Cala's — Restaurant in Manchester-by-the-Sea

The drinks and appetizers were so delicious. Me and my partner got the mussels and onion soup it was to die for because it was hot and fresh. The fall harvest punch drink was out of this world. Unfortunately after we got our drinks and finished our appetizers we put in our order for our entrees which took a whole hour to come out. When they did finally come out both orders were wrong. I had ordered a burger with cheddar cheese and bacon. I got a cold bigger made with low quality meat that had knots in it with American cheese and no bacon. My partners pulled pork sandwich had to be remade entirely because they made it with coleslaw which she had asked them not to put coleslaw on it but instead have a side of fries. Her order was hot but the fries were super greasy. My fries were also greasy even though they were crispy and cold. I definitely suggest going here on a Wednesday when they have the lobster special or to just get appetizers with drinks. Despite all of this inconvenience and a really long night at a restaurant the waitress was super wonderful. This woman was working both the bar and the indoor dinning room while two other workers there seemed to not being doing anything. One guy was just going around getting peoples number just incase of a covid contact situation but other than that it seemed as if he just stood around instead of assisting...

Reply to owner: It's about attitude. I suggested you serve half-pints of beer, and the response was a terse "no". When I said that it's both kind of a drivable size and nicer to drink (granted it's a subjective opinion), the bartender just looked at me without answering.

A tip: when a customer suggests something, humor them a little. "We'll think about it, thanks" is the more appropriate reaction. Doesn't mean you actually have to take their suggestion... I was looking forward to have a small beer every so often between errands, like I would elsewhere, but now I just feel I don't want to go back.

Another subjective opinion: The amount of screens is a little sad to me. Doesn't really make anyone strike up conversation with a potential new friend - or the bartender. I get that a sports event could use a visible screen, but not everyone likes a Hi-def gargantuan TV in their face while eating or drinking. I certainly don't. We all have our personal screens in our pockets nowadays if the need for distraction is strong.

It could be a really jolly bar, given it's one of the few options in Manchester, but now it's just a place where you go in a real pinch.

I will come back, but mostly because of...

This is a terrific little restaurant in Manchester-by-the-sea that speaks to local hospitality and surprisingly great cuisine. We’ve been here for lunch and dinner and the menu selection is pretty amazing! From all kinds of local and international beers on draft; to a fantastic array of sandwiches including half pound angus burger; to salads that cater to every taste; a wide array of entrees featuring pork, beef, chicken, fish – you’re certain to find something you like on their menu. Feel like Mexican Street Taco’s, prime rib sandwiches, or baked local haddock – check off all the boxes-they’ve got it here. They also feature daily specials and their 50 cent wings on Sunday are a big hit with kids and adults alike. I had their steak tips with fries and Cole slaw on my last visit and it was delicious. The steak tips were succulent and cooked just right (medium rare as I requested) and the fries were crisp and fresh. I should mention that their service was personalized and very friendly. The hostess was cheerful with a big smile and very helpful in explaining the menu choices. All in all, this is one of my favorite restaurants in the Serenitee Group of...