The best restaurants in Essex County
289 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.
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Temazcal Tequila Cantina
RestaurantsElegantly chic restaurant offering elevated Mexican cuisine along with margaritas & 250+ tequilas.
Temazcal Tequila Cantina
RestaurantsIHOP
RestaurantsLong-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.
IHOP
RestaurantsOTTO
RestaurantsLocal pizza chain specializing in thin-crust, gourmet pies with create-your-own options.
OTTO
RestaurantsMarketStreet Lynnfield
RestaurantsPolished, outdoor retail center with 80+ stores, supermarket & eateries, plus a seasonal ice rink.
MarketStreet Lynnfield
RestaurantsThe Honey Baked Ham Company
RestaurantsFamily-owned chain selling ready-to-serve smoked hams, plus turkeys, roasts, side dishes & desserts.
The Honey Baked Ham Company
RestaurantsPapa Gino's
RestaurantsDown-to-earth, family-oriented chain doling out hand-stretched pizzas, plus pasta & subs.
Papa Gino's
RestaurantsD'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches
RestaurantsBranch of a sandwich shop chain offering subs, wraps & salads, plus rice & grain bowls.
D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches
RestaurantsDavio's Northern Italian Steakhouse
RestaurantsHigh-end Italian steakhouse with an extensive menu & wine list, plus a refined bar.
Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse
RestaurantsCasa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant
RestaurantsTacos, burritos & carne asada round out the menu at this lively Mexican eatery with outdoor seating.
Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant
RestaurantsKings Dining & Entertainment
RestaurantsThis retro-chic bowling alley has bars, an eatery & games such as bocce, billiards & shuffleboard.
Kings Dining & Entertainment
RestaurantsBurtons Grill & Bar
RestaurantsUpscale bar & grill chain featuring an extensive menu of American fare in a stylish dining room.
Burtons Grill & Bar
RestaurantsIn The Game Peabody
RestaurantsWhen cabin fever hits, In The Game Peabody delivers the ultimate family fun with new Gel Blasters, a Human Crane, plenty of attractions,…
In The Game Peabody
RestaurantsFaz Cafe
RestaurantsFaz Cafe keeps Methuen well fed with bright, wholesome breakfast and lunch with a little Mediterranean flair, from croissants and bowls to…
Faz Cafe
RestaurantsSantoro's of Peabody
RestaurantsSantoro's of Peabody hits the spot with hot and cold subs, club sandwiches, specialty paninis and wraps, and a pizza lineup that swings…
Santoro's of Peabody
RestaurantsSubway
RestaurantsCasual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.
Subway
Restaurantsall dough
RestaurantsAll Dough is a sandwich shop launching soon, and it looks like the kind of place you’ll want in the weekday rotation. Keep an eye out,…
all dough
RestaurantsHammersmith Family Restaurant
RestaurantsA Melrose go-to in spirit even though it's over in Saugus, Hammersmith Family Restaurant has been slinging delicious home style plates…
Hammersmith Family Restaurant
RestaurantsGreen Apple Café
RestaurantsGreen Apple Café in North Andover does breakfast all day with local ingredients and a side of genuine warmth, plus lunch if you slept in.…
Green Apple Café
RestaurantsSam & Joe's Restaurant
RestaurantsEnduring waterfront bar & eatery turning out thin-crust pies along with Italian & seafood classics.
Sam & Joe's Restaurant
Restaurants9 Elm American Bistro
RestaurantsUpscale-casual option presenting a focused American menu plus wine & dessert in a cozy dining room.
9 Elm American Bistro
RestaurantsJaime's Restaurant
RestaurantsSpacious, contemporary eatery with a lively bar scene offering a big menu of eclectic comfort fare.
Jaime's Restaurant
RestaurantsIron Town Diner
RestaurantsNeighborhood joint with hefty American & some Greek eats for breakfast & lunch, plus daily specials.
Iron Town Diner
RestaurantsPerfecto's Caffe
RestaurantsBakery/cafe with housemade pastries, a variety of coffee choices & food such as sandwiches & salads.
Perfecto's Caffe
RestaurantsTexas Roadhouse
RestaurantsLively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.
Texas Roadhouse
RestaurantsSubway
RestaurantsCasual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.
Subway
RestaurantsParlay
RestaurantsParlay sits atop Merrimack Valley Golf Club in Methuen, serving creative American plates and well-made cocktails with a perch that…
Parlay
RestaurantsShadi’s Restaurant and Lounge
RestaurantsAiry, stone-walled eatery offers traditional Middle Eastern fare & American options, plus cocktails.
