Welcome to Causeway Restaurant
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78 Essex Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930 Hotline: (978) 281-5256
Welcome to Causeway Restaurant, a shining gem nestled in the charming coastal town of Gloucester, Massachusetts. Located at 78 Essex Ave, this Italian seafood culinary haven has gained a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. With a menu that beautifully marries fresh seafood with robust Italian flavors, Causeway Restaurant offers a dining experience that is both satisfying and memorable.
The atmosphere at Causeway embodies warmth and comfort. As you step inside, you’re greeted by the enticing aromas of seafood and the lively buzz of fellow diners. Whether you’re here for a casual meal or a special celebration, this cozy spot promises a culinary journey that caters to both occasions.
The Menu Highlights
- Appetizers: Start your meal with the famed Fried Calamari ($10.00) or delve into the savory Mussels White Wine & Garlic ($11.00). Don’t overlook the homemade Fish Chowder, praised for its rich flavors and hearty portions ($5.00).
- Grilled & Baked Entrees: Main dishes like the Baked Haddock ($17.00) and the Surf N Turf with Baked Shrimp Casserole ($17.00) showcase the chef's skill in preparing seafood that stays true to its coastal roots. Guests rave about the Seafood Florentine, a delightful melding of shrimp, scallops, and haddock ($18.00).
- Salads: Complement your meal with a fresh Caesar or Greek Salad ($9.00), a crisp addition to any seafood feast.
What makes Causeway the go-to spot for seafood lovers? The words of satisfied customers paint a vivid picture. Elizabeth S. exclaims it’s “better than the famous Boston seafood spots!” while countless others celebrate the generous portions and excellent service that make return visits inevitable.
For those who appreciate authentic, homemade flavors, Causeway’s clam chowder stands out as a must-try. Its creamy texture and rich clam flavor have earned rave reviews, with many claiming it as the best in Massachusetts. Diners also rave about the assorted fried platters and the delightful stuffed lobster, a dish that perfectly marries land and sea.
A BYOB Experience
Another appealing factor is the BYOB policy, allowing diners to bring their favorite bottle to enjoy alongside their meal, enhancing the overall experience without inflating the bill. On a sunny day, take in views of the bustling docks from the outdoor seating, adding to that quintessential New England experience.
In summary, Causeway Restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a feast for both the senses and the soul. From the welcoming ambiance to the hearty, flavorful dishes, it stands as a testament to the region's rich culinary landscape. So, when you find yourself in Gloucester, make sure Causeway is on your itinerary. You won't just leave with a satisfied palate; you'll leave with memories of a delightful dining experience.
Great food and service! Better than the famous Boston seafood spots! Homemade chowder and tarter sauce were hits along with the whole belly clams! Looking for where the locals go- this is it!
Enjoyed all the dishes, portions were generous, we'll be coming back. Ordered the stuffed lobster with shrimp and scallops, a few appetizers and a chowder. All were really good.
This restaurant has delicious steak tips and great seafood plates! One of our favorites. Excellent service in a comfortable, cozy atmosphere .
Had dinner here to celebrate a family member's birthday. It was a Saturday and they were busy. We had to wait 20 minutes to be seated but it's worth the wait. The food was delicious, it came out hot and we have left overs. The place was on the small side nothing fancy just good food. I definitely recommend when in town.
Ventured to Gloucester on a cold Sunday in January, before the Conference Championships. My son and I were thrilled to have a chance to get a great lunch before settling in for some great football. As we approached the Causeway, we noticed that it was not overwhelmingly busy. Cars parked out front but not the usual groupings on the porch by the front door. My son got us a table for two as I parked the car in the rear. As I entered, I loved the vibe/buzz that I felt. Between the servers running around, people picking up take-out and the smell, it was awesome! We were quickly served our drinks and some bread and butter. The menu (see the pic) had a but to choose from but I was on a mission for clams! It is not quite lent yet but I needed those fresh clams. My son had the haddock soup which came in a huge bowl and perfect temperature. When I ordered, I told the waiter that I did not need a massive amount of clams. He quickly retorted "I will tell the kitchen but I am not sure they will listen". Well, guess what? They didn't listen. The clams were falling off the plate as it approached our table. The french fries covered the bottom of the plate. They were both fantastic. Perfectly presented and very, very tasty! My son was thrilled with the soup, as well. We did not order a dessert because it was getting busy and we wanted to turn the table over for someone else to be so lucky! Parking is easy Price was fair Food was fantastic Vibe is wonderful View is always great to look across the street and see all the boats! Would I come back? Yes, I would go again today, if I could swing it! No wait was a dream come true!
Hungry? Go to the Causeway. Love fresh seafood? Go to the Causeway. You desire good service and really large portions? Go to the Causeway. Best fish chowd'a ever Go Enjoy and leave full
Two key notes for the Causeway - BYOB, and the best clam chowder in MA in my opinion. THICC, huge servings, great potatoes and of course fresh clam in that chowder. My meal was OK I got the baked scallops ($38) which came with a load of scallops but was a bit bland and the side asparagus was lacking flavor and probably could've gone another couple of minutes. The parentals got the fried seafood platter (delish of course) and I had a bite of my sisters giant lobster roll which was good, but again I felt it was lacking a bit of flavor and the bun was overwhelming. Homey, tight fit inside, servings are huge, flavors were OK on the main courses, fried seafood was great and clam chowder - I may just do that next time and eat a bowl to myself.
Busy casual seafood spot. We had to wait about 20 minutes but well worth it. Food was great. Portions were generous with good pricing!! Would definitely come back for their steamers!
We went for Saturday dinner and realize that it was already very busy, although we k Lu waited less than 5min. The restaurant is very poplar among local people, apparently, since there are lots of table of families and with elderly people. So I feel it must have earned its reputation for a while. The food is amazing and great portion. As two girls travel from Boston area, the price here is so reasonable--- we literally spent $11 for a "bowl" of clam chowder that's twice the size of what you usually get in Boston. So very large portion, and affordable price. And the clam chowder--- it was SO GOOD! It was creamy, and aromatic, and full of clams. It came hot and you can tell it is full of fresh clams. The flavor is so nice that you can tell the aromatic cream while still appreciate the umami of the seafood. This is the best chowder I've had, for sure. We also ordered the seafood pasta--- same as the price and portion--- we are given a pan full of large scallops, mussels, octopus, shrimps. All simmered together in flavorful tomato sauce. Honestly we felt that the seafood takes up more space than the pastas, was very satisfying. I also had a haddock fish stew, also very solid and tomato-y. Came with crackers and full of shrimp. I ordered a cup of the stew and I feel the size is what we usually think as a bowl. In general me and my friend had a perfect meal here, so fresh and delicious. Would come back so sure! The service was prompt and friendly. I can tell that customers here all look satisfied (our neighbor was complimenting their fried calamari being very fresh!)
So good. So good. So good. BYOB. Outdoor dining available. Calamari appetizer with marinara. Stuffed lobster entree and fried scallops. Service was great. They provide setup for wine. Delicious. We had about an hour which was well worth the wait.