Hurricane Restaurant in Kennebunkport, Maine

Hurricane sits right on the water in Kennebunkport, serving seafood and American fare in a room that feels old-school New England. The bar is a draw on its own, all high tops and vintage charm. You'll find locals and travelers here, especially on weekends when parking fills up fast. Service runs hot and cold depending on who's tending your table.

• Seafood stew with lobster, shrimp, mussels in Mediterranean broth.
• Fish and chips rivals any you've had, one diner said.
• Deck seating with river views, especially nice on fair days.
• Strawberry Hugo spritz and classic cocktails worth ordering.

The seafood stew is the move if you want everything in one bowl: a half lobster, shrimp, mussels, clams, and scallops in a Mediterranean broth. Fish and chips here is the real deal. The French onion soup is a solid starter, and the porterhouse pork chop with chutney and mashed potatoes delivers. Skip the cauliflower bites unless they've changed the recipe. Ask for lemon with the fish.

A big, attractive bar anchors the front with high tops for drinks. The dining room beyond is classy and classic New England, with wood and maritime touches. It can get loud when full.

Guests praise the seafood stew and fish and chips. One recent visitor called their fish and chips as good as any they've had. Service is inconsistent: some tables get Vicky, who knows when to show up and when to disappear. Others wait longer than they'd like.