Shadi’s Restaurant and Lounge
RestaurantsPizza Factory
RestaurantsOrder-at-the-counter chain serving lots of specialty pies & other Italian basics.
Pizza Factory
RestaurantsOTTO
RestaurantsLocal pizza chain specializing in thin-crust, gourmet pies with create-your-own options.
OTTO
RestaurantsTennessee's Real BBQ
RestaurantsWhether you crave tender, wood-smoked ribs, pulled pork, or marinated chicken with all the Southern fixings, Tennessee's Real BBQ nails it,…
Tennessee's Real BBQ
RestaurantsCRACK'D Kitchen & Coffee
RestaurantsCrack'd Kitchen & Coffee leans into the breakfast sandwich life with cage-free eggs, craft sandwiches, salads, bowls, smoothies and coffee…
CRACK'D Kitchen & Coffee
RestaurantsJ. Pace & Son
RestaurantsSimple market/Italian deli counter selling subs, groceries & prepared meals plus wines & spirits.
J. Pace & Son
RestaurantsSigs Kitchen BBQ
RestaurantsSigs Kitchen BBQ is two brothers and one serious smoker turning out slow-smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and smash burgers with sides…
Sigs Kitchen BBQ
RestaurantsSeaport Grille
RestaurantsWhether you’re leaning fancy or just need a legit fried dinner, Seaport Grille nails the classics. Think BONS-winning lobster rolls and…
Seaport Grille
RestaurantsGeorge's Restaurant & Bar
RestaurantsWhen you want a no-nonsense breakfast that actually fills you up, George's Restaurant & Bar does classic diner comfort in gloriously big…
George's Restaurant & Bar
RestaurantsFrankie Slice
RestaurantsInside Eatery 58 Marketplace, Frankie Slice turns North Shore pizza into a love language, blending Naples, NYC, and North End vibes into…
Frankie Slice
RestaurantsThe Halal Spot
RestaurantsFamily-founded and big on flavor, The Halal Spot turns classic halal into everyday Methuen fuel with a sandwich-first menu, fair prices,…
The Halal Spot
RestaurantsLondi's North Andover
RestaurantsWhen dinner needs to be easy and good, Londi's North Andover delivers delicious pizzas, a variety of subs, colorful salads, and that roast…
Londi's North Andover
RestaurantsBravo By The Sea, Gloucester
RestaurantsBravo By The Sea is turning out blistered, wood-fired pies and thick, cheesy-corner Detroit squares, with the new Bravo Squared menu now…
Bravo By The Sea, Gloucester
RestaurantsTonno Gloucester
RestaurantsTonno Gloucester does coastal Italian right, balancing hand-made pasta with special catches pulled straight from the harbor. Pair it with a…
Tonno Gloucester
RestaurantsJoe Fish Seafood Restaurant
RestaurantsWhen the craving hits, Joe Fish Seafood Restaurant delivers the North Shore classic combo of fried and grilled seafood, proper lobster…
Joe Fish Seafood Restaurant
RestaurantsTokyo Steakhouse
RestaurantsContemporary Japanese steakhouse featuring sushi, noodles & entrees cooked on tableside grills.
Tokyo Steakhouse
RestaurantsSalt Water Grille
RestaurantsSalt Water Grille keeps it local with mussels, crispy fish and chips, and tacos that actually satisfy, plus a solid burger when you’re…
Salt Water Grille
RestaurantsBlue Marlin Grille
RestaurantsSteaks, seafood & pasta dishes are the draw at this local, contemporary establishment with a patio.
Blue Marlin Grille
RestaurantsSweetheart Inn
RestaurantsSet in the 1775 Dow House, Sweetheart Inn keeps it classic with hearty American plates, an easygoing vibe, and a patio that feels like…
Sweetheart Inn
RestaurantsGloucester Pizza & Roast Beef
RestaurantsGloucester Pizza & Roast Beef is that reliable go-to when you want oven-hot pies with generations-tested dough and sauce, roast beef…
Gloucester Pizza & Roast Beef
RestaurantsTokyo Japanese Steakhouse
RestaurantsTokyo Japanese Steakhouse delivers weeknight entertainment with hibachi chefs who make dinner a show, plus a legit sushi bar helmed by…
Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse
RestaurantsThe Double Bull
RestaurantsCraving a low-key hang where everyone finds something? The Double Bull delivers with over 50 beers on tap, a menu that runs from pub…
The Double Bull
Restaurants99 Restaurants
RestaurantsKid-friendly pub chain offering classic fare like burgers, wings & salads in informal surrounds.
