Restaurant Features Waterfront Outdoor Dining Best of CT Water View Homepage CT Guide to Waterfront Dining: 50 + Restaurants With Water Views (2022 Edition) April Guilbault July 21, 2022 There’s just something about the water. You feel it too, I know you do. Beautiful to be near at any time of the year, but when the temps climb? Bees to honey, baby. It cools, it nourishes, entertains, and soothes. Therefore, anything done near this natural wonder automatically gets, well, better- including dining. From picnics on the beach to fine dining with a beautiful view, your taste buds are sure to dance a little more. As this summer season is still in full-swing, there’s plenty of time to make a date and enjoy some delicious meals, from the simple pleasures of a boiled lobster eaten at a picnic table to meals with adorned cocktails, candlelight, and complex dishes-all enjoyed at the water’s edge.Sunset Grille-Norwalk www.sunsetgrille.netSunset Grille is a premier waterfront dining destination in Fairfield County. Nestled in beautiful Norwalk Cove Marina, Sunset Grilled offers stunning views of Norwalk Harbor and Long Island Sound. Since 1994, this family-owned and operated restaurant has featured fresh local Stratford Point oysters, clams, steamed lobster, halibut, Norwegian salmon and crispy fried calamari. Don’t miss out on Sunset’s famous Lobster Cobb Salad or the Sunset Summer Salad with succulent scallops…and, for a true summertime delight, try their fresh hand-picked lobster roll your way, with butter or mayo. Everything is made fresh to order. Join them for a glass of wine or a specialty cocktail while watching the spectacular New England sunset, then sit back and listen to live music while enjoying delicious entrées and appetizers. Sunset Grille is the perfect summertime spot! Reservations strongly suggested. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Open Wednesday and Thursday for dinner starting at 3:30pm and for lunch and dinner Friday thru Sunday.Pier 131-Shelton www.pier131.comPier 131 is the place to be this summer! Celebrate the long, lazy days of summer at Pier 131 Kitchen and Bar in Shelton and enjoy one of the most remarkable views in Fairfield County. The restaurant, which is nestled along Housatonic River, has the most stunning views of the river and the historic Old Shelton Railroad Bridge. In addition to a great live music line-up, you can enjoy delicious casual summer fare from gazpacho to oysters, salads, sandwiches, burgers, a daily all-day brunch menu along with some knock-your-socks-off spectacular cocktails that are definitely worth writing home about – (or at least posting on social media!) The restaurant will celebrate its one-year anniversary in the fall. For more information about their menus or music, visit www.pier131.comLittle Pub at The Surfside Hotel www.thesurfside.com Enjoy stunning water views and warm summer breezes from the Little Pub’s elevated patios or casual beachside seating. If you are fan of Little Pub and their other locations, this one serves up their “greatest hits” along with seafood offerings, as they are located on the Stratford seawall. Connecticut shoreline dining at its summer best! Galveston Style Shrimp ’n’ Rice, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Little Pub Hot Lobster Rolls dripping with warm butter, and bowls of creamy NE Clam Chowder will punctuate their already popular giant pretzels, cheeseburger sliders, salads, tacos and sandwiches. Little Pub has a full service outdoor bar with craft beer and frozen cocktails and their Bottomless Brunch on Sundays will be the perfect way to end a summer weekend. Prime-Stamford stamford.restaurantprime.com Experience summer in style at Prime, an American Kitchen & Bar in Stamford: a luxurious, waterfront gem serving the most artfully crafted seafood, hand-rolled sushi, and USDA Prime steaks you’ll find north of Greenwich. Catch a breeze on their open-air deck or settle into any one of their perfectly appointed indoor tables. No matter where you dine, indoors or out, you’ll always have spectacular water views. With quality, taste, and beauty at the top of their priority list, Prime’s menu