Listed in random order

Parthenon Diner - While the Parthenon calls to mind all of the things that made diners so popular “way back when,” this diner offers a thoroughly modern version of that beloved tradition with plenty of pizzazz, a wide-ranging menu, and portions you never saw in those little old boxcars.
374 E Main St. Branford, 203-481-0333
809 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook, 860-395-5111

Lenny's - Got a craving for some rich, flavorful seafood bisque…a savory clear-broth clam chowder…or a generously portioned fresh-from-the-sea fish dinner? Then you’ve come to the right place. Lenny’s wide-ranging menu of fresh seafood — baked, boiled, broiled, char-broiled, steamed, or pan seared — is awesome. Open seasonally, beat the heat with a treat from Lenny’s Dairy Bar. Dairy Bar Ice Cream Sandwiches are available inside year round! And it’s all perfectly enhanced by the soft breezes that drift in from the nearby saltwater marsh. 
205 S. Montowese St., Branford, 203-488-1500

Nellie's - Set behind some weathered buildings at the marina in Branford, Nellie’s is a bit hard to
find on your first trip there. But if you follow your GPS, then follow the signs, you’ll arrive with no problem. Inside, the restaurant has been beautifully redone. We were completely smitten by her beautiful views of the Branford River and her superb food — and she serves a Lobster Roll featuring fresh picked lobster on a toasted brioche that’s indescribable.
50 Maple St., Branford, 203-208-0013

La Luna - Now well into its third decade, La Luna continues to be one of The Shoreline’s favorites, with its upscale yet comfortable setting and expertly varied lunch and dinner menus that feature both authentic Tuscan dishes and innovative culinary creations certain to please. Their legendary blockbuster Sunday brunch — which begins at 10:30 a.m. with the best of breakfast, then shifts into carving stations, antipasti, and all sorts of sinful desserts around twelve — lives up to their claim that it’s the best on the Connecticut coast, and
the complimentary Mimosa or Bloody Mary is a nice touch.
168 N. Main St., Branford, 203-483-9995

Home - For some reason, small restaurants often take on the personality of their owner — and that’s how it is here at Home. Truth is, owner Jared’s genuinely hospitable nature seems to infuse the waitstaff, the kitchen
crew, and even the customers with such warmth that diners actually feel, well…at home. Then there’s the food. Both lunch and dinner menus offer a nice fusion of modern American and Italian, with plenty of choices and some lovely gluten-free dishes that combine to make dining at Home a memorable pleasure.
1114 Main St., Branford, 203-483-5896

GW Carson's Restaurant - This place has a great reputation for its burgers because their burgers are nicely varied and amazing. But burgers aren’t all they serve. Their starters are intriguing (especially the Pickled Peppers with sriracha ranch sauce.) Their salads are sassy. (Try the GW Burger Salad.) Their sandwiches are savory. (The Classic Grilled Cheese All Grown Up is awesome.) And the entrees are guaranteed to bring you back for more. (Do not miss the Ribeye topped with herb butter and served with sour cream horseradish sauce, oven roasted potatoes, and the vegetable of the day or a house salad.) Uniquely stylish plating adds flair to flavor. The house wines are designed to please. And GW Carson’s now offers “Wakeup” menus for breakfasts during the week and brunch on weekends! What a way to start the day!
308 East Main St., Branford, 203-208-1469

9 East Hibachi & Asian Kitchen - The first thing — no, make that the first five things — you’ll notice upon entering 9 East are the giant Buddha extending a warm welcome...the waterfall flowing gently behind him, with colorful koi, a symbol of love and friendship, swimming happily below…above, tiny lights creating a sky filled with stars…and a blend of aromas so tantalizing that you simply cannot wait to order. But wait, you must, because their menu requires perusal. There’s sushi and sashimi, a host of different fusion rolls, and traditional Asian favorites. Teriyaki and Tempura. A whole section of East-meets-West dinners. And the wildly popular Hibachi, where guests can watch chefs as entertaining as they are gifted creating their entrées right in front of them. Frankly, 9 East is an A-to-Zen dining experience you won’t find elsewhere. But call ahead — especially at the weekend. This place has earned quite a following.
310 East Main St., Branford, 203-315-8111