99 Restaurants
RestaurantsNick's Place Saugus
RestaurantsHuge menu of Italian & American comfort food, including pizza, pasta, subs & salads, in casual digs.
Nick's Place Saugus
RestaurantsFranklin Cape Ann
RestaurantsFranklin Cape Ann keeps weeknights lively with inventive New American plates, craft cocktails, and live music in the mix, all in a sharp,…
Franklin Cape Ann
RestaurantsPapa Gino's
RestaurantsPapa Gino's is that reliable neighborhood standby for hand-stretched pies with the same old-school Italian recipe locals grew up on. When…
Papa Gino's
RestaurantsTropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsHealth-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsTaqueria Del Pueblo
RestaurantsTaqueria Del Pueblo is a recognized Lawrence spot under new management, and it shows in tacos loaded with farmers’ market fresh fillings.…
Taqueria Del Pueblo
RestaurantsPellana
RestaurantsPellana nails the classic steakhouse vibe with premium cuts, luxe seafood, and a wine list that actually earns its praise. They've been a…
Pellana
RestaurantsTropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsHealth-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsAmerican Flatbread
RestaurantsWood-fired pizzas with organic ingredients & free-range meats, made in traditional clay ovens.
American Flatbread
RestaurantsPoseidon’s Italian Kitchen
RestaurantsPoseidon’s Italian Kitchen is a clutch local go-to for make-your-own pizzas and calzones, classic subs and wings, plus family dish packages…
Poseidon’s Italian Kitchen
Restaurants99 Restaurants
RestaurantsKid-friendly pub chain offering classic fare like burgers, wings & salads in informal surrounds.
99 Restaurants
RestaurantsREV Kitchen & Bar
RestaurantsRestaurant featuring updated American cuisine, with an open kitchen, big bar & outdoor tables.
REV Kitchen & Bar
RestaurantsTropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsHealth-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsCasa Blanca
RestaurantsWhether you’re craving melty quesadillas, loaded tacos, or something saucy to share, Casa Blanca brings colorful, hacienda-style vibes to…
Casa Blanca
RestaurantsMile Marker One Restaurant & Igloo Dining
RestaurantsMile Marker One Restaurant & Igloo Dining is the locals' spot for fresh-off-the-boat raw bar, trap-to-table lobster, and steaks with marina…
Mile Marker One Restaurant & Igloo Dining
RestaurantsUncle Frank's Pizza & Subs
RestaurantsUncle Frank's Pizza & Subs keeps it simple and delicious with Sicilian-rooted pies, loaded subs, and an Italian-inspired menu that feels…
Uncle Frank's Pizza & Subs
RestaurantsKings Famous Roast Beef, Pizza & Seafood
RestaurantsKings Famous Roast Beef, Pizza & Seafood is that dependable Salem move when nobody can agree on dinner. Think stacked roast beef dinners,…
Kings Famous Roast Beef, Pizza & Seafood
RestaurantsRaising Cane's Chicken Fingers
RestaurantsFast-food chain specializing in fried chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries & Texas toast.
Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
RestaurantsDominic's
RestaurantsDominic's is the kind of local place that treats a morning like a fresh start, with hearty breakfast-and-lunch staples and genuinely…
Dominic's
RestaurantsSpinners Pizza Parlor
RestaurantsPizza, pasta & subs are the specialties of this no-nonsense, family-run pizzeria.
Spinners Pizza Parlor
RestaurantsPanini Pizzeria
RestaurantsCasual spot serving hand-tossed traditional & specialty pizzas, plus calzones, panini & sandwiches.
Panini Pizzeria
RestaurantsNew Brothers Restaurant & Deli
RestaurantsCafeteria-style, Greek-American restaurant with breakfast-to-dinner comfort food & homemade pies.
New Brothers Restaurant & Deli
RestaurantsRoute 97 House of Pizza
RestaurantsRoute 97 House of Pizza nails that crispy Greek-style crust with hand-stretched dough, a tangy signature sauce, and toppings that don’t…
Route 97 House of Pizza
RestaurantsDicor Italian and Argentinian Restaurant
RestaurantsDicor Italian and Argentinian Restaurant nails that sweet spot where chicken parm can sit happily beside empanadas and milanesa, with a…
Dicor Italian and Argentinian Restaurant
RestaurantsDuffy's Diner
RestaurantsDuffy's Diner just added a brand new bar and is now open for dinner, so you can slide in for a quick bite or unwind with something cold.…
Duffy's Diner
RestaurantsPonte Vecchio Restaurant
RestaurantsNeighborhood fixture offering traditional Italian meals, a full bar & regular music & dinner events.
