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24 Best Restaurants in Mystic CT You Must Visit (For First Timer!)

Do you know there are more than 50 restaurants in Mystic?

Mystic is a typical Connecticut coastal town that is lovely, old, and crowded with visitors.

Mystic, with its riverside setting, was a well-known seaport where many ships were constructed.

Today, the Mystic Seaport Museum houses some of these restored ships.

The city offers family-friendly and romantic dining experiences, satisfying the cravings of all foodies.

Experience the New England-style cooking and renowned beachfront dining of Connecticut while taking in the stunning vistas of Long Island Sound.

In fact, the dining scene in Mystic is rather diverse, with establishments specializing in anything from seafood to traditional Mexican cuisine.

You can’t go wrong at any of these fantastic restaurants in Mystic, Connecticut.

Although there are a lot of restaurants in Mystic, here are the top restaurants you shouldn’t miss.

Restaurants in mystic

1. The Mariner

The mariner mystic

The mariner mystic

Located in the center of Mystic’s downtown, the Mariner is just the right place if you want to get real New England classics.

The Mariner offers delicious seafood at affordable prices in a laid-back atmosphere.

In fact, the restaurant has one of the best lobster rolls in Mystic.

It is also one of the most friendly restaurants in Mystic. They serve some of the world’s best clam chowder.

Although the restaurant is deceiving from the outside, wait till you get inside. You are in for a treat.

They have the best happy hour, with affordable prices for tasty drinks and delectable food.

Stop in for a happy hour or let the helpful staff help you choose from a fantastic menu that features fresh homemade pasta, great steaks, local seafood, and more.

Although the Mariner is a busy restaurant, but the service there is outstanding, rushing between tables while always having a word for the patrons.

Address: 21 W Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

2. Via Emilia

Via emilia mystic

Emilia

Via Emilia is hands down one of the best Italian restaurants in Mystic.

The space is great, with two floors, both aesthetically pleasing. You can tell they did a phenomenal job with the setup.

The restaurant is the sister establishment of The Mariner, which is situated right across the street.

Both establishments’ owners, Shaun Golan and Jakob Andros are present and appear to be continuously monitoring everything to ensure quality service.

Via Emilia has a sizable but not overpowering menu.

A charcuterie dish featuring Italian meats, cheeses, marinated veggies, and olives is a good place to start.

Pick from a variety of appetizers like Vongole, which are locally baked clams with garlic, breadcrumbs, oregano, and lemon, or the well-liked Polpettine.

They also serve fresh whipped ricotta and high-quality olive oil to dip in with the rustic bread that goes with the meals, along with other delectables such as marinated white beans.

The food is always authentically Italiano, whether it be a cocktail, antipasta, pasta, or cake. Every course of the dinner continues to satisfy the senses, as does every mouthful.

Address: 24 W Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

3. Buon Appetito Ristorante & Pizzeria

Buon appetito ristorante & pizzeria mystics

Buon appetito ristorante & pizzeria mystics

If you are in Mystic and are looking for great beer and great food, Bank & Bridge is the place to go.

The restaurant is a veteran-owned production brewery with a modern restaurant in the heart of Mystic.

It is owned by a former Marine who later became a trial lawyer before opening multiple breweries.

Walt has switched from wearing combat boots to flip-flops and dress shoes.

It is an excellent conversion of the structure from a bank to a brewery. A brewery can only make people happy, but a bank can make them anxious.

The staff has created a fantastic menu featuring modern iterations of old favorites. Consider sandwiches with fried chicken and upgraded burgers at a reasonable price.

They have a kitchen in the back and a large indoor and outdoor seating area, and a wonderful assortment of their beers and some rarely-seen guest beers.

Additionally, it features a decent selection of “Pub food.” Finally, for those who enjoy “People Watching,” the restaurant also includes outdoor seats.

They have an excellent selection of shirts, hats, and glasses if you want to grab something before leaving.