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Som Siam - Despite its location off the Guilford Green, this little place attracts everyone with its genuinely happy bright-yellow clapboards. But while that may be what makes everyone come in that first time, they all come back time after time after time because of Som Siam’s award-winning Thai cuisine. Indeed, their loyal following raves about the fresh veggie and seafood-combo stir-fried specials — and their signature sticky rice. The mango dessert is not to be missed. And it’s got a take-out window.
63R Whitfield St., Guilford, 203-458-0228

Kamana Fine Indian Cuisine - Have you been to Kamana? If not, you must. For starters, it combines the colorful vibrancy of an Indian marketplace with the calm and simplicity of a small temple — and it’s a lovely balance. Then there’s the service, which is delightfully attentive to all and especially so toward those needing a bit of guidance through a rich menu that even includes vegetarian selections. Finally, there’s the cuisine, which, featuring the premium Indian spices, is wholly authentic, utterly delectable, and individually prepared to meet each customer’s preference for mild, medium, or hot seasoning. Kamana is, as they themselves say, a feast for body and soul — and that’s not something to be missed.
1004 Boston Post Rd., Guilford, 203-689-5728
1070 Main St., Branford, 203-433-4009, 203-433-4339, or 203-433-4061

The Place - Self-described as “an unusual restaurant,” The Place really is quite a place. For ambience, you’ll be invited to “put your rump on a stump” at one of the big, bright-red picnic tables. And as evening falls, strings of lights suspended on poles ward off the enfolding darkness — which will help you to read the menu that is painted quite cheerfully (though somewhat inelegantly) on a big red sign. But then ambience isn’t what The Place is known for. What it’s known for is food. Really good food cooked over a sizzling wood fire. Lobster, smoky roasted rather than boiled. Fresh clams on the half shell with butter and cocktail sauce. Steamers. Wine & garlic mussels. And their amazing roasted corn. They even top off their meals with desserts like cheesecake and key lime mousse. BYOB and BYOF (fries), but leave your credit card home. A stump awaits you.
901 Boston Post Rd., Guilford, 203-453-9276

Quattro's - Specializing in both Northern Italian cuisine and a lovely mingling of Italian and Latin flavors, Quattro’s is proof that fine dining can be elegant and fun. Enjoy exceptional tapas served with drinks at a good-time bar where you can linger awhile. If you’re still hungry — or simply hungry for more of Quattro’s delectable dishes, grab a table and order the Zuppa di Pesce (a mix of fresh seafood sautéed in garlic and wine over linguine) or maybe the Lobster Ravioli. And before you leave, take a peek through the kitchen door windows, where you’ll see four slammin’ chefs — skillets flying— turning out other delicious specialties you’ll want to try on your next visit.
14 Water St., Guilford, 203-453-6575

Mr. J Asian Bistro - On the hunt for some really good Asian, Thai, Chinese, or Japanese food? Well, you just found it. The menu is both extensive and mouthwatering because every dish is carefully prepared with the freshest ingredients. The sushi is superb. (Be sure to try the OMG Roll, which is made with white tuna, kani, lobster salad, mango, jalapeño, topped with spicy mayo, wasabi mayo, scallions, and caviar. It’s OMG good.) The Thai, Chinese, and Japanese luncheon specials are just that: special. And then there’s dinner, which starts with a large selection of appetizers, soups, and salads and includes sushi or sashimi à la carte, as well as sushi bar starters, both classic sushi rolls and sushi hand rolls, special rolls, and all the entrees sushi lovers crave (like the Cirashi Dinner, the Spicy Maki Combo, and the Sashimi Deluxe)…traditional Chinese entrees, Thai Curry, Japanese Kitchen entrees, and Chef’s Specials…and a diverse choice of Noodles and Rice to round things out, ensuring that everyone dining in goes home satisfied…everyone ordering take-out can’t wait to get home…and everyone who’s been there returns. Join the crowd.
100 Village Walk, 203-453-3355 or 203-453-3888

