Get Cozy! Where to Dine This Holiday Season in Eastern Connecticut

The Shipwright’s Daughter celebrates the season with elevated coastal cuisine and beautifully crafted winter dishes. Their menus spotlight fresh New England ingredients with warm, comforting flavors perfect for December dining.

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Shown here is their Whelk Campanelle — ruffled campanelle pasta tossed with confit whelk, white wine, chili, garlic, and sourdough breadcrumbs. The buttery sauce, crunchy crumbs, and aromatic herbs make it one of the coziest winter dishes in Mystic.

This hyper-local, farm-driven restaurant serves seasonal dishes that celebrate winter’s best ingredients. Their December menu features thoughtful, comforting items inspired by local farms and coastal producers.

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One of their most memorable seasonal offerings is the Halloumi & Z’hatar Tart, shown here with seasonal figs. The flaky pastry base, warm halloumi cheese, earthy z’hatar seasoning, and roasted figs create a beautifully balanced sweet–savory bite that embodies cozy winter dining.

Nestled in the Quiet Corner, The Vanilla Bean Café is a December classic. Their scratch-made pastries, soups, sandwiches, and warm beverages create a nostalgic New England feel that’s especially inviting in winter.

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A cozy December morning indulgence—like their house-made cinnamon roll, drizzled with vanilla icing and baked until soft and warm. It’s the ideal treat before holiday shopping or a scenic wintry drive.

Overlooking the water, The Fisherman offers classic New England comfort dishes with a scenic winter backdrop. It’s a go-to spot for warm, hearty meals during the colder months.

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Their Clams Linguini combines fresh littleneck clams, garlic, shallots, butter, white wine, and tender pasta. Simple, warming, and full of coastal flavor, it’s an excellent choice for a winter evening by the river.

Engine Room’s industrial charm, warm lighting, and roaring fireplace make it a winter favorite. Known for their gourmet burgers, cocktails, and comfort-forward small plates, this spot is ideal for a festive night out.

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Start with the Cowboy Dip—a creamy candied-jalapeño and herb blend served with warm, house-made tortilla chips. The sweet heat and crunch make it a must-order for December gatherings.

A beloved riverside staple, Paul’s Pasta Shop is known for its comforting, house-made dishes that warm you from the inside out—perfect for cold December nights.

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Pictured here is Dorothy’s Meat Lasagna, a hearty classic layered with ricotta, hot and sweet Italian sausage, and ground beef, all baked between sheets of pasta and topped generously with Paul’s rich, slow-simmered red sauce. It’s indulgent, warming, and exactly the kind of winter comfort food that makes Paul’s Pasta a local favorite.