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MC Perkins Cove
Category: Restaurants American (New) American (New) [Edit]
111 Perkins Cove RdOgunquit, ME 03907
(207) 646-6263
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Classy, Trendy, Upscale, Touristy
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
45 reviews for MC Perkins Cove
Review Highlights
"The food was great specially the crab cakes for appetizers."
(in 5 reviews)
"Great food and excellent service."
(in 3 reviews)
"The fish tacos alone are worth the 5 hour drive for me."
(in 2 reviews)
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45 reviews in English
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Review from Jillian C.
West Hartford, CT
8/19/2011
This was a really lovely dinner, exceeding our expectations, which were high to begin with. The food was excellent. The atmosphere was refined, yet relaxed, and with a beautiful view of the water on Perkins Cove.
We started with the mussels, which were delicious and creatively prepared in a basil cream sauce. For his entree, the better half had the cedar planked salmon with aoli and fingerling potatoes. I had the swordfish (cooked to perfection) with the tarragon sauce and the corn custard, and heirloom tomatoes to share. Everything was delicious. Nice service and a decent wine list. Request to sit upstairs-- the view of the cove is unbelievable, and the ambiance is just right for an upscale beach vacation dinner.
Reservations are a must, even during the week, so call ahead or plan on waiting. We had an 8:30 reservation and couldn't get in a minute earlier, but enjoyed a nice drink at the bar (which had been crowded when we stopped in earlier but thinned out nicely as it got later). Definitely recommend. -
Review from Robert M.
Chelsea, MA
9/16/2011
Best view in Ogunquit. Been in before to sit at the down stairs & up stairs bars. Thought I'd bring a date, which seemed like a great idea at the time. I arrived at 5 to find no one working at the fully occupied downstairs bar. I started to head upstairs, when one of the 4 people having a tete a tete at the corner desk snippily informed me that upstairs was closed. I retreated to the bar, where I stood for several minutes without anyone asking if I'd like to order anything. Realizing that bar service wasn't going to happen tonight, I headed back to the hostess stand, asked for a table for two and decided to take my chances with dinner.
I was seated promptly and a nice young girl asked me if I'd like some water. I ordered a bottle of still and perused the wine list in an attempt to finally get that drink when she informed me that she was "just the busgirl" and couldn't take my wine order. I waited. And waited. Cuticles checked, menu perused, decor analyzed, stitches in carpet counted, and still no service. A seemingly eternal 20 minutes passed before I was approached by another restaurant employee. I was ready to cut my losses and spend my dining dollars elsewhere, but my date really wanted to dine here so I shelved my better judgment and (finally!) ordered a bottle of wine. The waiter brought the wine, poured it and promptly disappeared, a fact temporarily shielded from my notice by the arrival of my date.
We spent about 10 minutes talking and catching up when a new server appeared and asked if we were ready to order. We weren't, but I ordered some oysters as an appetizer and my date and I continued to catch up. After a reasonable time, the second server appeared again to see if we were ready to order. We'd begun looking at the menu, but weren't quite ready so I thought I'd order a second bottle of wine. She informed me that "The chef prefers people to order all at once instead of sporadically," and she also informed me that for that reason, our oyster order had not yet been placed.
That was enough for me. The attitude and poor service was only going to spoil my date if I continued to have my date here. I asked for the check, which was dumped in (yet another) huff. I paid, leaving an industry tip and waited at the bar (now bereft of life, with a sole occupant nursing his drink in the corner) while my date used the restroom. The "host" was there and we made eye contact, but he didn't so much as acknowledge us on our way out to another restaurant.
I believe that this place is run by the Arrows Company. I had high expectations and anticipated a far better experience from them so I'm even more disappointed than I would be had this been a randomly chosen restaurant. I hope they can pull it together - and I'll give them another chance in the future to show that they have - but one more experience like this and one of the dozens of other area establishments hungry for my business and eager to show it will earn my patronage. -
Review from Bob K.
Blue Hill, ME
2/4/2012
this restaurant is so good it's hard to put a finger on the exact reason--but lets try. excellent menu without a lot of pretense--fabulous service--incredibly good food--a well designed and thought out space, which most restaurants aren't. any good restaurant can get the main entree right--but here every side dish is stunning. this is a fun place to eat with insanely good food!
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Review from Tim H.
