Sammy's Deluxe

Sammy’s was recommended to us by a fellow bartender in southern Maine last October. I’m honored that he recognized us as the kind of folks who would truly appreciate Sammy’s. Sammy’s takes pretentious fine dining and turns it upside down with an atmosphere and mood that made me feel like I was at a friend’s house. The care behind each dish is apparent with clear focus on locally sourced product. Everything we ordered was a delight. Service is provided by hospitality pros who have been deliberately retrained at their craft to let the guest take an active role in water and wine service. This small detail is a symbol that Sam has trust in his guests to make good decisions and to not need useless performance to compensate for any lack of quality. Sam, I admit that I doubted the Haddock snacks at first. My partner is a smoked fish freak and I humored him. I will be daydreaming about that damn fish til I can get back to midcoast. Bravo, Chef!

Fate sent us here when the two places we had previously visited and considered eating at were already on 2 hour waits. Sammy’s may actually have been the only meal in Rockland worth waiting for. We enjoyed a number of traditional Jewish dishes on the fourth day of Hanukkah. While I am no authority on the subject, my Jewish husband described the food as “correct”. The latkes were crispy and flavorful, the pastrami was tender with deep complexity and complimented by a strong mustard and steamed brussel sprouts. The matzo ball soup blew us both away. Simple dishes with quality ingredients treated well. It simultaneously felt like dining in my best friend’s living room, a NYC hole-in-the-wall, and a fancy restaurant. Make this your destination.

The food is overpriced, and the portions are very small. My wife and I shared the beef shank and the burger. The beef shank was tiny and the flavor was no bueno. The burger was pretty good, but very, very small. We went to go get more food at another place after. $54 or this meal was not worth it. No drinks either.

This is a rare restaurant in that it is so adamant about expressing itself -that it cannot help but find the appropriate audience. If that’s not you, about 99% of the market is geared towards serving you in just the manner you dictate, so don’t fret. Just keep it moving. I like restaurants. I like Sammy’s Deluxe more than that. Reviews are subjective so let me make the big call I’m repeating in private to friends and colleagues . Sammys Deluxe was my favorite dining experience of the last two years- I’ve travelled quite a lot and tasted just about every little gem my home town New York offers up again and again in the last two years, so from where I’m standing, that’s a high rating. Sammy’s is naturally quaint. The food has a singular vision and tells a story but doesn’t feel overbearing or self important. That’s a wild line to walk , but this is a very fun restaurant dishing out its sophisticated offerings as matter of simple fact. It felt like a kind of home cooked meal, more than is possible- but one we imagine anyway. The many courses helped me feel good, deep down. I also learned a few things about Maine food history. When I was feeling stuffed warm and whimsical I suffered these threads into greater meaning with my patient dinner date. Then we danced right out the door, because we felt like we were dreaming and Sammy’s had , I guess, given us the example that we should be ourselves for one night…. And maybe tomorrow too.

Delicious surprise, most restaurant in Maine taste amazing but Sammy’s Deluxe had really unique flavor. Mushroom is asta and halibut dish with dandelion were out of expectation but so delicious. Smoke haddock and alewife is also recommended.

When our entree arrived almost 90 minutes after arriving, the person who brought it to our table said, “Sorry we’re not as fast as McDonalds.” I know this is a hard business and wish them great success, but sarcasm with customers doesn’t help to smooth over bottlenecks in the kitchen. [The paragraph above was my full initial comment. It now needs updating after reading Sam’s response.] I had left out other details on purpose, trying to keep it simple, but the gloves are off. We had a 645pm rez but showed up at 630pm, and were seating quickly (the only thing that happened quickly during our visit). After fumbling around with the QR code menu on our phones, we ordered drinks. When they arrived, one of them was not what we ordered, and the Negroni was meh even though it’s generally hard to screw up. We drank them anyway. We ordered food and were told we didn’t have a choice on how your burger would be served, which is unconventional. A bit later (check your timestamp) one of the two apps showed up, the other one was MIA but we waited patiently even though we saw that same dish land on the table next to us (they weren’t even there when we ordered, but were legit VIPs, it’s a cruel world out there). Our nice but overworked waitress disappeared so you brought over the entrees. We were expecting the app, but ok. That’s when my wife gave you the “serious inhumane attitude” — c’mon, dude! Her entree was not cooked as described on the menu, maybe you ran out of pesto, and your namesake cheeseburger looked like nothing I had ever seen before, and not in a good way. I expected the promised “pinch of magic” but instead got an oozing mess next to a lonely pickle. Two minutes later (I think but don’t hold me to it) and the food barely touched, we got our waitress’s attention and asked for the check. It included the missing smoked haddock. No big. I got up from the table and gave her my card to settle up and let her know “the haddock never arrived.” Her full response: “OK.” She took it off the check. We left without further discussion or comment. In spite of all of this we left her 20% or so not because that’s so generous but because it’s a hard job and she should not have to pay a penalty for your mismanagement and customer relations skills. Earlier today I had a chance to read some of the other reviews, and others have had much the same experience. Not everyone — you have a high avg rating, so you’re doing something right. But those like us who have not enjoyed the Sammy’s Treatment land on the receiving end of your retribution, such as your response to me earlier. You’re going to do what you’re going to do, and I get that you’re pissed, but maybe take some of the advice you give customers who ask for a modification of your cheeseburger and is stated on your menu: “Take a long hard look at yourself in the mirror.”

