The classic (and ginormous) seafood shiller lives on.

Situated to maximize the view, Gladstone's includes a large, window-walled dining room, large patio and 20,000 square feet of beach between the restaurant and the water that is often utilized for special events. (Those dining inside take note: A table by the window is worth the extra wait.) Once diners are lucky enough to escape the peanut-shell-coated bar, they eagerly tuck into the chowder (a must), crab cakes (ditto), salads, sandwiches, pastas and, of course, fresh fish. (The restaurant proudly proclaims there's no freezer on the premises.) The prices are high but the portions are huge; this is the kind of place to bring the family when grandpa's treating. Relatives of all ages will appreciate what is arguably the most significant part of the servers' training: How to turn leftovers into large crabs and sea whales with aluminum-foil skin. —Lonny Pugh