includes perfectly executed lobster and steak classics alongside creative seafood dishes like Chef’s Hudson Valley Steelhead Salmon with a spring legume salad, hazelnuts, basil, and a wonderfully unique honey-wasabi vinaigrette. For a completely upscale dining experience this summer, head to Prime.Dockside Brewery-Milford www.docksidebrewery.com Dockside Brewery, located on the Connecticut Shoreline in Milford, CT, is more than just a beer bar! The expansive multi-level decks, indoor and outdoor bars, waterfront biergarten, and sandy beach area offer unparalleled views creating a lively environment you won't want to miss with room for everyone. If you are traveling by boat, head to Dockwa.com to reserve your boat slip today! Dockside has assembled the most talented kitchen and front-of-house crew in the state offering a dining experience with an extensive menu of casual favorites and New Haven Style Pizza accompanied by more than 40 tap lines, wines, and specialty cocktails. Call 203-693-3900 or head to Opentable.com to make a reservation. To book a private party event email events@docksidebrewery.com.River-Wethersfield www.riverontheriver.comRiver, a Waterfront Restaurant & Bar in Wethersfield, is located on a magnificent stretch of riverbank along the Connecticut River. Offering ample outdoor seating and spectacular views, the 2,000-square-foot multi-level deck allows those dining alfresco a panoramic view of the river and Putnam Bridge all year round. With over 1.2 million BTUs of infrared heat, they are the only truly four-season outdoor dining option in the area! The views are equally sensational from the interior space where virtually every table in the dining room, along with every seat in the bar, enjoy the magnificence of the setting. Like the views, River’s dining experience is second to none. River serves up USDA Prime Steaks, sourced from the legendary butcher, Pat LaFrieda, along with the freshest local seafood brought in daily. Pair that with some of their house-made pastas, delicious appetizers, and decadent desserts, and you have the perfect recipe for a fabulous meal. Open 7 days a week, lunch and dinner.Rocky’s Aqua-Clinton www.rockysaqua.comRocky’s Aqua, a Connecticut summer favorite, is located in the Cedar Island Marina in the quaint town of Clinton. Whether you are vacationing with your family, or hopping off a boat after a cruise with your friends, this is the spot to be. The restaurant features two large bars, three covered patios, and outdoor seating just a few feet from Clinton Harbor. This summer they are featuring cocktails with fresh squeezed watermelon juice including a Watermelon Margarita and Watermelon Refresher made with house-infused vodka. A few new menu additions include grilled Swordfish topped with pineapple salsa and whole-belly clams fried in a delectably light, house-made batter. Don’t forget to try their ice cream at The Scoop located in the front of the restaurant on the way out!Shank’s-Clinton www.shanksclinton.comIt’s not a plane, it’s not a bird, it’s a food BOAT! This decommissioned lobster boat is where the food is made and ordered and then you can sit by the Sound and enjoy seaside classics such as creamy NE Clam Chowder, Fried Calamari, fish sandwiches, shrimp and clam rolls and of course, lobster everything! From bisque and rolls to nachos and BLTs, you’ll be in lobster heaven. They also branch out from the typical lobster shack menu with Mexican Corn Dip (new!) and Fried Cauliflower, Grilled Veggie Burgers, Maple BBQ Sweet Potato Fries, and Sesame Tuna. Check their schedule for live music from a variety of local artists. BYOB and pets are also welcome-let the party begin!Siena-Norwalk www.sienanorwalk.comSiena is an energetic hotel bar and restaurant featuring carefully curated high-end cocktails and an extensive wine list. Located in Norwalk, Connecticut within the Hotel Zero Degrees, Siena Ristorante offers seasonally-inspired Italian cuisine within the picturesque backdrop of the Norwalk river. Every pasta is made from scratch and artisanal pizzas are cooked to perfection by wood fire. Sit by the floor-to-ceiling window area to enjoy mouth-watering antipasti and entrees.Stonebridge Restaurant-Milford www.stonebridgerestaurant.comThe Stonebridge Restaurant established its roots as a small, unassuming local seafood wholesaler known as Milford Seafood, which opened its doors in 1949. