Discovering Hawthorne By The Sea: A Coastal Culinary Gem
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Massachusetts, Hawthorne By The Sea stands as a distinguished dining establishment, offering patrons an experience that harmonizes exquisite cuisine with breathtaking ocean views. Located at the specific address of 153 Humphrey St, Swampscott, MA 01907, United States, this restaurant has cultivated a reputation built on fresh ingredients, attentive service, and an ambiance that perfectly captures the serene beauty of the New England shore. It is more than just a place to eat; it is a destination where the rhythm of the tides complements every carefully crafted dish.
The setting itself plays a crucial role in the Hawthorne experience. Situated right where the land meets the Atlantic, the restaurant capitalizes on its prime location to provide diners with an ever-changing backdrop of water, sky, and coastal activity. This natural splendor enhances the dining journey, making it suitable for everything from intimate celebrations to relaxed evening meals. The commitment to quality extends from the panoramic windows inward, focusing on creating a welcoming and refined atmosphere.
Hawthorne By The Sea has long been recognized within the local community and beyond for its dedication to culinary excellence. While the menu evolves to reflect seasonal availability and the chef's creativity, the underlying philosophy remains constant: to present elevated interpretations of classic dishes, often featuring the freshest seafood harvested from nearby waters. This dedication to sourcing local and high-quality components ensures that every plate delivered to the table tells a story of freshness and regional pride.
For those seeking a memorable dining experience along the North Shore, understanding what sets Hawthorne By The Sea apart is key. The establishment consistently strives to exceed expectations through several core strengths that define its appeal:
Unparalleled Waterfront Setting: The restaurant’s physical location offers truly spectacular, unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean. This natural scenery provides a dynamic and soothing backdrop, significantly elevating the overall dining atmosphere, particularly during sunset hours.
Commitment to Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: A strong emphasis is placed on procuring the finest local produce and, most notably, the freshest seafood available. This dedication ensures that the flavors presented are vibrant, authentic, and reflective of the region’s bounty.
Refined yet Approachable Menu: The culinary offerings strike a perfect balance between sophisticated preparation and comforting familiarity. Diners can expect expertly executed dishes that honor traditional flavors while incorporating contemporary culinary techniques, catering to a wide range of palates.
Exceptional Service Standards: The staff at Hawthorne By The Sea are trained to provide professional, warm, and knowledgeable service. They aim to anticipate guest needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from the moment of arrival to departure.
The establishment understands that dining out is an experience woven from multiple threads: the quality of the food, the beauty of the surroundings, and the attentiveness of the service team. At 153 Humphrey St, these elements converge to create a cohesive and highly satisfying whole. Whether one is a long-time resident of Swampscott or a visitor exploring the historic Massachusetts coast, Hawthorne By The Sea offers a compelling reason to pause, savor the moment, and enjoy the best of coastal New England dining.
In summary, Hawthorne By The Sea represents a pinnacle of coastal dining. It successfully marries the rugged beauty of its seaside location with a commitment to high-quality gastronomy. The experience is designed to be restorative and memorable, inviting guests to return time and again to enjoy the ocean’s embrace alongside thoughtfully prepared meals. It remains a significant landmark for anyone seeking authentic, high-caliber dining near the water.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
Children
High chairs
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Menus
Soup & Chowder
Lobster BisqueUS$18.00
New England Clam ChowderUS$14.00
Raw Bar
Shrimp CocktailUS$24.00
Appetizers & Sandwiches
Anthony's Own Applewood Smoked SalmonUS$24.00
Baked Clams A La AnthonyUS$16.00
Barbecue Chicken SandwichUS$18.00
Hamburger Bun SpecialUS$22.00
Hamburger W/American CheeseUS$24.00
Salmon Caesar WrapUS$26.00
Starters & Salads
Anthony's Own Applewood Smoked SalmonUS$25.00
App Soft Shell CrabUS$20.00
Appetizer Cape ScallopsUS$31.00
Baked Clams A La AnthonyUS$16.00
Glover SaladUS$14.00
