George's of Galilee

George's of Galilee in Narragansett, RI has been a staple in the area for longer than I have been alive.  It is located right on the beach overlooking the Block Island Sound.  I happily go there about once a year for clam cakes after I take the kids clam digging.  I have been there to eat in the restaurant off and on for over 30 years.

My last visit was a severe disappointment.  George's interior has not changed much over the years.  Typical sea-fare decor, almost cheesy but comforting like visiting grandma's never changing home.  You know what to expect and it never fails to give one a sense of continuity.  The food, however, failed to live up to the once famous standards. 

First, for fresh from the ocean seafood, it was a little on the expensive side.  For a place so family friendly that also serves food from a beach front window to folks wearing flip flops and bathing suits, you don't expect to go in and pay about $16 per plate.  Even appetizers were about $1 to $2 more on average than most sit down family restaurants.  I know it's on the beach but with kids that only pick at a meal, $10 for a burger plate is getting high.  We were six in our party and not a single dish stood out as exceptional, portions were full plates but not overly so, and we had a huge bill for the lackluster food.  Greasy, low seasoned, and overcooked where the words of the day.   From the baby back ribs to the clam strips, clam chowder, clam cakes, and shrimp, nothing lived up to the famous George's of Galilee name.

When speaking with friends that travel to the beach area often, they reported the same exact thing.  George's of Galilee has fallen out of favor with locals.  There are plenty of folks to line up at the beach front window for a quick lunch on a hot day.  There are plenty of summer visitors to keep the place going strong but those that know, know!  Pick another fresh seafood place on the Galilee strip.  I've heard Aunt Carrie's in Point Judith is now the place to eat.  I've never been there.  I am going to try it!

To the management at George's, please do not rest on your reputation and location!  Bring back the flavorful food that gives credit to the waters right outside your door that provides that tasty bounty.  And do it at reasonable prices.  Stay true to your roots and you will once again be the special must not miss summer spot!