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2019, The Stonebridge Restaurant is proud to be a cornerstone of the thriving Downtown Milford Entertainment District. Known to the locals as the "Bridge," they have grown from a small fresh fish market into a full-service, upscale restaurant and catering facility. Celebrate a New England tradition with them. There’s always a reason to celebrate at Milford Crossing Place! They've come so far but they're happy to say that they are only getting started…The Wheel-Stamford www.thevillagewheel.comThe Wheel serves American cuisine brimming with locally sourced ingredients in an industrial-chic, waterfront setting! Drawing on fresh ingredients from over 40 local farmers, fishermen and purveyors, Chef Ron Rosselli and Pastry Chef Alessandra Altieri Lopez feature the best of what's in season with an ever-changing menu plus produce grown and harvested on The Wheel's very own rooftop garden. At the center of the restaurant's open kitchen lies a hearth oven used to roast meats, fish, and vegetables and bake Neapolitan-style pizzas. The Wheel's extensive beverage program features handcrafted, seasonal cocktails mixed with fresh produce, hand-squeezed juices, and house-made tinctures, syrups and infusions. The restaurant also offers top New and Old World wines and a large selection of locally brewed craft beers. The Wheel is the signature restaurant at The Village in Stamford and the heart of its pioneering culinary program, which includes Cisco Brewers at The Village, pop-up experiences and programming, and unparalleled private event spaces. To reserve a table, visit OpenTable. Photo credit @LandinoPhoto\White Horse Country Pub & Restaurant-New Preston www.whitehorsecountrypub.comThe popular and much-acclaimed White Horse has received over 60 awards, including 2022 Best Traditional American-CT Magazine, Best Outdoor Dining-Connecticut Magazine and Litchfield Magazine, Best Classic Pub in New England-Yankee Magazine, and The Ideal Place - Vogue Magazine. Conveniently located on the banks of the East Aspetuck River, just a mile from Lake Waramaug and the beautiful village shops of New Preston, the White Horse is reasonably priced with an extensive menu and equally beautiful both indoors and outdoors. Their three patios, two fireplaces, and one waterfall make dining a true pleasure. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. The Deck at Amarante’s Sea Cliff-New Havenwww.amarantes.comTake a seat on The Deck for summer favorites like New England or Rhode Island Clam Chowder, Fried Calamari, Shrimp Street Tacos, cold or hot lobster rolls, clambakes. Note: Open Mon-Thursdays.bartaco-Stamford, West Hartford, Westportwww.bartaco.comFresh, upscale street food with a coastal vibe in a relaxed environment. They’ve got a stylish ambience, cocktails, creative tacos and even “not tacos”. Hey, their lobster taco is back! Also check out their blog-they’ve got a new playlist so you can fully dip yourself in the bartaco experience.Beer Garden at Shippan Landing-Stamfordwww.beeratthelanding.comLocated waterside, with a fleet of food trucks, a wide selections of craft beer and live music, what else could you want on a summer afternoon or evening? Play some giant Jenga, have a pint, kick back with friends. Check their website for music and truck details.The Blue Oar-Haddamhttps://blueoarct.wixsite.com/ctrestaurantsWith almost a clubhouse-in-the-trees feel, this river front restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy sunsets and good food. Serving lunch and dinner, with menus the change daily. You can even pull up by boat! Great for families, couples night out or fun with friends.The Boathouse at Saugatuck-Westportwww.boathouseatsaugatuck.comThe Boathouse Restaurant is one of the few white table cloth restaurants sitting directly on the Fairfield County waterfront. Stunningly poised on the Saugatuck River, they have direct water views