Stern Seafood Restaurant in Scarborough, Maine

Stern sits right on the water in Scarborough, where you can watch boats while eating seafood. The menu leans on classics: lobster rolls, fried haddock, crab cakes, oysters. Reservations are smart, especially on summer weekends. Fair warning: the kitchen is inconsistent, and the room can get loud.

• Lobster rolls and oysters sourced from nearby waters.
• Waterfront seating with views of the harbor.
• Service from staff like Marina sets a high bar.
• Fair prices and generous portions on good nights.

Start with oysters or the mussels if you want a sure thing. The lobster roll shows up on many five-star reviews, so it's worth the gamble. Crab cakes are divisive but worth trying once. Skip the fried haddock sandwich unless you don't mind lettuce overpowering the fish. The calamari and Bloody Marys both have fans. End with the brownie and ice cream.

Waterfront views and a lively room overlooking the harbor. Expect noise, especially on busy nights, even when the dining room isn't packed.

The seafood is the gamble. Some nights the lobster roll is among the best you'll have. Other nights the crab cakes feel like they're missing something, or the haddock sandwich arrives buried under lettuce. The mussels and oysters (harvested nearby) tend to earn consistent praise. Desserts, especially the brownie and ice cream, are a safer bet.

Guests who connect with the kitchen rave about the oysters and lobster rolls, calling them among the best they've had. One recent visitor described the mussels as "pillowy" and perfect. Others find the food inconsistent, overhyped, or overshadowed by gimmicky preparations. Marina's service is a standout.