A friend who used to vacation in Newport years ago recommended The Pier--however it was gone and replaced by The Reef. It was okay; nothing special. The Pier I am told was lively, all ages, great fun and very good food. The Reef does have a nice location on the water. Sunday brunch ambiance was lovely--steel drum band of two played perfect music. The food was okay-nothing special. read more

Had been wanting to try the menu under Chef Carmine Mottola and even in a festive winter wonderland igloo on a windy cold evening the food was sinfully fabulous. Chef surprised with an incredible tuna starter that was lit on fire - amazing. The clam chowder was full of clam and potato but not too thick (in other words, perfection). I had the most insanely yummy short rib with truffled mash potatoes and my friend had the mushroom risotto which was equally bananas delicious. Strawberry shortcake and molten chocolate cake? Yes please! We rolled our full bellies home. read more

Decent at best. I can't blame them for the weather for being cold and us having to sit outside (they did provide us with emergency blankets), but our waitress was on edge the entire time, the drinks were slow and the staff inside had a serious attitude through our whole experience. The food was bland and disappointing! I had high hopes when I had seen the Lobster Penne Alla Vodka but upon arrival that changed quickly ones I had my first bite but I should have known from the New England Clam Chowder not to get my hopes up. The pasta was well undercooked and the lobster was cooked to the point that it was dry and tasteless. A few people in my party ordered the Lobster Roll and it came out as an opened faced sandwich on a baguette with barely a drizzle of butter??? WHAT! Being from CT that's not even close to what a hot buttered lobster roll should be like! Such a disappointment! For the price of everything this is not worth it. read more

The Reef - Lobster Penne alla Vodka - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

This place is honestly worth it just for the view, the outdoor seating is beautiful and you are right by the water. Service was good, and the place seems very clean! Prices were reasonable, although my fish and chips were a bit under-seasoned. They have really fun fire pits right on the water that would be great for a happy hour or quick drink. They also have a good amount of seating for larger groups, but definitely make a reservation because sometimes they get really busy! read more

The Reef - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

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Out of the many places I ate at during my last trip to Newport, The Reef was my least favorite. I know, I appear to be in the minority compared to recent reviews, but I am just speaking from my personal experience. While I was glad that we had a lovely view of the water as we sat in the outdoor dining area, the drinks were quite watered down and not at all inventive. As the drinks do cost a bit, I was hoping for some more bang for my buck. In my opinion, the food was bland and was not anywhere near the caliber of seafood I had eaten in other locations in Rhode Island and beyond. The lobster roll here was on the world's most boring bread roll that fell apart while I tried to eat it and I felt nothing but nauseated after eating half of it. I was underwhelmed and would likely not return here when back in Newport. read more

Calamari was delicious! A mix of rings and tentacles cooked perfectly and definitely a decent portion! I had steak and potatoes - steak was good, but seriously those mashed potatoes were amazing!! champagne on the dock was gorgeous! Tip: Definitely make reservations, they were slammed (4pm we arrived) read more

Lovely, warm, understated elegance, yet casual. The service was attentive, but not intrusive. We went for dinner and both had the short rib entree. The meal was a gastric delight. The flavors were what you hear on television cooking shows. It was phenomenal! read more

We were recommended to the Reef by friends that very much enjoyed their dining experience. The restaurant is located on Howard Wharf and I believe they may have had live music daily before the pandemic. The waterfront restaurant has wonderful views and a contemporary Caribbean panache. We were told once we approach the reception desk that we needed to make our lunch reservations on open table, which was not a problem for us. Once seated, we all ordered one of their specialty drinks that our waitress recommended. The bartender was so kind to provide me with the drink mix; Citroen Vodka, Passion Fruit with sugar, lemon juice, and soda water. For lunch we ordered the Rhode Island Reef Burger and the Lobster Roll along with New England clam chowder. The Reef Burger was a short rib patty with smoked Gouda cheese and their house sauce along with French fries. Overall the staff was very friendly and quite attentive to our table. Our waitress was actually excellent. The only one miss was the Lobster Roll seemed to have more of the dress ups and less of the lobster. read more

