CT Guide to Waterfront Dining: 75 + Restaurants With Water Views (2024 Edition)

Carly Terzigni

Warmer weather means it’s time to bring the dinner table outdoors! Dining al fresco is a hallmark of the summer season, and nothing gets better than views of the water while you sip on a refreshing beverage or chow down on your favorite dish. Across the state you’ll find restaurants that offer waterfront dining, and what better time to explore Connecticut and experience these water views for yourself than right now?

It’s not just the shoreline where you’ll find restaurants with picturesque waterfront views. Connecticut has its fair share of rivers, many of which are home to more great picks for lunch or dinner this summer. With that in mind, here’s this year’s guide to the best waterfront dining options in the state! To help you locate your next meal out, we’ve broken this guide up by county.

Fairfield County

Prime-Stamford

https://stamford.restaurantprime.com/

Enjoy stunning water views and warm summer breezes at Prime: An American Kitchen & Bar — a luxurious waterfront gem serving the most artfully crafted seafood, hand-rolled sushi, and USDA Prime steaks you’ll find north of Greenwich. Nestled along the picturesque Long Island Sound, the restaurant’s tempered glass walls allow a full view of the water from nearly any seat in the house and stay open when the weather allows. Guests can explore the illuminated glass wine room, visible from the both inside and outside the building, and with over 750 labels, the floor-to-ceiling enclosure has separate temperatures for white and red wines. In warmer weather, guests can sit outside with one of their signature cocktails watching the boats come in. Dinner is served on the deck or the outdoor cabana bar. Sunday Brunch is offered weekly, year-round, from 12pm to 3pm, with private dining and catering options also available.

Antoinette’s at Nouveau Monde-Sandy Hook

https://www.nouveaumondesandyhook.com/

Nouveau Monde serves new American cuisine in a cozy and stylish atmosphere. Their menu celebrates seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, incorporating inspirations from a variety of global flavors. Named by Connecticut Magazine as one of the Most Romantic Restaurants in Connecticut.

bartaco-Stamford, Westport

www.bartaco.com

Inspired by a healthy, outdoor lifestyle, bartaco's got freshly squeezed cocktails, scratch-made tacos (the baja fish taco and glazed pork belly taco are musts!), and “not tacos” like ceviche, chips + guac + salsa, street corn, and more — all served up in a stylish + coastal ambiance in a relaxed environment. This summer, be sure to check out their seasonal menu additions including two new lobster tacos – a classic warm buttered lobster taco and a chilled lobster salad served on bibb lettuce. 

Beer Garden at Shippan Landing-Stamford

www.beeratthelanding.com

Located waterside, with a fleet of food trucks, a wide selection of craft beer, and live music, what else could you want on a summer afternoon or evening? Play some giant Jenga, have a pint, and kick back with friends. Check their website for music and truck details.

The Boathouse at Saugatuck-Westport

www.boathouseatsaugatuck.com

The Boathouse Restaurant is one of the few white tablecloth restaurants on the Fairfield County waterfront. Stunningly poised on the Saugatuck River, they have direct water views from 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- Bridgeport

www.bocaoysterbar.com

Perched 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.

Captain’s Cove-Bridgeport

http://www.captainscoveseaport.com/

Captain's Cove Seaport is a family-owned and operated marina, restaurant, bar, and boardwalk located in southwestern Connecticut along historic Black Rock Harbor. Stop by for casual seafood fare and drinks.

Crab Shell-Stamford

www.crabshell.com

Arrive by car…or boat! Live music gives 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).


Down The Hatch-Brookfield

www.downthehatchrestaurant.com

Candlewood 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 their Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, Philly Cheese Steaks and Shrimp Po’Boys.

Foundry Kitchen and Tavern-Sandy Hook

www.foundrykitchenandtavern.com

Housed 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.

The Galley Waterfront Cafe-Norwalk

www.norwalkcove.com

Unique 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!)


Harbor Lights and Overtons Seafood-Norwalk

www.harborlightsrestaurant-ct.com

For over 60 years, Overtons has been a staple of the Norwalk community.  Arrive 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.

