The Pilot House in Kennebunk, Maine

The Pilot House sits on the water in Kennebunk, housed in a railroad-era building that was rotated on its lot in the 1970s. They do seafood, burgers, steaks, and pizza in a casual, weathered-wood kind of way. The upstairs dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows facing the harbor, and you can actually eat on the deck of the Spirit of Massachusetts, a tall ship docked right next door. It's the kind of place locals send visitors to.

• Lobster roll rivals Mabel's according to repeat visitors.
• Upstairs seating overlooks harbor and moored schooner.
• Smash burger worth a second trip, locals say.
• Historic building with docked 19th-century tall ship.

Start with the lobster roll. Baked crusted haddock is reliably good, and the fish tacos hold their own. If you're skipping seafood, the smash burger gets requested by name and the bacon-wrapped filet special draws praise. The grilled chicken salad works if you want something lighter. One recent visitor called the lobster roll 'AMAZING' and came back specifically for it.

Two stories with wood throughout and water views from the upstairs balcony. Casual but put-together, with a working schooner docked outside. It fills up at lunch and dinner but doesn't feel rushed.

The kitchen keeps it straightforward. Fresh lobster rolls, baked haddock, fish tacos, smash burgers that people return for specifically, and specials like bacon-wrapped filet for non-seafood eaters. Portions skew modest, and that seems to be by design. Service moves fast and the staff genuinely seems glad you're there.

Regulars mention the historic charm and harbor views almost as much as the food. One guest called it 'a close second to Mabel's Lobster Claw,' high praise in Kennebunk. The staff gets consistent notes for being friendly and efficient. Sue behind the bar apparently makes drinks strong and remembers names.