Scales & Shells

Got a reservation on Sunday night after a great weekend at Newport Jazz. Super friendly and attentive staff. Despite some negative reviews I've seen, the seafood menu was very comprehensive. While a bit on the pricey end, it ended up being $80 per person with 3 swordfish entrees, salad, lobster bisque, shared grilled prawns and clam cakes. Bisque: creamy, several warm chunks of lobster. Could use a bit more seasoning like salt/pepper. Grilled prawn and risotto: although an entree, makes a great appetizer. Char grilled to perfection with a very tasty risotto. Grilled swordfish: very tender and flaky with good charred flavor. Side spinach with corn and olives added the perfect earthy acidity.

I like trying new foods. On the website there is this big picture of an octopus tentacle. That's what I wanted, but the menu had a much smaller dish, the Spanish octopus. Still very good, seared tuna was delicious too. Kids enjoyed their meals as well. Service was fine, I typically expect the servers to know the menu well, but...it's the start of the season. I guess it's to be expected.

I’ve been going to Scales & Shell since 1990! I walked in today and it is NOT Scales & Shells. The signature chalkboard fresh fish and shellfish is GONE, replaced by a soulless, uninspired menu. They even ruined the wine section…WTH! After 35 years why have you gutted this Newport institution?! For the love of God please fire the chef and bring back the owners. This is a travesty! Here is early 2024 vs today!!

Went there a couple of times during our trip to Newport. Both times, food was delicious, we had some tasty draft IPA, and the service was also really good.

The best swordfish steak I’ve ever tasted 💯and the oysters were great - even better as we ordered before 7pm and got half a dozen super fresh oysters for $6 with the “buck a shuck” offer

I have never tasted a better lobster bisque in my life. They really nailed it. The rest of the food was of the highest quality and really made our whole trip to Newport. Our waitress was spectacular. Hands down the best food I tried in the area. Highly recommend the spicy seafood pasta.

Good but not quite what we had expected. Seafood was fresh and pasta homemade. We got Lobster Fra Diavolo and Linquini with Clams. Both could have had a little more flavor and the linguini was a little dry. 3 manhattans - all made differently (inconsistent) and something was off with the last one making it hard to drink. We also got creme brûlée and it could have used a touch of vanilla or something - just plain old custard. The staff wasn’t great about clearing away dirty dishes or finished drinks. It was a casual environment than anticipated and the staff uniform is super ugly (not something I ever imagined I’d share in a review but worth mentioning). Could be more professional all around. A bit overpriced for the value.

My favorite seafood restaurant in Newport. They don't accept reservations, so waits can be discouraging. The menu on the blackboard changes often ensuring everything is fresh. Servers are focused. Upstairs is quieter, but the menu is limited. Only regret is they can't seem to keep their fabulous clam pizza available. Still, this is one of Newport's best.

It has been at least 7 years since I had been to Scales. In the past it was very tough to get a reservation especially on a Saturday . Needless to say I was shocked to get a 7:15 time slot on a weekend in August however it turned out very lucky for us. We had a delightful server named Molly and I must say if it were not for her recommendation of the homemade mushroom pasta I would never have chosen this Ahhhmazing dish. A fabulous blend of sauce with a hint of pancetta. My husband picked the Bucatini with shrimp. I think he would have licked his plate if he could. My coconut mojito and his blood orange sour were perfect compliments to our meal. Definitely coming back soon!

First time back in a couple of years and the food was excellent. The new management and kitchen are putting out much better dishes than in the past! Lobster bisque was very good as was the Cesar salad. Linguine and clams were delicious and cooked perfectly. The spicy seafood linguine was also very good! Freshly made linguine in house. Grilled lobster was also excellent. Our server Loretta Lynne was great as was the manager checking in on us during our meal. We will definitely make this a regular again when visiting Newport!

Food is always outstanding and recommend the shrimp and calamari to start. Staff is always friendly, and great service. Very pretty spot and not open year around so warmer months get into this beautiful place.