Large Glover SaladUS$24.00
Lg Glover Salad W/ChickenUS$24.00
Lg Glover Salad W/ShrimpUS$32.00
Lg Glover Salad W/Grilled SalmonUS$28.00
Mixed Baby GreenUS$15.00
Entrees
Baked Stuffed ShrimpUS$42.00
Broiled Boston ScrodUS$38.00
Broiled Sea ScallopsUS$42.00
Lobster RollUS$38.00
Grey SoleUS$37.00
Oven Roasted CodUS$38.00
Lobster, Anthony's Specialty
Medium HawthorneUS$75.00
Medium Steamed LobsterUS$55.00
Medium Broiled LobsterUS$55.00
Large HawthorneUS$100.00
Large Broiled LobsterUS$55.00
Large Boiled LobsterUS$55.00
Grilled Open Hearth Fish
King SalmonUS$38.00
SwordfishUS$42.00
Grilled Open Hearth Steak
14oz. Prime New York SirloinUS$70.00
8oz Club SirloinUS$38.00
Filet MignonUS$70.00
Vegetable A La Carte
Baked PotatoUS$12.00
BroccoliUS$14.00
Marinated MushroomsUS$14.00
PopoversUS$2.50
Dessert
Apple PieUS$14.00
Kahlua Brownie SundaeUS$15.00
Pecan PieUS$16.00
Specials
Cape Scallops EntreeUS$55.00
App Cape ScallopsUS$31.00
Photos
Reviews Hawthorne By The Sea
Ashley Lucia Bermudez
29-11-2025
We had a mother’s day reservation. We walked in with our infant in her stroller and they wouldn’t sit us down with our stroller unless we took the sit out. Not a friendly place and they will not accommodate families. Stick to Salem or Marblehead for welcoming establishments. More
Hannah Jamie
16-11-2025
I took my mother here for her birthday dinner and the service that day wasn't too great. When we arrived and parked in the parking lot the valet guy told us we couldn't park where we parked even though other cars parked next to us. He asked … More
Joe Dirt
05-10-2025
I ate here 3 hours ago and had Kng Salmon. I've had explosive diarrhea since I got home. This was my first and last time eating here.🤢🤮 … More
Barbara Rosenstroch
30-08-2025
Beautiful view of Boston and the ocean. Tables were separated by at least 6 feet. Great sunset views. They serve popovers while you wait for your meal. It was my birthday so they put a candle in my dessert. Not too crowded. Good food.
Linda Donahue
29-08-2025
Haven’t been to the Hawthorne by the Sea in years. Went in for a light lunch and cocktails with a friend. I had a shrimp cocktail, my friend got the baked clams a la Anthony we both got the yummy Glover salad, of course popovers and marinated mushrooms it was all delicious. We also had delicious expresso martinis. Recommend going I think they may be closing which is sad.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Popover, Caesar Salad
David Hepworth
16-07-2025
Hawthorne by the Sea is one of the most delightful restaurants on the North Shore! It is very formal! Maitre D’s in black tie, waterfront dining, free freshly made warm popovers and delicious pickled mushrooms! My brother and I had spectacular steamers and steamed lobster 🦞! The service is impeccable! This is a restaurant that is a part of a storied group serving amazing meals for almost a century! Parking is easy! Nice big lot! Loved our meal! Cannot wait to go back!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Diane Carnevale
20-05-2025
Atmosphere lovely and popovers yummy. I usually like to come to my own conclusions and not judge by other customer reviews, but I find these complaints are valid. My daughter called to make a reservation and asked for a window seat. We were … More
Sheila Mandragouras
18-05-2025
Went here for our anniversary because we had eaten here a few nights before we got married 41 years ago. One of the worst dining experiences we have had. We sent back the backed oysters-were burnt! We got replacements that were good but didn’t understand how they could bring the burnt ones to the table. My husband ordered the $65 prime rib medium rare and twice they brought a well done piece. Heard them tell other customers after he sent the 2nd one back they only had well done. My sole was very thinly sliced and fried, not sautéed as described on the menu. Needless to say, we didn’t stay for dessert. The manager came over to see the 2nd piece of prime rib and didn’t disagree that it was well done, but no comp on a glass of wine or anything to compensate for our unpleasant experience.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 1
Service: 2
Atmosphere: 3
Stephanie DeRosa
12-04-2025
We ate there on Sunday night, May 5, 2024 As usual we were warmly greeted by George the most gracious host, who patiently escorted us to our lovely table next to the window overlooking the ocean. We started with our drinks which consisted … More
Gustavo Teza
22-03-2025
This place is very very nice. The staff is also very nice and they all dress in a classy way. We had dinner at it and honestly, the food had real taste. Felt like I was in a good restaurant in France. Even with the Antipasto platter you … More
Reviews Hawthorne By The Sea