! location is the only thing keeping this place alive. +1 star for location I wanted to like this place, but I just cant.
(1)David S.
After spending a bit of time and effort to find a place to park, we headed in for a late dinner. (Alas, it was so dark by the time arrived that there was no ocean view to enjoy.) We were seated within three minutes and were attended to by Rory. Drinks appeared relatively quickly and the clam chowder soon followed though the bread lagged behind. Chowder was rich and creamy with a good number of clams. Bread was hot out the oven, crispy in the outside and soft on the inside--worth the wait. I then had thr sole français which smelled and tasted a bit too fishy; the egg coating was also a bit heavy so that as the dish cooled it became mushy. The accompalnying asparagus was moderately overcooked but the pilaf was fine. My sweetheart ordered ths grilled salmon, which appeared to be the better choice--cooked well and not fishy. The mashed potatoes and mixed veggies were reported to be "okay." Given the final bill, I am not sure if dinner is a good value: a bit too much for an unremarkable meal. Overall our dining experience was reasonable enough that we'd give the place another try, most probably for lunch when the fare is more basic, the prices are more reasonable, and the few can better appreciated.
(3)Chris P.
Got seated indoors on a relatively quiet Sunday afternoon. Wait staff seemed severely understaffed. Waited 15min and never got greeted or seen by the wait staff. Promptly left and walked to the Barnacle.
(1)Rebecca D.
We loved everything we ordered -- the french onion soup, lobster roll, prime rib special, oysters on the half shell, and cheesecake dessert. The wild mushroom crostini was just out of this world. The service was extraordinary - accommodating, super friendly, and knowledgable about the menu. A little pricey for my taste, but worth it for the occasion.
(4)Lavender L.
The building is amazingly beautiful! The children's mac and cheese was very good, the clam chowder was brilliant, and the seafood casserole was good but not as much lobster as I would have liked but it was good. The clams where very fresh and tasted wonderfully! The homemade bread was warm, fresh, and lovely. The cheesecake was beautiful as well as delicious, but the chocolatini was just ok. The service was wonderful. I had a event earlier this week and the waitress named Windy ( who was an amazing server) gladly made me a special drink and wonderful evening. The bathrooms where clean and neat and there was salt scrub for your hands. Being a traveler you want to have a great experience everywhere that you go and The Landing gave me an experience and view that I will never forget. I do recommend this restaurant for family and friends as well as just single people; I would return here if I wasn't from out of town!!
(4)Greg K.
I give it 4 stars for their chowder, tap list and patience with my kids. I wish they'd pay more attention to the rest of the menu, but so long as you know what you're getting when you go there, it's a good spot.
(4)Karen C.
Sure you can book a function, just not in the Summer.. Totally ridiculous.. Before you make it like you can have a function there, state NOT IN THE SUMMER..
(1)Larry S.
We stayed in Marblehead at a local B&B and the recommended this place for its location. Yes, it has a view of the harbor but also the working parking lot where they offload lobster boats and have cranes to lift boats. Nice but not spectacular. I liked the fact the had heaters to enjoy the deck on the cooler days/nights but they really needed two more to make every seat at least a bit warmer. A big plus, very pleasant service staff. Go for a kick-back meal not a a top notch dining event. Don' be in rush.
(3)John S.
Love this place... The food is great and they have a nice beer selection. Service is always great. Be warned: parking is tough, especially in the winter but its worth it.
(5)Gay P.
I really hate writing a negative review, BUT....when it's deserved, I suppose it's best just to be honest so that others aren't disappointed. Ordered char-broiled swordfish well done. Got a salmon dinner. It went back. Waited minimally 3/4 of an hour, and finally, a swordfish dinner came out....no grill marks, appeared to be microwaved, raw in the center. RAW...not rare. Sent it back. Got a lobster roll....no seasoning....bland with lots of lettuce. Dessert seemed to be reheated from frozen. When I received a note about not using my loyally card, I wrote back the above to the owner. Did you hear from him? Neither did I. If I owned a restaurant, I'd rush to correct the slight....damage control, if nothing else. So I guess the loyalty card should be fed to the shredder.
(1)Jeff L.
I always forget that it's best to stick to the basics when dining at the Landing. Burgers, nachos, fries, clam chowder, and sandwiches are done ok. Whenever I forget and try to order anything "tarted-up", I always regret it. This time I had the duck. Chef Ramsey would have blown a gasket and probably threw it out the window. It looked like a dog's dinner and the chef managed to BOTH overcook it AND keep it greasy. I tried to order it medium-rare and the waitress came back and said, "no one has ever ordered it medium-rare before. The chef cooks it medium. It came out medium-well.
(2)Misty S.
I can't believe today was the first time I've been to the landing! Hubby and I had the day off and it was beautiful out and we wanted somewhere different (read not in Salem) and on the water so we decided to go here. The deck is adorable, and I loved watching the fishing boats coming in. They have a decent selection of beers on tap including a few locals (Ipswich, Long trail). For lunch, I got a sandwich called the "Big Kahuna'. It was a seafood burger- Scallops, lobster and shrimp, breaded and seared on a bun. it came with a fresh pickle (yum) and seasoned fries. Hubby got a turkey club wrap. He said that it was one of the best he's ever had because they added pesto. Nice way to spend the afternoon!
(3)Mindy L.
Update: I have now had dinner here 3x (we can't stop coming back). I had the Tuna Piccata (delicious) and the Seafood Festival (awesome). They brought out Key Lime Pie with a candle for my birthday. Our waiter looked a little like Zac Efron and carded me on my 32nd birthday...he gets props for both those things. The Key Lime Pie was tart and refreshing. They also have mug clubs for beer and wine and also a Dark'n'Stormy club (drink 8 - please not all at once - and get 1 free). OR you can join the Captain's Club and get bigger pours on all the aforementioned drinks! The Pub pro-rates the entrance fee so you can get in for basically half the cost for the rest of the year. Cha-ching!
(4)Star C.
Had my birthday dinner here. Calamari was awful...fishy and under-fried. Mussels were awful and not fresh. Steak tips on Caesar was like spicy over cooked leather on lettuce even though they were ordered medium. My surprise birthday dessert, an old stale biscuit sliced in half and squirted with whipped cream and a few slices of strawberries in flavored corn syrup. Water glasses were never filled. Tons of bus boys working but standing in a corner chatting so you had to flag them down for every little thing. Terrible birthday dinner. Rory tried to make it festive but couldn't save the night.
(1)Tykie M.
This restaurant sits right on the water. The view is beautiful. The scallions/ bacon appetizer is to die for. I ordered the stuffed fillet - it was close to perfection. The steak was cooked perfectly but the lobster tail was a little rubbery. Because the steak was so good I really didn't care. The wait staff is very attentive and polite. I ate out almost every night while on vacation and in my opinion The Landing was the best. They also have a bar in a separate room. It was clean with a pleasant atmosphere. The drinks and company were lovely.
(5)Martha K.
The fish chowder was wonderful. I wish I stopped there but the seafood festival was over cooked and under seasoned. The lobster basilico was swimming in some heavy white sauce with pasta that was overcooked. I won't be back.