Milford, NH
1/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
First time here for lunch (though we've always loved it for dinner). Best tomato soup and grilled cheese I've ever had ... And I don't even like tomato soup! Same great vibe and service as dinner ... Plus you get to enjoy the ocean view even more during the day.
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Review from Marianna K.
West Lebanon, NH
7/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
This restaurant has greatly dropped in quality since the last time I went here. First off, their "15 minute wait" was actually 45 minutes. We stood at the bar awkwardly and had drinks, while customers pushed in and out of the front door. The bar tender, however, was excellent. The appetizers were good but small, so we finished them quickly and then twiddled our thumbs for at least half an hour... Two of the three main courses were unacceptable for a restaurant of this level. The burger (ordered medium rare) arrived as "medium" (waiter misheard) but looked much closer to well done, it was also tasteless. The dinner salad consisted of two pieces of tiny toast, two little bites of jamon, and a lot of green stuff - while crunchy, this is not an $11 salad.
We left MC Perkins Cove very upset and a little hungry. This place used to be highly recommended by us; we're not coming back. -
Review from Karin S.
Stamford, CT
5/29/2011 12 Check-ins Here
This is my favorite restaurant in the Northeast. I have dined at this restaurant a few dozen times in the past few years.
The fish tacos alone are worth the 5 hour drive for me. For dinner, the plank roasted fish of the day is always perfectly prepared and also provides a healthier alternative than what one may typically find in a resort area. The drinks- Mimosas, Bloody Mary's and selection of specialty cocktails are the best I've had in the area.
I've seen the negative comments about the service and this has never been my experience.
As far as the price vs. portion size, I think it is well worth the thoughtfully prepared food made from fresh ingredients. The chefs manage to make grilled cheese and tomato soup a fine dining experience. If you like crab cakes, I would suggest you try this appetizer here.
I would have to assume if you are a fan of a $19.99 all-you-can-eat buffet, are looking for ordinary fried seafood fare or simple boiled lobster with corn on the cob side M.C. Perkins Cove may not be the best choice for you. If you enjoy more creatively prepared fresh foods by nationally recognized chefs then I would highly recommend you try M.C. Perkins Cove. -
Review from Owa S.
Portland, ME
10/24/2011
Fantastic
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Review from robert m.
Haverhill, MA
8/18/2011
My wife and i ate there last Saturday we ordered a clam pizza
I informed the waitress the a couple of clams had a putrid taste
She informed me that she would take it up with the kitchen ,never
came back with an apology .
The bread basket was an embarrassment dried left over bread.
The mezze platter had what was described as sopa it turned put
be dry and flavorless.
This is not the the same restaurant that we have been coming to
for the last few Summers.
Definitely over priced but more importantly not up to par.
We have resigned ourselves to skip this place the next time we are
In Ogunquit.
In addition we will not recommend this place to my friends.
With these prices there is no room for mediocrity.
Bob -
Review from Adriane B.
Cambridge, MA
9/21/2011
Yes, the view is spectacular but it's all down hill from there. I went there a couple years ago and had a bad meal but wanted to give it a second chance. I ordered lobster roll and requested that they serve it on lettuce.
I got two lettuce leaves and not-so-fresh lobster claw meat in light mayo with fries for $20. Overpriced and mediocre at best. When I asked my waiter for rolls, he obliged but didn't serve butter. For a high priced restaurant, I expect more. -
Review from Peggy A.
Woburn, MA
9/15/2011
I would actually like to give it 2.5 stars, if I could. The atmosphere was the best part of the dining experience. The view was spectacular however the food was a bit disappointing.
I ordered the plank salmon which was on special and it was over cooked. Instead of flaking when I touched it with my fork is shredded. DRY! Sadly when the waiter came for his one and only visit to our table after our food came, I had a scalding hot (and thankfully, delicious) fingerling potato in my mouth and couldn't speak. Eventually I lost my opportunity to send my dish back as I could not get his attention and my dining companions continued to eat their meals.
Another party at my table ordered the duck and thankfully shared, or I would have left the restaurant hungry. The duck confit was outstanding but the breast portion was nothing special. It was a little over-seasoned and again, a little over cooked.
The standout of the night was the lemon cheesecake, which I got a small taste of. My dessert order was the three ice cream sandwiches. The idea is outstanding but the execution was just okay. Two of the cookies were overcooked and hard.