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Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale - Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale isn’t just your run-of-the-mill success story. It’s a shoreline legend, starring an extensive menu of New England seafood so good that crowds of loyal followers — locals and tourists alike — have been totally hooked for years. Their lobster roll is king. But scrod, fried scallops, and the salt potatoes are right up there in the hierarchy, along with seafood options that are baked, boiled, broiled, char-broiled, steamed, or pan seared. Eat in or take out for the perfect picnic. Lenny & Joe’s is fast, fresh, and fabulous. It simply never flounders.
1301 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 203-245-7289
86 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, 860-669-0767

Café Allegre - Café Allegre is like a good friend you can’t wait to see. A friendship that just keeps getting better, outdoing itself with every passing year. Indeed, Café Allegre offers a superb ambience exceeded only by a seasonally inspired farm-to-table cuisine that blends the best of old-world styles and traditions with today’s new world tastes for a menu that’s nothing short of a triumph. It’s white-linen dining at its best.
725 Post Rd., Madison, 203-245-7773

Donahue's Madison Beach Grille - Knowing that this popular restaurant is owned and operated by Chris, Patrick, and David Donahue — whose family has, over the years, owned and operated seven other highly successful restaurants in Fairfield County, it’s not surprising that Donahue’s Madison Beach Grille is yet another winner. But the proof, as they say, is “in the pudding” — or in this case in their outstanding menu selections, which include fresh seafood, homemade New England clam chowder and lobster bisque, savory salads, mouthwatering steaks and burgers, and a nice variety of daily specials, all served in an atmosphere inviting both for its “cozy décor and charming fireplace.” And Donahue’s is also mindful of making their dining experience a well-rounded pleasure, having made sure that the bar features a satellite sports package broadcast over nine flat-screen TVs. Stop in once — and you’ll be stopping back often. Guaranteed.
1320 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 203-318-8362

The Clam Castle - A shoreline favorite for sixty years, the Clam Castle, is among the recent winners in the Shoreline Newspapers’s “ Best of” Readers Poll for their incredible clam chowder (both New England and Rhode Island) — and shoreliners know their chowder! They also serve some of the best fried clams available anywhere. Hungry for something different? Well then, you’ve still come to the right place, because The Clam Castle also offers a menu filled with other good stuff, including lobster bisque, fresh seafood platters, lobster rolls, fish tacos, Southern fried chicken nuggets, hot dogs and burgers (including one genuinely tasty veggie burger), some seriously substantial sandwiches, (including chicken, steak, pulled pork, and seafood sandwiches), five different sides, one zesty Caesar salad, and more! And this year, under new ownership, The Clam Castle will also feature Taco Pacifico’s fresh Mexican fare! You’ll be glad to know that The Clam Castle is both BYOB and dog friendly. And if you happen to miss it while heading west out of Hammonasset Beach on Route 1, turn around. You won’t regret it.
1324 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 203-245-4911

RJ Café & Bistro - This is one of Madison’s hippest little hideaways. Hungry? The Bistro serves an imaginative selection of lunch and dinner offerings, including small plate items like their unique quesadilla…some very tempting salads (check out Scoops)…decidedly fresh takes on popular sandwiches (try the Egg Salad BLT), as well as fantastic flatbreads…some very pleasing paninis — including Breakfast varieties…and great gourmet grilled cheeses. There’s also a kids menu. Just looking to relax? The Café features a full coffee bar, making it just the place to sip and read. And what a coincidence! It’s hidden behind Madison’s celebrated RJ Julia’s Bookstore, where you can stop on the way in and choose a new title with which to do your relaxing.
768 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 203-318-8008

Bar Bouchée - Bar Bouchée is fashioned after les bouchons — the classic neighborhood bistros of Lyon, France, where regional comfort food and casual conviviality blend flawlessly. Indeed, guests, new and longtime, often greet the maître d ‘with at least a few French words or phrases before being seated in Bar Bouché’s stunning dining room, replete with furnishings directly from France, or out on their stylish patio. The award-winning menu includes “perennial favorites with seasonal changes that reflect the offerings of our neighborhood farmers.” This is an absolutely lovely little spot.
8 Scotland Ave., Madison, 203-318-8004