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An absolute "must go to" spot in Newport. From the super friendly staff (Jess and Luke), to their delicious, eclectic food, inspired by spices from all over the world. The Lobster Bisque was on point, Filet Mignon was cooked perfectly AND...the Mongolian Lobster Pot is to die for. Make sure to get the fried banana cheesecake...this will blow your mind leaving you to want more and more. This will be our first place we eat every trip we make to Newport, RI!!! P.S.- our first choice of main course was sold out so Jess and Luke were kind enough to give us a complimentary Shrimp Cocktail...not necessary but much appreciated!! read more

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Good food, best lobster bisque ever. Good Food. Best. Lobster bisque read more

Apps (spicy tuna + shrimp tacos) were electric, main (turmeric risotto) was satisfying, and Siyan provided above and beyond service.

The crispy tuna appetizer was almost as fantastic as our server Syian. She's a legend!

Didn't have too much to eat there but the oysters were tasty and were presented nicely. I tried clam chowder for the first time, which was absolutely amazing! The bartender who helped us out was cool. Wish I had gotten his name, but he was attentive. read more

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Loved it! My recommendations: Drink: Pain Killer Appetizer: Bayou Fried Shrimp Meal: Peri peri seafood bowl Dessert:Chocolate Mousse Cake( so light and fluffy!) read more

The Reef - Pain Killer - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

I was created with a very friendly and efficient host, and seated at a pretty dark side table on their patio. My waiter, David, was extremely friendly and knowledgeable, and made sure he attended to every detail even though he was very busy. There was live music under the tent/patio Right it's close by, and tap in to be a very good decision with the guitars and Kusic songs. I got the fish and chips which was excellent, my boyfriend got the lobster roll but she also very much enjoyed. A very good selection of wine, beer, and also a full cocktail bar. Very pretty views I'll be it on the wharf area that is set back a tiny bit, but still very pretty at sunset. Not too expensive considering it is Newport. read more

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After reviewing their menu and reviews, I made a dinner reservation for The Reef in Newport, Rhode Island for New Year's Eve through Open Table as instructed on their website. My husband and I travelled from New York for this special dinner and we were informed 1 hour before our scheduled reservation that the restaurant will only be serving drinks, raw bar and a prefixed menu at a price of $120 per person. When I contacted the restsurant, they didn't apologize. Their only response was they have no control of Open Table. Really, then why do you instruct customers to use them to make a reservation with your establishment. Totally ruined our New Year's Eve dinner plans! read more

Atmosphere absolutely beautiful! Service beyond awesome. General Manager was a delight. Had the Shortrib dish was fabulous! Tender and favorable. Ordered dessert to go. Tarimisu was so good. Would recommend this place first and foremost for dinner. Had a wonderful conversation with waitress and GM. Definitely 5 star in my book. read more

I recently took my sugar momma here, on our anniversary-- we wanted to try out their igloos and heard good things about the restaurant. While our server Sarah was amazing, and the food was good... the host that was crocheting a hat (it was awful by the way, wouldn't put it on a rabid raccoon) was unbelievably rude and condescending. From the moment we walked in, the host's attitude was dismissive and unwelcoming, making us feel like we were an inconvenience rather than valued customers. He chastised us for being late to our reservation, even though I called prior; letting them know I was running a little late and the woman on the phone said that's fine, no big deal. Obviously the simpleton at the hostess stand didn't get the memo, maybe he was too busy crocheting. It's a shame because the rest of the staff seemed to be doing their best, but the host's attitude made it hard to enjoy the meal. I hope management addresses this issue so that future guests can have a better experience. read more