I would have thought that when the waiter cleared the dishes and saw that my fish was hardly touched he would have inquired as to my satisfaction, but he did not. -
Review from Karen D.
Updated - 7/11/2011
On my recent trip to Ogunquit for 4th of July, I had a few meals at the upstairs bar with an incredible view. The food is great and really fresh. Great calamari and fish tacos that are not your typical breaded and fried dishes. The service and drinks are also great. After a couple of OK to not so great meals, I found myself returning here every day for a guaranteed good meal.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/20/2010
I have been to this place several times over the past several years and I think it is great. I don't… Read more »
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Review from jordan n.
Cambridge, MA
8/9/2011
I have been going to MC's since they opened, they have a killer view great bar , great wait staff and what I am now down grading to just OK food.
They used to be much better but feel this past year my last 5 or 6 meals have not been as good. The fish taco were over cooked, calamari was super greasy, my burger had a stale roll and steak was not cooked as I order additionally they don't give those spicy nuts out any more? I used to love them.
Another thing to factor in is the price they charge i just feel at these prices they really need to focus more on the quality of their product. I will def be back for more just hope they get it together. -
Review from Kaitlin B.
Somerville, MA
11/13/2011
Good food, fantastic atmosphere and waterfront views
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Review from A. K.
New York, NY
11/12/2011
The view doesn't get any better. The Caesar salad was very good, but the portion was a bit small. The fish and chips were good. They weren't greasy, and the fish was moist. The mussels lacked flavor and weren't that plump. They are stingy with the bread. The Med. platter was just fair. Share one of the pizzas as after a while, the taste is too much. The wines aren't cheap, but the pours are good.
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Review from Cliff P.
Reading, MA
4/3/2011
Went for lunch on a Saturday. Four stars for the service and atmosphere.. Very nice view. Very nice staff, however there was a lot of Staff traffic around the tables, but staff was attentive. I have been here a few times before a couple years ago and the food was great but something has happened to the food. The person I was with ordered the Fish and Chips and it was Very heavy and lacked flavor. The fries (chips) were limp and greasy, almost as if they were undercooked.
We also ordered the Calamari and it was also very greasy and must have been overcooked as it was a little rubbery.
I ordered the Ruben sandwich and it was one of the best I've had but also had the same issues with the fries...
I have had worse lunches but will not rush back for the food. -
Review from Lea F.
Nashua, NH
7/30/2011
Good fresh seafood.
Great service.
Nice presentation. -
Review from Mike R.
Westford, MA
9/4/2010 1 Check-in Here
This will be the second time my wife and I have eaten here. The first time was a pleasant experience - the second was just as pleasant. Great room, good service. I ordered the sirloin (30.00) with Lee's A1 Sauce and Israel Cous Cous. The strip was about 8oz and was perfectly cooked (medium-rare) and very juicy. I was very happy with it. The cous - cous was very well cooked and prepared with some mild spices.
My wife ordered the Mac-Cheese with lobster. (32.00) The cheese was a delightful blend of mild white cheddar and sharp cheddar. The macaroni was the big noodles and the dish was from scratch. The dish came out hot and with a lobster chopped in half. The other half was in the mac and cheese. Very plentiful of meat and well worth the price. She also ordered a side of creamed spinach which was delightful. Very tasty and the cream was light. I mixed some of the spinach in my couscous and I think they will put that on he menu next time..:-)
Overall, the dining experience was nice. We went up during the Hurricane Earl scare. The cove and the rest. was quiet so we got a lovely seat at the window overlooking the cove.
My only gripe - with the prices above average, the multitude of servers back and fro, I would have liked my Lobster Red Ale in a nicer glass other than a Miller Lite pint glass...very tacky. -
Review from Sheila C.
Cape Neddick, ME
7/9/2011
Used to be wonderful and do not know what happened?
Party of 4 all went out and were excited for a nice dinner night out. I have to say that all 4 of us were disappointed!
Very pricey! Who do the owners think they are jacking up the prices so high? I understand the views are spectacular, but really I do think it is fair to ask the prices they do.
Go somewhere else and save your money, its not worth it. -
Review from Jae L.
Jericho, VT
4/20/2009
My fiance took me here for our first date, and he took me here again to propose to me! So it has a special place in our hearts, and we love that the management and staff went out of their way to make our evening special the night we got engaged. They even let my fiance bring in his own musicians!
