The Shipyard Tavern — Restaurant in Essex

This restaurant will definitely be on our regular rotation! The employees wear t-shirts that say "Come for the food, stay for the view" and that message is right on! Went last night, on a Sunday, and knowing the restaurant had just opened last week went in with tempered expectations. However, you'd never know they just opened. The nautical vibe and decor is beautiful, food was fantastic and service was excellent. We had the tuna bowl and baked haddock and enjoyed both. Great drinks too! Our server, Mari, was lovely. And of course the view of the Essex waterway is beautiful. Parking is tight but don't be scared away by it, you can always park down the street and walk up. The lot was full and we were still able to sit down right away. Can't wait to...

This spot is in my weekly rotation and for good reason. The staff is always on point — super efficient and accommodating.

The interior is beautiful, with tons of natural light and a great view of the Essex River. They did an amazing job remodeling this place.

Portions are solid, and the food never disappoints. My go-to mains are the steak tips (juicy, tender, and full of flavor) and the lobster roll, which is loaded with big chunks of lobster — no skimping here. Tip: upgrade to waffle fries!

As for apps, I’m all about the deviled eggs, crispy asparagus, and BBQ tenders. All three are legit and perfect for sharing (or not).

All in all, great food, great vibe, great service — can’t ask...

We ate here twice in the same day. At lunch, the blacked fish tacos were excellent, but the portions of haddock were on the small side for $26. The bacon wrapped pineapple shrimp were excellent. At dinner, I had the tacos again but this time the portion of fish was roughly twice what I received for lunch at the same price. My wife had the clam chowder, and the clams were plentiful but the consistency was not creamy as most will agree clam chowder should be. Instead it was a broth and not what we were expecting. I hope the portions are consistent in the future and the chowder goes creamy. Otherwise, excellent staff...