from the every angle-the indoor dining room, second floor dining deck, first floor Regatta Room and waterfront terrace. Serving locally sourced seafood and new American cuisine for brunch, lunch and dinner.Boca Oyster Bar- Bridgeportwww.bocaoysterbar.comPerched at Steelepointe Harbor, enjoy Mediterranean fare and water views. They have live music, brunch and dinner, along with plenty of classic or inventive cocktails. Their comprehensive menu spans raw bar offerings to vegan entrees and everything in between.Breakwater-Stonington www.breakwaterstonington.comNestled in the charming historic town of Stonington, the Breakwater will treat you to great views of Stonington Harbor and Fishers Island Sound while you enjoy raw bar items, small plates, burgers, seafood and more. Oysters on the 1/2 shell with a side of spectacular sunset-hello, summer!Carlson’s Landing-Essexwww.carlsonslanding.comYou’ll be treated to the full "yacht club" experience with their chic interior, original undersea artwork, and coastal cuisine by Executive Chef JP Dillon. Enjoy craft cocktails, lunch, dinner and Reggae Sunday Brunch on the covered deck or mahogany bar overlooking the Connecticut River. Reservations recommended.Crab Shell-Stamfordwww.crabshell.comArrive by car…or boat! Live music give it a party atmosphere while you enjoy lunch or dinner. Seafood, seafood and more seafood here from Alaskan King Crab Legs to Baked Stuffed Sea Scallops to Grilled Wild Tuna (yes, there are options for non-seafood lovers too).Dockside Seafood and Grill-Branford, Essexwww.docksidebranford.comIndoor and outdoor dining 7 days a week-with events under their tent, lots of summery seafood dishes such as pots of steamers, chowder and a variety of “fresh catches”, as well as plenty of spectacular sunsets to add to your enjoyment. Serving lunch and dinner.Dog Watch Café-Mystic, Stoningtonwww.dogwatchcafe.comIndoor and outdoor dining, harbor views, and plenty of ingredients sourced from local vendor make this place one not to miss. Gobble up Watch Hill oysters, NE Clam Chowder, Dogwiches and more. They even donate funds to helps pooches in need.Down The Hatch-Brookfieldwww.downthehatchrestaurant.comCandlewood Lakes only waterfront restaurant. Pull up in your boat or sea plane if you like! Casual, fun, tasty and the perfect spot to go on a summer day. Kid friendly with a really large menu of fan faves like Gochuhanga Pork Tacos, Philly Cheese Steaks, and Shrimp Po’ Boys.Foundry Kitchen and Tavern-Sandy Hookwww.foundrykitchenandtavern.comHoused in a historic building at the main intersection in town and snuggled up against the Pootatuk River, Foundry Kitchen serves handcrafted cocktails and local spirits along with dishes using many local ingredients-charcuterie, local cheeses, Poke bowls, Short Ribs and Grits, their Impossible Patty Melt (vegan), and many other unique offerings.Fresh Salt-Old Saybrookwww.saybrook.comSituated where the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound meet, you get the pleasure of overlooking all of this beauty and their marina while you dive into seasonal favorites. Open breakfast through dinner, their CT Lobster Rolls, Cioppino, and their fresh oysters are just a few dishes that are inspired by the great Nutmeg State.The Galley Waterfront Cafe-Norwalkwww.norwalkcove.comUnique and generous breakfast and lunch sandwiches in a fabulous array of combinations that are aptly named after pleasure boats and local islands. When you try one, you’re going to want to come back for another! (The “Little Tavern”, with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil, balsamic glaze and house-made pesto on chewy Italian bread is a fave!)Gelston House-East Haddamwww.gelstonhouse.com“Boozy Brunch”, patio and pizza menus, or good ol’ brunch offerings at this step-back-in-time gem that sits on the Connecticut River next to the Goodspeed Opera House. Guilford Mooring-Guilfordwww.guilfordmooring.comCasual, easy atmosphere at this spot on Guilford harbor. Live music, light bites of tacos, PEI mussels, fried artichokes and seafood faves of Cioppino, Linguine and Clams and Lobster Mac and Cheese will pair well with their Pink