The Chart Room in Bar Harbor, Maine

The Chart Room is a casual spot right on the water in Bar Harbor where you'll find lobster rolls, bang bang shrimp, and prime rib alongside pasta and seafood specials. Summer crowds pack the place, but the kitchen stays on top of it. Sit inside for bay views or head out to the deck after dinner. Service tends to be friendly and attentive, even when things get hectic.

• Lobster mac and cheese that's filling with a decent-sized portion.
• Water views from inside or the outdoor deck.
• Bang bang shrimp with crispy coating and right amount of heat.
• Fast kitchen turnaround even during the summer rush.

Start with the bang bang shrimp if you're in the mood for something fried and punchy. The lobster mac and cheese is hearty enough to share or take as a main. Lobster rolls come both ways (mayo or hot butter). Order the scallop risotto if it's on as a special, and the fish and chips come with fries that actually stay crispy. If you're not in a seafood mood, the teriyaki steak tips hold their own.

Casual indoor-outdoor setup with large windows and a bay view. The outdoor deck is the real draw. Music on the louder side, especially weekend afternoons, but nothing that kills conversation.

The menu leans into Maine staples. Lobster mac and cheese and lobster rolls (mayo or hot butter) show up regularly on plates. They do bang bang shrimp as an appetizer, scallop risotto, whole belly clams, fish and chips with crispy breading, and teriyaki steak tips. Nothing feels fussy. Portions are generous and prices reflect the location and season.

Guests consistently praise the service, the water views, and how quickly food arrives even when the place is packed. The lobster mac and cheese comes up a lot as a standout. One recent visitor called it "filling and a decent sized portion." People come back for the mix of solid seafood and a place that doesn't take itself too seriously.