Smartys - Niantic

The server was somewhat cold and distant, which didn’t help the experience. While this isn't Smarty's fault, we couldn’t help but notice the number of noisy mot... read more The server was somewhat cold and distant, which didn’t help the experience. While this isn't Smarty's fault, we couldn’t help but notice the number of noisy motorcycles driving down Main Street in Sturgis—oops, I meant Niantic. A particular individual seemed to think it was amusing to rev his engine at ear-splitting levels right in front of Smarty’s, causing one patron to cover her ears. Despite these distractions, the food itself was quite good. The Rhode Island clam chowder, though lukewarm, was loaded with clams and bacon and had a wonderful flavor. The lobster roll was a generous portion of Connecticut-style lobster served hot with butter, accompanied by a large serving of perfectly cooked French fries. At $16.95, it was a great value. I opted for a simple house salad for $5.95 and added a grilled chicken breast and scallops, bringing the total to about $19. The chicken breast was a steal at $3.95. I did raise an eyebrow at the $7.95 charge for scallops, especially when that usually covers just three shrimp or six scallops. Fortunately, the scallops were large and cooked to perfection! All in all, we had an adequate meal with a lacking atmosphere and inconsistent service, but the food was quite enjoyable. An "OK" rating seems fair under the circumstances.

The seating arrangement was odd and seemed random; we ended up in a sunroom crowded closely with other diners who were uncomfortably quiet. Also, be aware that... read more The seating arrangement was odd and seemed random; we ended up in a sunroom crowded closely with other diners who were uncomfortably quiet. Also, be aware that refills aren’t free! If it weren’t for the local bar crowd that feels reminiscent of “Cheers” or the unsuspecting vacationers, I honestly wonder how this place would stay afloat. I really wish I could like this place more...

Lousy service and the owner is downright mean. If you complain about the food she'll yell at you. Several recent complaints on social media. Better restaurants... read more Lousy service and the owner is downright mean. If you complain about the food she'll yell at you. Several recent complaints on social media. Better restaurants in the area, don't go here. Tried again 7/21/18 Ordered appetizer, ok. Ordered a burger and fries. An hour later, received it and it was cold. Told the waitress to take it off the bill and bring me the bill for what we've had. No apologies from management. No class here, this restaurant sucks.

Ate here June 13, 2020. Not a single staff member we saw was wearing a face covering over their mouths as required. Our waitress simply had it hanging like a ne... read more Ate here June 13, 2020. Not a single staff member we saw was wearing a face covering over their mouths as required. Our waitress simply had it hanging like a necklace under her chin totally ineffective. I assumed there must have been an update to the state's requirements for wait staff at outside venues there has not been. The waitress took orders, delivered food and drink and cleared tables without ever wearing gloves. The food was good, but this obvious disregard for hygiene and the safety of their customers really makes me wonder about the cleanliness and safety of the food preparation. I won't be back. Wish we had walked a little further to another place. WEAR THE MASK!

The good nice location, patio in the open air, and the food was pretty decent. The bad the service was atrocious. I can deal with slow when a restaurant is busy... read more The good nice location, patio in the open air, and the food was pretty decent. The bad the service was atrocious. I can deal with slow when a restaurant is busy (not the case here) as long as the wait staff is reasonably friendly and keeps you updated (also not the case here). I'm not going to enumerate the many problems with our visit but when you can easily make a reservation when no other place in town is available, there is a reason.