Pirate Punch.Harbor Lights-Norwalkwww.harborlightsrestaurant-ct.comArrive by car or boat and then enjoy panoramic views of Norwalk Harbor as you savor their fabulously fresh seafood selections. Their specialty dishes include Mediterranean Octopus and Lavraki-Mediterranean Sea Bass, as well as raw bar selections.Jimmie's of Savin Rock-West Havenwww.jimmiesofsavinrock.com Beachside as well as boardwalk-side, Jimmie’s has been serving up their huge menu of seafood and American favorites (“Home of the Split Hotdog” ) since1925.Knapp's Landing-Stratfordknapps-landing.business.siteLocated on Sniffens Point in Stratford, they have been going strong with great views and good food since 1997. Garlic Mussels, Fish Tacos, lobster rolls, Sesame Ahi Tuna salad, burgers, pasta and more.LakeView Restaurant and Bar-Coventrywww.lakeviewct.comIndoor and a large outdoor seating area for you to dig into ribs, wings, salad and pasta dishes. Plenty of refreshing cocktails for those warm summer evenings too. Arriving by boat? They have dockside pickup!La Plage-Westportwww.innatlongshore.comCoastal cuisine, in a casual waterfront setting, with highlights sustainable meats and locally harvested seafood, shellfish and produce (Grilled Seafood Salad, raw bar, Seafood Carbonara). Serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends.Lenny’s Indian Head Inn-Branfordwww.lennysnow.comOver 40 years at this Indian Neck section of Branford, Lenny’s overlooks Sybil Marsh and locals love their long list of seafood options from homemade chowders to lobsters and oysters on the half shell. Sandwich and kids’ options round it out.L’escale-Greenwichwww.lescalerestaurant.comDelight in Mediterranean cuisine overlooking Greenwich Harbor in the beautiful surroundings redolent of Provence. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner and an extensive wine list.Liv’s Dockside Grill-Clintonwww.livsdocksidegrill.comLiv’s Dockside Grill is located in the Clinton Town Marina. Open 7 days a week, they serve lunch and dinners that features tacos, burgers, truffle fries, and so much more. One must mention, though, that the Lobster Roll is the star of the show! The No Mayo Lobster Roll comes to Clinton. Also open for breakfast on Saturday and Sunday.Liv’s Shack-Westbrookwww.livsshack.comLiv’s Shack celebrates summer in New England with hot buttered lobster rolls, fish tacos, hand-ground hamburgers and more. Originating from offering Lobster Rolls at weekend stands at Connecticut Farmer’s Market and the Durham Fair, Liv’s Shack offers a small menu based on some the more casual bites at Liv's Oyster Bar.Mexicue-Stamfordwww.mexicue.comAmped-up Mexican favorites along with water view! Smokey Cashew Queso to share, tacos filled with everything from pulled pork to charred broccoli, and burritos and bowls galore.Millwright’s-Simsbury www.millwrightsrestaurant.com Whether in their cozy, inviting dining room, tavern, or outside, enjoy the sight of a cascading waterfall while you feast on inventive dishes prepared with many local ingredients; Fois Gras Mousse & French Toast, Potato Masala and Focaccia with Whipped Ricotta are just a few to get you swooning.OKO-Westportwww.okokitchen.comWith Indoor and outdoor seating offering views of the Saugatuck River, OKO’s innovative take on traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi, casual, small plate dining meant for sharing is encouraged! Go big with their nightly Omakase: a chef’s choice, 16-course tasting menu.On the Waterfront-New Londonwww.onthewaterfrontnl.comTake in beautiful views of the Thames River from their indoor dining room or outdoor patio. Having a day on the water? Arrive by boat! Their salads, soups, seafood towers, lobster rolls, stick-to-your-ribs pasta dishes will add a tasty note to your day.Outriggers-Stratfordwww.outriggersrestaurant.comLocated in the Stratford Safe Harbor Marina, they boast beautiful views, fresh seafood delivered daily, signature dishes, a Happy Hour every Tuesday through Saturday 3pm-6pm, and a large outdoor patio with live entertainment on weekends.Overtons Seafood-Norwalkwww.overtonsct.comFor over 60 years, Overtons has been a staple of the Norwalk