The only caveat is that it might be pretty tricky to find parking spaces because they are right on Main Street, but you can try the spaces across the street.

Address: 386 Norwich-Westerly Rd, North Stonington, CT 06359, United States

4. Red 36

Red 36

Red 36

Are you looking for restaurants in Mystic with amazing views? Then Red 36 won’t disappoint.

Situated right on the water in the center of Mystic’s historic district, Red 36 is a nice restaurant to have a date.

The beautiful vistas are combined with a contemporary and cozy overall design.

A seaside ski lodge atmosphere is created in the winter by the roaring fireplace and the snug interior eating and bar area.

In fact, it seems impossible that there could be a restaurant here as you drive through the boatyard because it is hidden away in a suburban area of the city.

This charming marina-based open-air restaurant has many seating areas, including an indoor and outdoor bar, indoor and outdoor tables, and sofa seating around low tables.

Fresh fish and a wide variety of raw foods are constantly available in the eclectic American cuisine, which varies periodically.

The menu also includes a variety of appetizers, numerous burger options, and flatbread pizzas, so there is something for everyone.

You can unwind in the open, porch-like lounge area with white wicker sofas while sipping your can of flavored Fishers Island Lemonade.

Additionally, Red 36 is quiet and cozy during the off-peak months, giving you the impression that you are spending the winter on an island. While in the summer, it is crowded and bustling, with people having nonstop parties.

Address: 2 Washington St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

5. Engine Room

Engine room mystic

Engine room

Here’s one of the most unusual restaurants in Mystic.

The rustic industrial-style dining room is housed in the beautifully restored Lathrop Marine Engine building with views of the Mystic River.

The restaurant features sixteen craft beers on tap, one of the largest bourbon selections in the region, craft cocktails, and a menu of locally sourced, inventive American comfort food with a focus on burgers.

You’d assume the atmosphere would be the main attraction, given how inviting the industrial vibe of the wonderfully restored Marine Engine building is to diners. But the meal is simply outstanding, and the bar menu is also excellent!

Despite the menu’s modest size, there are many options and something for everyone.

Address: 14 Holmes St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

6. The Shipwright’s Daughter

The Shipwright's Daughter

Shipwright’s Daughter

The restaurant is located in the Whaler’s Inn near the drawbridge in the center of Mystic.

It is under the direction of Executive Chef David Standridge, who relocated from New York with 15 years of culinary experience.

Executive Chef David Standridge presents a daily-changing cuisine that captures the distinct personality of coastal Connecticut.

The restaurant is a true treasure! Outstanding and contemporary European cuisine, amazing and attentive service thanks to the lovely surroundings, and fantastic music.

You will come across creative beverages, flawlessly fried oysters, delectable steak,  scrumptious chicken, and many more.

Address: 20 E Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

7. S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar

S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar

The S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar

S&P Oyster Restaurant and bar is a perfect place to have lunch while in Mystic.

The use of zesty flavors and traditional recipes, the pursuit of the freshest seafood and beef, and the provision of gluten-free and vegan menus make the foods distinctively South American.

Along with the knowledgeable personnel, the restaurant has a joyful and welcoming atmosphere.

It is a two-story structure, and both levels have fantastic river views thanks to the marina side.

There’s an excellent view of the Mystic drawbridge, boats and kayaks traveling up and down the Mystic River.

With the lights strung from the ceiling, the vibrant flowers and plants all around, and the moonlight glinting off the water, you will enjoy the atmosphere.

This restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating. However, wherever you sit, you will have a filled time.

The menu has a wonderful choice of cocktails and inventive dish pairings.

There is background music that is soft and beautiful.

You can make reservations for lunch and dinner at any time! Particularly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

A pleasant stroll by the river or through the town is recommended before or after your lunch if you’d like to unwind.

Address: 1 Holmes St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

8. Pink Basil

Pink Basil

Pink Basil

Here’s a fantastic tiny locals’ hangout in the middle of a tourist destination; Mystic.