(2)Ani C.
2.5 Stars in reality... I came here while visiting Boston on the drive to Salem. Hotel recommended them. We looked around the town for other options (which was a very cute lil town!) but it was SO COLD- and everything was closed! I'm from California, 30 degrees and rain is cold! So, we just settled on The Landing! It was empty... usually a bad sign. But not terrible Decor is shabby chic (a euphemism for old) Time warp into the '80s. Think banquet chairs. Nice view. The bathroom did have a great scrub- plus 1 star! The award winning Chowda was really very good. Probably the best I had while in Boston. Service was attentive and friendly too-although it was empty inside. My Lobsta roll (gotta say with a Boston accent) was ok. $2 extra for no mayo- odd. BF's food was good. Not fabulous, but good. In all, I think I just have a really refined palette coming from a foodie town like San Francisco- not to sound arrogant. But we eat great seafood all the time. So, I wasn't impressed with the baked clams casino (very Diner-ish to me) But the chowda was good! I'm sure its touristy, but I was a tourist...
(3)Amy H.
My experience was more like a two-parter, one a 4 star experience and the other a 2 star experience. When we first arrived, we sat in the restaurant and enjoyed the nice view. Our server was so friendly and the pierogies were amazing. We then transitioned to the pub, where the service was far less attentive. It averaged out to a 3-star experience, which just goes to show how much service influences your opinion of a restaurant.
(3)Kristine C.
We wanted to get out of jam packed Salem for a nice dinner so we headed to Marblehead and stumbled upon The Landing. We are so glad we did. Although it is Oct it was a beautiful night and we were offered the outdoor area where they had the big heat lanterns on (which we didnt even need) The view was gorgeous on the water. Rory, our server, was spectacular. He was always right on top of things and had a wonderful sense of humor. Our food was delicious. Scallops wrapped in bacon with a maple glaze...so good. My husband had the prime rib, cooked to perfection piled high with mushrooms and onions ($2 extra) I had the Sole Franchaise over a very flavorful rice with tender asparagus, delicious. The bar makes a mean dirty martini and our cheesecake and key lime pie....the perfect ending to our great meal. Next time I am in town I will re-visit this great find. Not to be missed!!
(5)Fred M.
With all the boats, sail and fishing, coming & going, makes this a 10 for relaxing and enjoying dinner. My fried clams were real fresh Ipswich clams, cooked perfect! It was their Special for the day. The view and salt air made it all good! It's hard to find clams this good anywhere in NE!
(4)Dosia S.
The Landing does have pretty yummy food, so I was on the border between three and four stars. I have tried many different dishes here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and I am usually satisfied, for the most part. Service is fine, but have never had any memorable interactions with any of the staff. My last time at this location was yesterday-I came in with one other person and while they were greeted by the hostess (in the extremely short skirt! A little much for such a classy place), I was not acknowledged whatsoever. I have worked in this type of business and acknowledge the importance of greeting every customer individually and if you do not even look at one person in the party at all, well, they are not going to feel very happy about being there from the get-go. Besides that, our waiter was very friendly with the biggest smile on his face at all times! *The only complaint that I had about my experience was the overly seasoned dish of "award winning" clam chowder. Had the soup's main ingredient not been pepper, I would have probably given the soup itself five stars, as I recognize the other ingredients' combination was delicious. However, the entire bowl of soup was speckled with dots of pepper so that there were dozens in one spoonful. No, I am not exaggerating, as the couple we befriended sitting next to us, there for their anniversary, shared the same dish and opinion as us. It was a bizarre recipe, or a mistake by the kitchen; I will never know, but I do not plan on finding out a second time. (Plenty of other things to choose from on the menu!)
(3)J A.
I live in Marblehead and haven't eaten in the front restaurant in several years. Stick to the bar area usually. I was at a fun raiser for Care Dimensions (formerly North Shore Hospice) tonight. It was a great event with great service provided by The Landing. I ordered the scallops provencal. The scallops were fresh and cooked well but I have to say everything else was pretty pedestrian. The tomato and basil (pesto) was more like a salsa. The tomatoes were your winter variety white with no flavor. The sides were plain brown rice and steamed yellow squash, zucchini and carrots. Like I said pretty pedestrian. I felt like I was out to dinner with my parents 40 years ago. I thought the interior is getting pretty tired looking. For a waterfront restaurant I always thought they should do a complete makeover and put the bar near the water with tables around it. I've always loved the bar side at the Landing and I'll look to put in a review next time I eat over there.
(2)Jill M.
My boyfriend and I stayed in Marblehead last weekend and loved this place! We came here out first night and ate inside. I had the swordfish and he had the lobster basilica, both were delicious! My boyfriend had the cheesecake which I snuck a few bites of because it was just that good. We came here again for brunch before heading back to NYC and it was great. It was a nice day so we sat outside, it's right on the water and the view is beautiful. If I ever travel to Marblehead again I will definitely be eating here!
(4)Alan N.
Clam chowder with corn maybe the best. Ever. Yes, I go back just for that. Excellent crab cakes too. Margaritas so-so.
(4)S H.
Went here today with my 2 kids & Hubby. I had the lobster roll and it was very good! Not too much mayo and seasoned perfectly. My hubby had the fish cakes, I had a bite of that and it was very good. My son said this was the best Mac & cheese he has ever had! My daughter had the lobster Mac & cheese and she said it was really good! Both Mac & cheese dishes were very good size portions, which neither one finished. Great view of the harbor and sails coming and going. We had a great time!!
(4)Emma M.
We waited 30 mins before our waitress came to take our order. The restaurant was fairly busy but they seemed to have plenty of staff about 4 waiters and 3 bussers so I'm not sure what the problem was. The chowder was gelatinous and the lobster salad did not taste fresh. The food was also a bit overpriced considering the quality.
(2)Henry K.
Sit inside. The gasoline smell from the boat fuel station is horrible when you're eating. Mac and Cheese was really good! The calamari appetizer, not so much. The Cajun chicken was not bad at all. Perfect amount of marinade and flavor
(3)Crystal B.
I can't get enough of The Landing. I go at least once a week. Lunch, Dinner, the Pub, all awesome. Every staff member I have spoken to has been wonderful. The burgers are delicious, the fish and chips are as well. Two words: Peddler Fries. YUM! Don't forget the Cheesecake. I am so in love with this place.
(5)shelby o.
If you want a warm reception and helpful hostesses, go elsewhere... In fact you may even be dissuaded from attempting to eat here and therefore, never have a chance to actually experience the restaurant. While it's true My husband and I often opt for more foodie locales with a higher price tag- I am not sure that are expectations are actually insurmountably high. So, in an effort to demonstrate our optimism, We headed to the pub where we also struggled To get served despite table service. My husband headed to the bar and bought us drinks. After one drink, and after the 5pm hour, my husband checked in on our wait list status (it's important to note that we were put on the wait list as the sole members because we were told that being retrieved from the bar could not be counted on and we should actually attempt to make our way back to Check), of course when he did, he was met with bewilderment and needed to remind the hostess of who he was and what he was looking for (this was 20 minutes later). He was redirected to the pub to wait. We then relinquished our patio wishes and began the ordeal of ordering from the pub and establishing a relationship with table service (which prior to this was not successful). When we did get her attention, she was quite nice- a welcome departure from our hostesses. One thing I will say was that the homemade potato chips were pretty good... After an hour at the bar, the unthinkable happened (truly we had given up based on the hostess service)- we were called from The bar to a table, but at that point- we cut our losses and left shortly thereafter to go out for dinner...