One of my very few five star reviews. Spectacular place. Went for my birthday, as I wasn't impressed with Primos last year. The recommendation came from Luce's Distillery next door. We ate crab claws, melon bisque with eel, smoked haddock, local greens, and three of us had the roasted hake dinner, one the skirt steak, and one chicken and chanterelles. Everything was top notch, especially the melon bisque and the roasted hake. What Primos wishes it were: local seafood and foraged greens cooked to perfection with imagination and skill, and no kitsch. We will be going back every summer we're in Owl's Headn

My husband said that Sammy’s Deluxe was a must stop on our trip from NC to Steuben, ME and it did not disappoint. He’d been once before while living in the area and said that it was one of the best meals he’d ever had. We went out of our way to stop through Rockland with our pup and enjoyed some fresh beautifully prepared boujee meets comfort food on the picnic tables outside. The concept is cool and clearly the food is made with heart. I loved everything I ate. As a chef, my husband can be judgy, but he said that the burger was one of the best he’d ever had. Next time we are in the area I plan to ditch the dog, so we can enjoy the cool ambiance inside.

Sammy's deluxe... unforgettable experience. Was walking around Rockland and we just stumbled upon Sammy's not knowing what to expect or what the menu was like. Sat at the bar since they were quite busy and haven't had a chance to clear a few tables. Restaurant reminds you of grandma's house, rustic, chic tables and chairs, mismatched dinnerwares and the whole ambiance playing "killin jive" from the 1940's. I wasn't born then but the whole vibe reminds you of that era that I only get a pleasure to watch on TV. Now for the food... Jonah's crab as you can expect was sweet and delicious but a pain to eat using your fighting tools however, the dip was heavenly. BF had the burger, he was surprised that you can't modify it, but thoroughly enjoyed how unique it was, I told him, the chef takes pride how he prepares his food, so you either take it as it is or get something else. Keep an open mind. And I had the overnight beef shank, wow, simple yet delicious, fork tender and luscious marrow. The celery and fennel salad added brightness to the dish and the blue cheese wasn't overwhelming. And I don't like blue cheese and this creativity made me wanting it more. The dish isn't a huge portion, but surprisingly it got me full that I left a few bites of the beef and the salad. For drinks, I had the Rosé and he had the New England India pale ale, light and bubbly. Service was okay, a little slow in the beginning and as the night went on, our server became friendlier.

Doesn't match up to the hype. $20 burger that was small and overcooked. The owner seemed uninterested in making things right.

Amazing food, great owner and staff. . Just a fantastic place to go to and relax and enjoy a good meal with friends