Pink Basil is one of the restaurants in Mystic which specializes in real Asian food.

It is located near the Army Navy store. You will find genuine cuisines from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, and Korea on the menu.

Visitors can relax with their pets on the front or back patios and take in the stunning vista of Olde Mistick Village while they dine al fresco.

They also have a full bar where you can order nearly any beverage.

Numerous vegetarian and gluten-free choices are also available on their menu.

The best part! They will ensure to cook your meal appropriately if you have an allergy.

Overall, It’s a terrific place for friends, families, and couples to get together for cocktails and sushi in a relaxed setting.

Address: 27 Coogan Blvd Building 3B, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

9. Chapter One Food and Drink Mystic CT

Chapter One Food and Drink Mystic CT

The Chapter One Food and Drink

Chapter one is where you should be if you’re visiting Mystic and looking for somewhere to grab brunch, lunch, supper, or a beverage.

The burgers here are amazing. You can tell they know what they’re doing and utilize exceptionally high-quality beef.

It is situated in the center of Mystic’s downtown area, right past the infamous Mystic Drawbridge, and it has something to tempt every customer.

Each dish has been thoughtfully made. Delicious lobster grill cheese, steak and eggs, a killer burger, and many other dishes are available.

With fresh seafood, dry-aged steaks, and vegan and gluten-free alternatives, this restaurant is a must-visit if you are in Mystic.

The restaurant is open until 1 am Sun. – Thurs. And 2 am Fri. – Sat.

Address: 32 W Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

10. Bravo Bravo

Bravo bravo mystic

The Bravo bravo

Bravo Bravo is also one of the best restaurants in Mystic, serving contemporary Italian cuisine.

Their cuisine features homemade pasta, fresh fish, and imaginative sweets.

In fact, they provide some of the best happy hour deals in town and a stretch of sidewalk you may dine while taking in the activity of downtown Mystic.

A wall of huge windows overlooks Mystic’s main street, allowing you to take in the city’s bustle while drinking fine wines and enjoying your meals.

The bar’s walls are covered in black and white pictures, which flow into a dining area decorated with flickering white candles reflected in numerous mirrors.

The unique menu at Bravo Bravo Restaurant & Bar offers regional seafood with a Mediterranean flavor.

Savor some lobster ravioli. Osso bucco, crab cakes, and paste e fagioli for lunch or dinner.

Fresh-out-of-the-oven focaccia bread with olive oil and red roasted pepper dip is served first.

If you are a vegan, Bravo Bravo is also an excellent option because the menu has a variety of vegetarian selections.

If you don’t want to remain for dinner, head to the bar for drinks or high-quality wines from around the world.

Address: 19 E Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

11. Anthony J’s Bistro

Anthony J's Bistro

Anthony J’s Bistro

Are you looking for intimate and cozy restaurants in Mystic for a date? Then go to Anthony J’s Bistro.

Your Anthony J’s experience starts in the welcoming bar, where you can select from their renowned wine cellar, sip on a creative cocktail or have some beer.

Fresh seafood, Canadian lobster, Angus beef, Canadian veal, imported pasta, made-to-order salads, and interesting appetizers are always available at Anthony J’s.

You should also come here if you’re craving some homestyle Italian food.

All of your favorite Italian dishes, including garlic bread, pasta (sometimes paired with fish), and stone-cooked pizza, are available at Anthony J’s.

Save room for dessert by indulging in delectable tiramisu, cheesecake, mud pie, and cannoli.

In fact, the menu features several things that are rarely found in other Italian-style restaurants.

Overall, this is a wonderful dining establishment, perfect for a date night.

Because the restaurant is not a big one, you might have to wait on a busy day, but the wait is worth it.

Address: 6 Holmes St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

12. Friar Tuck’s Tavern

Friar Tuck's Tavern

The Friar Tuck’s Tavern

Friar Tuck’s is the go-to restaurant/sports pub in the Mystic area.