(1)Russ P.
My wife and went here the other night for a drink and some apps. This was not our first time here and it was about what we expected. It was really just ok. We really came for the view and a chance to sit outside on a beautiful night. I'll say that the service we had was very good and very efficient. That is always appreciated. We had cocktails that were good, but nothing great. We shred two apps and a salad. The escargot was good until my last one. That one had some serious grit to it. Yuck. We also had the mussels and they were good, but the broth was a little bland. The best thing was the caesar salad with fried calamari. In a town with lots of great restaurants there are better choices, but if you want nice outside setting on the harbor, then this place is good. Just don't expect amazing food.
(2)Mike B.
Inspired views ... with uninspired food. I've been here a number of times -- I worked in Marblehead for a few years, so this was one of the few go-to lunch places -- and the food simply isn't that good. I want it to be, because the views are so good and the people are nice, but it's just not happening. My wife and I ate at The Landing today to cap off a trip down memory lane (she used to work up there, too) and started with the fried calamari. Bland, tasteless, flabby. Blech. For entrees, we went with scrod and scallops, two of our favorites, but spent most of the time scraping off the over-seasoned bread crumbs. When we finally go to the seafood, it wasn't worth the effort. It was cooked well, but there wasn't much taste. (I mean, the restaurant is on the ocean. I can see the waves while I eat. Where's the fresh taste?) Again, the service was good and the views are really gorgeous, but unfortunately that's where the good news stops. If you're in search of delicious food in Marblehead, keep searching. Don't land on The Landing.
(2)C R.
Situated in Old Town Marblehead - quaint, charming and all that jazz. Parking is non existent. But it's worth a shot. You go here for the scenery; not the shopping or the food. The Landing - read the reviews. It's ok. It's the view that makes it what it is. The staff are nice, the food is ok - the location and view of Marblehead's harbor are what it is all about, Man. Despite the restrained good tast of those deep pocketed yankees - unlike over the top places like Beverly Hills - the sight of Marblehead's "Neck" neighborood (seen by distant onlooksers across the harbor) still makes you murmer that envious "wow." You could'nt live there if you saved up for 3 lifetimes. So, for that reason, you should go to the Landing, have a lobster roll and enjoy the view.
(3)Ellen M.
Decent food, and the server was good but managing WAY too many tables. The major problem with this place is how long it takes to get a table and how long they tell you it will be to get a table. We waited about 20 minutes over our "30 minute" wait, but another group was told "25 minutes" and we aw them seated a full hour later. Back to the food, it's good, but not "holy cow" good. It's fresh seafood well prepared, if not with a bit too much butter and cream. I would go back here, but it wouldn't be my first choice.
(3)Mallory S.
Bad service and mediocre food. We went to the Landing for a simple Mother's Day brunch. We were a large group of 14 (half kids/half adults) so we took up two tables in the dining room. Waitress service was fairly quick and friendly enough, but the food was just OK. I had the Lobster Melt - the lobster filling was good but the croissant was greasy and tasted only of butter. It also had too much cheese. Potatoes and fruit on the side weren't anything special either. I wish I had just ordered a regular lobster roll. The most memorable part of the experience comes at the end of our meal. We had just finished signing our credit card slips; the kids table had already been deserted so it was bused and turned. At this moment, the manager came over to request that we leave so he could give this table to another party.... even though there were many empty tables surrounding us, including the 8-top that the kids had vacated. So we leave... and I am stunned that we were asked to move and not given any other suggestion for a place to go. Had we wanted coffee and dessert we would have been out of luck unless we had shown ourselves to the bar on the other side. It was extremely rude and I don't plan on going back. Final notes: If the Landing is taking a large party, they should expect that large party to take longer to dine than a small group. Restaurant 101, I think...
(2)Nichole V.
Consistently ok food, good service with a great atmosphere. My husband & I enjoy coming here in the summer just watching the boats etc. Not a huge fan of their fish dishes unless it's a special, but the meat is usually good.
(3)Charles B.
We have eaten here several times. The food is always good. I just felt like the restaurant was running in "free fall" and the staff had no supervision and the customers needs were not being catered to. We checked the online menu and then called the restaurant to check that the dish we wanted "lobster stew", was available. We were told it was. When we got there to order it, the waiter told us that the online menu was the winter menu and that they were serving a summer menu. I told him that they have a responsibility to keep their website up to date and that they really let us down. I have to tell you that I would not be writing this review, if the waiter had a manger come over to speak with us about that. The waiter was very good but had way too many tables to serve. The appetizers and beverages took almost an hour to bring out. One member of our party has a gluten allergy and we were a bit worried about if they understood that it was more complicated than just no wheat flour. We were hungry but not in a rush so we asked if they had diner roll. It would have been nice if they included a gluten free selection as well. Typically, a manger brings the food over and assures us that they understand the scope of gluten issues, but we were left to the waiter's assurance. BTW it did work out just fine. Everything we ordered was very good. As I glanced around during the dinner service it appeared to me that no one was in charge. Not to say that I saw any particular problems, but I think a visible manager's presence is mandatory on a busy Saturday night and that a website is a projection of the business and has to be managed responsibly as well.
(3)Graeme J.
Just was there for brunch today. Have been a few times before but today was by far the worse meal I have had in a long time anywhere. My burger was well done as opposed to mid rare as ordered plus it tasted like it was a day old and reheated. My wife's omelette was oily and had no flavor. Really greasy and unsightly. The home fries were crunchy black cubes that were obviously days old. Never had a wonderful meal at the Landing but it was always pretty decent. Hopefully, today was an anomaly.
(2)James G.
Good food. Good service. Great view. Ate a fish sandwich which was tasty and I think the menu is priced well.
(4)Megan H.
I don't think I ever want to go back. My experience here wasn't truly terrible, but I have expected much better! Likewise to many of the other reviews, this is the almighty tourtist trap. Being next to the sea, oily and soggy fried clams shouldn't have been so expensive. If I were to pay $20, I would have expected golden and crispy tender bites. That is not what I received. Upon ordering, my waiter was a cute old man... who asked me three times what I ordered two minutes later he walked away from my table. The scene is lovely. I'm sure the locals love it. But, this isn't my place for quality and service. I say, keep driving.
(2)Kaitlin H.