The likelihood of finding a 5 Star restaurant in a one street small town like Rockland, Maine is a hundred to one shot (maybe more). But low and behold when you least expect a sleeper like Sammy's Deluxe Restaurant jumps up and bites you in the butt! This local restaurant was so damn good that it had my party of eight last night (all) rolling our eyes and saying "what the hell"? * Sammy's is known for their cheeseburger and three of us jump all over this one. It was this gooey oozing beautiful mess of a sandwich that hits you hard with flavor, texture and image. This one item was ridiculously good and unique. This was the first cheeseburger in my life I actually ate with a spoon. I know that sounds crazy, but it was true! I absolutely loved my choice * Chickpeas and Broccolini Marinated - with spicy preserved eggplant condiment and herbs * Cold and Refreshing Cabbage Noodles - sweet and tender Second Frost Farm magic cabbage, both raw and grilled with chewy noodles in preserved ramp and soy broth * Halibut Ceviche Tostada - Fresh tostada with classic halibut ceviche, green garlic, jalapeno, carrot, radish, cucumber, cilantro and lime * Brown Bread - Ye olde New England style, baked in a can - Two slices with butter * Chicken leg in Black Trumpet Gravy - braised chicken leg, smothered and covered in black trumpet mushroom gravy with snap peas and herbs on toast * Strawberry Granita w/Cream & Italian Ice * Black Locust Blossom Fritters - Doused in locust blossom honey syrup, Crisp, delicate, aromatic * Chocolate Mousse au Chocolat Everything above was Top Notch! Sammy's Deluxe was by far our best meal we've had on our 2 week romp through Maine. I mean all of our restaurant picks this vacation were sensational, but Sammy's was (just) a touch above the rest!

Food here was amazing. Service was also top notch! We recd a little intel from a frequent diner on the haddock snack and the chocolate dessert. We opted to try the melon/smoked eel soup, the haddock snacks, marinated muscles and 1/2 dozen of oysters. It all fit the bill perfectly. We added 2 orders of bread/butter too. To finish things off my buddy had cheesecake w/blueberries. You know when you're on vacation and fubble around trying to decide where to dine and you read reviews etc some good/some no so. We elected Sammy's simply because it felt fresh and unknown and it was perfect!!

Food was relatively unflavored and lacked taste. Tried going back a second time and had a similar experience. Just not impressed despite some rave reviews. Very disappointing. Service was pleasant but slow and inattentive. Not sure it's worth a third attempt.

We researched a good place to eat and found Sammy's highly recommended, including being listed as one of the top 10 restaurants in Maine by Down East magazine. But we were disappointed. The vibe when we walked in was warm and inviting. It was cold outside, and the flickering candles and mismatched tables and chairs (and lots of plants) made us happy. The waitress wasn't the most welcoming, and scanning the qr code for the menu was different, but we were ok. We ordered the Scallop Aguachile Negro, Cheeseburger, and Braised Overnight Beef Shank & Polenta. The scallop dish (more like an onion-beet salad) had flavor from cilantro and a bit of soy sauce, but so little scallop chopped up that we are wondering if there was even one whole scallop in it? And the flavors just weren't rounded out. For $17 we felt let down. We decided to order the bread, just to make the course more satisfying. It came after we were done with the scallop, and it was very delicious: one slice cut in half, toasted just right, but with barely enough butter for us each to cover our half. I just can't quite get over paying $3.50 for one slice of bread. The burger was wonderful. Lots of warm oozy sauce, very delicious. It came with a whole pickle on the plate, which was actually inedible to both of us. At $19, the cheeseburger, with nothing else on the plate but a pickle (and a bad one at that), seems unreasonable. The braised beef shank was ok, but I requested salt and pepper (something I rarely do) because it was bland. Very little polenta, even though I expected the bottom of the dish to be filled with it. Again, a disappointing portion for $31. I wanted to love this place, and while I'd like to give it another shot, I don't think we'll drive the 50 minutes to do so again. Clearly people love Sammy's, and we're happy for them. But for us, the portions and flavors were lacking and the prices high for what we got.

Seriously dreadful from the start. Arrived on time for an 8pm res...no staff to greet. Waited 25 mins for a table, another 15 mins for a server...but only after asking to order. Service indifferent...basically non-existent. Ordered 3 apps...lentils with beans = watery and tasteless; chilled pea soup = watery and tasteless; haddock "snack" = the saltines were tasty, the rest a watery mess. Shared the pork main...totally hammered...that poor pig...between 2 diners, couldn't finish it (read: near-inedible). Was the most unbelievable experience, and not in a good way. Avoid at all costs...which was a lot.