We dined here the other evening and, while the food was still enjoyable, it definitely missed the mark. We later learned the restaurant is now under new ownership, and unfortunately, some of the beloved recipes have been changed. A note to the new owners: you don't alter what made this place so special. The service was still excellent, and the staff remained friendly, but we couldn't help but notice other changes--like downsizing the chalkboard--that took away from the charm and unique ambiance we always loved. Sadly, the overall experience felt different, and not in a good way. This used to be one of our favorite restaurants, but it's now one I'd rather forget. Don't think we'll be returning anytime soon - very unfortunate!

STAY AWAY! Absolutely the worst experience in Newport. The new owners (likely from out of town) murdered the formerly best restaurant in Newport. They completely changed the menu - no longer can you order a multitude of grilled fish or seafood pasta option - now it's a menu that fits on one small menu the size of a cocktail menu. They got rid of at least 7-10 tables and most disgustingly raised the prices 40%. And the food isn't fit for dogs. The new owners and chef should be ashamed! Been going here for 35 years and will never set foot in this usurious joint again. ZERO STARS

This place is amazing. It has a great chill vibe and the food is delicious I had the oysters and the bucatini with mussels and shrimp. It was was sooo good!

Went here with my wife and I thought the food and service was excellent. We will definitely be back upon our return to Newport.

Updating my review to sadly, one star. First, the menu is on a chalkboard which shouldn't be a problem right? It is if you're seated with your back away from it. There was a dividing half-wall and I had to stand up in a tight spot, then turn around to see it. My eyesight is bad, so that was very annoying and awkward twisting around in front of company. Don't order the lobster bisque. No flavor and fishy smell (in a bad way). The lemon artichoke linguine is a definite pass. The "sauce" was dry and looked like ground up artichoke paste. It tastes like mint and pesto but not really? Way too much garlic. =tummy ache. Calamari ok.

Had reservations here for Mother's Day and my wife and mother in law was looking forward to dine here. We have a ton of friends who dine here for years and always brag on how great the food is here. I myself seldom venture down this end of Thames sure to the heavy traffic. But I thought Mother's Day would be a great reason to come. Boy was I wrong! It would be quite the disappointment since when I sat down I notice the menu had nothing familiar with what I've seen on their menu and it was a very limited menu so I asked our waitress if this was a limited menu Mother's Day set menu. And she gave me a look of disappointment herself and told me it was the regular menu. Because there are new owners and a new chef. So I just don't understand why you would take over a successful restaurant with a huge clientele and decide to completely change out the menu. If you wanted to take over a restaurant and have your new menu, why keep the same name and piss off all the customers going there expecting something and not able to get. What a way to bait and switch the customers that are expecting they're going the scales and shells and then not get what they wanted.

If there is something less than 1 star this hollow and sad version of Scales and Shells deserves it. Scales and Shells was an institution - by far the best meal in Newport and probably in RI! We are relative newcomers having gone there for 21 years. Walking in to see a different chef and menu was a soul crushing experience. The new owners had the insensitivity to keep the big chalkboard - making the longtime faithful like us to see a place that looks like Scales and Shells but in fact is a total fake! Thanks to the former chef Junior, the old menu does in fact remain fully intact at Hooked - just down the street from- THANK YOU JUNIOR FOR SAVING THIS INCREDIBLE MENU!! Please do not go to this place that should really not be called Scales and Shells and go to Hooked. It's EXACTLY what all the Scales regulars know and love!

My parents used to come here years ago for their anniversary, so I was eager to try it. I've never experienced the "old" Scales many reviews mention as this is my first experience here. My parents, friends and myself were all impressed. The star of the show was definitely the lobster/seafood fra diavolo. The fresh pasta and flavors were spectacular! Also tried the burrata and calamari appetizers which were also great, loved the idea of putting Serrano peppers in the RI style calamari. Raw bar was decent, service was friendly and attentive. The only small critique was that the t-shirt uniforms felt out of place with the restaurant's more upscale vibe. But overall a pretty great experience

It was my first time in Newport and we wanted seafood. We walked by Scales and Shells and things looked promising, but after checking the reviews on Yelp, I was reluctant to try it- there was so much negativity. Ultimately, we tried it and we loved it. My husband and I agree that everything was delicious. We had the spaghetti with clams to start, I had the tuna and he had the swordfish. We had potatoes and veggies as our sides. The portions weren't huge but they were not minuscule. Maybe the new owners have taken things in a new direction and that's the source of all of the naysaying, but I wanted to post a positive review.

