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Dining with a View

It is always a pleasure to drive through the Connecticut countryside on a glorious afternoon in any season, but you can really up the ante with a leisurely lunch or dinner with a view. Here are some restaurants where you can find the season’s best light.

People enjoying drinks on outdoor waterfront restaurant patio on sunny day People enjoying drinks on outdoor waterfront restaurant patio on sunny day

Rocks 21, Mystic

You can find exquisite dining with a stellar saltwater view up the coast at the Inn at Mystic. Enjoy classic American dishes at Rocks 21.

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hopkins inn hopkins inn

Hopkins Inn, New Preston

This venerable Litchfield County restaurant sits high above the northern shore of Lake Waramaug, with views from both the dining room and outdoor terrace. The inn serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and is open from late March to late December.

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Couple dining inside train with large window showing riverboat outside Couple dining inside train with large window showing riverboat outside

Essex Clipper Dinner Train, Essex

All aboard for a four-course meal! You'll eat in a vintage diesel locomotive passing through the beautiful turns of the lower Connecticut River Valley.

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millwright's millwright's

Millwrights Restaurant, Simsbury

Located in an old mill building on Hop Brook, Millwrights offers seating right beside a waterfall and a menu that has drawn raves for its creativity and fresh ingredients.

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Sunlit garden patio with tables, chairs, and green landscaping Sunlit garden patio with tables, chairs, and green landscaping

The Inn at Woodstock Hill, Woodstock

Escape the crowds by heading to Connecticut’s “Quiet Corner” and have lunch or dinner (or even an overnight) at this inn that offers big views in all directions.

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Red 36 Red 36

Red 36, Mystic

Marina views await! Red 36 serves an eclectic American menu that changes seasonally, always offering fresh seafood and an extensive raw bar overlooking the water in historic downtown Mystic.

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Table setting with white flowers, glasses, and ocean view background Table setting with white flowers, glasses, and ocean view background

La Plage, Westport

A gem of Westport with one of the most stunning views in the area, this restaurant offers a unique dining and social experience with fresh, seasonal and sophisticated American cuisine served at the edge of Long Island Sound. 

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Large coastal hotel building at sunset with lit balconies Large coastal hotel building at sunset with lit balconies

Madison Beach Hotel, Madison

Located on Long Island Sound, dining options include a white tablecloth experience in the signature Dining Room, wine and food tastings at the Big Table in the Wine Room, and al fresco on The Porch.

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Marina with boats and lighthouse at sunset, fire pit and chairs in foreground Marina with boats and lighthouse at sunset, fire pit and chairs in foreground

Fresh Salt, Saybrook Point Inn & Spa, Old Saybrook

Water views change with the seasons, although perhaps a little more subtly than in the countryside. Take in the breezes and long, clear views over dishes of impeccably fresh seafood.

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Outdoor seating with umbrellas on grassy lawn by river and white building Outdoor seating with umbrellas on grassy lawn by river and white building

Gelston House, East Haddam

Immerse yourself in the many fine views of the Connecticut River Valley, then repair to the Gelston House or adjoining, less formal GH Gastro Pub for lunch or dinner.

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Outdoor restaurant seating on wooden deck overlooking river and trees Outdoor restaurant seating on wooden deck overlooking river and trees

River - A Waterfront Restaurant & Bar, Wethersfield

The restaurant gives a modern take on traditional Italian dishes that include house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, locally sourced seafood, meats, and poultry, and fresh, seasonal vegetables. Eat inside with an outstanding view of the Connecticut River, or outside on the multi-level deck.

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Seafood and drinks on bar counter with ocean view in outdoor dining area Seafood and drinks on bar counter with ocean view in outdoor dining area

Sunset Bar & Grill, Westbrook

Tucked in Water's Edge Resort & Spa, enjoy fresh seafood, great drinks, live music, and spectacular views of Long Island Sound. This spot is sure to evoke "on vacation" vibes.

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Artisan Restaurant Artisan Restaurant

Artisan Restaurant, Tavern & Garden, Southport

Savor exquisite cuisine with a stunning view at Artisan. Helmed by Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer and rated a "Don't Miss" by The New York Times, this dining destination blends seasonal flavors with craftsmanship. Enjoy a meal in the elegant dining room, cozy Tavern, or beautiful outdoor garden—perfect for al fresco dining. 

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Shell & Bones, New Haven Shell & Bones, New Haven

Shell & Bones, New Haven

Whether you’re looking for a mouthwatering bite or a gorgeous waterfront view, Shell & Bones will not disappoint. Known for its award-winning steak, seafood specialties and raw bar, each dish is prepared with fresh and sustainable ingredients. While Shell & Bones feels like the perfect seaside escape, it’s actually just a short drive from downtown New Haven – the best of both worlds.

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Outdoor restaurant patio by waterfront with umbrellas and blooming flowers Outdoor restaurant patio by waterfront with umbrellas and blooming flowers

S&P Oyster, Mystic

S&P Oyster is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Overlooking Mystic River and the famous Bascule drawbridge located amongst Mystic's quaint and historical shopping district, Chef Cobena’s unique style blends perfectly with the traditions of New England fare.

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