50 Best Vegetarian Restaurants near Essex

“I grew up going to the coasts of NH and ME but never spent any time on the North Shore of MA. I was aware of the debate surrounding the Clam Box vs Woodman’s and took this vacation opportunity to do my own comparison. The fried seafood was very good - not greasy, very fresh and flavorful. Where Woodman’s let me down was their clam chowder. I prefer a really thick chowder, the kind where your plastic spoon stands up on its own. That would have been so comforting on the rainy, windy, cold day I was there but sadly, it was just too watery and thin without much flavor. Seafood: thumbs up, Chowder: thumbs down“

“Made a trip down to J.T. Farnhams today (first one of the season). Fried Clams and Shrimp were AWESOME!!! Can't wait for our next trip down.“

“Good food, great drinks !! Nice water view !! A little noisy though !! Thanks for a wonderful evening Sharon D.“

“Great atmosphere and views of the marsh! I’m not a beer drinker but hard seltzer and French Fries were awesome. Very friendly staff.“

“One of my favorites in the city. Love it! Try it!“

“This was my first time here I live out of state currently and I have alpha gal syndrome so I am allergic to mammal. This place we decided to try it out and man oh man! This was my first time eating in a restaurant in a LONG time!!! Absolutely amazing food! It all looks and smells delicious! The staff is very friendly! I highly recommend this place! The menu can be found online and the paper menu in-house is clearly marked with possible allergen information! 10/10.“

“My girls and I attempted to eat at the Salem retreat on our first morning of our trip. We waited 20 minutes for a table after watching 7-10 people be seat AFTER we were given a buzzer to wait. We left and came to Dotty & Rays. We got a table as soon as we walked in, had water brought over immediately, drink and food orders promptly taken. The food was fantastic. We had one part of our order missing and once they realized the issue, it was remedied with speed and courtesy. Everyone was very friendly and renewed our experience in Salem. We enjoyed it some much we came back this morning. This is the place to come to a good meal and pleasant experience to start your day. Come to Dotty and Rays!“

“We first found mercy tavern last October! We planned a quick trip again this year and it was on our list of places to return to! We absolutely love the atmosphere, food and amazing drinks! Can’t wait to go back.“

“We just had our wedding at The Grove, and the experience was top notch. Staff, food, and atmosphere were spot on every step of the way. We need to give a special shout out to Julia, who coordinated every little detail while making everyone feel at ease and welcome. Her efforts leading up to the wedding and through the whole event were very impressive, down to the smallest details of our requests that she knew by heart, as well as her experience and input on the other small details we wouldn’t have even thought of. The organization is very lucky to have her. Thank you to all of the incredible staff for such a wonderful day. Down to the extra gift the morning after!“

“A hidden gem, and wonderful spot in Salem!! Fabulous drinks, a wonderful story, and the greatest staff. Perfect spot for just about anything.“

“The food was SO good and our server was super sweet.“

“We walked into Notch after a long morning or walking around Salem. The Saturday crowds were too much! Notch is tucked away on the water and was busy but we didn’t wait long for food or beer and we found an indoor table no problem. It’s all counter service so we ordered and then were given a number. All of the food was delicious. The wurst platter was the standout. The bartender was able to give a solid recommendation when a beer I wanted was kicked. Highly recommend!“

“I am a huge fan of key lime pie and have sampled it at pretty much every opportunity. Each time, I find something that isn’t an A+. The crust is too grainy or crumbly, the bakery has added meringue (which I like on lemon but not lime), or—and this is the most common offender—there is entirely too much lime in the recipe. But the key lime pie I had at Caramel was exceptional in every possible way, especially in its balance of lime flavor. I didn’t try anything else there, so I can’t vouch for the macarons or other goodies, but if you love key lime pie, RUN to this bakery!“

“It is so wonderful to hear that the Agawam Diner is still in business. I grew up in Portsmouth, NH and from 1975?-1989, my mother had to take me for a periodic checkup to an allergy physician in Danvers and most every time on the way back home we would stop at the diner to have something to eat. I am now 55 and living in Florida, but I will never my several visits to the Agawam Diner. For those that haven't eaten there yet, do yourself a favor and stop in. You will not be disappointed“