Kawa Ni-Westport

https://www.kawaniwestport.com/

Kawa Ni’s Rooftop, overlooking the Saugatuck River, is available for private events Tuesday through Sunday evenings. Contact Kawa Ni directly to inquire.

La Plage-Westport

www.innatlongshore.com

La Plage is a waterfront casual restaurant & oyster bar showcasing a coastal cuisine focused on locally harvested seafood and shellfish, garden fresh produce and sustainable meats, served in a relaxed atmosphere with views of the Saugatuck river and Long Island sound.


L’escale-Greenwich

www.lescalerestaurant.com

The iconic l’escale restaurant, or “port of call,” for seasonal Mediterranean cuisine, is designed to transport the ambiance of Provence to the Gold Coast of Connecticut. Located at Delamar Greenwich Harbor Hotel, the restaurant’s intimate decor, along with its wrought iron tonnelle-covered waterfront terrace and exquisitely designed menu by award-winning Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer, will deliver the Côte d’Azur right to your table.


The Landing at Five Twenty-Stratford

https://thelandingatfivetwenty.com/

Introducing The Landing at Five Twenty - a brand new waterfront dining destination. As a tribute to the previous establishment, Tomiko Japanese, they have created a menu that blends American cuisine with a Japanese influence, with a particular emphasis on seafood. 


Little Pub-Stratford

https://littlepub.com/

Direct beach dining with two patios and stunning water views. Open seven days for lunch and dinner. Weekend Brunch is also available.

Lordship Lobster Company - Stratford

www.lordshiplobster.com

Casual beachfront lobster shack with lobster rolls, fried clams, and other specialties. Toes in the sand dining on picnic tables. Stunning water views and full liquor license.  

 

Mexicue-Stamford

www.mexicue.com

Amped-up Mexican favorites, along with a water view! Smokey Cashew Queso to share, tacos filled with everything from pulled pork to charred broccoli, and burritos and bowls galore.

OKO-Westport

www.okokitchen.com

With 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.

Outriggers-Stratford

www.outriggersrestaurant.com

Outriggers Restaurant is a hidden gem tucked away inside the Safe Harbor Marina, located right on the Housatonic River, boasting 180-degree scenic coastal views. Outriggers is noted for its fresh seafood, intriguing specials, local beers, and cocktail varieties, plus its talked-about Happy Hour during the week! During the summer months, enjoy their extensive outdoor deck and bar with live entertainment every weekend (weather-dependent).

Pier 131-Shelton

www.pier131.com

Located on the Housatonic River in Shelton, Pier 131 Kitchen + Bar is your destination for live music, karaoke, and trivia. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy some of Pier 131’s delectable signature cocktails while you soak up the sun on one of Fairfield County's most picturesque patios. Open every day for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Be sure to check out their website for upcoming events and specials.

The Pompano-Norwalk

https://www.thepompanoct.com/

"The Pompano" uniquely blends casual elegance and refined dining within a meticulously designed space that exudes confident, relaxed sophistication. Their rooftop is available on a walk-up basis with views of Long Island Sound.

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood-Rowayton

www.rowaytonseafood.com

Nestled 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-Stratford

www.rileysbythesea.com

As they like to say, “Live the Life of Riley” when you walk through these doors, with good music, an easygoing atmosphere, good views, and great food, from giant pretzels to Sea Scallop Risotto and 24 oz. steaks.


Ripka’s Beach Cafe-Norwalk

www.ripkasbeach.com

Ripka’s Beach Cafe, located on the beach in Norwalk, is a very casual beachside restaurant that caters to a wide range of clients. Open year-round, it has become a destination to enjoy the fruits of the sea (literally right off the beach are fresh Copps Island Oysters!). And if you want to throw a party, there are a few locations that use the sea breeze as a salve and the blue waters surrounding the park itself. Dive in! 

Rive Bistro-Westport

www.rivebistro.com

With 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.