Friends & Company - As its name suggests, Friends is a family favorite, and that’s because this restaurant turns out comfort food by the boatload. There are homemade soups and homemade breads. Delicious salads with savory dressings. Piquant pastas. Substantial sandwiches. Really tasty wraps. And an abundant array of flavorful entrées. Stop in for a bite — and bring your friends.
11 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 203-245-0462

Old Schoolhouse Deli - The Old Schoolhouse Deli has a reputation for satisfying serious cravings with serious sandwiches. From gourmet combinations made with famous Boar’s Head meats, as well as their own cooked-daily roast beef— all piled high on fresh-baked hero bread straight from New York — to grilled specials and wraps, it’s all good. Very, very good. And if you prefer, order a salad or one of their hot-lunch specials. Be sure to try the Veggie Supreme Wrap. The food, the prices, and the staff are all delightful.
268 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 203-245-DELI (3354)

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Lobster Landing - Featuring the quintessential lobster roll (indeed, the “best in Connecticut” according to most), Lobster Landing is an authentic shoreline original, as is its tattered little hundred-year-old building that sits on a dock in Clinton Harbor welcoming diners. Its lobster roll is described by eager patrons as “epic” while the rest of the menu (equally good with its tasty sausage/pepper/onion sandwiches, hot dogs, sodas, chips, and ice creams) longs for attention. And while this place may not be fancy, it’s a fanciful little place where the food is absolutely mouthwatering. Start with the lobster roll. Everyone does. But try everything. You don’t want to miss a morsel.
152 Commerce St., Clinton, 860-669-2005

Westbrook Lobster - The first thing you’ll want to know is that Westbrook Lobster is NOT in Westbrook. It’s in Clinton — as well as just north of The Shoreline in Wallingford. Confused? Don’t be. Their fans would go anywhere for the Westbrook Lobster’s chowder (NE or RI), all the lovely seafood platters, their fabulous lobsters, and the cocktail menu and craft beers that make this unpretentious gathering place so popular. And frankly, it’s really refreshing to find an affordable spot like this with such dependably fresh fish. Clearly, a local favorite.
346 East Main St., Clinton, 860-664-9464
300 Church St., Wallingford, 203-265-5071

Chow Food and Beverage Co. - What do you get when you combine the flavors of barbecue with traditional — and not-so-traditional — American cuisine? An exciting culinary experience. Farmhouse chic accents the eclectic dining room, making this a great place to meet, while the menu — ranging from some seriously innovative gourmet pizza to some seriously innovative small plates and smokehouse favorites, as well as sandwiches and wraps — makes it the perfect place to chow down.
36 Killingworth Tpke. (Rte. 81), Clinton, 860-669-6200

Taste of China - Without a doubt, this is the finest genuine Chinese cuisine you’ll find on The Shoreline — or in nearby New Haven. And don’t be afraid to stray from the ordinary. Sliced Beef with Sichuan Pepper & Chili and Bang Bang Chicken are superb appetizers. The dumplings get rave reviews. They offer many fish choices and shellfish specials. And Wok Seared Sea Scallops or Shrimp, Chinese-style Kung Pao Chicken, and Tea Smoked Duck are worth the adventure — and truly a taste of China.
233 East Main St., Clinton, 860-664-4454
954 Chapel St., New Haven, 203-745-5872