Used to really love this place - a definite must in Newport. Offered 10+ fish options with a variety of preparations. They "updated" their menu and now have a total of 2 fish options. They should remove the "scales" from their name. I can't eat shellfish and loved the large variety of options. Now they have almost no options. This concept change is not for the better.

The Quick: Fantastic seafood, cocktails, and wine list (ask for pairing recommendations, they know their stuff). The lobster fra Diavolo is incredible! The staff is very accommodating. If you're a seafood lover, this is for you The Details: If you don't eat seafood, this might be a little difficult for you. There are definitely vegetarian sides, but the focus is on seafood and it's done. Incredibly. The raw bar is incredibly fresh, and they are spicy red/ Sicilian sauce is incredible.. Make sure to get extra bread. The Damage: fresh seafood is not inexpensive, but we thought the meal was worth every penny.

This place never disappoints. Came well before they opened to get on line waiting to get in once restaurant was opened at 5 for dinner service. Menu available at table and on chalkboard near kitchen. Food & cocktails are excellent. All variations of seafood offered in a variety of cooked styles (grilled, broiled, etc) including linguine pasta or other sides. Service is fast and efficient. Ambiance is buzzing with table conversations but not loud where can't hear yourself or table mates.

New owners new menu ridiculous prices. Don't bother. The original chef is now working at Hooked. The food was amazing.

The two rating doesn't have anything to do with my memories of the Scales and Shells of the past but the one I went to last night. My oysters came out and one of them had so much mud in it I didn't even eat it. The lobster bisque portion as most of the food was very small. The service was good and we felt well taken care of. A little bit on the noisy side tough to have a conversation. My real disappointment comes from the lack of creativity and the small selection of the menu. And it doesn't hold a candle to the SS of old.

Bartender/server saved the day so I will give another chance. My fave dish in the world is linguini and clam sauce. Red or white I am happy. This place "HAD" by FAR the best on the planet(Yes Spain or Italy). 10 clams in shell on top of linguini with sauce roasted in clams AND chopped clams in the sauce. So three layers of "clam love" depth in the dish. Now this latest time they served me a small portion of spaghetti with plain marinara sauce on it(no clams in it and no clam flavored sauce!) and then dropped 4 littleneck whole clams on top. I thought it was April Fool's Day. The server saw my face and finally got me to order something else after his 3rd attempt. Good man. I emailed them like five days ago before I posted this deservingly negative review. No response. Later on I found out the original owners sold the place few yrs ago. So the new owners are cutting corners. Will keep open minded but that was the worst first impression of their chef they could ever have made. So sad the real owners and chef is gone. Not even remotey close now.

Service and food were impeccable! Da lobster on the wood fired grill with the linguini as a side....chef's kiss!

Was excited to get the opportunity to dine here under the new ownership & chef as I enjoyed Chef Richard's cuisine at his previous restaurant. The food did not disappoint. My friend & I started with the Baby Gem Caesar salad, which was excellent. The Bibb lettuce was pleasantly seasoned with the light Caesar dressing. I ordered the special Chutoro tuna which is a particular cut of bluefin tuna , OMG it was delicious, never ate this before it had a delicate, buttery flavor & just melted in your mouth. It was lightly seared . This was my first time trying this cut of tuna & I have to say has such a delicate texture compared to tuna dishes I am familiar with. My friend had the cod in iron pot which was also flavorful. The saffron tomato broth was very tasty. We also shared the roasted cauliflower, mushroom side dish which was flavorful as well & nicely seasoned. The cod & the salad was also served with the restaurants charcoal bread which complimented both dishes. The food is definitely top notch & will definitely return. Staff were very friendly & the manager also stopped by to see how we were doing. Will definitely return. Chef Richard has created a wonderful restaurant experience.

On a recommendation, I hesitantly dined with my family. Listen to your instincts is the message I'd like to send. The atmosphere is loud inside to the point of not being able to carry on conversation at the table. Egregiously overpriced and underwhelming portions left me hungry and feeling like I just got scammed after we left. I will not make the same mistake, one and done!