Ponte Vecchio Restaurant
RestaurantsFive Guys
RestaurantsFast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.
Five Guys
RestaurantsFrom Brazil Restaurant
RestaurantsFrom Brazil Restaurant is that reliable Peabody spot for grilled picanha, hearty moqueca, crispy apps, and even sushi with a Brazilian…
From Brazil Restaurant
RestaurantsCentury House Restaurant
RestaurantsA North Shore tradition since 1957, Century House Restaurant nails the cozy-night-out trifecta with a warm tavern, classic American plates,…
Century House Restaurant
RestaurantsRoyal House-Roast Beef & Pizza
RestaurantsRoyal House-Roast Beef & Pizza is that family-owned Methuen standby for oven hot pies, juicy roast beef, and great tasting subs. They back…
Royal House-Roast Beef & Pizza
RestaurantsSushi Sang Lee
RestaurantsWith pristine hand rolls and intimate omakase, Sushi Sang Lee is relocating within Gloucester and keeping knives sharp with pop-ups around…
Sushi Sang Lee
RestaurantsGreg's
RestaurantsWhen you're juggling dinner plans, Greg's has you covered with fresh, delicious pies plus a surprisingly huge menu. Think roast beef…
Greg's
RestaurantsDepot House of Pizza
RestaurantsSince 1978, Depot House of Pizza has been an Andover favorite for made-to-order pies, hearty subs, and salads that actually get eaten. Dine…
Depot House of Pizza
RestaurantsChili's Grill & Bar
RestaurantsFamily-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.
Chili's Grill & Bar
RestaurantsFeather & Wedge
RestaurantsA menu of dishes & cocktails with an international focus in contemporary setting with natural light.
Feather & Wedge
RestaurantsShort & Main
RestaurantsContemporary bistro featuring creative pizzas & oysters, plus brunch & fried chicken on Thursdays.
Short & Main
RestaurantsTaco Express Peabody
RestaurantsTaco Express Peabody keeps it simple and satisfying with tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and loaded quesadillas built around braised, shredded…
Taco Express Peabody
RestaurantsThe Smoke Shop BBQ - Methuen
RestaurantsWhen a craving hits for real smoke and bark, The Smoke Shop BBQ - Methuen delivers chef Andy Husbands’ competition-honed brisket and ribs,…
The Smoke Shop BBQ - Methuen
RestaurantsTacos Lupita - North Lawrence
RestaurantsNo-nonsense counter-serve joint offering a modest menu of familiar Mexican favorites.
Tacos Lupita - North Lawrence
RestaurantsThe Rhumb Line Bar & Restaurant
RestaurantsSince 1978, The Rhumb Line Bar & Restaurant has been Gloucester’s neighborhood hangout for pub-comfy plates, locally caught fish, prime rib…
The Rhumb Line Bar & Restaurant
RestaurantsBrother's Roast Beef & pizza
RestaurantsBrother's Roast Beef & Pizza is that dependable Peabody go-to when you want a proper roast beef sandwich made with quality ingredients, or…
Brother's Roast Beef & pizza
RestaurantsSupino's Italian Restaurant
RestaurantsSupino's Italian Restaurant is that reliable North Shore standby for chicken parm, lasagna, and portions that could feed your next-door…
Supino's Italian Restaurant
RestaurantsTropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsHealth-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsPrince Pizzeria
RestaurantsLong-running, family-owned pizzeria & restaurant serving hearty, family-style Italian classics.
Prince Pizzeria
RestaurantsTokyo Japanese Steak House
RestaurantsTokyo Japanese Steak House in nearby Saugus does the whole teppanyaki spectacle right, with chefs working the grill while you sip tropical…
Tokyo Japanese Steak House
RestaurantsJersey Mike's Subs
RestaurantsNew Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.
Jersey Mike's Subs
RestaurantsBrothers Restaurant & Deli Peabody
RestaurantsBrothers Restaurant & Deli Peabody is the kind of spot where Greek homestyle favorites meet classic deli comfort, so you can go from…
Brothers Restaurant & Deli Peabody
RestaurantsNorth House of Pizza
RestaurantsNorth House of Pizza is that trusty local move when you want oven-hot pies made from generations-old dough, sauce, and cheese recipes, plus…
North House of Pizza
RestaurantsMcCann’s Hot Dog Stand
RestaurantsMcCann’s Hot Dog Stand keeps it simple and ridiculously satisfying, serving hot dogs, juicy burgers, Italian sausages, and a…
McCann’s Hot Dog Stand
RestaurantsFive Guys
RestaurantsFast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.