On the other end of the formality spectrum, we sometimes come here after my evening yoga class, and they don't even blink when we show up in our sweaty sweats. We really like the staff here, and have had some very amusing (but nevertheless professional) waiters. They are also good about finding us seating when we fail to make reservations in the peak of tourist season. I am not recommending you do this--I am just saying it to point out how swell the staff is.
The location is lovely (book an earlier time to get a view before the sun sets), and when the weather is warm, we go for a walk on Marginal Way after dinner. (MW is a path along the ocean bluff -- ask the staff for directions.) Parking can be hard once tourist season starts, even though there is public parking nearby.
The food -- well, I know the owner-chefs are famous, but I have to say it is a mixed bag...
The ingredients are always fresh--lots of it from their own gardens at Arrows, their sister restaurant. I guess my main complaint is that some of their dishes are waaaay to salty, and others seem kind of bland. Also, the steaks don't always come out the way you order them. Quality control, people!!! (Are you guys listening?)
And what is with charging extra--and so much!!!--for the veggies!?!?! Why, oh, why can't I sub them in for those Evil Carbs? (you have to give them irony points for calling them Evil Carbs, most of which are soooo good.)
For example, I love the trout--but it is sometimes too salty. Same with the baby bok choy (for which I have to pay extra!). I couldn't even eat the cauliflower, which is one of my favorite veggies.
On the other hand, the steaks are great (if they happen to come out cooked to your liking), and the fried chicken is also good. The duck never fails to please us. And the corn bread-like corn pudding (as a southern girl, I would almost call it spoon bread) is crazy good. If that is wrong, you just don't want to be right. I also liked the calamari (but not as much as I like the one at York Harbor Inn), especially with the green pesto-like dip it comes with. And don't even get me started on the complementary peanuts that start off the evening...
So, is MCs all that? Not always, but we love it anyways, and will keep forking out the money to eat there in whatever we happen to be wearing at the time.Listed in: Candlelight and champagne
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Review from J O.
Albany, NY
9/19/2010
Had quite a good experience here. The oysters were fresh and delicious. I didn't care for the vinaigrette it came with though. I had the scottish salmon baked with fresh herbs. It was very delicious.
The toffee bread pudding with bourbon sauce and chantilly cream was out of this world. Definitely a dessert that will stick with me. -
Review from L O.
Newton, MA
9/13/2011
I had high hope going to this restaurant but was disappointed with every dish I ordered. The arugula salad was way too soggy; the crab cakes were completely tasteless and the mung bean crepe was like an oily rubber disk... Totally over priced and overrated!
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Review from pam m.
Worcester, MA
9/28/2011
We live in obj quit and had an unfortunate experience here a tear ago and hesitated to go back. Finally, on a rainy evening, we went. We began by discussing wine and asked for a taste of an inexpensive Italian wine they had by the glass. Our waitress told us because so many people asked, it is now a $ 1.00 charge. My husband explained if we liked it, we would order a bottle, if we didn't , we would order a different bottle. She said sorry. My husband wanted to leave. It was late and I didn't want to leave but was angry. The waitress acquiesced and said shed give us a taste. My husband also tried to order the beer, arrogant bastard. The waitress said they were out of that. I said, no they aren't. There are two of them. I wonder if since the town charge s for wage, when we will be charged for tap water?
I hope the boys read these and see there are very real concerns by people who are consistent customers that don't want to return because of their rigid popous attitude. -
Review from kelly m.
Westford, MA
6/10/2011
Important to mention that I have had a love affair with MC for years. I eat here whenever I'm in the area and I recommend this gem often. On June 9th a friend and I spent the day on the beach, I insisted we go to "my fav place." The time was 4:44 pm. The restaurant was empty and no staff in sight. We waited at the end of the bar and were eventually greeted by a hostess who explained we could not sit in the dining room until five o'clock. Please note, the dining room was completely set up down to the actively glowing candles on each table. My friend said that would be fine, but could we sip our drinks at the table until five, then order dinner? Suddenly, up pops a bartender and one or two waiters and each one is growing more condescending, aggressive and rude by the moment. My friend continued to argue the point that it was only now a fifteen minute difference. A waiter then said, "There' s the manager if you would like to take it up with him." Once again we were told the dining room opens at five. At this point the staff who followed/herded us out of the restaurant were now standing on the small landing outside of the restaurant. One shouted a slur and they all laughed.