In fact, it is the only sports bar among the restaurants in Mystic, so it’s different from your standard pub.

The restaurant features a constantly changing specials menu in addition to the house specialties, and it is sure to satisfy your palate.

A varied and delectable cuisine is presented daily, along with a happy hour cocktail selection.

Live music is performed on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at Friar Tuck’s.

You should also try all of the fantastic craft beers on their 24-tap system and the seasonally appropriate craft cocktails.

There are a variety of delectable appetizers to pick from to start.

Batter-fried mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce, homemade spinach artichoke dip with naan chips, and soft Barvarian pretzel sticks are a few excellent appetizer options.

Similarly, they also provide a wide variety of soup, salad, and burger options for dinners that will astound you.

Tuck chips or sweet potato fries are typically offered with hamburgers. The dishes on its Classic English & Irish menu are also enjoyable to sample.

Lunch and dinner are served daily from 11:30 am-9 pm. Fridays and Saturdays, they are open until 10 pm.

Address: 12 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

13. Oyster Club

Oyster club mystic

The Oyster club mystic

Oyster Club is a casual fine dining restaurant and raw bar specializing in the bounty of the New England coast and countryside.

The restaurant has a vintage industrial aesthetic.

The proprietor of this establishment has mastered the art of building restaurants with flawless execution, ideal staffing, and outstanding food and cocktails.

It is a restaurant with a farm and sea-to-table philosophy.

On the menu, there will likely be more than just delectable oysters. Only the freshest foods, bar, and oyster bar are used at The Oyster Club.

There is also happy hour from 4–5 pm.

Address: 13 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

Stopping by in Westport? Check out our list of the best Restaurants in Westport to dine at!

14. Captain Daniel Packer Inne

Captain Daniel Packer Inne

Captain Daniel Packer Inne

Want to know what it feels like to dine in a vintage restaurant while still in Mystic? Then take a journey back in time.

You will dine in a building that looks and feels like it is in the 1700s.

From the dining room to the pub in the basement, its charm doesn’t fail.

The basement fireplace, the musket over the mantel, and the live music make this very tight but quaint pub worth a stop in.

Try the bread basket with a roasted garlic bulb, oil, and butter. You will enjoy them.

Additionally, the Pub features live music every night, and every Tuesday after 9 pm, DPI hosts “Koozedays.”

Address: 32 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

15. Samurai Noodle Bar & Grill

Samurai Noodle Bar & Grill

Samurai Noodle Bar & Grill

Sometimes, you just need some carbohydrates and salt after a long day of activities. Well, you can get that here.

Sushi, Asian BBQ, and real Japanese ramen noodles are available here.

They make their own fresh noodles every day on-site, and you can watch them make them. They also have 18 beers on tap.

The space is of a nice size and divided between a noodle section and a barbecue section.

When you go here, a server will ask if you’re here for the BBQ or the ramen. The menu they give you and your seated space depends on your response.

The atmosphere is incredibly spacious and light, and the bar is enormous, with possibly more than 25 seats.

There are too wide varieties of noodles to list, yet they all cater to a wide range of tastes, but you will enjoy anyone you taste.

Address: 27 W Main St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

16. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant

Margaritas mexican restaurant mystic

The Margaritas Mexican Restaurant Mystic

Margaritas Restaurant is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Mystic planned in a two-story setting with lots of Mexican flair and bright colors.

Despite the fact that Mexican food can frequently taste the same from one restaurant to another, you will still enjoy your meals here.

When you enter, it feels completely different from the unassuming exterior. Beautiful, vibrant patterns are throughout the walls.

The decor is colorful and exciting; the food was excellent.

If you are visiting without children, the upstairs bar area is fantastic.

The top floor also features a bar, tables, and televisions that typically display sports.

You can order a cocktail or margarita at the bar and enjoy complimentary chips and salsa or sit down for a delicious Mexican dinner.