My husband and I went here for dinner and I was literally blown away. I could not stop thinking about the lobster basilico I had. It was delicious. The sauce was so creamy but still light. It was my first time trying lobster so I wasn't sure what to expect but it was good. Our waiter was great-just the right level of attentive. They had a decent wine list, I got Poppy Hill & it was good with a generous pour. The only less than stellar part of our meal was my dessert. I got the chocolate mousse and it was very bitter. My friend was in town a few weeks later and we decided to go for a late lunch since I couldn't stop obsessing over my last meal. Unfortunately, the lunch menu was much more limited and didn't have the lobster basilico. I ordered a pasta dish with a basil cream sauce, thinking it would be similar. No such luck. It was really bland and didn't have much going for it. My friend wasn't pleased with her meal either, which was just a salad if I remember correctly. Our waiter was OK but took absolutely forever to bring us the bill. At least 20 minutes. I had a grumpy baby with me and we were so ready to leave! One bright spot was another server who saw my baby wasn't comfortable in the high chair and brought over some padding from another chair. I thought that was very sweet of him. All in all, 4 stars. I'm hoping I just caught the staff on an off day at a weird time on my second visit. Because really, I still can't stop thinking about the first visit!
(4)Krysia K.
We stopped there for late lunch.This place was pretty busy. Nice decor inside, great view from the deck. The service was OK. The food...we ordered only Lobster Salad Roll ($18) which were served with fries and pickle. The lobster salad was good, the pickle to but the fries not so much. That tasted like they were fried in old oil.
(3)Michael W.
Listen, the Northeast Coast is riddled with this type of place and they are great if you can exercise some restraint. Here it is my Yelping friends....do NOT order anything except chowder, clams and other fried seafood....The clam chowder here is wonderful, silky smooth, not laced with flour and full of clams and potatoes with strong hints of bacon as it should be. The clams were large, perfectly fried and delicious....but the tartar sauce was bland and only served to detract from the clams. The fish sandwich was fresh, with a good crunch and tender moist white fish inside. The roll it was served on was nothing to speak of and the french fries were seasoned but not particularly good. The price was typically high because this is a wharf side place in Marblehead and not the food court at the local mall....oh and don't forget....if you go to a clam shack style place and you order the filet mignon you're an idiot and do not deserve the sublime pleasure of a perfectly fried clam.
(3)Bogee B.
Great location, but that's about it. The food was nothing special; our waiter Kevin (I think that's his name) should not be in the service industry. The place has a lot of attitude and is overrated!
(2)Rafael R.
Located in what is perhaps one of the most quaint seaside villages in MA, The Landing, on Front Street in Marblehead strongest dining option is that of its clam chowder. Peppery and so thick you can stand a spoon in it, it reminded me more of gravy for biscuits, than a chowder, but regardless of its viscosity, it was delicious. My dinner, which consisted of the seafood casserole ($20.00) was a simple dish of an assortment of seafood with rice and vegetables. For dessert, I ordered the highly touted Strawberry Shortcake and while it won't win first place at the county fair, the freshly baked cake was warm with spoonfuls of strawberry's on top. I had overheard another table ask a server if it was homemade and was told that everything is made "on premises", however, when the customer inquired about the whipped topping, the server curtly replied no, as the cook already has enough to do. Honestly, had the dessert had homemade whipped cream, the overall dish would have been much better and oddly enough, homemade whipped topping should be a staple, there are only a few ingredients - fresh cream and vanilla involved, how difficult would that be to whip up? The young waiters and hostesses add an awkwardness to the overall dining experience, as their lack of experience in the food industry clearly shows, with gents often being served before the ladies, head scratching and opening the patio door with their feet. While this is a rather casual restaurant, as one of the only ones right on the water, a diners overall experience would be enhanced if they were better trained, however, given the laid back vide, perhaps no one cares.
(3)ME G.
We had a memorable night there this winter. The waiter was superb. he told the kid jokes and got us our stuff, and was helpful helpful helpful. You look like you have been doing this a long time, and he said he had. the food was good to excellent. But, you were left with the impression that this place is high variance. some nights, like our night, it was on. But, it could be off. if we had had a dud waiter, it would have been a dud night, or if a dish was made by a second cook, it could have been quite bad. hope to go back.
(3)Jim W.
Visited the place with friends visiting from out-of-town last week, Tuesday for dinner. We had the worst meal of my life! My wife was spitting her food our into her napkin (no joke) and that was the same dish the manager (I think) recommended: pan seared/roasted haddock. My seafood and pasta tasted like they poured an entire bottle of oregano into it....and can you really screw up fish 'n chips? Yes. Our waiter was nice, but the food was horrible. I've been to the 'pub' before and liked it--only had the drinks. Anyway, the food there is a joke. Will never be back. Gross.
(1)Mark B.
Another great trip to the pub today. Loved the chowder, and all the rest.
(4)Ashlee W.
This was recommended by some locals for good New England Clam Chowder however, I was disappointed. I was visiting from Texas and had some high hopes for good chowder. It was spicy to me (which is saying something since I love Mexican food). It had A LOT of corn in it and not a lot of clams. It was so so.
(2)Kathie W.
After making reservations (with deck preference) several days in advance, in anticipation of my husband's birthday, we arrived about 10 minutes early, checked in with the hostess,(who didn't look old enough to have working papers, let alone working around alcohol) and asked how soon a deck seat might be ready. We were told as soon as a party paid their check, and the table reset. We were told to sit outside at the public dock (icky, stinky smell, dead fish and diesel fumes) and they would come get us. While watching them reset the table and watching it sit idle for 20 minutes and no one came to retrieve us, we left! People looking for tables were told by the hostess (after she took their names) were told to wait outside. The place is so disorganized, no management, in site, wait staff with no leader or direction. The last time I was there (a few years ago to meet old classmates for drinks) sewer flies were spotted in at the bar (Appitizers?) I had vowed never to go back, but that's where hubby wanted to go for his birthday dinner, I agreed with trepidation. I was RIGHT! We should've gone to Maddie's instead, and that's where we ended up. Having grown up in M'head and remembering when The Landing & Bull & Finch Pub (yes the original name) opened, I was extremely diappointed. Bob Simonetti needs to find a competent manager, who knows how to run a resturant. A call to "Resturant Stakeout", "Mystery Diners" or better yet "Bar Rescue" is clearly in order! Plus where the hell can you park...... Can't comment on the food never got that far....
(1)Lia M.
I would give The Landing 2.5 stars, if possible. We ate in the bar area on a quiet Sunday night. Service was attentive & friendly. The lobster mac n' cheese was really good, as were the fries. But the chicken sandwich was just awful, especially because there was some sweet sauce on it that was not supposed to be there. My friend's band sometimes plays here, so I would probably only head back for drinks if he was playing.
(3)Benjamin A.