Hanami Japanese Sushi & Hibachi Steak House - Hanami is an award-winning Japanese restaurant that you don’t want to miss. Their raman selections are quite varied, with extra toppings, such as scallions and Chashu Pork available, while the Raman Bar offers Hanami Pork Buns, Panko Crusted Fried Oysters, and their Japanese Style Chicken Karaage — a House specialty, featuring spicy, mouthwatering fried chicken. A delicious array of Bento Box lunches is available, all including Miso, a salad, a California Roll, a Vegetable Dumpling, a Vegetable Spring Roll, and White Rice. Their lunch and dinner Hibachi selections are grilled to perfection and include vegetables, chicken, steak, shrimp, salmon, and scallops, plus red snapper, sea bass, lobster, and combo meals included for dinner. The dinner menu also includes appetizers, soups, and salads; noodles, tempura and katsu; teriyaki and shogayaki; Bento boxes; and rolls of all kinds — raw or cooked with or without rice. And the sushi? Well, Hanami is the star of the Shoreline when it comes to sushi. In fact, regulars often order without even looking at the menu, either creating their own combinations or heeding a tip from one of the savvy servers. They’re confident that they’ll get what they have come to expect — fresh, perfectly made, and beautifully plated, just as all their meals are. Our favorite? (Well, one of them, anyway.) The Sushi & Sashimi Combo. Try it. Try everything. You’ll see.
114 E. Main St., Clinton, 860-664-9268

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Bill’s Seafood -Join friends on the deck for a pitcher of beer or a cold Pepsi and some fresh clams on the half shell, a steaming cup of Clam Chowder (New England or Rhode Island), or some of Bill’s Own Maryland Blue Crab Cakes. For dinner, give the Broiled Lemon Pepper Sea Scallops a try — or go with the 1 ¼-pound Boiled or Stuffed Maine lobster. Both are wonderful. And if you’re into turf not surf, count on The Best Roasted Prime Rib Au Jus to satisfy completely. The prices are fair and the food is terrific. But it’s the soft hum of cars driving over the “singing bridge” next to it, the sight of the boats that whisper by, and the sounds of the Dixieland music that make Bill’s a must for shoreline residents and visitors alike. Don’t miss it.
548 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, 860-399-7224

Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale - Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale isn’t just your run-of-the-mill success story. It’s a shoreline legend, starring an extensive menu of New England seafood so good that crowds of loyal followers — locals and tourists alike — have been totally hooked for years. Their lobster roll is king. But scrod, fried scallops, and the salt potatoes are right up there in the hierarchy, along with seafood options that are baked, boiled, broiled, char-broiled, steamed, or pan seared. Eat in or take out for the perfect picnic. Lenny & Joe’s is fast, fresh, and fabulous. It simply never flounders.
86 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, 860-669-0767
1301 Boston Post Rd., Madison, 860-245-7289

Edd’s Place - Oh sure. Edd’s has indoor dining in the “Gazebo,” all ship-shape with nice hardwood tables. But this delightfully zany “seafood shack” also invites hungry seafood lovers to dine al fresco on picnic tables that rest on sections of connected planking — a great view of the Menunketesuck River salt marsh adding even more flavor to a fearlessly far-ranging menu. You can hear vinyl records spun while you savor your meal. Enjoy the atmosphere, their excellent lobster rolls, superb cod or shrimp tacos, and both the best burgers and fries The Shoreline has to offer — and that we’ve had in ages.
478 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, 860-391-8637

Café Routier - It was a Thursday night, we were road weary, and both the dining room and Mood Lounge were full. The two seats left at the bar were a welcome sight, so we took them. The affable young bartender suggested the Routier Special — a Black Rita, which he shook expertly while hustling to keep up with the wine and drink orders coming from all directions. And while the appetizers and entrées from the regularly changing dinner menu were (and are) primarily French, a zesty global mix provided exactly the je ne sais quoi we needed. Treat yourself to the same gratification. Bon appetit.
1353 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, 860-399-8700

Turtle Café - Some describe this little find as a diner. Others, a hole-in-the-wall. But I’m happy to stick my neck out and side with the throngs of regulars who rave about the Turtle Café’s fabulous breakfasts — including some old favorites like the pancakes and waffles, build your own omelets, wraps and burritos, frittatas, and crepes. And for lunch, enjoy wraps, quesadillas, paninis, burgers, salads, and plenty of sides. Get there early or expect a wait. But if there’s a wait — wait. It’s worth it.
4 Westbrook Pl., Westbrook, 860-399-1799