Offensive on every level. Recommended by a local, so we had high hopes. We called ahead, as we didn't have a reservation, and were told enthusiastically to come on down. Sadly, we arrived, stood in the waiting area, but were never acknowledged. Finally, walked up to the bar and one of the servers gave us a huge eyeroll, but found us a table. The service was arrogant, slow, and condescending. A duo of morose, pale, and unenthusiastic young women peddling Sammy's "take it or leave it" ethos. No horseradish allowed for the oysters. Just an heavy serving of seawater and lemon. A substantial basin of watery lentil slurry underneath the cold lentil/frisee salad. The burger had a genuinely delicious flavor, but the meat was fully raw, and the house made pickle was not edible. The description of the burger (a rambling directive for no substitutions) was a huge turn off. I left a huge portion behind but wasn't asked about this. The $3.50 slice of bread was the best part. Sammy's seems to cater to locals and lacks any semblance of true hospitality. It's been around for a while now and you'd think they'd consider fixing the drop ceiling, which feels more run-down that kitsch. At the end of the meal, the server dropped the check without making eye contact or a thank you. Sammy appears interested in educating people on what to like, and doesn't take feedback, or care about a paying customer's experience. I didn't learn any lessons, other than oysters are always better with horseradish, and I am entitled not to feel bad about it. A playground for Sammy's narcissism and hipster locals with presumably large bank accounts. Just no.

I dunno. I was prepared to love this place and frankly, didn't. Oh, don't get me wrong, the food was fine (as long as you like hand-foraged, stinging nettle and Japanese hogwort pesto over poached finger of heirloom acorns) and are content to choose from three or four chef-approved batched cocktails. (No dry martini for you, miss.) The service was nice and the atmosphere shabby chic complete with mismatched china and flatware and overgrown houseplants in lieu of fresh flowers. The chef/owner, a fellow with a strong reputation for creative and locally influenced cuisine is, err, a bit brusque, but he's got a strong following, and probably for good reason. I'll go back to Sammy's with an open mind but I hope there will be something on the menu to more closely match what I like to eat. (And drink.)

We mentioned to a few people that we were headed to Rockland for a short weekend getaway and everyone mentioned stopping at Sammys! We were thrilled to arrive on a Thursday night around 730 and it wasn't too busy. The vibe was very laid back and friendly. We cozied up to the bar and got into it. The wine list is very unique and fun - so i was excited to try something new. The beer options weren't extensive but there was definitely something for everyone. We ordered the "chicken" of the woods (fried mushrooms) and they LITERALLY tasted like chicken tenders. Idk what voodoo is going on in the back but holy smokes they were good. Speaking of smokes - the smoked haddock snacks served with onions, saltines and mustard were also a 10. The fish was perfectly smoked and the accoutrements were a great pairing. The burger needs no further promotion - but I'll tell you anyway, get it or you'll regret it. My steak was a tiny bit chewy, but it was cooked perfectly. The grains and mushrooms on the side were delicious! The chocolate mousse was everything we needed to cap off a wonderful and tasty evening. I would definitely recommend stopping in when you're in town!

Mocktails option isn't long but the option they had was good. Vibe a little mix between quirky wine bar, classier open mic night, and gourmet grocery store. Looks like menu changes regularly. Every item was a real win tonight. Smoked swordfish was a satisfying start with crisp toast underneath the soft swordfish and the most perfectly ripe tomato (form, juicy, sweet with a little acid, not mealy). Haddock with onions, mustard and saltiness were a great idea and not in thinking of getting back into various smoked fish options at the dinner table. Baby gems were solid. Cucumber soup was something I ordered with both skepticism and curiosity given the choice to mix with buttermilk. Turned out to be just the right edge for something refreshing. Crunchy, slight vinegar with the savory. Strawberry granita was the perfect summer ending.

I really liked Sammy's Deluxe. It's a great setting inside with well spaced tables and an eclectic mix of furniture and furnishings. The menu is unfussy but still refined, picking out great local and seasonal flavors from the region. The highlight was an exceptional halibut filet served in a light broth with seasonal vegetables including green garlic. It tasted of a warm summer evening in a coastal part of Maine. Other highlights included the smoked haddock starter which was really simple and rustic but perfectly balanced. Great drinks selection and well closed wines, beers and cocktails. Outdoor seating is available at a couple of pic pic tables but they're pretty close to the road.

Wow! Such unusual combinations and local takes on many international dishes make this place special! The simple Mayan dish of "papadzules" from the Yucatan got a bump up with local crab meat, and it went beautifully with a mezcal margarita. Thoughtfully crafted cocktails and dishes in a calm, inviting space?? Sign me up for more from this chef!

Really poor attitude from the owner and his staff. And the food is just nothing special, overpriced.