Never been here before, but looking at reviews and the news it seems this place changed owners in 2022. Service/Servers was great, but neither my guest our I was impressed with the food. I had the clams and linguine and I think there were 5 clams. So in the end I ended up just eating plain pasta. My GF had the "spicy" tuna roll that was flavorless and had no spice. Oysters were good. Drinks were ok. I get it, touristy area, right on Thames, but there are better seafood options.

Junior, the chef and crew and menu from Scales have moved to hooks across the street. It is the old Scales.

Food was lacking flavor. Menu is limited and we really miss the old place. Try Hooked across the street. It's the old chef and crew.

Friday night July 5th at one of our favorite restaurants in Newport RI... Scales and Shells ...on Thames enjoying clams and oysters !!! We knew the former owners and happy that the new folks continued in great tradition. Management, service and food all great!! Asst GM , Don, greeted us at the door and made the experience terrific. GM Sergio oversees the operation in fine fashion. Waiter Luke was just as professional and attentive making for a terrific dining experience When in Newport, don't miss it !!!!!

Another fan of the "old" Scales & Shells, I was disappointed to see the drastic changes to the menu. The three of us were challenged to find something we loved on the new, much-pared menu (on paper with just a few specials on the mini-chalkboard) and when asked if the linguine with clams was still the same, the response was "it sure is!" It sure isn't. Nothing is. I get it... slim down the offerings for efficiency and profitability. Everyone needs to. To a degree. But this was a gutting of the old, tried-and-true... a formula which worked very well for decades. It was practically an institution. Now, it's just another restaurant. They took the things that made S&S unique and special, and stripped it to just another eatery on a busy bustling street. The food was good (the reason for the three stars they got) but the drinks were weak, the menu uncreative, the portions smallish, and the ghosts of menus past haunted the experience. Go if you want, but as of the time of this review, don't expect to be wowed, or to revisit a familiar eating experience. Super bummed.

its not the SS it once was. All the dishes that you loved about SS are gone. what is left is sub par. The Bisque for $14 was half full bowl. The Calamari rubbery and not crispy. The linguini an clams was too lemon flavored and not tasty and appetizer size. On top of all this they charge for bread. if you want the old SS go to Hooked two blocks away on Thames. The SS chef is there with the dishes SS cut frim its menu.

So sad to see everything we loved about our Scales and Shells no longer exists. The chalkboard menu, fish fresh from the dock, clam pizza (even when it wasn't on the daily menu, you could request it and *poof* it was on your table). Should change the name to Empty Shell. There is hope, my fellow former Scales and Shells' friends. Many of our favorite people can be found just up the street at Hooked -- Junior the fabulous chef, James the master shucker, and more. And they are serving up amazing dishes just like they did before. Run, don't walk -- you'll be so glad you did!!

Walked in. Got seated. Waited 15 minutes. Walked out. No service. Walked across the street to Zeldas. That place was excellent

Our uber driver recommended this spot and said it was the best seafood on the island. We walked in, no reservation needed. Menu was located on a chalk board in the back. Staff was very friendly. I personally didn't care for the food Fried oysters were not that great, too much breading Grilled octopus was the best thing I had My bf had the sea bass which he liked, I ordered the tuna steak, it was tasteless, needed a sauce Sides were mediocre and very small for $6 each If you like your seafood charred and lightly seasoned then this is the spot for you. I prefer more flavor, should have ordered the fra diavlo that everyone raves about

Had a lovely lunch here. The crab cakes on an arugula salad was perfection! Sadly, they did not have fresh brewed iced tea. Service was good, I think we were there at an off time, because it wasn't very busy on a Sunday afternoon. The seafood smell was so strong on walking in it was almost a little off-putting, but hey, what were we there for but some seafood? I'd definitely go here again.

I had one of the best meals and experiences here! From the entrance to the depart the staff was super welcoming and attentive. Came here on the last weekend they were opened for the year, and was happily surprised. Highlights we're the grilled octopus and the raw oysters with 0 grit, and their sauce with the mussels. Their grilled octopus was probably the best I've ever had, being so meaty and tender but also so butter and melted in my mouth. We also had the shrimp scampi which was so light and perfect. The drinks too, were perfect for the season! The best part really was the staff, they were so great and nice. Definitely coming here again during the summer to get the entire experience and vibe.