“Best breakfast we have EVER HAD!!!“

“We drive 45 minutes to & from to eat at the Clam Box. My husband grew up down the street and I worked in town for 15 years. Plus my parents would take me there as a kid. ALWAYS consistent! ALWAYS delicious. 10 out of 10! Worth the wait in line at peak season every time!“

“Great pizza, awesome staff!!“

“We have been coming to Gloucester for 20+ years and just happened to find this gem. The food was fresh and plentiful and the staff was out of this world. This restaurant has now been added to our yearly list of places we visit. Thank you for a wonderful experience. A+++++++++“

“Had a wonderful breakfast here.“

“Best pizzas, calzones, and wraps I’ve ever had in MA! I’ve tried several different flavors, and everything has been amazing. The salads are also super tasty — especially the Red Passion Salad and the Salmon Salad. The staff are really nice and welcoming, and delivery is always fast and friendly. I’m so happy I found this place. Highly recommend , there’s something new and delicious to try every day! 💯🍕🤤“

“this place is perfect for everyone we love everything in here🥰 the crew💖 the foods💖 the service 💖 we go home happy In we come tell next town visits 🥰🥰🥰🥰 thank you guys job well done“

“The food is excellent WE HAD CHICKEN AND Stake every thing that we had is excellent“

“Like our waitress say “ you can’t never go wrong with a Cataplana “ yes patrichia was right Delicious .“

“Absolutely amazing food I honestly can’t say enough about them they are a gem in Gloucester!“

“The most delicious pancakes ever great service too“

“Joe's On a Roll's products are fresh and affordable. The storefront is fun. Every visit is a party. Check it out.“

“We met our son and two grandsons for Saturday morning breakfast. Food was good, fast, eggs done perfectly with not too much grease, and generous portions. Staff were excellent. Loved the meal.“

“We recently ordered from Gallo Nero Ristorante in Peabody for my mother’s 85th birthday, and it was truly one of the BEST dining experiences our family has ever had. Every single dish was exceptional, fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with pride and passion. We ordered a little bit of everything, and every item exceeded our expectations. The Thick Sicilian Pizza, both cheese and pepperoni, was absolutely outstanding, perfectly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with rich, authentic flavor. The tomato and mozzarella salad was incredibly fresh, bright, and beautifully balanced. The pastas were the stars of the show. The Lobster Ravioli, generously filled with real lobster, was hands-down the best we have ever tasted anywhere. The Butternut Squash Ravioli was velvety, sweet, and unbelievably fresh. The Eggplant Rollatini was tender, cheesy, and baked to perfection. We also received soft dinner rolls and the most delicious homemade focaccia, courtesy of the owner, and it was out of this world. And speaking of the owner, Nick, deserves special recognition. He went above and beyond for us. He made an exception to deliver the order personally, ensuring the food arrived on time and piping hot, and he took the extra step to double-check that everything was perfect. His kindness added a personal touch that made the celebration even more meaningful. Gallo Nero made my mother’s milestone birthday truly unforgettable. If you're looking for exceptional Italian food with unmatched service, we cannot recommend Gallo Nero Ristorante highly enough. Thank you, Nick, for helping make our celebration so special!“

“OMG Best breakfast ever. Got a western omelet and I must say was the best one one I've had in years. My daughter got the veggie omlet and is the first time I've ever seen her clean her plate! Will definitely go here from now on. No other restaraunt can will ever top this place. Good coffee, friendly people, great service, and great prices. I highly recommend this place to anyone wanting the best! I'm not the only one that likes it there. There was only one empty table left. Wheelchair access, handicap parking nesr the front door that makes it an easy access for those needing it. Will definitely go back there. Hard to find anywhere with a breakfast this good.“

“I am a long time customer (1975) Nick's is absolutely the best there is! Once when I had a broken leg, Nick helped me (and my sandwiches etc.)out to my car. Not only great roast beef but compassionate!😍“

“We've been relying on the Ipswich Ale Tapmobile for years to bring delicious beer to our annual summer party, and they always deliver an outstanding experience!

This year, for our approximately 100 guests, we served three fantastic types of beer: Blueberry Shandy, American Lager, and RT 101 WC IPA. All three were a huge hit, and the quality of the beer is consistently wonderful – everyone always raves about the options.

Our bartender this year, Cheryl, was absolutely great. She was incredibly friendly, kind, and handled our lively crowd with ease. She was even kind enough to take photos of us upon request, so we could remember that wonderful day! We were also thrilled that our neighbors, who happened to own corny kegs, were able to take home the leftover beer, which was a fantastic bonus!