Siena-Norwalk

www.sienanorwalk.com

Siena Norwalk is a bridge between tradition and contemporary Italian cuisine that boasts an extensive wine list and high-end cocktails, all set within the picturesque backdrop of the Norwalk River. Every pasta is made from scratch daily and artisanal pizzas are cooked to perfection by wood fire. Sit by the floor-to-ceiling windows and take in the view. Open every day for lunch and dinner.


SoNo Seaport Seafood-Norwalk

www.sonoseaportseafood.com

Indoors 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!

Sunset Grille-Norwalk

www.sunsetgrille.net

Sunset Grille is a premier waterfront dining destination in Fairfield County. Nestled in the beautiful Norwalk Cove Marina, Sunset Grilled offers stunning views of Norwalk Harbor and Long Island Sound. 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! 

Water’s Edge at Giovannis-Darien 

https://www.watersedgeatgiovannis.com/

For 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.


The Wheel-Stamford

www.thevillagewheel.com

The Wheel serves American cuisine brimming with locally sourced ingredients in an industrial chic, waterfront setting. The restaurant is located at The Village, along with an outpost of Cisco Brewers -- located a bit further down the waterfront.


The Whelk-Westport

https://www.thewhelkwestport.com/

Located along the Saugatuck River, The Whelk offers an ever-changing menu featuring sustainable seafood and local produce. Private tables, communals, bar and outdoor seating give The Whelk a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Outdoor seating is available-weather permitting.

New Haven County


Dockside Brewery-Milford 

www.docksidebrewery.com

Ready for summer vibes? Dockside Brewery in Milford, CT has everything you need for the ultimate waterfront experience! Enjoy a full restaurant menu, outdoor bar, and beachfront cabanas for the perfect party spot. Make this summer unforgettable and book your next private event by emailing events@docksidebrewery.com! With house brews, margaritas, and Frosé on the menu, they’ve got your summer covered. Don't miss out on Milford's palm tree oasis!

Dive Bar & Restaurant-West Haven 

http://divebarandrestaurant.com/

Dive Bar is a place where locals and travelers go to unwind and enjoy a bite to eat or sit in an Adirondack chair and have a cold one by the water. The views of Long Island Sound are breathtaking, the food is delicious, and the waitstaff is very friendly and accommodating. Known for their grass-fed beef burgers and delicious tacos, they've been in business for 14 years, so they must be doing something right! Dive Bar was even written up in the New York Times as a "Not to be Missed" place when traveling through. If you want a relaxed environment with island vibes, Dive Bar is the place for you! 

Dockside Seafood and Grill-Branford 

www.docksidebranford.com

Dockside Seafood and Grill is located in the Bruce and Johnson Safe Harbor Marina in Branford.  They are open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, offering indoor and outdoor dining. Dockside serves the freshest seafood along with perfectly cooked Prime Rib for those nonseafood lovers. They also have an extensive Martini and Mocktail menu.  Drive on down or sail on in and enjoy their tree-lined sunsets. Note - they do not take reservations!

Anthony’s Ocean View-New Haven

https://www.anthonysoceanview.com/

The glow of a beach sunset, the beauty of the Connecticut shoreline cannot be denied! Connecticut’s ONLY destination wedding venue with exotic beaches, live palm trees, and amazing sunsets - they bring the destination to you! 

The Deck at Amarante’s Sea Cliff-New Haven

https://amarantes.com/

Take 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, and clambakes. Note: Open Mon-Thursdays

Fair Haven Oyster Co-New Haven

https://www.fairhavenoysterco.com/

Fair Haven Oyster Co. is an elevated seafood bar where elegant mid-century design meets a modern and cozy tavern. This intimate and nautical restaurant features expansive waterfront views, a large deck, and an eclectic yet classic menu paired with gin and sherry-focused drinks.


Flipside Burgers & Bar-Milford

https://flipsiderestaurant.com/milford/index.php

No-nonsense, feel-good food right in Downtown Milford. Visit Flipside for a fun and casual atmosphere.  Perfect for a relaxed family dinner on the patio, hanging out with friends in our comfortable dining room, or enjoying drinks at the bar.

