Legal Sea Foods - Chestnut Hill — Restaurant in Newton

Fresh Seafood but Not So Great Service: Legal Seafoods Chesnut Hill

I have eaten at Legal Seafoods Chesnut Hill countless times and have even reserved the large gathering room in the past. However, during my recent visit, it was disappointing to witness a major downfall in the overall experience.

The food quality didn't meet my expectations, and the once attentive and friendly service seemed to have vanished. The waiters and hostess were unattentive and lacked the warm hospitality that I had experienced in the past. Additionally, the kitchen staff's noise level was quite loud, detracting from the overall dining ambiance.

One particular incident involved the oysters being served, and the server's finger accidentally touching one of the oysters while explaining them. It was a little off-putting and showed a lack of attention to detail.

Ordered: Thai (pineapple & peanuts) Calamari ($18) Oysters of the Day (8 pcs Variety) ($31.60) Crab Cake Sliders ($21) Cup of Clam Chowder ($8.50) Organic Salmon with Street Corn and Rice Pilaf ($33) New England Baked Haddock - Anna's Way ($28) Salmon Avocado BLT

Pros: Decent Ambiance: The restaurant has tasteful decor and comfortable seating, creating a nice atmosphere for dining.

Cons: Food Quality Was Not the Same as Before: While Legal Seafoods Chesnut Hill is known for its fresh seafood, the recent visit left a bit to be desired. The dishes didn't taste as exceptional as they had in the past, indicating a decline in the overall food quality. Servers and Hostess Were Not Attentive: The service during the visit was lacking, with the waiters and hostess not being as attentive or responsive as expected. Their lack of attentiveness affected the overall dining experience.

Overall Impression: While Legal Seafoods Chesnut Hill has always been a go-to place for fresh seafood, this recent experience has left me disappointed. The decline in food quality and service makes it challenging to fully enjoy the dining experience. Until the restaurant addresses these issues and makes quality adjustments, I'd consider exploring other options in...

I am writing two reviews because I have two very different opinions about two different aspects of my recent experience with Legal in Chestnut Hill. I hosted a company dinner there last night. This four star review is based primarily on the service we received there at the event. I arrived early, thankfully, to make sure everything was all set. The room was not set up as I'd wanted. The waiters were extremely accommodating, took everything off the tables and moved them around, then set the tables up to accommodate our group more appropriately. The service from that point on was great. The food was great.. although, the Treasures of Reef appetizer at $120 was not nearly as plentiful as I'd have expected and the presentation left a lot to be desired. We've previously held these dinners at the Capital Grille and for $99 they do an overflowing tower of cold seafood (lobster tails, shrimp, oysters, etc).. much nicer presentation and much more generous amounts of food. So, that was a bit disappointing. But overall the food was great, the service was great. The low points were the room itself (looks rather tired and old), there is a big flat screen tv but it doesn't get cable (our event was held on the night of Bruins game 7 vs. the Canadiens, so we had a lot of disappointed guests!). The only complaint I have about the service was that we had a select/limited menu and they just brought everything out without asking anyone if they needed a vegetarian alternative, which, some of our group did. If I hadn't overheard and stepped in, the vegetarians would have missed out on a couple of courses. I feel that the waiters should make it known, before they start placing plates or bowls down in front of people, that there is another option if anyone needs it. Other than that - great night, due mostly to the great food, the great staff, and the very helpful and...

I still miss the Legal Sea Foods I grew up with in the early 1980s, where you pay first, and the menu was so driven by what was being caught locally.

That said, the Legals at Chestnut Hill is by far the best one I have been to in recent years. I was here for a late lunch on 8/13/2025 and two of us enjoyed one of the best seafood meals we've had in a long time.

We ate at the bar so we could be seated quickly, and while the bar was relatively busy, we were served promptly.

I had the seared sole prepared with the Cajun spices, whipped potatoes and Szechuan style green beans. My guest had the arctic char prepared with miso soy glaze, green beans and miso glazed carrots. Everything was prepared flawlessly and the ingredients were very fresh. My guest and I were both extremely content.

The atmosphere and setting of this Legals is the best of the bunch, in my opinion. It's on the side of the building that overlooks Hammond pond and conservation land. While being right off of rte 9 and in what amounts to a strip mall, it feels more like an upscale country club with a roof top sun deck.

Service is also very good.

Instead of going in and writing up google reviews of the other Legal Sea Foods locations, I will say here, that they don't measure up to this one. Framingham, Burlington, and the Harborside locations all have the same problems. The service at those locations seem discontent, the food prep is subpar (cold sides, dry, overcooked fish), and the one at Copley Place feels like they haven't changed (maybe even cleaned) the furniture or carpets since the 1990s.

I recommend all the Legals see the example set by Chestnut Hill, and rise to their example.

To the team at the Chestnut Hill Legals, I salute your fine...