Scales & Shells

527 Thames St, Newport
(401) 846-3474

Recent Reviews

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Whit Collins

We had dinner there last night. One of the worst meals I've had dining out in a long time. Shrimp Scampi was served cold, 5 very dry shrimp on a cold bed of pasta with a bland sauce that was lacking in flavor and presentation. My wife's linguini with clam sauce was almost as bad. The focaccia bread was good as were the martini's. The server and staff seemed to be in a hurry to close down - the food came out within 5 minutes of being ordered (can't be freshly made to order that fast), the staff was cleaning and sweeping around us as we were eating. We felt super rushed. From the time we sat down at 8pm, we were done, paid and out the door at 8:35pm. We ate here 3 years ago and it was much better. It was bad. Never again.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 1

Service: 2

SeanMichaelll

We had the Caesar, crudo, sourdough, tuna and salmon. Everything was mind blowing except for the crudo, which was a good sashimi with some oil. One of the best meals we have had in a long time. The sourdough butter was salty Thanksgiving seasoning heaven. The Caesar was one the best, each bite was perfect. The crudo (sashimi) was basic the fish was good and fresh but we would have skipped it next time. The tuna and salmon entrees were incredible. Not sure if I’ve ever had a better cooked salmon. Crispy char, with a flaking moist interior. We have (2) notes. We wish there was a door on the back of house; we had inline view of the dishwashing station and bright fluorescent light, maybe some curtains. Also every person that walked into the far door was confused where the host stand. They eventually figured it out, but maybe a sign directing or close the door entirely. We wish we lived closer so we revisit time and time again. We will be back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Spurge Hogan

Great seafood place. Excellent chowder

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Joon Kim

Had lunch here. They need to get better cook

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 5

Cilka

Mediocre experience. My lobster roll tasted good but it was very small for the high price. The chickpea side it came with was also too small. The raw clams had a few bits of shells in it. My partner’s BBQ pork roll was ok. I guess this is what you get in Newport?

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 2

Service: 2

Kimi Clark

Great meal in Newport. We had the salmon and spicy linguine. We were on a trip from WA state and were bummed we live so far away and not able to come back and eat again soon.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Nurdan Kilincoglu

If you visit Rhode Island and don’t try the spicy seafood spaghetti here, you’re seriously missing out on something special. It was easily one of the most flavorful dishes I’ve ever had. The oysters were also top-notch — fresh, briny, and perfectly served. We ate everything so quickly, we didn’t even manage to take a single photo. Highly recommended for seafood lovers!!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Kim A.

We had our post-wedding dinner at Scales and Shells in Newport and it was absolutely amazing! The manager and staff were wonderful to work with—so accommodating and attentive throughout the entire process. I was able to customize our menu, which made the night feel even more personal and special. They were also accommodating with decorating, which I premade, and set up for the tiny details.

We reserved the upstairs space, and it was perfect—cozy, elegant, and just the right atmosphere for our celebration. Our guests loved it, and we had such a memorable time. I would highly recommend Scales and Shells for anyone looking for an incredible dining experience in Newport!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Cam Cameron

Such a great spot! Delicious food & friendly staff! Shout out to Alastair! Overall 10/10! Will be back again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Luis Perez

We did not have a reservation but had seats at the bar. Bartender was pleasent and food was delicious!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Hwany Kim

The oysters and shrimp were perfect, and all the food was really good. However, it’s hard to give 5 stars because the service was just okay and the environment could be better. Also, I ordered a white wine listed at $42 but was charged $50. You really have to double-check your bill here, since mistakes seem to happen often. The food itself, though, was definitely good.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 5

Service: 3

Nicho Pilla

Absolutely terrible! Our server Justice did not do justice... When we ordered asparagus he gave us three pieces of asparagus. And not only that he added a $300 tip at the end of the order and then hid.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 1

Service: 1

Kris Dentist

Clam linguine a little thin on the clams especially for the price

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

MARK MAYO

Excellent food in a quaint restaurant..... However I think they need a more experienced waiting staff.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 2

Samantha LaBonne

Our favorite spot in Newport. The best swordfish we have ever had, tender & flavorful. Fresh seafood, attentive staff. We had a chocolate custard for dessert tonight and mouth watering I wanted more!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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