Guilford Mooring-Guilford

www.guilfordmooring.com

Casual, easy atmosphere at this spot on Guilford Harbor. Live music, light bites of tacos, PEI mussels, fried artichokes, and seafood faves of Cioppino, Linguine & Clams, and Lobster Mac and Cheese will pair well with their Pink Pirate Punch.

Jimmie's of Savin Rock-West Haven

www.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” ) since 1925.


Lenny’s Indian Head Inn-Branford

www.lennysnow.com

Over 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.


Nellie’s-Branford

https://www.nelliesbranford.com/

Nellie's in Branford offers a fresh take on casual waterfront dining. Their menu is a distinct marriage of SoCal and classic New England cuisines, while also offering a variety of Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free options to suit any dietary preferences. Thier expertly crafted Cocktails were voted Best of The Shoreline. Come see for yourself while enjoying our stunning waterfront views. 

Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill-New Haven

www.shellandbones.com

Shell & Bones Oyster Bar and Grill is located on the waterfront in the historic City Point neighborhood of New Haven. Tables and an outdoor bar on the restaurant’s over-the-water deck provide direct views of New Haven Harbor and the marina, and a covered area is enclosed and heated in the off-season to provide year-round water views. The indoor dining room and bar features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that fully open during warm weather.

Stonebridge Restaurant-Milford

www.stonebridgerestaurant.com

The Stonebridge Restaurant established its roots as a small, unassuming local seafood wholesaler known as Milford Seafood, which opened its doors in 1949. 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! 


Stowe's Seafood-West Haven

https://stowesseafoodct.com/

A classic seafood shack across from West Haven Beach has a simple menu of fresh fish, fried New England style, plus perfect lobster rolls, all served in paper boats!


The Wharf at Madison Beach Hotel-Madison

www.thewharfmadison.com

Voted "Best Waterfront Dining and Most Romantic," The Wharf at Madison Beach Hotel overlooks Long Island Sound and features al fresco dining year-round. Locally inspired menus and a beachside setting, enjoy brunch, lunch, and dinner by the waterfront, with stunning views of sunrise and sunset.

Hartford County

River: A Waterfront Restaurant and Bar-Wethersfield 

www.riverontheriver.com

River, a Waterfront Restaurant & Bar in Wethersfield, is the ultimate dining destination for those looking to soak in scenic views while enjoying flavorsome food all summer long. Even on chillier nights, guests can enjoy their 2,000-square-foot multi-level deck overlooking the magnificent Connecticut River thanks to the year-round infrared heaters, which discharge over 600 degrees of warmth. River provides exceptional dining experiences for everyone, so if you prefer not to dine alfresco, the views are equally breathtaking from the dining room and bar area. No matter where you’re seated, you can bask in the beauty of the natural landscape and indulge in River’s hand-crafted cuisine of fresh local seafood, house-made pasta, and mouthwatering USDA Prime Steaks. Plus, with a decadent selection of drinks and desserts to match, River has perfected the recipe for a fabulous meal. Call (860) 257-3344 or click here to make a reservation and see why River is known as Connecticut’s “hidden gem” for outdoor dining.

bartaco-West Hartford

www.bartaco.com

Inspired by a healthy, outdoor lifestyle, bartaco's got freshly squeezed cocktails, scratch-made tacos (the baja fish taco and glazed pork belly taco are musts!), and “not tacos” like ceviche, chips + guac + salsa, street corn, and more — all served up in a stylish + coastal ambiance in a relaxed environment. This summer, be sure to check out their seasonal menu additions, including two new lobster tacos – a classic warm buttered lobster taco and a chilled lobster salad served on bibb lettuce. 

The Hollow at Manchester Country Club-Manchester

https://www.thehollowatmcc.com/

The Hollow at Manchester Country Club is open to the public 7 days a week! Enjoy bar and grill pub food, including our golf-themed Grand Slam burgers, every day for lunch and dinner. They do not take reservations--seating is done on a first come first serve basis. 

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.

Tequila Rio-Wethersfield

https://tequilario.com/

Their menu features some authentic Mexican dishes, as well as their take on some classic dishes, and all of them are sure to leave you wanting more! In the warm weather, from April 1st – November 1st, guests are seated only a few feet from the bank of the Connecticut River, offering sweeping, panoramic, and unparalleled views. 

