Perry's Lobster Co in Surry, Maine

Perry's is a low-key seafood spot on the water near Acadia, where you can eat lobster rolls and grilled cheese sandwiches while watching the harbor. The place runs on simplicity: fresh catches, hearty sides, beer you bring yourself. The views are genuinely stunning, and the dock seating is the whole appeal. Just know the prices are steep and the presentation is no-frills.

• Lobster delivered straight from local boats daily
• Dock seating with genuine water and beach views
• Creative sandwiches: lobster grilled cheese, mac and cheese
• BYOB policy keeps cost down on drinks

Start with the lobster roll, though ask about toasting the bun. The lobster mac and cheese has generous chunks of meat (though some say it could use more cheese sauce). The lobster grilled cheese and the surf and turf roll (half steak, half lobster) appeal to folks tired of straight rolls. Fresh clams are solid if they're on the menu. Homemade blueberry pie is worth ordering if you have room. Skip the scallops if they're showing their age.

Casual dock setting with water views. Lively chatter and the smell of fries. It's a working waterside shack, not a refined dining room.

The place works best if you come for the experience and views rather than expecting polished plating or careful seasoning. Some diners rave about specific builds like the lobster cowboy burger or surf and turf roll. Others find the pricing steep relative to the casual presentation and the untoasted buns. Fresh doesn't always mean careful, and that's the trade-off here.

Guests praise the freshness of the lobster and the stunning views over the harbor and beach. One recent visitor called the views "definitely worth checking out." Complaints center on pricing relative to presentation (untoasted buns, minimal seasoning) and small portions, though fans of creative builds like the lobster cowboy burger keep coming back.