community. They tout gorgeous views of the Norwalk Harbor, delicious fresh fried seafood, lobster rolls, clam bellied and strips, and, of course, ice cream. Dockage available for Overtons customers!Paul’s Pasta Shop-Grotonwww.paulspastashop.comPasta, pasta and more pasta for lunch and dinner overlooking the Thames River. It’s all made fresh daily, with takeout available as well.Red 36-Mysticwww.red36ct.comWaterfront deck overlooking the Mystic River and the CT railway. Plenty of lounge areas and decks, with fabulous views in every direction. Grab some friends, hit their raw bar and enjoy a wide array of seafood, flatbreads, burgers and salads. Pure summer.The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood-Rowaytonwww.rowaytonseafood.comNestled along the Five Mile River in Rowayton, dig into their super-fresh seafood (courtesy of the Rowayton Seafood next door) for lunch, dinner and even Sunday brunch. Maine Lobster Deviled Eggs or Jumbo Lump Crab Toast anyone?Riley’s By the Seawall-Stratfordwww.rileysbythesea.comAs they like to say, “Live the Life of Riley” when you walk through these doors, with good music, and easygoing atmosphere, good views and great food, from giant pretzels to Sea Scallop Risotto and 24 oz. steaks.Ripka’s Beach Cafe-Norwalkwww.ripkasbeach.comWhat started as a simple beach concession stand in the 1950s is now a destination year round. This very casual seaside spot catering to everyone from the barebacked skateboarders and barefoot beach goers, to the local and traveling elite, Ripka’s provides a different approach to traditional “concession fare”; fresh local oysters and shellfish, house-made sauces, hand-breaded clams and steamed lobsters, signature burgers and yes, fries and ice cream.Rive Bistro-Westportwww.rivebistro.comWith a wrap-around wall of windows overlooks a bend in the picturesque river, there’s a fireplace to create the perfect cozy atmosphere during the winter months, and an outdoor patio that feels like a cafe on the Seine for the warm days. Serving modern cocktails and wine by the glass, along with French specialties such as Crabmeat Croquettes, Croque Monsieur, and Moules Frites Basquaise.Rock’s 21-Mysticwww.rocks21.comLocated at the Inn at Mystic (did you know that Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall stayed here on their honeymoon?), with live music and a great view of Mystic Harbor, enjoy summer evenings with wood fired pizza, local seafood, paella, fish & chips, burgers and more. Indoor and outdoor seating.S&P Oyster- Mysticwww.sp-oyster.comLocated at the famous bridge in Downtown Mystic, the view doesn’t get any better. Try their new South American menu (Seafood Paella, steaks) in addition to their usual faves of Clams Casino, Thai Calamari, and Colossal Shrimp Scampi Risotto. Gluten-free and vegan menus available.Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill-New Havenwww.shellandbones.comIndoor and outdoor dining. The menu highlights fresh and sustainable ingredients, updated classic steak and seafood dishes, as well as an extensive wine and beer list and creative cocktails.SoNo Seaport Seafood-Norwalkwww.sonoseaportseafood.comIndoors or out on the deck overlooking Norwalk Harbor, dive into fresh seafood of all types from littlenecks and steamers, ceviche, roasted oysters, chowders, bisques, fish tacos, shrimp and, of course, lobster dinners. It doesn’t get fresher!Water’s Edge at Giovannis-Darien www.watersedgeatgiovannis.comFor over 25 years, WEG has been serving up, as they say “no fads no pretentiousness just great food” in their restaurant and event space. They are known for their certified Angus Beef, as well as plenty of seafood and Italian favorites.Water’s Edge Resort & Spa-Westbrookwww.watersedgeresortandspa.comBeachfront and beautiful on the Connecticut shoreline. Check out their website for dinner specials like their Lobster Boil, Surf & Turf and their Sunday Brunch Buffet.The Wharf at Madison Beach Hotel-Madisonwww.thewharfmadison.comVenture to beachy Madison (home of the fabulous Katherine Hepburn) and dine on New England seafood favorites by the waterfront, all while you soak up fab views of Long Island Sound.