We highly recommend the Ipswich Ale Tapmobile to anyone looking to elevate their party with delicious craft beer and excellent service.“

“Markouk is special! Clearly traditional, perfectly seasoned, priced conservatively and humbly presented, some of the best takeout available in Gloucester.“

“I WENT TO REV YESTERDAY FOR THE FIRST TIME TO MEET MY SON FOR LUNCH I WAS APPROACHED BY CORY AS OUT WAITER. HE WAS ATTENTIVE KIND AND EXPLAINED EVERYTHING ON THE MENU. WE WERE VERY HAPPY WITH THE SERVICE THAT HE GAVE US I WILL DEFINTIELY LET PEOPLE KNOW WHERE TO GO TO EAT AND ASK FOR CORY HES THE BEST!! THANK YOU CORY“

“We are visiting from England and have been to Heart and Soul three times in the past week. Why? Yes, the coffee is excellent and the food is very good, but it's the warmth and hospitality of the owner, Bud, that has impressed us most. We have lived and travelled in many places around the world but rarely have we experienced an owner with such a wonderful attitude and such a welcome. It feels like visiting a friend when we come to Heart and Soul....a place that embodies the name of the cafe and an owner who clearly knows what hospitality means.“

“Love this cozy little place. Awesome food, great prices and wonderful waitstaff.“

“Amazing service! Great food and drinks! Antonio was AMAAAZZZING!!! He’s the best server ever!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️“

“Best restaurant in Gloucester area … hands down“

“We loved the uncommon beer selections and atmosphere! So much that we stopped in twice both night we were in town.“

“Last night was so great. We enjoyed dinner at MEXA - a neighbor (same town, not next door neighbor) to us in Beverly. The food was incredible (ramen total hit!) - fast, fresh & so flavorful. The service was super friendly, attentive and wonderful. Atmosphere a 10+! We will be back again and again. Thank you Mexa for being so good at what you do. Really yummy.“

“Rachel took care of waiting on us. She did great. Her shift was over & she introduced Trent. My friend & I left at 5ish & my partner stayed for a while. He has Parkinson's & a bad knee causing mobility issues. When he was attempting to stand up, Trent helped him. Then Trent asked if he needed help getting to the car. Trent helped him to the parking lot. I feel he went over & above. Trent deserves recognition.“

“The BEST around! Thankful to Paul and his staff for everything!“

“I’ve lived in Glosta close to 50 years and love a good pastry. Caffe Sicilia is my favorite place to go for a pick me up or a good craving. The cannolis IMHO are the best in town and I never discriminate when it comes to food.. Despite often being slammed with customers, the customer service is first rate. Want a good pastry? Think Caffe Sicilia it does not disappoint.“

“The food was great, our server was awesome. Get the Angry Shrimp! We’ll definitely be back!“

“While visiting Salem I was super excited to try the Hocus Pocus flight, loved how there was an outdoor area and they even had a food vendor onsite! I brought my pup along for the trip and she was also welcomed with open arms and had a water bowl and a treat! If you’re visiting Salem this is a great place to stop, great vibes and friendly staff, plus pet friendly!“

“The food was delicious here. The portion size was great! I forgot to take pictures but the food was so very good.

It was hard deciding between 5 Star and 4 Star. I wish we could give fraction of stars because while the food tasted great there are some things that keep it from a perfect 5 stars.

The meat and veggies and huge chunks in the curry so you have to spend time cutting them down to make the bites and the duck was a little dry, not much and the flavor was so good that it almost didn't matter.

So I really think this place deserves like a 4.8 or 4.9 stars. it's so close to just a pure amazing Thai place.“

“The Northsiders live this Saturday night 8/26 will be performing. Come on down and enjoy the show!“

“I’ve been a vegetarian for decades. The Babe has the best veggie burger I’ve ever had! Great service as well!“

“Food was prompt, delicious, and most importantly not hard on the bank! The wait staff are friendly and it’s my partner’s and I’s favorite food place in Shelby! I get the wings or Alfredo and he gets their meat calzone or Stuffed shells! (I recommend trying both✨)“

“Fun spot. Great food, drinks, atmosphere, and staff. Highly recommend.“

“Great homemade food, Great customer service!“