We came here for a bachelorette dinner and the service was amazing! Take note, the restaurant is a little loud but we didn't mind. The vodka berry spritz drink was very tasty and the lobster penne a vodka was TO DIE FOR. The restaurant is fun, definitely a little pricy, but perfect for the occasion. We had a good time and enjoyed good food and drinks! read more

The Reef - Penne alla Vodka - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

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So, I was at The Reef 2 weeks ago and it was So Amazing I had to go back again today for their Awesome Reggae Brunch. The Food again was Delicious. I love the Southern Influence. I had the Shrimp and Grits with Andouille sausage and my Friend Cheryl had the Biscuits and Gravy......both would have made any Southern Native Proud ! I loved the fact that the Bartender knew how to properly make a Hot & Dirty Martini with the dirty rocks on the side.....A perfect Pairing with My Shrimp & Grits. But, while the Food and Drinks were Awesome what Really made the day Perfect was our Knowledgeable and Attentive waitstaff Ashley. We Never wanted for anything . She Anticipated Our Every Need making it a Superb Dining Experience. The Frosting on the cake was the Awesome Reggae Music provided by The Island Time Steel Band. Can't wait until My Next Visit ! read more

Every year my family and I visit Newport . Instead of our usual few spots we decided to try somewhere new . I had never heard of this establishment until I stumbled upon it on Open Table . The reviews & photographs made it seem very enticing so we decided to give it a try . Unfortunately, I have not had a more disappointing experience since I have been visiting . My wife, children & I came in for dinner on a Sunday night , and we stood there at least 10 minutes before being greeted or serviced while waiting to be seated . It wasn't until a server , by the name of Samantha , noticed us in passing and asked us if we have been helped / seated . Had it not been for her , we would of left . She took it upon herself to seat us & take our table , and was also very kind , attentive , and understanding of our children being a tad anxious & impatient as she mentioned she has children on her own. She had given us a few recommendations so I decided on the Prime burger , and my wife the Norwegian salmon. Considering how pricey the menu is , I was extremely let down. The burger had little no seasoning , and the salmon was also very bland and dry . The calamari appetizer was soggy with an overpowering balsamic taste , and I could not stomach my lobster bisque . If that was not already unfortunate enough , my wife spotted a RAT running through the restaurant ! I was absolutely appalled & this experience really did not leave a good taste in my mouth . All in all, I will give a 2 star for the views / location , & for our server who provided us prompt & phenomenal service . Thanks again Samantha you saved the day ! read more

The food was good, the service good, a tad slow, the ocean view was great. Bad news if you're in the dining room and it's cold outside: they have these enclosed "igloos" where a group of diners can enjoy their meal on the pier in privacy. But OMG, the servers open a door to the pier, just a few feet from the tables, each time they go back and forth to the igloos. A wave of super cold air sweeps through the dining room each time. We wore our winter coats through the whole meal. read more

EDIT TO RESPONSE: The fee is clear we just didn't see it at first but expected to pay a fee. But not when we froze the whole time. We did relay our concerns to our server and the gentleman that brought our drinks. Sorry I wasn't clear on that. I would check that igloo for a leak and also work on making sure the food is hot when it's delivered. Thank you for responding! my friends and I reserved an igloo several months ago for tonight. the igloo was beautifully decorated. so why only one star? - our igloo was freezing. there is a heater but it was barely blowing anything. We were told the little electric fireplace gave off some heat but that was not the case. we went into another empty igloo to see if it was as cold as ours and it was toasty warm but reserved for someone else. we hoped given time ours would warm up. NOPE! we sat in our jackets wrapped in blankets and ordered hot coffee while we waited for our food. - coffee was luke warm. my chowder was lLuke warm and had no flavor. the calamari was yummy but.. you guessed it. cold. - two of us ordered the filet medium and while mine was cooked okay my friends was rare. they were also luke warm. the veggies and potatoes were cold. - our waitress was great and she even commented our igloo was colder than the others. - they did take my friends filet off the bill however we were hit with a $100 charge for the igloo. to our recollection we didn't see anywhere that said we'd be charged. and given how cold it was inside we were shocked. we sat bundled in our coats and blankets trying to eat but being so bundled made it difficult. very uncomfortable and not a pleasant experience. -food was just ok. ordered hot tea with honey after dinner bc we were so cold (our noses were running) and we got hot tea no honey. this place isn't cheap but the caliber of food wasn't worth it. esp since everything was lIke warm or cold. best thing was the decorations in the igloo. we won't be coming back. read more

