Abbott's Lobster in the Rough
Although closed in the winters, Abbott's Lobster in the Rough, located in Noank, is the place to be once the celebrated waterfront dining venue opens in the first week of May. The restaurant has earned such a reputation among locals that there is even a company-sponsored contest called "The Great Race," where patrons can win the honor of being the very first Abbott's customers of the season.
The Abbott's menu constitutes a full seafood feast, including clam chowder, lobster bisque, crab cakes, stuffed clams, shrimp, steamers, a wide variety of oyster dishes, lobster rolls, and lobster dinners served with coleslaw, potato chips and fresh fruit and cheese plates. In addition to seafood, Abbott's serves chicken, corn on the cob, salads, an assortment of children's dishes, as well as a superb dessert menu that includes cheesecake, carrot cake, apple crisp and strawberry shortcake.
Although this restaurant can be tricky to find, once you do find it, the fun, family-friendly atmosphere is unforgettable. Abbott's Lobster in the Rough can be reached by car (driving directions are outlined in detail on its website) or by boat from Noank Harbor. Plan a summertime dinner outing to Abbott's, and your reward will be the stunning sunset over Noank Harbor.
Abbott's does not own a liquor license, however, guests are encouraged to bring their own wine, beer or other beverages. The Universal Package Store, located within walking distance from the restaurant offers a wide selection of items.
117 Pearl St.
PO Box 9280
Noank, CT 06340
(860) 536-7719
abbotts-lobster.com
The Guilford Mooring
The Guilford Mooring, built in 1836 of native New England granite, is located on the Guilford Marina, a lively, fully functioning marina on the Long Island Sound. The restaurant, open year-round, features an elegant dining area, a picturesque dockside patio as well a pub and bar area. Each dining area features breathtaking ocean views.
The Guilford Mooring features an extensive menu of traditional "nor'eastern" seafood and traditional New England cuisine. Lunch and dinner items include fish sandwiches, burgers, portabella sandwiches, seafood rolls, chowders, bisques, a wide variety of shrimp and shellfish dishes, lobster, calamari, scallops, salads, pastas, chicken, steaks and larger seafood entrees such as stuffed sole, Lobster Fra Diavolo and grilled swordfish.
Known for its lively calendar of entertainment and live music, the Guilford Marina is an ideal venue for private parties, banquets and events, offering seating for up to 160 guests. In addition to hosting events, The Guilford Mooring specializes in catering for off-site events.
The Guilford Mooring is particularly festive on Friday and Saturday evenings, with a happy hour buffet running from 4 to 6 p.m., an open raw bar, live entertainment, an impressive wine list and discounted draft beers.
505 Whitfield St.
Guilford, Ct. 06437
(203) 458-2921
guilfordmooring.com
Water's Edge Restaurant
If you are seeking a particularly luxurious and romantic waterfront dining experience, visit the restaurant at Water's Edge. Water's Edge is an exclusive five-star resort and spa located in Westbrook. The Water's Edge restaurant has received rave reviews from Connecticut Magazine, The Hartford Courant and The New York Times.
The Water's Edge resort is primarily a hotel and resort venue for weddings, corporate events, private parties, balls and galas. However, those wishing to enjoy a simple lunch or dinner or even just a tropical-flavored martini at the resort's seasonal, beachside Sunset Bar and Grill are always welcome to pay a visit. Reservations are highly recommended.
The Water's Edge restaurant is an ideal romantic location for a dinner for two, also celebrated for its extravagant, award-winning Sunday Brunch.
PO Box 688
1525 Boston Post Road
Westbrook, CT 06498
Reservations: (800) 222-5901
watersedge-resort.com