Our evening started with drinks at a friend's house, before we knew it it was getting late and we were hungry. Our friend recommended a different restaurant but when we got there they informed us their kitchen was closed. We looked down the street and saw Sammys Deluxe. Being hungry we said why not try this place without even knowing what they served. Upon entering we were told by the hostess that she wasn't sure their kitchen was still open either but that she would check. We could see into the kitchen and it appeared they were cleaning up for the night. Well the guy doing the cooking came out and asked us what we wanted, and assured us it would be no problem. we hadn't seen a menu yet and didnt want to take any longer where it was late so i said "throw whateverleftovers you have on a plate and we will be happy" he said "how about some cheeseburgers ?" We said that would be awesome and sat down at the bar. We watched him cook them and when they were finished he served them on a plate with a lone pickle on the side. They had onions perfectly cooked, cheese perfectly melted, and some kind of dressing that I couldn't identify. Easily one of the best burgers I've had in my life. The place had a great atmosphere with old timey sounding music, good food, good beer, and friendly staff. Couldn't recommend it more.

My boyfriend and I went here out of curiosity. Don't get me wrong, the atmosphere was lovely, but we thought the QR code menus were a bit pretentious. Everything was fine, but we ended up not liking the food. I ended up not tipping because of these facts. It's important to note, however, that we were the first customers inside, the first to be seated and the first to leave. By the time we left, the restaurant had already begun to fill up. After my boyfriend and I left, we turned the corner and got into the car and saw our waiter approach us. He decided to give us an ethics lecture because I didn't tip that day. It seemed like he was the only waiter on the floor, and he thought it would be a good idea to leave the building to follow us around the corner to lecture us. Of course, wait staff deserve better pay and tipping is very helpful for them, but there are socially acceptable reasons not to tip. We were the first to enter, the first to be seated, and the first to leave. We didn't like the food, and the place was filling up with people when we left. The single waiter left his customers to walk out and around the corner to berate some customers because he didn't get tipped. Won't be coming here again.

My husband and teenager arrived for dinner on a Wednesday because the power was out in the Port Clyde area, where we stayed. We put our names on the list and were told it wouldn't be long. I couldn't get an estimate for what that meant, even though I asked. It turned out to be over half an hour. The place is tiny, with only about half a dozen tables. We ordered drinks while we waited, and the bartender forgot to make them until my husband finally asked for them about 20 minutes later. The menu we were given was for the restaurant that previously occupied the space, with a QR code for Sammy's menu. The food took awhile, but it was decent. Portions are quite small by American standards. My husband had one chicken leg with rice. My teenager felt that all the ingredients in her burger were very fresh/homemade- no American cheese there. My vegan pasta was also made with very fresh vegetables, but it needed more flavor. Probably wouldn't go back. There are several other restaurants in Rockland that seem better, if you can get in.

I'm not sure how any establishment, especially one of this caliber, is managing in-house diners, take-out guests (who can sit at the picnic tables around the corner), and pick-up orders. I do know that entering Sammy's, one is greeted with enthusiasm, regardless of the pressure that the staff is under to serve so many people hungry for food and some feeling of normalcy in this otherwise very not normal world. The cocktails are fantastic, each course of the evening worth the wait (don't sleep on the wedge salad), and the vibe both deluxe and casual -- a perfect combination. An open kitchen is not an invitation to offer feedback when the staff is clearly busting their collective hump to put out such great food. And to make demands of and threats to wait staff, runners, cooks, chefs, or owners right now is just plain ridiculous. Anyone who does so, and perhaps says something like, "I'm going to leave you a nasty review" shouldn't be surprised when an already pressed owner has a similar retort. In this time, when restaurants are trying to get out from under seasons of despair, the customer is not always right. But Sammy's is. Go with an open heart and a patient palate and a positive attitude and all goodness will come to you!

The food was absolutely amazing! So fresh, delicious and creative. I wish we lived in Rockland so we could eat here every week.

I love Rockland, and I love trying new places, so without much research, I popped into Sammy's, not really knowing what to expect. The dining area is spacious, the decor a little hipster, a little artsy (appropriate for Rockland). Staff were friendly and attentive. Sadly, they were out of the periwinkle, which I really wanted to try. I ordered the spring risotto and was not disappointed. Advertised with asparagus, greens, herbs, ramps, and green garlic, imagine my utter delight to find a Maine delicacy hidden in the creamy grains: fiddleheads! I devoured the bowl. It was creamy, but had a bright green freshness from the herbs, and in the background, some spice. The vegetables were cooked perfectly. I was a little sad when it was gone. I would love to come here again and try the periwinkle appetizer, and some of the other menu options.