Summary: A textbook tourist trap that locals avoid, with hugely overpriced food that I wouldn't feed to my dog. Situation: Went here with my wife for dinner on a Friday and sat on the waterfront outside deck. Food: 1/10 The scallops were described in the menu as "pan seared". To me, this means large diver scallops, seared on high heat in a pan until caramelized on the outside. To them, it means tiny bay scallops intended for a seafood casserole, broiled, mixed in with mozzarella balls of the same size, and put in chef boyardee sauce over overcooked noodles. Skimping on the scallops and substituting mozzarella literally made me laugh. I sent this dish back. It looked gross, tasted worse. Lobster salad consisted of a standard salad with a ice cream scooper blumpkin of shredded soggy lobster in heavy mayonaise. $18 Service: 1/5 Our waitress forgot about us, or just wasnt interested. After I returned my meal, she didnt even come back. The hostess took our bill. No, I wasnt rude, I politely explained that I lost my appetite after seeing the meal and didnt want something else. Yes, they took it off the bill. But no apology from manager or waitress or staff. My guess is that this is a common occurrence. Ambience: 2/5 It gets 2 points for being on the water, but falls flat elsewhere. It tries for the kitschy nautical vibe of an old seafood stand-by, but instead feels outdated and dirty. The problem arises when you compound this with very high prices. Not worth it. Value: 0/5 Everything is overpriced by 30-50%. Composite Score: 4/25 Go here instead for same price or cheaper: 5 corners kitchen, 3 cod tavern, palmers
(1)Thomas N.
Nice place with water views and outside seating which some folks did try out today after the sun came out....the food was ok, my lamb burger was very good, the fried clams were tasty but some were way to chewy, the calamari was ok but looked like it came from frozen....drinks were good but smallish....there is a pub in the front, away from the water that looked interesting, service was friendly.....ok place.
(3)Lucia A.
Our last visit to "The Landing" was on October 8th. Our meal was not memorable: my husband's burger was overcooked, my Musseles Marseille - just OK. But the day was beautiful and the view from the deck breathtaking. I presented gift certificate from Restautant.com , but it was not honored - it was Columbus Day holiday and I didn't read small print. A few days latter I received e-mail from Restaurant.com asking me about my experience at "The landing" and gift certificate disappeared from a list of unused certificates. Apparently, Restaurant.com was contacted by stuff on the day of our visit. I went to The Landing ( I live a few miles away) and talked to restaurant manager Sue Stevens. She was extremely nice and promised to get in touch with me and resolve this issue. She never did. Too bad, I had a lot of good memories from previous visits... Lucia
(1)Valeria H.
OK, i am giving this a 2 rating for one reason only. The menu! For a restaurant located on the water in Marblehead you would think their menu would be all about fish right? Well, unfortunately, it wasn't. It had 1 main course fish dish.. wth? Not even fish n chips! huh? The location was real nice, private feel on the pier, and they had a deck. The waiter we had was, well, a little scary. heh He was a great waiter, but, he was focused on my children too much for my taste. Every time he came to the table it was about them, joking and funny then not so funny at the end...(he said something to the affect: now girls if you see me in public with a cute puppy giving out candy, what are you going to do?) My husband and I were real upset about that, even though we knew he prob meant it in good faith to say stay away from strangers, well, it was just out right creepy. The drinks we ordered were great. My husband loved his beer, which was a local brew.. and I got a sauv blanc. THe atmosphere was dark in the interior, but you could see the kitchen when the doors swung open and it was clean. I ended up ordering the haddock dinner, the one that comes with the tomato stew/lyonnaise potatoes.. it was real good. Definitely would go back for my dinner and the kids dinner(fish n chips, which oddly enough they didnt offer for adults.. whatever) I prob won't go out of my way to drive up there, but if we are at thebeaches up that way looking for a spot for good beer, and a deck..we'd go.
(2)Sean J.
This is a fun little bar right on the water with a great view of the harbor. The inside is decorated with your standard nautical nick-knacks and the owner is very friendly. He was there having a few drinks with his wife and the band which had been playing. Apparently it's not uncommon for him to be there late at night shooting the shit with the regulars, which I think is excellent. I did not get to eat as the kitchen had closed by the time we arrived, but I will definitely consider going there again for a drink and bite to eat next time I'm in MH.
(4)Claire W.
Wanted a drink with a view at 4 or 4:30 pm as we showed some out of town relatives some of coastal MA. The bar at our usual haunt (The Barnacle) was packed, and while there were tables in the restaurant, they have a policy that you can only sit there if you are eating a meal and we were stuffed from a late lunch of Thanksgiving leftovers. We wandered down to The Landing and asked if we could sit in the water view area with just a drink. They said they weren't serving, but were willing to let us sit there, directing us to the pub to get our drinks as there were no servers available. In the bar, the staff was equally friendly (and 2 of us wanted to stay in the pub, and if we hadn't been driving back to Boston we might have stayed for the band that was playing that night. )Multiple staff members were friendly and accommodating to our several special requests. Suspect in part the atmosphere reflected that it is November and not the tourist season; the place had a more local feel. Will definitely be back.
(4)Karen B.
We had eaten there once before and liked it so, we had our son's rehearsal dinner there last week. The owners of the restaurant were very hospitable and accommodating. They worked with us to make a special smaller menu to meet the special food needs for the party of 50. They printed it up, and the food was great. Many raved about the chowder. The setting was beautiful and the staff really exceptional. We could not have been happier.
(4)Rose F.
3 stars for location and their bar. They usually have live music that is pretty good in the bar and Dark and Stormys! Totally delicious Ginger beer and Gosslings rum. Boo ya! It's delicious! Today I went for lunch and had a sangria (good) and crab cake ( under cooked, not good) and my companion had a beer and burger (good) and Amazing hand cut French fries. View is awesome. You can sit outside or inside with huge windows overlooking the harbor. So... If you want a local bar with good music this is your place. If you are here for the culinary expierence you will be dissapointed.
(3)Len S.
Met another couple for dinner there tonight (Sunday). We ate outside on the deck. Parking in the area is close to impossible (parking lot is for the boat landing shared with private boat owners and those going on short sunset cruises). Two waiters crashed into each other resulting in 2 clam chowders hitting the other couple and the waiters. I did get a little on my foot, but the other guy had it all up and down his leg and his Wife had a clam in her hair! Accidents happen but no accommodation was offered (or requested by the other couple although they were silently pissed about it). They did give us a damp cloth to wipe it away. Food was good, but nothing special. My Seafood Festival ($24) was bland and lots of pepper and some salt didn't save it. I like spicy, but this dish (mussels, scallops, shrimp and lobster in a white sauce with pasta) just had no real flavor to it. My Wife's Salmon Penobscot ($20) was good and fairly flavorful. The cup of clam chowder ($6) again was bland . . . I've tasted a lot better in many places. The most common seafood dishes aren't on the menu here. If I'm in that area again some day, I'd look to try another restaurant before I'd return here.
(2)Jo Ann B.
Four stars for the service. Drinks were large and good, didn't try the food. Nice dive bar.
(4)Gillian L.
New to Marblehead and spent the last weekend trying to get a feel for the local culinary scene. My boyfriend and I visited the Landing on Sunday night and sat at the bar. Food was good, good beer selection but the bartender was a jerk. He ignored us for the majority of the evening- too busy talking to the regulars and acted like a jerk when we tried to get our check. Cool place with a unique feel to it but the bartenders' attitude left us with a bad taste in our mouth. Think the Barnacle will be our go-to-spot from here on out.
(2)Bill K.