Litchfield County


White Horse Country Pub & Restaurant-New Preston

www.whitehorsecountrypub.com

The 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 is 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. 

G.W. Tavern-Washington Depot

https://www.gwtavern.com/

They are proud to offer the finest fresh products combined with the experience of our skilled kitchen and wait staff to provide you with a wonderful dining experience.  Margaritas, Pinot Grigio, or soft drinks can be enjoyed on their large patio while you listen to the Shepaug River lazily pass by and enjoy the warm summer breeze.

Middlesex County

Brushmill by the Waterfall-Chester 

https://thebrushmill.com/

This summer you can set out to roam freely, pick a destination, or quite frankly, pick the destination. The destination is Brushmill by the Waterfall, located in the quaint town of Chester. A picturesque restaurant directly alongside the Pattaconk River is a unique blend of old and new. They offer exquisite New American cuisine Wednesday through Sunday nights have a delectable Sunday Brunch. Complimentary to the cuisine, they have an extensive wine list and plenty of delicious and refreshing cocktails to choose from. Featuring 2 patios as well as 3 dining rooms to enjoy the waterfront views, Brushmill by the Waterfall needs to be on your list of places to visit this summer!

Shank’s-Clinton 

www.shanksclinton.com

This decommissioned lobster boat is where the food is made and ordered, and then you can sit by the LI Sound and enjoy seaside classics such as creamy NE Clam Chowder, burgers & dogs, fish sandwiches, shrimp and clam rolls, and, of course, lobster everything! Check their schedule for live music from a variety of local artists. BYOB and pets are also welcome-let the party begin!

Bacari Social-Westbrook

https://bacarisocial.com/

Bacari Social Bar & Restaurant is located in Westbrook’s Safe Harbor Pilot’s Point Marina. Jeff Mastroianni, one of the founders of Clinton’s award-winning [chow] Food & Beverage, and  Chip's Pub, brings you a dining experience for you and your entire family. Bacari Social combines the serenity of the Shoreline with authentic flavor.


Bill’s Seafood-Westbrook

https://www.billsseafood.com/

Bill's Seafood is familiar territory to boaters who dock their boats in Westbrook Connecticut. Outside picnic tables on the edge of the Patchogue River, and a center bar/dining room with a nautical kind atmosphere is the best on-going party on the East Coast. 

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point-Old Saybrook

www.saybrook.com

Fresh Salt's award-winning restaurant transforms the freshest ingredients into well-crafted culinary experiences — all complemented by waterside views, inside and out. As part of their local food commitment, they work closely with local farmers and artisans to ensure the quality of their locally grown and harvested ingredients from both land and sea.

Gelston House-East Haddam

www.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. 


Liv’s Dockside Grill-Clinton

www.livsdocksidegrill.com

Liv’s Dockside Grill is located in the Clinton Town Marina. Open 7 days a week, they serve lunch and dinners so you can enjoy lobster rolls by day and night. Liv’s Dockside is also open for breakfast on the docks Saturday and Sunday.


Liv’s Shack-Old Saybrook

www.livsshack.com

Liv’s Shack celebrates summer in New England! Located on the waterfront at the mouth of the Connecticut River, enjoy hot buttered lobster rolls, fish tacos, hand-ground hamburgers, and more.


Marker 37-Chester

https://www.markerthirtyseven.com/

Marker 37 offers a beautiful riverside dining experience along the Connecticut River, with Catering and Private Party Services Available. Open to the public and located at Chester Point Marina. During the Summer Season, they offer Dock & Dine services via Chester Point Marina.


Noah’s at 63 Main-Essex

https://www.noahs63main.com/

Now open on Main Street in Essex! Join them on their outdoor deck and green to enjoy the view of the Connecticut River within the Essex Boatworks property.


Siren Kitchen & Bar-Essex

https://sirenkitchenandbar.com/

Siren Kitchen & Bar is a casual, new American, full-service restaurant and bar featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. The laid-back atmosphere of their outdoor and indoor spaces allows guests to truly relax and enjoy the scenery of Essex Island Marina as well as the sights and sounds that charming Essex Village has to offer. 