Rules are rules. No seating allowed in the dining room before five. It's not rocket science. My friend is one of the top three elite wine salespersons in Boston. She was confused why in a depressed economy, right before an awful storm, on a Thursday, before the summer season, an empty restaurant would turn customers away. I'm confused why they were so jaw-droppingly rude. Did your staff have to be so oddly superior, so mocking, so unusually inappropriate? I'm devastated that I can, under no circumstances, ever return to MC, or recommend it to anyone I know or care about, and what really saddens me is the message that MC could care less. Mr. Frazier, Mr. Gaier, I'm so sad to say goodbye. And to all the middle aged women coming off the beach, even though you have the potential to be a $150.00 table, look else where. I'm frightened to imagine the treatment at Arrows. -
Review from Sarah H.
Cheshire, MA
4/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great food and excellent service.. Love the bartender! Definitely will go back
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Review from Anastasia L.
Melrose, MA
10/5/2006
I had lunch with my parents at MC last December ('05) & it was de-lic-ious. The service was friendly, although a bit slow to follow up post-meal. The view, from upstairs, of Perkins Cove was enchanting, looking out over waves lapping the beach and snow drifting down from the grey sky.
My father, a meat-and-potatoes guy at heart, ordered the lobster salad (lobster salad with "Celery Victor", romaine lettuce, Russian dressing and Monterey Jack cheese toasts, $16). It came on a platter arranged with vegetables & greens in a possibly overly artistic manner-- disaster, I thought, he'll take one bite and give up on it! But he ate every scrap!
My mother & I ordered the clam chowder to start ("Smooth" clam chowder with paprika oil and a clam and potato timbale, $8). A tangy paprika oil laced the soup, complimenting the creamy (but not at all watery) base & perfectly cooked potatoes. Said potatoes & clams were piled in the center (that's the timbale part), so we distributed as we liked in the soup. The clams themselves were gorgeous, most whole, also perfectly cooked. Truly delicious- I'd order again & again.
Then my mother had the Bibb lettuce salad with so-called "Green Goddess vinaigrette and giant herb croutons" ($8)-- they ain't kiddin' about those croutons, they were huge! A little hard to tackle, but perfectly seasoned. I would've eaten her salad, too, if she let me!
I had the "watercress and grilled Belgian endive salad with citrus, dates, preserved lemon, almonds and a harissa vinaigrette" ($9). It was a little TOO tangy for my tastebuds, but still quite good. All salads were ample & between that and the soup, I was more than stuffed. Complimentary bread & butter were fine, nothing special. -
Review from Kelly M.
New York, NY
1/10/2011
We sat upstairs on a blissful winter afternoon in the middle of a monsoon. We were happy with the food and thought the service was quite nice. Our only complaint was that the bartender upstairs (our only company for the meal) had the TV blaring with a bad movie, not exactly great ambiance for a $65 brunch. We tried our best to tune it out and enjoy the scenery. The food was good, if not a bit spendy for what it was. We're big fans of M & C, we were just disappointed with the disregard of the bartender...we get that he's bored but it was just disappointing. Oh and given the weather conditions, parking was a snap but I'd imagine it would be tough in the summer.
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Review from Kenneth G.
Middlesex, MA
8/16/2010
We used to go there as well - superb reviews a few years ago, and the very famous chefs drew us in. We loved it! Easily spent $300 per visit, and the food & wine were perfect.
But back about 3 years ago, in the middle of our dinner (over $300 bill), we asked for an extra pad of butter -- and they CHARGED us for it. You would think that if you are spending that kind of money, they would not nit-pick for a pad of butter.
So they are lost a customer, due to a very ODD policy, as we have not been back since.
Also, parking is horrible. No parking lot, so good luck finding a spot. -
Review from Meredith M.
Salem, MA
5/18/2010
When you walk in, don't mind the "Ladies Who Lunch" initial atmosphere. YES, there was a table of women drinking their lunches with big sunglasses on who looked as though they had just been released from plastic surgery recovery...but it's coastal Maine.