I loved this restaurant. Quality servers, we had Tate. He made suggestions. We had the lobster bisque, grilled lobster and swordfish. We were on a mini vacation. This was the best meal of our trip. The swordfish was flavorful along with the spinach that came with the meal. Tate recommended two desserts both were very good. I especially liked the chocolate mousse with wafer cones topped with pistachio gelato. It was different but very delicious.

The place looked nice inside but we decided to eat outside. There was a few hiccups with service which included lack of utensils and napkins once our appetizer and then meal arrived. Menu was obscure of detail and no price if was listed. We had to use our phones to get more details and "market prices". Drinks were delivered and were pleasantly good. Server brought water and bread maybe as a peace offering but the bread was best served to seagulls. I had calamari scampi and wife had shrimp scampi. Hers was delivered on a plate mine was served in a pan which I thought was odd. The cheese and flavorings were stuck to bottom. The calamari was decent but the linguine was a little to all dente for my liking.

First, loved our waitress Nicole. They do not take reservations but if there is just 2 of you they have 2 small bars you may want to saddle up to. We waited 20 minutes, not awful. This is where they lose a star. Our table, for 4 people was too small and 1 seat, a built in bench, very uncomfortable and should never be used for anyone over the age of 12. Food was very good. Had the best piece of tuna, rare, literally melted in my mouth. Overall, we would recommend.

Yes! If you're in Newport and want FRESH seafood...go here. My husband and I went for the Lobster al Diavolo....Worth it! It's a dish made for two and we confirmed it!! All the seafood was great and the marinara had a slight bite to it!! Definitely going back. Best to go early when they open if you don't want to wait for a table just walking in.

So much good fish to choose from -we had delicious calamari. I had fish and chips and my husband monkfish Marsala. Wide variety of sides! Great cocktails too. Friendly staff!

This has been around for many years. We went about 32 years ago and remembered it as one of the better seafood places we had been to. It seems quite different all these years later which is probably expected but the seafood was just ok relative to other seafood houses in New England. Lively atmosphere with kitchen open to the restaurant has not changed. The squid ink bread is really good!

My wife and I had dinner here on a weekend getaway. Nice place, service was good, we got seated right away even though we arrived 20 mins early to our reservation. We had the octopus for appetizer, was delicious and cooked perfectly. We both ended up getting the spicy seafood linguini special, I thought it was excellent, my wife thought it was ok. Only half a tail of lobster (pretty small) came with the seafood so that was disappointing but it all tasted fresh and good flavor. Little pricey at $38, could have thrown in a claw or something, if o could give 3.5 stars I would, but since I can't, giving the 4 stars

Let me tell you... sometimes dining solo is tough. I was rejected by my first restaurant choice but it led me to a happy encounter at scales n shells. My experience here was fantastic! Amidst the bustling final restaurant weekend of the season (apparently it was a big deal), I had a super relaxing n delicious meal and the server was just a darling peach! Look, when it's a solo meal, it's obvious not about the company but the food n service so I am very appreciative when I do get a good meal just by myself. For appetizer I got the grilled octopus and goose Island oysters and they were fantastic! great flavor with the right amount of acid for the octo and the oysters were very fresh with the sweet taste of the sea. I would definitely get again! For entree, I balled out n got the shrimp fra diavolo and it does come with calamari, clams n mussels so idk why they don't just call it seafood fra diavolo lol anyway, seafood was cooked perfectly but pasta was too spicy for me!! The sauce also wouldn't stick onto the pasta so flavor profile didn't hit the mark for me. Either way, I did enjoy it but sadly I have had better else where. N watch out for that spice! The heat resonated on my lips for another hr bc I washed it off with beer lol overall, i wouldn't mind visiting again, my meal was very pleasant and hearty!

This is not the same chef or menu. The quality of food is not the same. The staff was lovely and did their best but the meal was disappointing. Will not return. This was our favorite restaurant in Newport for many years. Go to Hooked down the street if you want the same chef and food quality.