As a local I've always wished this place would change mgt, and materially change the way they operate. They have the best locale in M'head, next to the Barnacle, but equally bad (and more expensive) food than the Barnacle (where at least the bar crowd has a view). They should swap the bar and restaurant around to take advantage of the view, and go for a simpler tavern menu. You get half the view sitting at restaurant tables (obscured), and none from the bar. Very strange. Could be great, but it simply isn't - just like the Barnacle!!!
(2)Scott B.
Went here for drinks last Saturday night. It was a nice place they'll make you any kind of drink you want and have a nice selection of beers on tap. Unlike other reviewers on here I have no problem with being asked if I'm there for food or the bar. Why make the waiter/waitress make another trip to return the menus. If that bothers you you'd probably be better off going to Morton's or The Capital Grille and not a local establishment in a small town. I wish I hadn't gone to a Rodizio beforehand because I LOVE Clam Chowder and I'd really like to try it here. I know I'll have a second trip and I will update my review then.
(3)Capt. C.
We love The Landing Pub ... the BEST Dark & Stomy ever (yeah... Marblehead beats Bermuda). Angus burger was outrageous, fries deliciously BYMO (burn-your-mouth-off perfection ... hot food needs to be hot (and fresh) and they nailed it!). Fish&Chips, Clam Chowder were both "A-freakin +". Lisa (great smile and personality, btw) gave us just the right amount of attention served with competence and pleasantness. This return visit was a great all-around experience (food, service & atmosphere)... and isn't that what we pay for?
(4)Jatte B.
Went there with my wife for our wedding anniversary.... and were a bit bummed out. Started with cups of chowder which were good, but, massively overloaded with black pepper. Could not taste anything but the pepper with no sign of the clams, corn, etc. on our taste buds. I got the steak/shrimp combo. I ordered my steak medium/rare and got it well done. First two shrimp of four were nice... but by #3, the white sauce on the shrimp was overbearing with due to intense saltiness. My wife's bay scallop dish was OK -- more like something we'd toss together at home than "special/restaurant-quality". Perhaps it was a busy night with a new cook... but for the price, I'd say skip it. The view and seaside atmosphere saved this from a one-star review.
(2)Gene K.
I'm a Marbleheader for over 3 decades and have been frequenting the Landing most of my adult life. It's always been a wonderful experience and a great way to enjoy old town! Additionally, I've never complained at a restaurant and am generally overly friendly to all waitstaff. Unfortunately my experience there last night was rather overwhelming. It was 4th of July and we went into the restaurant around 7pm knowing that it would be busy and we would need to be extra patient on the holiday. Our waitress came to us promptly and took our drink order. Half an hour passed before our drinks came and we began the long wait to place our order. Our waitress did not come come back w/bread or to check on us until 7:45. In the meantime, the tables around us (several of whom were seated after us) were each helped 4 or 5 times. I spoke to our waitress but she still did not come back to our table to take our order. With our drinks empty for over half an hour, and with no service, I decided to bring this to the attention of the manager on duty, Steve. I explained that our waitress was making appearances to the tables around us and completely ignoring my pregnant wife, sister, and me. I explained to Steve that we had been sitting there for 45 minutes and were wondering why we hadn't been helped. He brushed me off and said that it was a busy night and that the waitress is trying as hard as possible (ignoring the fact that she had been helping tables all around us), and that he would make sure to check in on us and bring our bread and drinks in the meantime. He never checked in with us again. Keep in mind our entrees ranged in price between 27 and 32 dollars a piece, so this is not just a casual night out. We finally ordered our entrees and a re-fill on our drinks around 8:20, an hour and 20 minutes after we entered the restaurant. Within that time, tables around us came in, placed their orders, paid their bills, and went out to enjoy the beauty of old town Marblehead. Our food was finally brought out to us at 8:50 by someone from the kitchen but unfortunately they forgot a portion of it. I brought this to their attention immediately but they never came back with the missing portion of our order. My sister's steak was not properly cooked, our side dishes were cold, we didn't have our complete meals, and neither our waitress or Steve, the manager on duty, came to check on us. I spoke with another waiter, who also ignored our request for help. When our bill finally came I asked to speak with the manager again and calmly expressed our dissatisfaction with the experience. Steve would not accept responsibility for the problem and generally brushed us off as being difficult. He did not believe that the tables around us had come and gone before we had the opportunity to place our order. The Landing did pick up the cost for most of the meal, which I appreciate, but the experience left us all bewildered. I would suggest that the owners of the Landing review their management training and would encourage Steve to take customers concerns seriously. Perhaps checking in on us once during the two hours after my initial concerns were raised would have been enough.
(1)The Hungry American E.
The Landing has various attributes for a old port town American cusine restaurant. But in the end, it's the food that brings you back. The American has dined here twice ('02, '10) and the food is as good as the day is long. On both ocassions the server was in excellent spirits, attentive and accurate. Now many may say the staff in general can be cranky (due to tight quarters) and the place has a slight fragrence to it (true). But, The Landing has atmosphere and reasonable lunch prices - and most of all the food is better the expected. Plus you are right on the water in Marblehead, Mass.
(3)Sigalle B.
As a New Yorker visiting Massachusetts I felt the need to have all things New England when I ordered. So I ordered the clam chowder to start and it was delicious - rich, hearty, and pleasantly spicy. I also ordered the fish n' chips which were fried crispy and not at all greasy. Sat outside, by the water, and watched the boats go by. Staff was friendly and the vibe was relaxed. Oh and try the baked brie with raspberry sauce - so awesome.
(4)Beth R.
I went to The Landing with my colleagues last week when the weather was great and sat on the deck. What a spectacular view of Marblehead harbor and State Street wharf. The food was fresh and delicious. I had a steak tip salad and my steak was cooked perfectly over fresh greens. My colleagues enjoyed their meal as well. We had excellent service from Felix, our waiter.
(5)Stephanie H.
I went here last night with my husband because I bought the Local Ginger coupon for The Landing. As we have pretty much eaten at every place in Salem atleast twice we are trying to venture out to the neighboring communities occasionally to see what they have to offer. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive, and the location of The Landing being on the water, having outdoor seating (which I am sure is nice we be didn't take the Host up on when he offered as it is January) and view are all 5 stars. The food was more like 3 or 3.5 stars. Average food, a little pricey but portions were good size so worth it. My husband started with the French Onion soup which was decent size and very onion-y according to him. He got the landing stuffed filet for his entree. It was stuffed with Asparagus and lobster tail meat and had a side of garlic mashed potatoes (eh ok as he let me try some) and brocollini....I got the Scallops Margarita. It was decent enough. Something I could have made at home but as the husband does not eat Scallops I try and order them when I am out. We were so full from dinner we had no room for dessert. Parking was ok but again we were there on a snowy saturday in January. I could see in the Summer how Parking could be hard to come by. We may go back here for more of a special occasion as the prices are kind of on the pricey side.
(4)Jeff I.
Clearly The Landing was having a bad Friday night. Very understaffed in the pub and the nachos were a soggy amateur mess. We are regulars here but this was their worst night ever! Not rushing to return.
(2)Elizabeth B.
