CK Pearl

Located right on the Essex River, this place is a real… well, pearl when it comes to the Cape Ann food scene. Its stunning views of the water and marshes are only upstaged by the plates of local food coming out of the kitchen. Because the chefs locally source their ingredients, the menus change to reflect each season—while still maintaining a few year-round dishes like its lauded chowder (it’s made with pork belly and topped with crispy clam strips) and house-smoked barbecue. If you can’t snag a table during the busy season, grab a dozen oysters and daily drink special at the bar, where seating is first come, first served.