6 Best Bar & Grill near Essex

“Friendly welcoming staff Very reasonable prices Fun Atmosphere“

“Wicked fun place to drink. Awesome people there“

“This bar sets the bar for bars“

“Great food and great service!“

“Some friendships have a way of picking up right where they left off, no matter how much time passes between visits. That was exactly the case when Cheryl and I met up with our longtime friends John and Mary Lou for dinner at Post in Hamilton.

Several years ago they moved from Georgetown to Beverly, so we do not get together nearly as often as we used to. Not only are they dear friends, but Mary Lou has also been Cheryl's hairstylist for years. Since they now live on the North Shore, they suggested we meet at Post, which is located in the space many locals will remember as the original Black Cow.

The restaurant was warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived. There is convenient off-street parking behind the building, we were seated immediately for our reservation, and before long our friends arrived and the catching up began.

We started with drinks, and on John's recommendation I ordered a Manhattan. I am glad I listened because it was one of the best Manhattans I have ever had. Cheryl ordered an Aperol Spritz and loved hers as well.

For appetizers, we decided to share a few dishes family style. The standout for me was the Honey Truffalo Cauliflower. The bleu cheese crumbles melted into the glaze and gave the dish an incredibly rich, creamy flavor that had everyone reaching for another bite. We also shared a crab cake that received rave reviews from everyone at the table and I enjoyed a small Cygnet Salad to start my meal.

One thing worth mentioning is that both Cheryl and Mary Lou eat gluten-free. For Cheryl it is a lifestyle choice, while for Mary Lou it is an allergy. The staff was knowledgeable, accommodating, and helped identify menu options that worked for both of them.

For dinner, Cheryl and Mary Lou split the chicken tacos, John ordered the chicken parmesan, and I chose the Blackened Street Corn Scallops. The scallops were perfectly seared, tender, and flavorful, served over a sweet and creamy corn risotto that was every bit as good as the scallops themselves. It was one of those dishes where you find yourself slowing down because you do not want the meal to end.

The prices were very reasonable, the service was attentive and friendly, and there were several other menu items that caught our attention for a future visit.

What made the evening special, though, was the opportunity to spend time with good friends. We spent hours catching up, talking about our growing families, sharing stories about our children, and comparing notes on the joys of becoming grandparents. The conversation was so enjoyable that after dinner we headed back to their home in Beverly for another drink and several more hours of conversation.

Great food, excellent drinks, friendly service, and most importantly a wonderful night spent with great friends. Cheryl and I will definitely be back.“

“Best lobster around! Megan was a great waitress! Patient and attentive!“