Rocky’s Aqua-Clinton

www.rockysaqua.com

Rocky’s Aqua is a hidden gem located at the Cedar Island Marina in Clinton, CT. The restaurant provides open-air seating on three covered porches, picnic table seating on an outdoor patio, and two full bars. After you dine in, don’t forget to stop at “The Scoop”, located by the entrance, to try their famous ice cream and waffle cones, all made in-house! Ask for Lauren, Sam, or Rocky when you stop by. They can’t wait to meet you!


Tate’s-Middletown

https://www.tatesmiddletown.com/

A community experience located on the bank of the Connecticut River in Middletown, CT. A family-friendly restaurant within Harbor Park. Their focus is on approachable, comfort food & seafood. Home of Tate's Restaurant, Eli Cannon's Brewing Collective, The Dragon Shack, and Two Good Neighbors Coffee & Creamery bar!


Water’s Edge Resort & Spa-Westbrook

www.watersedgeresortandspa.com

Beachfront and beautiful on the Connecticut shoreline. Check out their website for dinner specials like their Lobster Boil, Surf & Turf, and Sunday Brunch Buffet.

New London County

Rocks 21-Mystic 

www.rocks21.com

Rocks 21 offers stunning waterfront views, making it the perfect spot for outdoor dining on numerous decks, patios, and lawns. Guests can enjoy the freshest local seafood, burgers and wood-fired pizza, expertly prepared and paired with craft cocktails and local drafts. Downstairs at Room 245, the vibe is upbeat with live music, DJs, dancing, lawn games, fire pits and glass walls that open to the patio with sweeping views overlooking the Mystic Harbor and Fishers Island Sound. Room 245 is a terrific spot for special events and private parties. Whether you're dining under the stars, meeting friends for drinks or dancing the night away, these two venues promise a fantastic experience. Serving lunch, dinner, happy hour, late night menu and Sunday brunch with live music. Full menus are available at Rocks21.com

Breakwater-Stonington 

www.breakwaterstonington.com

Nestled 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!

Dog Watch Café-Mystic, Stonington

www.dogwatchcafe.com

Indoor and outdoor dining, harbor views, and plenty of ingredients sourced from local vendors make this place one not to miss. Gobble up Watch Hill oysters, NE Clam Chowder, Dogwiches, and more. They even donate funds to help pooches in need.

Fat Tuna-Waterford

https://www.fattunact.com/

Located on the Niantic Bay, Chef Anthony D’angelo is dedicated to providing you with quality, locally sourced seafood & Italian dishes that you’ll be obsessed with. Come visit the Fat Tuna today.


Favorites Bistro Bar-New London

https://www.favoritesbistrobar.com/

Inspired by the feeling of warm summer sunsets with sand in your toes on your favorite island. Favorites Bistro Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a meal & relax. Their Caribbean-infused food & Island-Inspired hand-craft cocktails create the perfect upscale and social atmosphere.


Haring’s-Noank

https://www.fordslobster.com/

Inspired by a classic New England seafood shack, Haring’s is a waterfront restaurant in historic Noank, offering fresh lobster, smash burgers, seafood, farm veggies, and more. In the former location of Ford’s Lobster.


Kokomo’s Restaurant-Old Lyme

https://kokomosrestaurant.com/

At Kokomos, you’ll live on island time all the time! Enjoy Caribbean-style dining right on the beach, with a menu that features handcrafted tropical drinks and a creative land and sea menu, all wrapped in a vibrant island atmosphere. Cabana and beach chair rentals are also available.

On the Waterfront-New London

www.onthewaterfrontnl.com

Take 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, and stick-to-your-ribs pasta dishes will add a tasty note to your day.

Paul’s Pasta Shop-Groton

www.paulspastashop.com

Pasta, 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-Mystic

www.red36ct.com

Waterfront 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.


S&P Oyster- Mystic

www.sp-oyster.com

Located 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 are available.