The Reef - This is the igloo that was freezing - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

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Amazing, spent two nights in Newport. Big foodie, ended up also eatting at "The Grill", hands down I would say pick (" THE REEF"). The employees are amazing and accommodating. The sunset was amazing. Our waitor Michael new his menu, made recommendations and created amazing cocktails. Most try the cetrion sangria and the cod for the price is more then you would ever think. Enjoy the views, the food and ambiance. The fried banana cheesecake is amazing!!! read more

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Not impressed. The view is gorgeous. Staff is ok. We got our food but no silverware, fortunately our food wasn't cold by the time she came back with silverware. An extra $5 for a "split plate" but the meal wasn't even split for us. Most disappointing of all was that we came for the lobster roll and it was served on a hot dog bun. For $33 I expected more, at least a decent bread roll. read more

The Reef - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

My partner and I came by this place for a nice dinner along the water in Newport, RI. The view and the service at this restaurant were great! Our servers were super accomodating and friendly and we had a table that was very near facing the waterfront which made the ambiance very pleasant. However, the food at this restaurant was very mediocre, especially for the price. We started with the chickpea fries which were maybe the best thing on the menu. Unlike most of the things on this menu, it's vegetarian-friendly and the truffle flavor really comes out in the fries. It was a bit on the oily side but it tasted good. Since my partner is vegetarian, he really couldn't order anything except the salads. I got a lobster roll, because what else would you get when you come to New England as a visitor to the area? The lobster roll was pricey for not-so-great lobster. I felt the lobster itself was very rubbery and the texture threw me off for the whole meal. The fries were also just ok. Overall, the ambiance of the restaurant is great and maybe other menu items are delicious, but I wouldn't come back and go to some of the other spots in Newport! read more

We came and sat at the bar and had the most amazing experience! The bartenders were so friendly and attentive, the food was amazing, and we got to watch our good friends get married. I met two woman in the bathroom who were having a graduation party and a milestone birthday party as well as the wedding and the staff here handled it seamlessly! read more

We were originally going to Scales and Shells, told the hotel that's were we were going, (a 20 min walk) yelp indicated they were open, and when we called we got a message saying closed for Dec see you in the New Year! So after a miserable cold walk you can imagine our disappointment to discover they were closed. (It was Sat Jan 22nd). Several other places we liked were also closed, so we made our way to The Reef. Not our first or even second choice, but it was open and warm. First impressions of the menu was also a little disappointing, with very little seafood choices. Then our waitstaff arrived they were happy and really helpful. Someone noticed a small box at the top of the menu which offered a fixed price for two. Bottle of wine, two appetizers, two main courses, and two deserts. My Nephew and his partner had one, and myself and my two daughters did another. ( No the kids did not have any wine) Well I have to say the food that came out of the kitchen was truly amazing, the cheese board was great, and the muscles although not huge was equally as special. The broth the muscles came in was different, I could have drunk a gallon of it. I ordered the steak, as did Austin, and honestly I was really not expecting anything much. Imagine my surprise when a huge perfectly cooked rare strip was delivered. The kids shared the short ribs, and my Nephew ordered seafood fra Diablo. Every dish was great, the staff amazing and what was shaping up to be a shit evening became a really enjoyable adventure. So thank you everyone at the reef, servers and the kitchen staff and the great food, read more