Great food and excellent service. A little loud and portions small. We'll definitely be back.

Do not go here. Sadly this was my boyfriend and my favorite restaurant for years and years. We used to order the seafood fra Diavlo for two, the most amazing dish we would always drive an hour to get. We went tonight after we heard new owners took over. We sat down and had to ask multiple times for water and bread. We did not get any water until our food arrived. We got two martinis which were barely even halfway filled in tiny glasses. The fra Diavlo had 0 spice at all, very bland, was half the portion compared to the old owners dish, and it didn't fill us up at all. The lobster was burnt I think over a fire? Horrible. There were mini shells all throughout the pasta that felt like it was chipping our teeth. They didn't even give us a dish for all of the shells, or a cracker to break open the lobster. When we asked for a cracker, they placed it INSIDE the dish into the sauce. Someone came to the table next to us to clean it off and sprayed me with me with a spray bottle by accident! I think it was windex? My boyfriend asked me if we were in an SNL skit cause it seemed like we were being pranked. The side of vegetables we ordered was not edible, so terrible. I will never come back here again. RIP to our favorite restaurant and dish. Also the price for the fra diavlo used to be $70 and skyrocketed to $105. So sad. The end of an era. Recommendation- the new owner/chef should call the old owner/chef and say "teach me how to make everything from the old menu and how to serve customers."

I was hesitant to go based upon the reviews , but the food and service was amazing. Loretta was so nice and knowledgeable. Definitely will go back

It was my favorite restaurant in the region. So, in early Spring (March) I made reservations there for our 50th wedding anniversary celebration. We had family and friends come to visit from numerous places around the country. I originally booked on Open Table because the restaurant was closed for the Winter. In May, I called three days after they opened for the season and spoke with a manager. I discussed and confirmed details for our group dinner. I asked to be upstairs and seated together, and he confirmed that would be fine. A week before our reservation date I called and spoke with the receptionist and confirmed everything, and was assured everything was fine. The day before our dinner, I received a text confirming my reservation. As we were driving to the restaurant I received a phone call from someone at the restaurant asking me about our reservation. It seemed a bit odd, but it seemed as if everything was OK. We arrived 30 minutes before our reservation time and got a big surprise... I was told they could not accommodate our reservation as previously agreed. The said they were understaffed and could not set things up as agreed. I calmly explained and discussed the situation as all my family and guests were arriving. I eventually got the hostess to agree to seat my 21 guests in the downstairs at nearby tables. The manager didn't even talk to me. She must have been so embarrassed, she couldn't face me. It really was a ridiculous situation. All my guests got served and we made the best of a terrible and shocking situation. The menu is not at all as good as it was a year ago, and for many years before. Our meals were OK, but not nearly as spectacular as it once was. The staff that took care of us worked to accommodate us, and they knew how awful the situation was for us. The manager comped one bottle of wine... that was it. I tipped the staff who served us nicely, because it wasn't their fault things were so messed up. Needless to say.. it is no longer our favorite restaurant. The people who took over the great restaurant are not very capable or competent. And, the menu and food is not nearly as good as it has been for many years. The wine list is now mediocre at best. I'm changing my 5 star rating to 2 1/2 stars. The new owners really have messed up a super good restaurant!

Disappointing, not like the same place from a year ago. I was told it is new owners. Limited menu and small portions. Paid $46 for a small grilled lobster with no sides.

The Lobster Fra Diavolo was a great medley of seafood over a delicious bed of pasta. With a whole lobster, muscles, clams, and calamari it was exactly what I was looking for in terms of one dish with a lot of variety. We started with fried oysters in the shell with an incredible sauce. 9/10 must try. Worth the price.

The old menu was better. What happened to the chalkboard menu??? It's also outrageous that a restaurant titled "Scales and Shells" serves chicken. This is a seafood restaurant!!! Such a local's spot that got ruined by tourism. Very disappointed.

Sadly Scales survives in name only. The changes in the kitchen, the menu and vibe have destroyed a gem. Had been a patron for over 20 years. Unfortunately the new owners miss the point.