Oarweed Restaurant Information

Oarweed Restaurant is a longtime seafood and lobster restaurant at 65 Perkins Cove Road in Ogunquit, Maine, positioned beside the beginning of the Marginal Way with Atlantic Ocean views that have been central to its identity since 1963. Rather than aiming for polished coastal fine dining, Oarweed has traditionally represented the casual Maine lobster-pound experience: straightforward seafood, a waterfront setting, and the kind of seasonal meal that fits naturally into a day around Perkins Cove. One important update matters before planning a visit, however: the restaurant remains closed following the December 2024 fire that destroyed the building. Current local visitor information points to a reopening in 2027, despite the official website still displaying an earlier April 2026 target.

The food has historically centered on classic Maine seafood rather than an expansive modern menu. Boiled Maine lobster is the restaurant’s defining dish, reflecting its roots as a traditional lobster pound. Oarweed Seafood Chowder combines clams, haddock, lobster, and shrimp in a creamy broth, while the clam chowder takes the thicker New England route. Together, those dishes explain the restaurant better than a long menu list: hot chowder, shellfish, lobster, and familiar coastal preparations designed for a substantial lunch or dinner rather than an elaborate tasting experience.

Past customer feedback repeatedly connects Oarweed Restaurant with three things: seafood, ocean views, and a relaxed Perkins Cove meal. Lobster rolls and chowder appear frequently in diner comments, with portions and food generally receiving favorable mentions. The view often becomes part of the value equation itself; diners describe meals overlooking the water as a major reason to choose the restaurant. Feedback is not completely uniform, though. Some visitors have considered the pricing relatively high for casual seafood, while busy high-season periods have occasionally brought waits or less consistent experiences. Service reviews vary as well, although attentive and friendly service appears frequently across broader feedback.

The setting has historically made Oarweed especially suitable for a leisurely vacation lunch, casual dinner for two, or family meal after exploring Marginal Way and Perkins Cove. Generations of returning visitors are part of the restaurant’s story, giving it more of a seasonal Maine tradition than a destination built around trends or formal occasions. Its waterfront character works best for diners who value scenery and classic coastal food over a highly styled dining room.

For now, Oarweed Restaurant is a place to keep on a future Ogunquit dining list rather than somewhere to plan an immediate meal. When it returns, its combination of Maine lobster, chowder, casual hospitality, and an oceanfront Perkins Cove setting will remain the reason many longtime visitors are eager to see it back. Hours, services, reopening plans, events, and availability may change, so check current information before visiting.

Business Info

What People's Say About Place

10 of us showed up at 6:45 p.m. and were easily accommodated at two tables put together. The staff were very friendly and welcoming. We ordered and the food came in a reasonable length of time given how many of us there were. The food itself was good though nothing special.. The location is spectacular, right on the ocean at Perkins Cove, at the beginning of Marginal Way. Beautiful views. We ordered dessert and the blueberry pie Ala mode and the cheesecake were both excellent. I am sure we'll go back.

Great spot right at the end of the marginal cliff walk. We waited a bit to be seated because the place was so busy, but our seat was in a cozy corner with an amazing view of the water. The clam chowder was so creamy and delicious, the lobster roll was salad (it came with a bag of chip), and the blueberry pie was absolutely incredible. Their famous lemony dressing also totally lived up to the hype! It’s certainly not cheap, but I think it was worth it. We walked here but there is a parking lot next door (it costs $20 to park tho)

Loved my chicken sandwich and was able to buy up for a side ceasar salad instead of chips or the other sides offered. The bun was not soggy and chicken was very moist. I also ordered ice cream for dessert. It's nothing special but good vanilla flavor. Everyone else liked their food and the view of the Atlantic ocean.

Been in Perkins Cove a million times, but this is only my 2nd time here. This is probably my strongest 4 rating ever. That’s attributable to the incredible service, the insane view and the host & management team. It’s high season so it was super chaotic. Those guys were level headed, calm and good listeners. We got right in (on a Friday night). Fans everywhere let a breeze moving making it comfortable. Good service was on point and timely. Observed good teamwork which is a plus. Food is pretty good. No complaints. Everything met our expectations. No overly complex dishes. Mostly east coast favorites. Positive thing that we noticed that the menu offered some very affordable options in the most desirable spot in Ogunquit, on the water (Marginal Way). The next day we recommended this place. Like Arnold “We’ll be back”

We had heard a lot about the Oarweed so we tried it the first night in Perkins Cove. We both had lobster rolls a d my husband had seafood chowder also. The food was wonderful! The lobster rolls were cold with a touch of mayo - just how we like them instead of dripping with butter. Very fresh and flavorful. Views were wonderful as well. We did feel the price was a bit high compared to other places.

Really good place. Although I understand the lack of "seasoning" of the Maine areaz I just wish someone would offer a more seasoned lobster roll. But I do not hold this against any establishment, just my 2 cents. But overall, food was great, atmosphere was good and the service was great!

Cozy place with excellent buffet breakfast included. We also had a delicious dinner. Good location and quiet for a fall visit. Close enough to downtown Boothbay and the botanical gardens.

Great place with some nice offerings. The seafood chowder great as well as the shrimp sandwich. One of us had a burger and it was delicious. They use the best oyster crackers too. The views are incredible.