Last time I was here, my boyfriend and I walked in, went straight to the host station and was rudely asked, "do you want to eat?" I thought, No we just came in to stare at you... Our experience was followed with unmemorable food, practically frozen Boston Cream Pie followed by being rushed out of the restaurant. We have not returned.
(1)Brian R.
I went with my girlfriend to the Landing one random tuesday night. The place was empty, but I had my $25 "gift certificate" from restaurant.com . (I paid like $3 for it.) We had an awesome waiter, very nice. We were seated in the pub are as they were hosting a meeting of some sort in the dining area. I had the Calamari and Crab Cakes and my g/f had the baked shrod. I loved my food, she liked her. Pro's: -Good food. A little pricey for the norm, but this is Marblehead so it's expected. -Waitstaff is polite and on top of things. -The host at the door was very curtious to me and I didn't experience any of the problems Elizabeth B had. -$25 off of a $45 bill (20% tip included) is nice. Con's: -Not much parking. -Reminds you that it's a pub with a dining section attached. I like pubs, but I wanted to sit in the dining section. No biggie, I made the best of it. I'd clearly recommend this to anyone I know.
(4)Alicia B.
From the perspective of a charming 3 year-old beauty: I like The Landing because of... + Daddy! took me out to lunch here + Daddy! ordered me a mixed juice - cran w/ orange + A friendly lady brought me crayons + I got a fun activity sheet to color on + Daddy! helped me count the lobsters on the activity sheet + Daddy! ordered me chicken fingers and french fries + The cook fired up the fryer fast for my hungry belly + I got a plate full of food served minutes after Daddy! ordered + I had plenty of ketchup for my fries, thanks to Daddy's GF + I discovered crayons roll easily off the table and make me laugh + Daddy! gave me the receipt to write on and keep + I wrote on the receipt with a pen! + We got a double-bagged doggy bag for me to help carry + I had plenty of left overs for dinner + We were a short walk to the park, where I love to play and climb rocks!
(4)Sean S.
We ate in the "pub" side of the restaurant. Great clam chowder. BEWARE: some of the picky eaters in the group may not like that it includes corn, but I asked a particularly picky eater if he noticed the ingredients and he said "no" (if he had known it included corn he probably would not have ordered), but said it tasted great and was glad he didn't know ahead of time.
(4)Tim R.
Great (5 stars each): Being on the water, the outdoor seating, the hostess(es), wait staff and manager. Good (3 stars): The clam chowder. Bad (0 stars): The meal I ordered. I'm not a regular at The Landing--I've been just once. But my food was so bad and so expensive, that I felt I had to write a review. Entering the dining room, I was greeted by three very lovely, friendly and kind hostesses. Our waiter was right on top of everything throughout the meal. The manager made sure we were warm and comfortable out on the dining deck on a cool, late spring night. If I had read the Yelp reviews, I'd have ordered the chowder and mac 'n' cheese and probably been pretty happy. Instead, I was in the mood for a fine dinner so I went for the night's special; a $25 entree of grilled tuna steak which I ordered very rare. What I got was an old, pale, dry tuna steak that was over cooked, gristly and completely lacking seasoning, served over a tiny serving of wild rice with a bay leaf along for the ride. It was as if the dinner went straight from the Sysco truck to the plate. Just awful and I felt like I had been robbed like a tourist. I'll go again -- for the location, outdoor seating, very lovely hostesses, terrific wait staff, thoughtful managers, and the chowder and mac 'n' cheese.
(2)Betty P.
We use this place a lot for our client luncheons when they do Marblehead tours. My staff always write and tell me about the awesome clam chowder here so roomie and I finally had to try it for ourselves. On a recent trip, Rory our waiter, the hostess, and Angela the events person were all super friendly. (The GM, Robert, is also so easy to deal with when we plan functions.) This is the type of place where you have to know what to order. I would def recommend the chowdah as it is the best I have ever had. The calamari and fried clams had the same batter and were okay. The clams were bigger than others I have sampled elsewhere but the breading could use some improvement. But the staff were so nice that when I told them who I was, they comp'd all of our alcoholic bevs and apps! Even before I told them my company uses the restaurant for functions, everybody was eager to find us the best seat at the house. The pub seemed lively and I bet this place is happening in the summer. I like that this place is equally welcoming to locals and tourists, and they also are active in community events and fundraisers. Def. head up north and give it a try. In the summer, the patio is a nice spot to sit!
(4)Kylie H.
My NEW FAVORITE place!!!! My first experience here was magical. My fiance's father had been here awhile ago and we just moved to Beverly. He recommended that the entire fam come here for lunch one Sunday afternoon. The overall experience was excellent, even though we couldn't dine outside. I got the shepard's pie, which was cooked perfectly. The french fries here are great and our little one ordered a grilled cheese that was made on sourdough with chedder. Absolutely delicious... A few weeks later my fiance and I came here for a "romantic" dinner and we ate outside. The night was beautiful and a CELEBRITY was actually eating at the table next to us!!!! I feel uncomfortable saying who he is (I'm sure he comes here a lot), but he has been in a series of television shows and movies. I ordered the filet mignon and it was delicious... we also had the bruschetta, which was also amazing! A week later I brought my mother and grandmother here for lunch (they are from Western Mass). We ate outside sipped on mimosas. I ordered the caesar wrap, which was none the less also delicious. However, my mother ordered the mac and cheese and it was the best I've ever had. Four cheeses and zuchinni and squash on top. Large portions I ate her left overs for a day! This place is really great overall.
(5)Aboud Y.
Really a shame. The location is beautiful but both the food and service were bad, bad, bad. Go elsewhere.
(2)Melanie F.
i had french onion soup, it was awesome!!! i should of have another bowl. then i ordered a southwestern burger, ordered rare. it was definitely rare. it had fresh guacamole, and the fries that came with it were outstanding, i wish i had a whole plate of those. it was delicious, i look forward to having a brunch meal there sometime. the setting is beautiful. the service was good, he never kept us waiting. we had four very young children with us, and he was very accommodating. every other adult i was with was also equally as happy with what they ordered.
(4)David S.
Nothing fancy here, but really, really solid food with a wonderful view from the deck. Had the best prepared haddock on our entire MA trip here at the Landing. Service was very smooth and friendly. The atmosphere, primarily sailing enthusiasts, is relaxed and fun. Finding this place, if you're an out of towner, requires GPS. But finding it is well worth the effort.
(4)Rebecca S.
The food here is usually pretty good- and you usually get a nice portion for your money. The traditionally baked cod/scrod is the best I have had. I am a big fan of their ceasar salad. Their cocktails are actually amazing... We had the artini...complex and yummy! Make sure to check out their pub next to the dining hall. Usually a little cheaper to eat on that side. Wednesdays is trivia night and a raffle. Really cute and really Marblehead. We really enjoyed ourselves last Wednesday night and are excited to make it a tradition. *overall always a positive experience. Food is good, drinks are really good and everyone is friendly.
(4)Kevin B.
Like a lot of Marblehead, it could use some serious updating (how about really taking advantage of that waterfront?) but food is good and a good selection of beer.
(3)Adam B.
