The Beacon Restaurant and Bar — Restaurant in Marblehead

We went here for my wife's birthday - and while the restaurant is an improvement from when it was previously "Wicks," there are still gaps and opportunities to improve. I'll summarize below:

Positives: the bar scene was vibrant, the drinks were good, and appetizers were tasty. I ordered the muscles (spicy coconut sauce) - and my wife ordered the soup special. our waitress was very pleasant live music (piano bar and singing) was enjoyable and offered a different vibe. I would suggest opening it up to other types of music (beyond piano/singing) as well, as this would be a differentiator from most restaurants/bars. we liked sitting at high-top table...especially with this scene (music, bar, etc.). This was nice option that you can reserve in advance.

Opportunities: we had a 6:30pm Resy - but didn't get seated until ~20 min later. In fairness, they looked short-staffed (corona related perhaps?) and it was relatively busy. the main entrées were a let-down...especially since we were told by some friends that the food has drastically improved from when it was Wicks. First, our entrées didn't get served to us until about an hour after we ordered. My wife ordered the scallops - which basically pan-seared scallops next to a blob of tasteless mash-potatoes (looked like a baked potato smashed up and a few stringy asparagus that were overcooked). It had no flavor / seasoning - or presentation "plate appeal." I ordered the seared tuna, which was recommended by our waitress - which was better than hers and overall good (but not great) - and not in-line with the price. Some sliced seared tuna (rare), a rice-ball cake, steamed bok choy, and scallion pancake. Sounded interesting, but again, it was uneventful taste-wise and it didn't deliver. Perhaps it sat for a hour in the kitchen too long before being served...who knows... my wife eats gluten-free (GF), and there were very few GF options on the menu. Suggest adding more, and stocking some GF bread, rolls, pasta, etc. for this growing demand. the bathroom is outside the restaurant (adjacent/inside the wicks building) - just logistically weird.

In summary - I would come back for drinks and bar food/apps (and perhaps live music scene, especially if they broadened it to other bands, etc.), but I'd pass on the entrées (for now). The space and menu has lot of potential - they just need to execute /...

Went on a weds. night in July to sit outdoors at what looked like a really lovely restaurant. The music suddenly got quite loud after we were seated outdoors and it was early 90s friends type music and every song sounded the same. It was too loud to even talk so as the place was empty we asked a few time to the waitress (who also had trouble hearing us!) to turn it down or off or on different music. We ordered dinner for 3 adults and a child. Kids food came out quick and was really good (chicken fingers and fries) and drinks were also good and served pretty fast. The main courses for the adults however were a series of misfires. This is quite pricey and for dinner main dishes over $35 should really be good to justify that price. Portions were small and preparation was a miss. Scallops were rubbery and overcooked but edible. It came with 7 stringy thin small asparagus that were also overcooked and mashed potatoes that were meh. Veal over pasta had to be sent back and they didn't charge us for it. The other tuna sushi tartar was apparently great or my friend was just so hungry he loved it. between the loud bad music and not very good food i wouldn't want to come here again. Maybe its just that I'm from New York City where the competition is tough and only the best restaurants survive but this place just seemed very sad. The chef on duty (he seemed like a line cook to me) came out to apologize and looked pretty defeated and over his head being left alone even if the place was pretty empty with only a few tables having customers - still if you're open you should be able to serve good food at that price. I woud go back for drinks though, and they actually served a...

Rating: ★★★★★

The Beacon Restaurant & Bar is a standout in Marblehead, offering a harmonious blend of upscale dining and vibrant entertainment. From the moment you step in, the ambiance captivates with its chic interior and inviting atmosphere. 

The menu is a delightful showcase of culinary craftsmanship. Highlights include the Swordfish Chop, renowned for its generous portion and flavorful preparation, and the Steak Frites accompanied by a rich red wine demi-glace. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the Pan-Seared Scallops and the Lobster Roll, both executed to perfection.   

Beyond the exceptional cuisine, The Beacon distinguishes itself with its entertainment offerings. Guests can enjoy live piano performances during the week and lively bands or DJs on weekends, creating a dynamic dining experience. 

The outdoor heated patio is another highlight, providing a comfortable setting for al fresco dining, complete with oversized umbrellas and a cozy fire pit. 

Service is attentive and professional, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a memorable night out, The Beacon delivers on all fronts.

⸻

If you’d like to highlight specific dishes or experiences further, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor the review...