Additionally, due to the enormous windows, some tables have views of the courtyard.

The restaurant fills up quickly on weekends during the summer, so you should make reservations.

Address: 12 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

17. Jealous Monk

Jealous monk

Jealous monk

If you are looking for restaurants in Mystic where you can have a family dinner or group meal in a friendly yet pleasant environment, you should visit jealous monk.

Situated in Old Mystick Village next to the aquarium, jealous monk is the only beer garden in Mystic.

It offers an ever-changing menu, unique craft beers on tap, and a warm and inviting atmosphere.

There is also a carefully curated beverage selection, including bottled beer, various wines, and inventive cocktails.

Huge barrel-vaulted ceilings, old-world oil paintings, and wide communal tables contribute to the unique ambiance.

There’s indoor and outdoor seating (when weather permits).

Although it is bustling both inside and outside, yet it’s not too noisy that you can’t converse with friends.

Various board games, pinball, and vintage video games create the ideal environment.

There are activities, a unique fire pit rock, picnic tables, and other amenities in the sizable outdoor area.

Because of its convenient location on the borders of Olde Mistick Village, you may go shopping, load everything into your car, and then relax with a leisurely supper.

The food is fairly decent despite the menu’s focus on sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Address: 27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

18. Abbott’s Outpost

Abbott's Outpost

The Abbott’s Outpost

Abbott’s Outpost perfectly embodies true New England seafood cuisine while adding its own creative twist.

It was founded in 1947 by the late Ernest Abbott and ran for a while as a wholesaling business and cannery.

It has been a popular tourist and local destination for decades.

In fact, it has received accolades from the Food Network, Roadfood, Zagat, Yankee magazine, Men’s Health, Connecticut Magazine, and other publications.

Fried clams and fish tacos are some of the favorites here, and the pricing is reasonable.

It has picnic tables by the water and expansive views of the Mystic River’s flowing traffic.

Abbott’s Outpost is definitely worth checking out on your next trip to Mystic!

Address: 3 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

19. Dog Watch Mystic

Dog Watch Mystic

The Dog Watch Mystic

Dog watch Mystic is a nice family restaurant, especially if you would love to visit with your four-legged friend.

The restaurant has a ton of indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a kids’ play area with activities and a fire pit.

With 40 seats inside, a tented area with picnic tables (ideal for bigger groups), a fire pit area, an outside bar, and a nicely landscaped patio, Dog Watch Mystic offers many amenities.

Even a cornhole area and an ice cream tent are present (seasonally).

Looking for some original presents? They sell a whole line of Dog Watch apparel in addition to some superb wine glasses and coffee cups.

There’s even a sweet little play area for youngsters and a nice grassy space for dogs. There are also many huge heaters outside for when it’s cold.

The cuisine is really incredible. You can try the pickle fries, chili, mac n’ cheese with pulled pork, and ribs with onion rings and baked beans; you will love them.

Not only are the meals nice, but the prices are also reasonable and worth the price.

Address: 20 Stonington Rd, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

20. Pasta Fresca & Piadina

Pasta Fresca & Piadina

Pasta Fresca & Piadina

One of the best restaurants in Mystic to swing by for a quick bite to go is Pasta Fresca & Piadina.

Italian deli meats, cheeses, and grinders are available on the delectable menu of Pasta Fresca & Piadina.

Enjoy crunchy Italian bread made in the New York way, either hot or cold, with salami, ham, capicola, pepperoni, and other favorites.

Also offered on the broad takeout menu are soups and salads.

Don’t be fooled by the fact that this takeaway shop is a hole in the wall and only accepts cash.

Every sandwich is cooked to order, and the deli meat is sliced as each sandwich is requested.

The meat is stuffed with freshly sliced meat, provolone, lettuce, and tomato. For two people with ordinary appetites, the small is adequate.

They have an Italian three meat (trio) that is so hefty that carrying it will give you a workout.

