Petey’s Summertime Seafood Brings Bay Views and Big Portions

The public verdict

Petey’s Summertime Seafood is a busy Rye seafood restaurant and bar with a 4.5 Google rating from 3211 reviews. Public feedback consistently points to a classic New England seafood experience: lobster rolls, chowder, fried platters, generous portions and waterfront scenery. It is especially popular with travelers exploring the New Hampshire and southern Maine coast, including diners staying in nearby Portsmouth.

The restaurant falls into the mid range, though some reviewers consider the drinks expensive. Food portions receive more favorable comments, with diners describing them as larger than those at other seafood restaurants they visited. That combination helps Petey’s feel suited to a substantial lunch or dinner rather than a quick snack by the water.

What to order

The lobster roll is the clearest recurring recommendation. One traveler, who was comparing lobster rolls during a New England trip, called Petey’s version the best they had tried. Another specifically recommended the cold lobster roll after a winter visit. The available reviews do not settle the usual regional debates over preparation, but they do show unusually strong enthusiasm for the lobster itself.

New England clam chowder is another dependable choice. Reviewers describe it as creamy, comforting and packed with clams, with one diner noting that the serving size worked well for summer. Lobster and a clam bake also earned praise for freshness.

The fried seafood platter appears less often but receives detailed approval for being crispy, lightly breaded, nicely seasoned and fresh. Broiled scallops also impressed one visiting diner. Taken together, the reviews suggest that Petey’s handles both fried seafood and simpler lobster or shellfish preparations well.

Setting and service

Outdoor dining is a major part of the appeal. Reviewers mention tables near the bay, broad water views and particularly attractive sunsets. A well-timed evening table can make the setting as memorable as the meal. The casual seafood-house format also works for visitors who want coastal atmosphere without a formal dining room.

Service feedback in the supplied reviews is positive. One busy-night account describes staff helping a party move into bar seats as they became available, while also letting them enjoy drinks without feeling rushed. Another reviewer singled out attentive service during a winter meal. These reports suggest an accommodating team even when the restaurant is crowded.

What to know before going

Parking is the clearest drawback. One reviewer called it difficult enough to require either a long walk or patience while waiting for a space. Given the praise for the food, that inconvenience did not overshadow the visit, but it is worth planning around during popular dining periods.

Cocktail pricing may also disappoint value-conscious guests. A reviewer found the drinks overpriced, although the drink special was received more positively. For the strongest experience, the public feedback favors prioritizing seafood, arriving with extra time for parking and choosing an outdoor table when weather and availability cooperate.