7 Scrumptious Seafood Spots
Southeastern Connecticut is home to some fabulous seafood experiences, from the iconic lobster roll (cold or hot, we’ve got both) to clam chowder, calamari, scallops, and other fresh-from-the-sea favorites. For the seafood lover, here are seven local restaurants that are o-fish-ally delicious.
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Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock, New London
Tucked away in a marina near the Fort Trumbull district of New London is Captain Scott’s, a casual open-air seafood shack serving all the classics, done right. Bring your favorite drink (it’s BYOB) and get ready for delicious, reasonably-priced specialties like clam chowder (New England or Rhode Island), fritters, fish and chips, and lobsters up to 2lbs! You can also find their food truck at events along the shoreline.
Don’t Miss: Hot lobster roll, clam fritters, fried shrimp -
Sea Swirl, Mystic
Fried clams, soft serve cones, and sunsets – Sea Swirl is THE place. Formerly a Carvel Ice Cream shop, this highly-reviewed roadside clam shack has been family-owned and operated for nearly 50 years. Customers can enjoy outdoor picnic tables with a beautiful view of the Mystic River flood tide while they dine on fried specialties whole belly clams and scallops, or for “landlubbers,” hot dogs and hamburgers.
Don’t Miss: Whole belly clams, clam strips, ice cream -
Flanders Fish Market, East Lyme
Seriously, there are too many beautiful seafood dishes to pick just one photo, but the loaded Bloody Mary (yes, that’s lobster) is something to behold. Family owned and operated for 35 years, Flanders Fish Market is one-part restaurant, one-part bar, one-part seafood counter, serving both raw and prepared options–all parts delicious. They also offer catering (clambake, anyone?), private event space, and starting this summer, a food stand at Crescent Beach in Niantic.
Don’t Miss: Lobster bisque, raw bar, Cappy’s Combo -
Breakwater, Stonington
Nestled in the Stonington Borough sits Breakwater, with its modern sun-drenched interior and outdoor deck with sweeping views of Stonington Harbor and Fisher’s Island Sound (and its own dock). It features elegant dishes of seafood and beyond, as well as creative cocktails, noteworthy customer service, and happy hour specials. Breakwater is family owned and operated as the newest sister restaurant to Go Fish and Steak Loft.
Don’t Miss: Fish tacos, Ahi tuna poke bowl, Grilled seafood medley -
Go Fish, Mystic
Newly renovated, Go Fish in Olde Mistick Village features fresh seafood – both raw and cooked! Their chic décor and cool color scheme hearken to a trendy wine and sushi bar atmosphere, but traditional seafood dishes abound as well. For example, they are renown for their homemade clam chowder, as well as their wide variety of delicately crafted sushi, or “zushi” as it’s referred to on the menu (as in nigirizushi or makizushi).
Don’t Miss: Chowder, Lobster grilled cheese, Hotategai (scallop) or Tomago (egg) zushi -
S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar, Mystic
Perhaps one of the most stunning views in downtown Mystic can be found from the patio of S&P Oyster Restaurant, which overlooks the Mystic River and the iconic bascule bridge. This elegant destination offers expertly prepared seafood dishes with a distinct South American flare made with fresh, “sea to table” ingredients sure to please any palate. It’s worth noting their artful vegan and gluten-free options, too. Want this scenic sensation all to yourself? Book the Captain’s Room, upstairs overlooking the river, for your next event.
Don’t Miss: Ceviche, S&P seafood pasta, native monkfish with lobster -
On the Waterfront, New London
True to its name, On the Waterfront sits on a harbor overlooking the Thames River and serves up the exquisite seafood you’d expect with that view. Owner Stash Schiavone and his son Chef Anthony have created a community institution with a robust menu and family values at heart, serving all guests as if they were long-time friends. In the warmer months, enjoy a small patio overlooking the boats.
Don’t Miss: Calamari, Pistachio-crusted salmon, Lobster tacos
The seafood deliciousness certainly doesn’t end here! More treats can be found at restaurants like Rocks 21, Frank’s Gourmet Grille, or Chapter One in downtown Mystic, or Buon Appetito, David Burke Prime, or Cedars near North Stonington, or Daddy Jack’s in New London, just to name a few. With much more to offer, there’s something for every taste at eastern Connecticut’s restaurants. Click here to find more restaurant recommendations.