History runs deep at Rick’s Cafe.

Located in an old casino building on the causeway of Naples, its in a spot that has been known as the entertainment center of town since the building was completed in 1902. Back then, the big gatherings were fairs and dances.

But when Rick’s came to life in 1985, the ways to add fun to your evenings grew. For the past 25 years the establishment has provided locals and tourists with food, drinks and entertainment, complete with a scenic backdrop that can’t be beat.

During the day, with the sun beating down and the sound of Jet Skis in the background, you can choose to sit on the large patio downstairs or on the upstairs deck, which is in full swing during the summer. When the weather cools, there’s plenty of space inside.

Rick’s menu is extensive and filled with many seafood choices. Try the clam chowder for $4.99 a cup or start with the fried scallops for $8.99. There are also wraps, burgers and sandwiches, including the triple-decker lobster club for $16.99, as well as entrees such as Maine fried shrimp ($17.99) and boiled lobster dinners at market price. Don’t worry, you turf lovers, they have plenty of that too.

The food comes out quickly, but make time for drinks. On draft, priced between $3 and $4, choose from Samuel Adams, Sam Summer, Shipyard, Sea Dog Blueberry, Guinness, Geary’s, Blue Moon, Miller Lite, Bud Light and Island Hoppin’. The many bottled beer varieties include Samuel Adams Light, Coors Light and Rolling Rock, to name a few.

There are several wine choices, and the fully stocked bar has specialty martinis available for between $8 and $9. The staff loves to entice drinkers with fruity cocktails; with the sun, the breeze and the water, you just might feel like you’re on vacation if you try a daiquiri or colada.

Entertainment is key at Rick’s, with live bands on Friday and Saturday nights. There’s no cover, and dancing the night away is strongly encouraged. Relax, kick back and enjoy.

But if you don’t have time to stop by for a sit-down meal, know that Rick’s has cornered the food market with a pizzeria and an ice cream shop. (Hey, locals, there’s free delivery and lots of daily specials. Check out www.rickscafenaples.com/pizzeria.htm.)

With a full view of Long Lake and mountains in the background, the sunsets at Rick’s Cafe are breathtaking. Watching the sun drop from the sky while listening to a band sounds like a great option for Labor Day weekend — especially with a drink in hand.

 

Amber Olesen is a freelance writer who lives in Westbrook.