Water's Edge Resort - Dine at Water’s Edge Resort & Spa and enjoy magnificent views of Long Island Sound for a background, casual upscale ambience, and an eclectic menu of traditional New England-style, Northern Italian, and Continental specialties. The Courant, The New York Times and Zagat all call it Excellent! The resort features perfectly landscaped gardens, acres of grounds overlooking the water, a private white sand beach, entertainment, a luxurious spa, and so much more.
1525 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, 860-399-5901

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Copper Beech Inn - Elegant inside and out, Copper Beech Inn, once the unofficial gathering place for Connecticut’s power brokers, is now both an acclaimed bed and breakfast and a splendid event venue, featuring a delightful French-American restaurant. There, diners and guests can savor superb seasonal entrees and upscale ambience in the main dining room or choose the more casual atmosphere of our beautiful brasserie, the atrium, or our English garden in season. Be sure to take yourself on a tour of this 125-year-old estate while you are there. It’s an exceptional experience.
46 Main St., Ivoryton, 860-767-0330

The Griswold Inn - Referred to by locals and those in the know as simply The Gris, this is one of very few colonial New England restaurants that has succeeded in remaining not only relevant but unfailingly popular. The dimly lit tavern, with its good old-time music and period dining room, brings you back to the days of river captains and deep-water schooners. Classic Gris entrées include a Faroe Island Salmon and Prime Rib of Beef — both excellent. Seasonal entrées, like the Seared Sea Scallops, are superb. And the Hunt Breakfast is legendary.
36 Main St., Essex, 860-767-1776

Gelston House - Come by land, river, or sea — but come, because the stately Victorian Gelston House, set next to the Goodspeed Opera House and above the river in East Haddam village, is a shoreline tradition. The restaurant menus and all of its dining spaces have been polished up, bringing back the elegance and joie de vivre of its glory days, while the casual al fresco dining option is decidedly popular in season. Regular entrées, like the Shrimp Scampi, the Black Angus New York Strip, and an intriguing Parmesan Encrusted Cod, are impressive. And for those feeling a bit more casual, a menu of Hand Helds, all served with fries, is ideal. This is a lovely spot!
8 Main St., East Haddam, 860-873-1411

Black Seal - The Black Seal is an Essex favorite, serving lunch, dinner, and a terrific Sunday brunch. And while it looks a little like an old ship that’s battled through rough seas, it serves up jolly good chowder, delectably fresh fish, savory salads, and some great hot sandwiches with the steady hand you’d expect from an experienced captain. And there’s an equally steady flow of jolly good cheer from a bar that’s homeport for boaters and their mates. Stop in. But prepare to linger a while, relaxing over whatever your pleasure might be and listening to good seafaring conversation. It’s that kind of place.
15 C Main St., Essex, 860-767-0233

Scotch Plains Tavern - Tavern is such a modest little word. It calls to mind an ordinary space with a well-worn bar, small wooden booths, and hearty fare ideal for those ending a long, hard day or gathering with friends on the weekend. But Scotch Plains Tavern is much more. Indeed, so much more. The long sleek bar and spacious dining room are awash in burnished woods, warm accent lighting, and a posh, contemporary flair. And the food? Excellent, with everything from appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, and sandwiches to steaks, seafood — and real deal “tavern fare.” Try the SPT Stilton Port & Short Rib Burger for something both simple and simply delicious. And if you’re feeling like something a little jazzier, experience their Lemon Caper Scallops. It doesn’t get any tastier.
124 Westbrook Rd., Essex, 860-662-4032

Savour Café & Bakery -Well, The Shoreline is certainly falling in love with a little place called Savour Café & Bakery — and why not! Offering patrons all of the inviting tastes and ambience of an authentic French café for those ready to sit and…well…savor, as well as grab and go service for those in a hurry, it’s perfect in every way. Start the day with their exquisite breakfast pastries, including an impressive list of sweet scones, muffins, and croissants, or enjoy the Egg Sandwich with Cheddar Cheese & Bacon on a Brioche Roll or Croissant. Hungry for lunch? Try Savour’s delectable salads (order a favorite or the unique Savour Signature salad); nine special sandwiches (the Caprese, with its slow roasted tomato, mozzarella, and basil pesto on ciabatta is exceptional); and entrees like the Honey Glazed Fried Chicken and the Grilled Sirloin with Marsala Onions. And when your meal is over, dessert is a must. The list of temptations is lengthy and rich, from cookies and bars, cupcakes and cakes, and fruit tarts to cheesecake, mousse, pudding, bruleé, and pies. And they offer Signature Cakes, which are so extraordinary that they must be ordered in advance. Consider Savour a short but délicieux little vacation.
90 Main St., Unit 110, Centerbrook, 860-662-4439