Decent food. Really good desserts. View is beautiful. Staff was friendly and inviting.
(3)Nish N.
The Landing seems to be that place in Marblehead where both tourists and locals mix pretty easily. There is plenty of room in the Pub for a lite meal or beer, and the restaurant section has a nice outdoor patio for overlooking the water. Their lobster roll is done just right, with the right amount of mayo, buttered hot dog roll and all. The fries were only ok.
(4)Tim P.
We are semi-regular at this place, we visit the Landing probably once a month and when weather allows we try to be on the deck. It is a nice place, the prices are reasonable and we like the menu choices. The chef tries to experiment so the menu changes quite often, which is one of the reasons we liked the restaurant in the first place. Our favorites include Mussels marseillaise, baked Scrod and, when available, Lobster Casserole. The kids like mac and cheese which is quite good (as an earlier reviewer mentioned). Your waiter will suggest the daily special which is typically more expensive than the regular choices but we have rarely been disappointed. The parking and the wait could be an issue, particularly on more popular nights. 4/5, recommended.
(4)sarah s.
2.5 stars, actually. This place is right on the water, and even though I went in March, the view was still beautiful. This place is super-casual, and looked like locals frequented it. I had the lobster roll, which was good, had some nice chunks of lobster in it- wasn't all a shredded mess. Although I think the Black Dog in the Vineyard has the best lobster roll I've ever tasted (although I'm not a New Englander, so I'm no expert!). I digress. Anyway, my hubby had the fried Ipswich clams, which he said were ok. All fried things kind of taste alike. The kicker- he came down with violent food poisoning a few hours later! That was all we had eaten that day, so we know the Landing was the culprit. And hello, clams are notorious for food poisoning. I called the restaurant later to report it, and the manager was very nice and stated that it was probably the clams because in their off-season, some of their items don't "move as quickly and may have been sitting around." I know mistakes happen, and the manager was very nice, but hello, if you're a seafood restaurant you should be serving the freshest items possible, off-season or not! And you should be extra-vigilant serving seafood. Now, like I said, accidents happen and I don't want to vilify the Landing- this could have happened anywhere. But everything was just average-that, coupled with my husband's experience, mean I probably wouldn't frequent this place again.
(2)Charoline D.
This place is known for one thing, and one thing alone in my book. The macaroni and cheese. Baked in a cast iron skillet, topped with breadcrumbs and fresh steamed vegetables, it doesn't get much better than this. I like it best when it's greenbeans. You can also order Dark & Stormy's here to your heart's content as they actually carry ginger beer and Goslings Bermuda Black Seal Rum. I wound up here while assisting some friends with a Snowboarding promo and we were subject to free food. All else I tried failed to satisfy.The clientele in this place is not really my bag. Mostly preppy locals in their boat shoes and Dockers, I've also heard tell of it being a Swinger's Bar. I'm not sure how accurate it is, but I'm sure in a town as small as Marblehead, you're probably all dating each other anyways. I don't even mean that in a crass way, I mean it in a "I used to live in a fairly small town before and felt like I had met everyone in the tri-county area kinda-way" We typically sit at the bar, staff is VERY friendly, but not always terribly attentive. Expect to meet the yacht club crowd here.
(3)Ali K.
Ahh the Landing in wonderful Marblehead, i don't know if i'm being biased because it was my first time visiting but i thought this place was pretty good. Right out near the water with a view of the harbor and some out door seating and the fresh smell of seafood ahh what's not to love. Went here with my girlfriend to meet up with two of her really good friends and were wonderfully helped out by the staff on both the restaurant and the bar side while we were waiting. Nice small cozy hometown feel of a place, only gripe i had was after we started talking we were ignored by the staff, we had to wait forever to get an order in, i understand your busy but we were there before many people showed up, but no worries. The girls seemed to enjoy there meals and i ordered the Mussels Marseille which i shared with my girlfriend and they were pretty good, got to love the white wine sauce. My gf's Amaretto Sour drink was pretty damn good to. Decently priced, good seafood, nice ambiance and right on the harbor, what's not the love about his place.
(5)Mike K.
Fairly new in town but go to the Landing somewhat frequently since it is one of a few places on the water to eat in town. The food is average. They try to be fancy and generally screw it up. If you stick with something simple you will be ok (can be said about most places in town). Went for brunch yesterday. Why not have some basic breakfast plates? I ordered french toast with all the extra fancy things on the side (fruit and chocolate). Good thing because the fruit wasn't very appealing. Paid $10 for 3 pieces of french toast. Very disappointing. Have a drink at the bar and order the clam chowder, fish sandwich and you will be pleased. The bar is done well, a drinker's bar! Lots of good beers on tap.
(2)all seeing E.
I have been to the Landing twice and each time was a good experience. I would reccomend this palce to anyone. The food has been great both times the service was good and the view FANTASTIC. I wish they had a larger parking area but it is Marblehead so parking is really hit or miss. I would like to be there on a day when I could sit on the patio. I will go back next time I am in Marblehead.
(5)Whit B.
We live in the neighborhood and are not fond of the Landing. We have eaten there a few times and have not been impressed. I'd like to say that they have a decent tavern menu, but they don't. The quality of the food is sub-par, especially gien their prices. I'd have to say that this place qualifies as a tourist trap. Even though it is on the waterfront, the view is nothing to write home about.
(2)John V.
You have 2 choices when entering The Landing, either the nice restaurant area, or the Pub area. (or the deck so I guess it's 3 depending on the time of year) I recommend the Pub. You can get the same food, just in a more relaxed atmosphere. There is nothing outstanding about the food here, it's good. but not amazing. The place has a nice view of the Harbor and great service. The Pub has plenty of TVs and they always have sports on. It is a little pricey, but what isn't in Marblehead? I used to live here, so I know what to expect, now that I come and visit frequently, I usually eat here and enjoy myself, however I've had better Pub food in my time. I recommend the Fish Fry and the mussels, and the Guinness (for some reason) just seems to taste the closer you get to Ireland.
(3)Keith A.
Stopped in for a quick bite before a show at the Me & Thee. The service was pleasant and efficient, and the soups (French onion and seafood chowder) were good. But for a supposed seafood restaurant, and a pricey one at that, the crab cakes and calamari were inexcusably flavorless.
(2)S O.
We drove up from Boston with a friend visiting form out of town in search of a great seafood meal with a water view. The food flavor and prep was disappointing. My husband and I shared a clam chowder which was dominated by cream, we could not taste the clam and other ingredients. For entree, I ordered the Lobster Basilica which was way too heavy, and the lobster was overcooked. I just felt nauseous with every bite, and had to end my meal halfway. My husband ordered the sole, and the batter was mushy and tasteless. Our friend ordered the red snapper which was also overcooked. The serviceperson was very unnatural and rehearsed although she did her best for a busy Saturday night. Were it not for the waterview, the Landing would not be much to speak of. Not to mention my husband had a terrible stomach ache as soon as we got home. Try somewhere else especially if you have a guest with you!
(1)Allison L.
great place to hang with your friend on a sunny day ..... who would wanna sit inside??!!! go for the patio!
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