We ate at Sammy's Deluxe last night and it was understated perfection. The space is cozy, warm, relaxed and calm. The service was friendly, attentive and knowledgeable without being intrusive. And the food was exceptional! We've tried all of the amazing restaurants in mid-coast Maine and Sammy's is by far one of the very best.

We waited for over an hour for our food and the staff was very very rude. Mediocre food with horrible service. Save your money and go anywhere else.

Very disappointed. One hour 15 mins to get our food. Waitress was rude and not accommodating. $3.00 up-charge if you want your burger NOT pink. I got the $35.00 halibut, mistake! It was sitting it a vat of what tasted like sour milk! We'll never go back.

I give 5 stars for Sammy's food and 3 starts for attitude, which comes out to a very solid 4 stars and keeps me coming back again and again. I love that they use foraged foods in their drinks and dishes. Past favorites include the fried chicken of the woods sandwich, pickles, smoked haddock snacks, bread, and their magnificent cheeseburger. Recent favorites include the fish stew with John Dory, fennel, and new potatoes. I definitely recommend going, but I also recommend knowing in advance that if you're not a certain (age, alcohol-drinking, and potentially gender) demographic, you might be treated with patronizing disdain. It doesn't stop me from going back and back; it just stops me from expecting a five star experience.

It's ok. Some dishes come cold. A bit overpriced for what you get. Waitress had no class nor interest in doing a good job. We liked the owner though.

Absolutely fresh and beautifully cooked food here in a warm welcoming atmosphere. I enjoyed the "chicken of the woods" on fresh corn/leek succotash- very difficult to do well: this was succulent, with a delicious crust and tender interior, moist, flavorful and a good hefty portion. The bread was exquisite, too. Kind and warm service. Unforgettable. I can't recall a better dinner in recent memory!

Incredible burger. At first I thought that $16 was a bit much, but it was good grass fed beef. The servers were attentive and the music was on point, too. Not crowded or too touristy. Cocktail list looked well rounded. I had the bread and butter appetizer and thought it was tasty. The burger cooked pink was perfect. I would go with the salad bc the chips are basically just wavy lays. Sammy owns the place, cooks the food, and hand delivers it to the tables. All around: high quality without being pretentious.

Wonderful food! Don't miss the smoked haddock sampler or the Maine Peeper Beer - very fresh! The Cheeseburger is the best we ever had and has an amazingly tasty sauce. All food is local and home cooked. Tasty, tasty, enjoy

Service provider was not helpful. Hamburger was cooked only the way the mgmt chose. For a more well cooked burger you had to pay an up charge of $3. This is a rip off at $22 for a sleezy restaurant. Health dept should check our kitchen cleanliness. We'll never return. There are better places to eat in the great city of Rockland. it's a disgrace to the city.

Such a wonderful atmosphere and ambiance. The food was fresh and delicious. I had the burger and fried mushrooms which were both amazing. I can't wait to go back!

We had a party of 12, and the staff took excellent care of us. We started with the crusty warm bread, as many us were famished after a long day of traveling. We followed with the luscious smoked haddock, pickle assortment, crab claws and ratatouille, all wonderfully prepared. Entrees were all deemed excellent by the assembled diners, a great flavorful burger (non-greasy!), chicken, skate and pasta dishes were the highlights. Thanks to everyone at Sammy's that made this such a wonderful repast, and especially Taylor who was the epitome of graciousness and good humor.

Amazing experience there: Negroni cocktail / oysters / wedge salad/ chicken / steak / rigatoni / pickles were all delicious. The chef forages the good and local products. This is real cuisine. The service is also very good. We felt cozy and welcome. Had a great time. Good wines from Italy and France. The cheesecake is really worth tasting ! We will come back for sure !

This place is absolutely my idea of perfect. Great food. Who's ever in the kitchen knows what they're doing. The broth of the fresh grilled halibut stew was amazing. But then so was my pea and spring greens pasta. Ceviche equally subtle and delicious. The other thing I like is how fun, friendly, honest, down to earth it all is. No hipster pretentious attitude. Just great service from folks with great food in a casual fun atmosphere. Thx!

Absolutely great food. Smoked haddock snacks and the roasted pumpkin were very nice. The pasta was very good, nice texture, and great flavors. Nice atmosphere, pleasant and great for conversation.

The best restaurant experience I have had in my life. Not pretentious at all. Food is cozy and modern at once. Staff is cool and friendly. Go here.

