Dockside Pub — Restaurant in Swampscott

First, Taylah our server was an absolute delight. Engaging, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu for these first-timers (I came with my wife - also her first experience at the Dockside Pub). We will be back for the service alone - but that is just the beginning.

This place does a great business and so we came at 4:30 pm on a Saturday afternoon to be beat the rush. The restaurant was still 3/4 full including a cute outdoor bar and sitting area. It’s a lively neighborhood pub atmosphere that makes you feel welcome right away - ready to raise a glass or 2. We both had margaritas… one blackberry and the other the spicy jalapeño cucumber… both excellent, and I am a bartender so I can tell a properly made cocktail. These bartender’s know what they are doing.

Appetizers were really good - the Thai chilli fried shrimp had a homemade sauce that was unique and drinkable …. I kept licking the utensils used to scrub the plate clean. The clam chowder was good - not great. A little thick and coagulated for our taste. But NOT enough clams. This was the only minor disappointment on the entire meal experience — only because I had heard it was quite good.

For the main meal, my wife got the 2-way fried seafood plate with clams and scallops. Decent portion, perfectly cooked. The scallops were the standout star of this show - fresh, juicy and delightful. Clams were also very good, just not as plump and fresh as the scallops. I had the blackened mahi with an arugula mango salad that was one of the best cooked mahi dishes I have ever had. Large portion, nice thickness, deliciously seasoned, and perfectly charred. I would eat the mahi any day, every day and be on cloud 9. It may go away soon as the summer is coming to a close, we heard (get it before it’s gone !!).

All the staff are smiling and very approachable. They seem to truly enjoy working there! All in, we love this place and will definitely add it to our top list of favorite...

Dockside Pub is a true Swampscott gem — a cozy, family-friendly seaside pub that captures the spirit of this historic coastal town. Just steps from the harbor, it offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy good food, great company, and a strong sense of community.

The pub’s interior pays homage to Swampscott’s roots as a fishing village and sailing destination. Nautical décor, vintage harbor photos, and maritime memorabilia line the walls, giving the space a distinctly local flavor. It’s quaint, it’s comfortable, and it feels like home.

The menu features classic New England pub fare — crispy fish and chips, hearty burgers, and rotating specials featuring fresh local seafood. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re grabbing a bite with friends or bringing the whole family.

But the real magic of Dockside lies in its people — especially bartenders Kira and Dylan, who bring an extra layer of warmth and hospitality to every visit. Kira is energetic, friendly, and always quick with a smile or a thoughtful recommendation. Dylan’s calm, attentive service and keen memory for regulars’ favorites make him a standout behind the bar. Together, they embody the spirit of Dockside: genuine, personal, and community-focused.

Locally owned and deeply rooted in Swampscott, Dockside Pub isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a gathering place that gives back, supporting local causes and creating a space where everyone feels like a regular. In a town defined by its maritime history and tight-knit community, Dockside is a natural extension — a pub with heart, character, and plenty of seaside charm.

Reminds me of an old limerick,

At Dockside where sea breezes play, You’ll find friendly faces each day. With Kira and Dylan, The pints are quite thrillin’— It’s Swampscott’s best...

Went here on a Monday night for dinner. Looking forward to going back.

Server was friendly, competent, and helpful — everything arrived quickly and service was timed well. They just opened this month, but it didn't feel like a completely new team. Props to the staff and those who trained them.

Food was great and well-priced. We had the Baja shrimp tacos and the Dockside smash burger. Both were excellent and much better than other similar items I've had elsewhere (and paid more for, mind you). I appreciated the 12 oz draught size on the beers, and while the selection wasn't extensive, it did have a solid balance of different regional craft brewers and styles.

Atmosphere was great. Clearly they put some investment into the space, with old wood tables, sailing line wrapped around support beams, and the kind of kitschy (but not too kitschy) boating-themed wall flair you'd expect in a place named "Dockside". We went on a slow night, but most of the tables were sat. We didn't have any issues hearing each other across the table.

I've lived in the area for a few years now, and this space has seen at least one or two turnovers in the time I've been here. If Dockside keeps up this level of quality then they should be here for years to come. I hope so on both counts. The area needed a...