Brunch Review:
The view gets 5 stars!! It's like you are eating inside the dining room of a Pottery Barn catalog. (sigh) The decor is fantastic and you just cant beat a spectacular ocean view with crashing waves.
I wish they had valet parking for the restuarant. A few other places in the area do. Otherwise you are going to have to find one of the lots in the area which are over priced and over crowded. I'd just park further up the street away from the beach next time and walk down to MC, so you don't risk hitting a tourist or two.
The seafood platter appetizer at 45$ was overpriced for the amount of food you are getting. Split between 4 people we each only had about 1.5 shrimp and 2 clams/ mussles. The seafood was fresh and delicious, but small and measley compared to the gulf shrimp of the South I was raised with. So the seafood platter got 3 stars.
The entrees were INCREDIBLE 5 stars all around. Everyone in my party shared so we could get a little taste of everything. The portions were much larger than I expected, so everyone was more than satisfied! The sausage is housemade and was so flavorful and NOT greasey my brain was overwhlemed with different spices and tastes, I couldn't quite figure out everything they used to accomplish this magical side. My cottage cheese pancakes with blueberries were thin and creamy. I HAVE to figure out how they make those. My dad kept saying he wanted a cookbook so he could re-create some of these recipies at home. The cornbeef hash was a HUGE hit. The Eggs Benedict were rediculous. I have never had eggs benedict with lobster. The flavors were SO rich and so fresh, everyone at the table was blown away. Two people in my party had the French Toast and that was also delicious.
They tried to tempt us with dessert. I was too full, but others in my party were set on the homemade apple pie. Turns out they were having a wedding party upstairs and everyone there ordered the apple pie. So we were unable to...
The service was pretty good. I felt like our waiter sort of came in and out. Folding one person's napkin while they went to the restroom then leaving anothers'. Either fold all the napkins or none of them, don't set high levels of expectations in the beginning and then leave us hanging later! (Ooo one nice touch, the bussers come out in 2s or 3s to clear an entire party's table at once so no one is left with a dirty plate sitting in front of them.) That was well rehearsed and I appreciated it. -
Review from Sherry T.
Salem, MA
7/7/2010
My husband and I went to the Cliff House for the 4th of July. I have been to MC's many times. I am not sure why I keep going back. My husband and I got the squash appetizer stuffed with riccota and fried. Just okay. For dinner he got the Lobster Macaroni and Cheese he wast thrilled with it and said it was dry. It did look dry. I had the Chicken with the corn concotion (the chicken had no taste but the corn was very good) we split the creamed spinach (that was decent), I had a nectarine martini just okay and he had a pinot. All in all it was a just soso experience but very expensive. I am always disappointed in the food when I go I am not sure why I keep going back. The view is outstanding though and our waiter was pleasant enough. For the price I think I will pass next time (if I can remember!)
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Review from Chris M.
Salem, MA
10/25/2007 1 Check-in Here
I am so glad there is finally a restaurant in Perkins Cove that I really like. I am not crazy about most of the restaurants in the Cove area so I was psyched to find MC. Absolutely beautiful view from practically every seat. It is a great spot to eat lunch. They have a pretty bar area when you first walk in. Our server was very friendly and knowledgeable. I had haddock with a lemon fennel salad when I had lunch there. The haddock was fantastic, the fries were great and the salad was the perfect little side. My boyfriend had a burger and he was raving about it. They have a nice beer and wine selection and they serve sake. There is also a fun and creative drink menu with seasonal drinks, various mixed drinks and martinis.
*I had to update my review; I have since eaten dinner here. The restaurant looks really pretty at night. The view of the water is stunning at dusk. When it is dark out, the flickering candles on the copper tabletops makes for a beautiful dining experience. I had the duck which was very good. My Mom had the Kobe burger and really liked it. I tried her burger and did not find it to be greasy at all as one reviewer remarked. It was tender and delicious. My boyfriend tried the braised short ribs (it was a special) and absolutely loved them. They were extremely tender and had wonderful flavor. Once again we had a great server, very personable in addition to being efficient and attentive. A note, the restaurant asks that you refrain from using your cel phone in there which I think is great. The restaurant is a little pricey, but the service is wonderful and the restaurant itself is immaculate and lovely. -
Review from Cody H.