This was our first visit to Sammy's Deluxe. We had heard mixed reviews from friends. I've got to say it was an interesting experience. The most popular item is a burger which we saw over half the people in the restaurant eating but it was not on the chalkboard menu that the server sat up by our table so we had to inquire about it. Three in our party decided to order it but when we specified how we wanted it cooked we were told that it only came medium rare described by the server as "pink". When I asked for it medium well I was told that they would not make it that way. The server suggested I order something else. For a $19 burger it seems like they would cook it anyway I wanted it. When I continue to inquire about this she finally relented and said that would be a $3 dollar up charge. So I paid $22 for the burger and I must say it was delicious but the reason for a $3 dollar up charge on a burger at that price seemed ridiculous. Our food took a long time in coming and other tables were served before us even though they came in after us. It was a very odd experience but I will say the burger was tasty as long as you don't mind having to argue to have the burger made the way you want it and know that you'll pay an up charge for that. Rather than calling it Sammy's Deluxe they should call it Sammy's Very Strange.

Our party of four all enjoyed our good food, the atmosphere, and the service. Sammy delivered his creations to the table, and checked in as well. I suspect the busier he gets, the fewer times he'll be able to do that. I had the skate wing w/ asparagus. Delicious! The skate wing was crisp outside and tender and juicy inside. Perfectly done. The asparagus was also perfectly done to tender crisp. A good textural combination. Yum! We will be returning. Oh, and Sammy's Deluxe is very friendly to those of us Gluten Free victims. I say "victim" because I really, really wanted to try the spring dug parsnip cake...

Just ate at Sammy's Deluxe, 1st time, and it won't be the last!! Absolutely delicious: had the haddock snacks, deviled scallop toast, chicories salad, beet salad, pickle samplah, roast cod... top 5 meals we've ever had. Unforgettable.

The burger is truly one of the best I ever had! But the bun is the best bun I have ever had in my life great oysters salads and absolutely wonderful people in a great atmosphere I hate giving reviews to places like this because I want it all to myself and don't want to share but have to because it's a truly amazing place!

Excellent variety and great imaginative menue. Delicious local seasonal fare. Today- fresh fried smelt. The burgers are awesome.

My husband and I stopped here after enjoying the tasting at Oyster River Winegrowers. We started with a dozen oysters and then shared the simple greens and pork shoulder. The staff was extremely nice and the food was carefully curated. I highly recommend stopping here if you're in the area!

We went to Sammy's based on the Yelp reviews and were not disappointed. Our cheerful wait person guided us through the menu and doubled as the bartender. She makes a great Manhattan! Don't miss the fresh rhubarb soda. Very refreshing. We tried several of their small plates and finished with an excellent pasta. I highly recommend Sammy's Deluxe for fresh farm to table cuisine.

Sammy's is as good as it gets. Period. Sam's food is fresh and local and delicious, prepared by a truly world class chef who has chosen to grace us with this special restaurant right here in midcoast Maine. The menu changes often but don't miss the smoked haddock snacks. And although it feels like cheating to have a burger, it's the best damn burger of your life.

In town for a day and this was walking distance from our hotel. I think I was in the mood for comfort food or some fresh seafood, and this place just didn't have anything that sounded like what I wanted. After trying two different drinks that I didn't care for I ordered a sampling of appetizers for dinner. Just wasn't my kind of food. A bit too "trendy". It sounds like the locals are loving this place so kudos for that!

One of the best meals I have ever had in my life. Humble and slick and calm and delicious. 10 out of 10.

The Greek salad was excellent with a huge hunk of goat cheese on top. I had the chicken with hen of the woods gravy on top of grains which was crazy flavorful with sage, thyme, and parsley. There's a 0% chance we won't return next time we're in Rockland.

Sammy's can be fun but it sure ain't deluxe. We went for a shared pasta and a shared salad and though both tasted ok, the portions put down in front of us were so modest we both blinked hard and laughed. We hadn't been aboard since it first opened and as my wife said as we got up to go, we probably won't be back for a couple more years.

Quirky and outstanding at the same time. Looking through the window when they were closed and seeing the brightly patterned oilcloth table covers, we wondered what type of restaurant this was. Answer: a very good one. We had haddock pieces (always on the menu) plus the mackerel tartare (special that week) and both were so good, we booked to go back a second night. The hake on a zucchini soup with fennel, onions and mint was a revelation. Informed, helpful and efficient service rounded out the evening. Just go!!