Five Guys
RestaurantsJalapeño's Authentic Mexican Restaurant
RestaurantsTraditional Mexican cooking turned out in an expansive dining room, plus bar with margarita menu.
Jalapeño's Authentic Mexican Restaurant
RestaurantsDestino's Subs & Catering
RestaurantsAround since 1959, Destino's Subs & Catering is the no-nonsense Gloucester standby for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with hefty sandwiches,…
Destino's Subs & Catering
RestaurantsPete's A Place
RestaurantsPete's A Place has been a Peabody standby since 2001, cranking out pizza, subs, calzones, and those beloved steak tips. Portions are…
Pete's A Place
RestaurantsQDOBA Mexican Eats
RestaurantsA menu of customizable Mexican food served in a modern restaurant, plus takeout & catering.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
RestaurantsSpare Time Tavern
RestaurantsSpare Time Tavern is the on-site, family-friendly restaurant inside Leo's Metro Bowl, perfect when you want to keep the crew together…
Spare Time Tavern
RestaurantsSalem's Retreat
RestaurantsSalem's Retreat keeps breakfast and lunch fresh, fun, and kind of irresistible, with daily-made staples, creative benedicts, and…
Salem's Retreat
RestaurantsNick's Famous Roast Beef
RestaurantsOpen since 1975, Nick's Famous Roast Beef is the counter-serve legend locals call when only a hot roast beef will do. Easy pickup or…
Nick's Famous Roast Beef
RestaurantsJersey Mike's Subs
RestaurantsNew Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.
Jersey Mike's Subs
RestaurantsNorth Beverly Roast Beef
RestaurantsWhen the craving hits, North Beverly Roast Beef is the move for classic roast beef sandwiches and straightforward seafood, all prepped…
North Beverly Roast Beef
RestaurantsNick’s Pizza, Subs & Roast Beef
RestaurantsNick’s Pizza, Subs & Roast Beef nails the Beverly trifecta with crispy pies, legit roast beef sandwiches, and enough pastas, salads, and…
Nick’s Pizza, Subs & Roast Beef
RestaurantsWrapture
RestaurantsBeverly's petite takeout nook, Wrapture, turns out creative made-to-order wraps, stir fries, burritos, tacos, and salads that actually…
Wrapture
RestaurantsTropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsHealth-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
RestaurantsMikey's Famous Roastbeef And Pizza Beverly
RestaurantsWhen you want an easy local fix without overthinking dinner, Mikey's Famous Roastbeef And Pizza Beverly turns out hot roast beef…
Mikey's Famous Roastbeef And Pizza Beverly
RestaurantsBeverly Depot Restaurant
RestaurantsSet inside a historic 1890s train station, Beverly Depot Restaurant is a locals’ standby for well-cooked steaks, plenty of seafood, and…
Beverly Depot Restaurant
Restaurants99 Restaurants
RestaurantsKid-friendly pub chain offering classic fare like burgers, wings & salads in informal surrounds.
99 Restaurants
RestaurantsKitchen Table
RestaurantsWhether you want a cozy date night or to corral the crew, Kitchen Table nails farm-to-table comfort with playful twists, plus thoughtful…
Kitchen Table
RestaurantsMaria's Corner Pizzeria
RestaurantsMaria's Corner Pizzeria nails crisp, handmade pies, but the menu goes wide with steak subs, buffalo chicken calzones, rice bowls, pastas,…
Maria's Corner Pizzeria
RestaurantsPanini Pizza Co.
RestaurantsPanini Pizza Co. keeps Beverly fed with handcrafted pies made on fresh daily dough, rich sauces, and toppings that hit right. When the…
Panini Pizza Co.
RestaurantsBeverly House of Pizza
RestaurantsFamily owned and always oven hot, Beverly House of Pizza turns this week’s dinner debate into crispy pies, great subs, fresh salads, and…
Beverly House of Pizza
RestaurantsSuper Sub Shop
RestaurantsSuper Sub Shop has been a Beverly staple since 1970, turning out steak bombs and cheesesteaks on fresh bread with homemade sauces that hit…
Super Sub Shop
RestaurantsG & Z Pizza & Restaurant
RestaurantsOld-school, counter serve featuring standard pies & slices, plus sandwiches & Mediterranean bites.
G & Z Pizza & Restaurant
RestaurantsNiki's Famous Roast Beef, Pizza & Subs
RestaurantsNiki's Famous Roast Beef, Pizza & Subs brings handcrafted pizzas, mouthwatering subs, fresh salads, flavorful dinners, gluten-free options,…
Niki's Famous Roast Beef, Pizza & Subs
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