Foxboro, MA
10/27/2010
I took my wife to MC Perkins for her birthday this past Saturday. It's a long ride for us, just about 2 hours each way. But we had a great time. (We took a little walk on the beach before dinner. The wind was howling, but it sure was fun.) We got to the restaurant right on time and were seated immediately. All the tables here are good, but we were lucky and got a great one. The service was outstanding. My wife had the chowder before her main course. She has not stopped talking about how good it was. We also had the calamari as an appetizer. Delicious. We both had the swordfish which was very tasty. The sides are always fun here, I had onion rings and she had the tater tots. both sides were good, but she absolutely loved the tots!Desert was chocolate lava cake. Also great.
While sitting looking out at the moon rise over the ocean we saw a red fox wander down the beach!
What a delicious and fun birthday dinner. -
Review from ann c.
Boston, KY
8/4/2008
yes the view was great but i couldve just walked outside for it.
the food was bland, overcooked, and too expensive for what it is. i mean, come on MC! you're in maine, the place for seafood and you can't even get a simple tuna to be cooked properly.
the only "delicious" food there was the shellfish platter but they didnt do much for it so im giving it a one star. -
Review from katherine H.
Los Angeles, CA
8/11/2008
a bit expensive but the views and drinks are fantastic. also they have sweet potatoe fries that come in a metal cauldrun. (sp).
also when i got off work from billys and reaked of fried seafood they still let us sit in the bar and score some killer food with our just recently made tip money -
Review from Jeff H.
Naugatuck, CT
10/20/2008
This is another feather in the cap of Marc and Clark (owners of Arrows). The food was excellent and the service (other than the downstairs bar) was very good. The decor of the place is very modern and comfortable. The view WOULD have been nice had it not been the beginning of October and it was already dark out. My only real complaint about the place was that the bartender downstairs was so busy, that I stood at the bar for 10 minutes before I was able to get a drink menu - and that took me actually yelling "EXCUSE ME" just to get her attention. Well, I guess I would have to say the fact that I ordered my steak medium and it came closer to rare was an annoyance, but the steak tasted so good (the outter portions) that I can't complain too much about that..lol..
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Review from Jill D.
Swampscott, MA
9/14/2009
Ate at MC's recently with a large party. The atmosphere, food and service was not at all what I expected, and wish that I had consulted yelp beforehand.
Bar service was slow and seemed confused by our large party of 8, even though there was not another person at the bar when we walked in and there were two bartenders (who, by the way, moaned and groaned, when they had to go downstairs to get another bottle of liquor to make our drinks- here's a hint- try stocking your bar before 8pm on a Saturday night).
After being seated, bussers were prompt with bread and water, but did not clear empty cocktail glasses during the entire dinner making for a very crowded table.
Unfortunately, the food right from the start was disappointing- serving the table baskets of stale bread and dishes of soggy, soft peanuts.
The only compliments I can really give is for the shellfish tower, which was full of fresh seafood (although a little skimpy on protion for the price) and the wine list had a nice selection.
Prices for entrees seemed overpriced for what was served, especially since any vegetable was an extra charge. I had the tuna steak grilled with a side of chutney (which was actually also included- so nice of them to throw that in as a bonus), unfortunately it was not cooked the way I requested which was rare.
My table ordered some desserts to share, I didn't bother trying them and opted for a glass of Cava.
Next time I visit maine and want a great meal I will bypass MC's and likely their sister restaurants too, and head straight to portland. -
Review from Brian E.
Dover, NH
5/29/2006
My steak was excellent... I chose the "Mom's Sauce" as my sauce and "Yam and Potato Gratin" as my "evil carbos" (the "Mom's Sauce" was the clear winner with our group).
My wife had a different experience as she ordered the deep-fried "Drunken Chicken" but the menu did not point out that it was served as a whole chicken, bones and all... a lot of work for not a lot of meat... especially for $20+. She did enjoy the rest of her evening though so not all was a wash.
For the most part our service was alright but our waitress brushed aside my wife's complaint that the menu did not correctly describe the chicken (not even a suck it up "I'm sorry")... she even started to defend the menu (check the description on the web site).
Besides the food, the atmosphere (trendy upscale hip), cocktails, desert, and even the bread were all top notch.
With that said, you pay a premium for eating ocean side in Ogunquit (for example vodka martinis are $10+).
Because it is in Perkins Cove, parking will be an issue and be prepared to pay (but you might catch a break). -
Review from Emily B.
