Brown's Clam Shanty — Restaurant in Wells

Spend your vacation money with businesses that appreciate it. This one does not.

Over the past five years we've been here several times and literally every time I've witnessed some level of altercation between the very nasty owner and a patron. Today was my turn. I was sympathetic to him until now, but having firsthand experience dealing with him, it is clear why people tend to get into scrapes with him. Lousy attitude, confrontational demeanor, insulting and degrading... dude, grow up.

So here's what happened: We paid extra for a shared plate but were refused a second plate so we could... ya know... SHARE IT. He outright refused. We're talking about a paper plate. One. I asked twice and was basically told to go pound salt. I walked away without another word and was told I was throwing a tantrum. Part of me wishes I'd actually given him a demonstration of one after that, but one of us had to be the grown up...

I have never experienced anything quite like this and will not be risking it again. As a business owner myself, I cannot for the life of me understand the logic here. I've given discounts and scrapped charges for people many times just to maintain good relations and we're not talking about a ten cent paper plate. Unbelievable. My business has survived every minor concession and those concessions have usually led to repeat and loyal business. I would be out of business within a year if I was this much of a jerk to my clientele. Be glad yours is a tourist business, pal. It's the only thing keeping you going - no need for return customers. Take the...

We recently stopped in for lunch and spent $85 for two lobster rolls and clam chowder. The food was decent—fresh enough and flavorful—but not particularly exceptional for the price. Unfortunately, what stood out most during our visit wasn't the food but the unexpected interaction with management.

We brought our own reusable water bottles, as we often do, to reduce plastic waste and avoid unnecessary single-use bottles. We did notice the signs stating "no outside food or drink," but we've never had an issue at any other restaurant when it comes to bringing our own water—especially when no complimentary tap water is provided.

As we started to eat our meal, the manager came out and very aggressively informed us that even our personal water bottles weren’t allowed at the table. There was no room for discussion—just a public reprimand. It made it difficult to enjoy the rest of our meal.

We understand that policies are policies, and the manager is free to enforce the rules of his establishment. But the approach really matters. Again this was because we had our water with us. It’s also worth noting that a strict no-outside-drinks policy, even for water, could be challenging for parents with young children or those with dietary or health needs.

At $85 for lunch—and closer to $95 if we had purchased bottled waters just to comply—we expected a more welcoming experience. We won’t likely return, not because of the policy itself, but because the ask is not how restaurants today handle providing water. If water stations would have been available it would...

Went in for an advertised special - $22 for Chowder & Lobster Roll - this is a good deal knowing lobster prices are through the ceiling. I live close, but only have been once before. Nice walk-up ordering set up inside. A lot of chalkboards with menu selections. Many choices, along with craft beer & wine. The counter ordering was simple. (There was a short line, but they kept it moving) The cashier was the highlight - friendly, clear communication and thorough. A+ Service. My order was for takeout (rainy day pickup) - prepared in a very reasonable time period. The lobster roll was ample portion and fresh. One with butter, one with Mayo. Simple and good - no surprise seasoning or accoutrements. That’s usually a good thing. Chowder not as clean tasting as I hoped, but okay. Many local places buy a base product and doctor it. I feel like the potatoes in chowder was over cooked making it a little grainy. Ordered cheesy fries with bacon. Appreciated real cheese, but turned into a solid block. Hard to eat. Liquid cheese has its advantages. Still a positive experience. Again, good service was the...