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The interior is very opulent and spacious. They have ample dining space for huge events, spectacular boating photographs, and high-res TVs. We came here on a Wednesday night and the place was quite slow but the food was interesting. The two salads we got were great, and the coconut chicken stole the spot light. Absolutely loved the chicken flavor and the marinade in the rice. The calamari, in my opinion, is not worth $15. The serving was too parsimonious and the flavor was bland (it definitely needs a sauce). All in all this is a great restaurant and we look forward to going back. read more

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The raw seafood was very fresh and good. The service was good. The ambiance is like every wood structure around there. God forbid and someone really updates this places. read more

I would like to say thank you to Luke and the Reef! Under the leadership of Luke( new manger ) they were supporting local hospitality workers during COVID. The restaurant has gone though a major overhaul. It looks fantastic , and if you want real waterfront dinning this is it. The food has dramatically improved. They have redone the outside waterfront patio and has a classic island vibe. I enjoyed our time and will be back read more

The Reef - Nice view! - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

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The food was mediocre the Thursday night, but the ambiance outside was nice at sunset. The service was the best part! read more

I was really looking forward to trying this place, the reviews of the Chef were good. I had the penne alla vodka and grilled shrimp and my husband had a burger. I LOVE pink sauce. I make it often and get it a lot when I go out. I hate to say this was the worst I've ever had. It was extremely thick, a consistency that resembled curdled milk. And it did not taste right. I would def try this place again only because the ambiance is awesome. Right on the water abd they have live music. But you gotta get your pink sauce game together. Not good read more

The Reef - Seafood Near Me - Newport, Rhode Island

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Adult" raspberry lemonade was perfect. Meaning, I don't like the taste of alcohol but it was in there. We had a dinner of salads and apps. NE clam chowder was very good. Kale Caesar had a wonderfully tangy dressing. Spinach salad with figs and pistachios -- same. Mussels were good. But the calamari... melt in your mouth outstanding. The menu is limited but innovative. Someone in the kitchen is thinking critically. Service was outstanding. Too early in the season to sit outside so we enjoyed the view of Newport Harbor through the glass. Restaurant sits at the end of Howard Wharf in an unassuming building surrounded by multi-million dollar condos. read more

We had reservations for Fathers Day lunch and it was worth the drive. We sat outside at the dock and the weather was perfect. There was a group of four of us and we ordered the following dishes: Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Butter Poached Lobster Benedict, and Shrimp and Grits. We also had the oyster shooters as well. I had ordered the Fish and Chips and they were kind of bland. All the other dishes did taste delicious! You can tell that they are freshly prepared with great ingredients. The service was great and our server provided great customer service. read more

Had the most lovely dinner here in a BUBBLE TENT!! The tents were heated, comfortable and even came with a Bluetooth speaker so we could play our own music. The food was pretty good and the service was even better. We highly recommend requesting Lisa Ann as your server, she's an absolute delight! She truly made our overall experience a 10/10. Can't wait to come back! read more

We really enjoyed our apps, wine and exceptional service. Waitstaff was friendly and knowledgeable.

Staff were friendly and accommodating. Lobster roll on brioche bread and clam chowder were great. I also tried the pasta with shrimp, delicious. A nice lunch by the water with a view, great location near local shops. read more

Very pleasant outdoor dining by the water. Food was enjoyable, everyone liked what they got including fish and chips, lobster roll, calamari, and scallops. They had a live musician during our dinner which also added to the ambiance. 4 stars weighted towards atmosphere. read more

Came here on a Friday night Memorial Day weekend. Thought the outside bar would be open but it wasn't. Went inside and asked to sit at the bar. I always knew they had a separate room for the bar on the left side of the building. Never knew they made a beautiful bar in the dining room that has a great view. The bartender was friendly and efficient. We split the Italian flatbread and clam fritters. Both were very good. We always get hung up in downtown and rarely venture up this way on Thames. This is worth the walk out of downtown. read more