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Alforno - OK, here’s the scoop: Their lovely New Haven style, thin crust, roasted-veggie pizza is certainly one of the main reasons this well loved brick-oven pizzeria, which opened more than 20 years ago, is a shoreline favorite. But there are other reasons, too ­— like their Spaghetti with Littleneck Clams or the Pan-Roasted Flounder Livornese, prepared with a sauce of fresh tomatoes, green and black olives, and white wine over sautéed spinach. You’ll have to discover the rest for yourself. Eccelente.
1654 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook 860-399-4166

Liv’s Oyster Bar - Why do we love Liv’s? Well, there’s her extensive raw bar, along with some very creative specials — all served up in a handsomely restored old movie house. But truth be told, it’s the good-natured staff that makes us happy as a clam. Our server once told us about a 40ish couple who loved a Sashimi Yellow Fin Tuna Pizza appetizer they were offering so much that they bought it for everybody at the bar. Anyone who didn’t love it could send it back. Needless to say, no one did. Another time I asked if the chef could make me some clam broth, even though it wasn’t on the menu. She soon returned with a steaming bowl and a bunch of littlenecks. It simply does not get any better than that.
166 Main St., Old Saybrook, 860-395-5577

Liv's Shack -If the name of this little waterfront restaurant rings a bell, it’s because Liv’s Shack is not only the offspring of Liv’s Oyster Bar — an Old Saybrook favorite, but every bit as good. Oh, sure. The menu is a bit less diverse. But when you stumble across a hot buttered lobster roll this luscious, a lobster and grilled cheese sandwich this melt-in-your-mouth lavish, grilled fish tacos this tasty, fried shrimp this delectable, New England Clam Chowder this rich — as well salads both substantial and sassy, juicy grilled burgers and hotdogs and chicken tenders, and all the right sides to tops things off perfectly…well, the number of selections just doesn’t matter. What matters is the sheer joy of simple food this well done — and a view so delicious, it’s almost as good as the food. Almost. And now there’s a Liv’s Dockside in Clinton, too!
26 Bridge St., Old Saybrook, 860-391-8353
68 Cedar Island Ave., Clinton 860-664-5294

Nancy's Rosemary & Sage - Much like a great piece of artwork, this place is an original. Indeed, unexpected takes on contemporary American cuisine prepared with a special touch are a delightful surprise. And with a full bar and an extensive selection of reasonably priced wines — along with Nancy and her attentive staff, every visit is truly satisfying.
1080 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook, 860-388-1166

Fresh Salt at the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina - A top contender for “where to be seen” along The Shoreline, Fresh Salt offers stunning water views, seasonal outdoor dining, an innovative approach to locally sourced American cuisine, the day’s fresh catch, and a raw bar. Go. Be seen. And enjoy.
2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook, 800-395-2000

Otter Cove Restaurant - If I had to describe Otter Cove, I’d say that for those seeking to impress, it’s elegantly casual. For those hoping to relax, it’s casually elegant. And for those just in search of a good meal at a good price, it’s ideal. From the beautifully weathered clapboards and crisp white trim of the restaurant’s exterior to the spacious fountained terrace, Otter Cove is charming. Inside, it’s cozy and warm, with a menu that includes all of the seafood and landlubber dishes you’ve been hankering for, like clams, scallops, shrimp, lobster — and yes, steak. Factor in a variety of drinks (including beer on tap) and friendly service, and this little place is otterly perfect.
99 Essex Rd., Old Saybrook, 860-388-4836