Every day, they provide hot grinder/sandwich specials and handmade soup deals.

Be careful to bring enough cash because the modest, traditional-style deli only accepts cash.

Address: 2 Lincoln Ave, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

21. Wokery In Mystic (Chinese Restaurant)

Wokery In Mystic (Chinese Restaurant)

Wokery In Mystic (Chinese Restaurant)

Restaurants in Mystic are known for several things, and Wokery is known for its outstanding Chinese cuisine.

Since 1990, Wokery in Mystic has been a family-owned business.

This long-standing restaurant boasts rapid service and good food, with fried wontons and sesame shrimp, especially fine, ample portions. It is also conveniently close to the Mystic Seaport Museum and shoreline.

Each order at the counter in the Chinese restaurant is made fresh according to the order!

The menu options are vast, and the quantities are excellent.

The family wonton soup also tastes fine, and the rice is fluffy; You should try them.

They are mostly takeout, though, with maybe two tables for eating in. They also offer vegetarian meals.

Address: 6 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

22. Sift Bake Shop Mystic

Sift Bake Shop Mystic

The Sift Bake Shop Mystic

Sify bake shop is the ideal location to pause for a breakfast pastry. It is a French-focused bakery.

Pastry Chef Adam Young owns and runs the bakery, which offers a huge selection of handmade bread, morning pastries, and sweet and savory treats.

There is seating both inside and outside, as well as at the rooftop bar.

They provide a selection of freshly baked brownies, cookies, macaroons, scones, and danishes.

Every single menu item is prepared daily in the on-site exhibition kitchen, where guests can observe the bakers hard at work through the glass windows.

The bakers arrive at 3 am to begin the daily production.

The daily laminated breakfast pastries include a range of croissants and scones, sticky buns, and muffins.

The slow fermenting procedure used in the bread gives a distinctive sour flavor and a big cell structure.

Additionally, the crust is always flaky, and the filling is always well-seasoned in the mushroom and goat cheese quiche.

Chocolate chip cookies with walnuts and sea salt are also popular.

Sift also provides bespoke presents, specialized sweets, and cakes.

You should be aware that they only offer baked products; they don’t offer breakfast sandwiches.

You can come here any day as the restaurant operates Seven days a week.

Address: 5 Water St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

23. Mystic Salad Company

Mystic Salad Company

Mystic Salad Company

If you want a delectable salad in Mystic’s downtown, check out Mystic Salad company.

Mystic Salad promises fresh, adaptable salad options at an incredible value.

Few local salad options match or surpass the quality.

Each one is completely customizable, and the pricing is the same, no matter how many extras you add.

Additionally, you can select from a combination of greens and more than 20 add-ins (vegetables, fruits, pasta, proteins, nuts, etc.).

The ingredients are also fresh, and the portions are large.

The inside is small but adequate; just be aware that you cannot eat there.

Address: 12 Cottrell St, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

24. Noble Smokehouse

Noble Smokehouse

Noble Smokehouse

The Noble Smokehouse is the place to go if you’re craving BBQ while in Mystic.

Chef Christopher Lusk, a Johnson & Wales University graduate who worked in fine dining for twenty years before founding his own restaurant, owns this BBQ joint.

As soon as you pull into their parking lot, you can already smell how great this place is!

You can even smell the wood smoke, teasing you of the delights inside.

Poblano corn soup and chopped brisket melts are two traditional and distinctive menu offerings.

Pork with a substantial smoke ring, sides that taste like they were prepared in your own home, and brisket with wonderfully thick bark are all available here.

The restaurant’s interior isn’t particularly spacious, but it doesn’t affect the quality of the meals or the overall experience.

Remember also to get some traditional mac salad or southern slaw.

Address: 4 Roosevelt Ave, Mystic, CT 06355, United States

 

Final Remarks

Besides enjoying some of its best restaurants there are also many things to do in Mystic. However, the list has been thoroughly put out to give you the best dish made, even when you are far from home.