Trumbull, CT
10/10/2008
My boyfriend and I had reservations here for 9:00PM on a Saturday night. We got there about 1/2 hour early and decided to hang out in the bar area for a drink. It took a good ten minutes before the bartender even acknowledged my boyfriend and gave him the drink menu. And when we decided what we wanted, it took her even longer to take our order and make our drinks. I ordered a mojito and when I (finally) got my drink, it was really good. I didn't want to let an ignorant bartender ruin my evening.
We were escorted to our table at about 9, and we sat upstairs in the bar area. I was disappointed that it was so dark outside because we couldn't see the view. We ordered the Maine Peekytoe crab cakes which I really really liked. You basically get three small crab cakes and home made coleslaw. The cakes were very good, crispy on the outside and nice and soft on the inside. For my entree I had the tuna cooked medium rare with the numb and hot sauce. I had the herbed polenta for my evil carbo. I was very happy with my choice. The numb and hot sauce went very well with the tuna. My boyfriend ordered the fillet which he requested medium, and it was definitely closer to medium rare or even rare. He didn't send it back though, and I just ate the more rare parts because I like my meat rare. We drank a bottle of Veuve with dinner. Between the very strong mojito and the champagne I was pretty buzzed and full by the time I finished eating. But on a slightly drunk whim I decided to order the lemon mascarpone torte for dessert. It was good. The perfect combination of sweet and tart. Despite the poor service at the bar, everything else was great. We ate at Arrows the night before which is owned by the same people, and I was impressed with both places. I would definitely go back next time I am in Ogunquit. -
Review from Anthony C.
Staten Island, NY
8/18/2010
Three stars for the food. Four stars for view and atmoshere. ONE star for the service. This place would be a great regular place for us if the service was better. The poor service emanates from uncaring and aloof management...the attitude seems to be that they are doing the customer a favor. What a great disappointment! We had made reservations far in advance and were certainly let down by the overall experience.
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Review from Debra H.
New York, NY
Updated - 12/30/2010
I hadn't been to MC's in awhile when a friend suggested we meet for the $4.50 burgers, and for $4.50, they were great! I don't get the presentation using the black "kettles" for fries and onion rings - if it's the presentation you're going for, I would suggest more bountiful servings. Romaine on the side was totally wilted..maybe spent time under a hot lamp? Host, pls check your menus daily before handing them out. Mine was torn, had obviously been wet a few times and had beverage stains - not a great first impression. Silverware was dirty. Get rid of the tacky logo'd pint glasses that you're serving your draft beers in. You can't beat the view, but I suggest a better value and dining experience can be had at Cape Neddick Inn. Enjoy the Tavern Room with the great fireplace, excellent food and an owner paying attention to all the little touches.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/7/2010
Brunch - some of the best homeade corned beef hash and eggs around. The bloody mary's are always… Read more »
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Review from Dan O.
Boston, MA
12/15/2007
If this place was cheaper, I would have rated it a little higher. I went to MC for lunch with two co-workers the other day, and was very disappointed. Our server was friendly and efficient, but the food simply didn't deliver. We ordered the crab cakes and pork spring rolls for appetizers. The crab cakes had decent flavor and the remoulade was tasty, but nothing stood out. The pork rolls were terrible. I've had better at Chinese take-out restaurants. The pork had no flavor, and the sauce was flat - typical soy-based dipping sauce. For entrees, I ordered the kobe beef burger, and my co-workers ordered chowder and the lobster salad. The burger was decent, but definitely not worth $19. The kobe beef was greasy and didn't pack any more flavor than good ole ground chuck. The crowning achievement of the afternoon, however, was the sweet potato fries. They were so overcooked they were almost black and unrecognizable. Any flavor that they did have was choked out of them. The chef should have been embarrassed to send those out to a guest. The lobster salad was well below average. The lobster meat was tough and lacked flavor. The same goes for the grilled cheese and tomato soup. Coming in a close second to the sweet potato fries was the housemade mayo. It looked like polenta it was so congealed, and it tasted nothing like mayo. It was made with EVOO, which overpowered any other flavors that should have been present. My boss' chowder was average, but not worth the money. Desserts were forgettable, and our cappucinos were lukewarm. Considering the reputation that precedes this place(Arrows restaurant), and the price points on the menu, I expected a lot more than what I received.