Penny Lane Pub - This unpretentious yet tasteful little place not only looks uniquely British inside and out but feels like the neighborhood pubs beloved by the English since, well…forever. And while a pub’s traditional fare is usually a bit humble, the fare at Penny Lane Pub is anything but, with hearty traditional lunches like Shepherd’s Pie and Fish & Chips — as well as Between the Breads burgers and sandwiches. Salad choices are numerous and satisfying. For dinner, expect great seafood, beef, and chicken entrées, including Pan Seared Salmon and Oven Roasted Chicken with a lemon glaze. And their specialty wines and world-class beers round things out nicely. As the Brits would say, “A brilliant little spot.”
150 Main St., Old Saybrook, 860-388-9646

Zhang's - Zhang’s is one of the hottest restaurants in the area — especially on the weekends. And it’s no wonder they are so popular. Featuring beautifully prepared Chinese dishes, like the Jumbo Shrimp Walnut and Crispy Orange Beef, as well as Japanese sushi and sashimi, guests can enjoy the best of both worlds by ordering a combination of Chinese and Japanese favorites. No one is ever disappointed.
455 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook, 860-388-3999

Little Pub - Well, their name may be Little Pub, but they are very big on what matters. Take their pub grub. It’s amazing. Not only does it all look as good as it tastes but it’s a clever menu, featuring fresh tastes like Ladder Company 1 Hotwings and Farmers Market Spring Rolls. Little Pub Favorites include Fish & Chips and Moo Shu Pork Tacos. There are 12 luscious burgers to choose from. (Be sure to try the Six Napkin Burger and the You’ll Need Three Hands burger!) Sandwiches and wraps. Mac N’ Cheese Your Way. And even the Kids Menu is cool, with one awesome entrée known simply as Buttery Noodles with No Green Stuff. Their list of beers is long and lusty. And check out their calendar of events. Little Pub. Big deal. Go.
1231 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook, 860-339-5591

Nori - Nori may be The Shoreline’s newest Japanese restaurant, but it is fast becoming a staple for those who enjoy fine Japanese cuisine. A unique twist on appetizers like the Crispy Tempura Sea Bass and Edamame Miso Soup are a must try. Specialty Rolls created in house by their talented chefs such as the Lover’s Roll and the Surf & Turf Roll will give you a pleasant surprise. For those who aren’t crazy about raw fish, Nori offers entrees like the Red Wine Duck, Chilean Sea Bass and Chicken Teriyaki. From appetizers to entrees to desserts like Mochi Ice Cream and Fried Matcha Cheesecake (which is simply too good to pass up), there’s something for everyone. Every delicious meal is beautifully plated and elegantly served. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. And with both an à la carte menu and take-out service, there isn’t much more one could wish for — except perhaps lunch or dinner there as often as possible. Fortunately, Nori is open Tuesday through Saturday, so becoming a regular should be easy. Enjoy!
286 Main St., Old Saybrook, 860-339-3690

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Café Flo - Situated at the historic Florence Griswold Museum, Café Flo serves extraordinary lunches on their airy veranda overlooking Old Lyme’s Lieutenant River — and given the superbly artistic aura of the location itself, it should not come as a surprise that their luncheon selections are as luscious to look at as they are to eat. The menu offers a number of clever starters, including a rich Vegetarian Black Bean Chili, Miss Florence’s Asparagus Soup, and Lump Crab Cake with House Remoulade. The salads, comprising numerous choices plus add-ons, are equally creative and quite substantial — especially their Lobster, Avocado, and Corn Salad. The sandwiches — such as the Liverwurst on seedless rye with red onion and grainy mustard or the intriguing Lobster BLT, are delightfully different. The trio of entrées covers all the bases, with its Roasted Cod, French Chicken Breast, and Sliced Bistro Steak. Their wine list includes a pitcher of Seasonal Sangria. There’s a delightful children’s menu. And dessert is a must. Open Tuesdays through Sundays from May 2 through the end of October. Reservations are highly recommended.
96 Lyme St., Old Lyme, Reservations 860-434-5542, ext. 4

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