Restaurants In Southeastern Connecticut That Are Worth Checking Out

If you’re looking for great food in southeastern Connecticut, you won’t have to look far. The area is home to an impressive mix of local gems, creative kitchens, and reliable favorites. These are some restaurants that are worth checking out.

Noble Smokehouse

This is one of my personal favorites in Mystic. It’s a great spot to get BBQ. Not only is the food absolutely delicious, it’s also usually very quick to come out. Bonus: It’s not directly in downtown Mystic so it has its own parking lot and you won’t have to deal with finding street parking or paying to park like you would at a restaurant in downtown.

374 Kitchen + Cocktails

374 is located on Main Street in Niantic. This restaurant blends new wave style with old school comforts. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. I highly recommend going later in the evening to grab a bite from their Creatures of the Night menu.

Shunock River Brewery And Wood Fired Pizza

Shunock River Brewery and Village Cafe in North Stonington is a family and friend owned business that offers amazing brews and wood fired pizza. I recommend trying the soupy crumble pizza. In addition to pizza, they have quesadillas, pretzels, and nachos.

Paul’s Pasta

Paul’s Pasta is a must-visit if you go to Groton. This pasta shop offers house-made pasta that’s absolutely delicious. My go-to is the chicken Alfredo, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. If you sit outside, you can enjoy views of the Thames River and New London across the river.

La Stella

La Stella in downtown Norwich delivers classic Italian comfort with a modern, welcoming vibe that keeps locals coming back. From handcrafted pastas to wood-fired specialties, every dish is made with fresh ingredients and genuine care. Whether you’re looking for Italian classics or a pizza, this spot has you covered.

Momosan by Morimoto

Momosan by Morimoto at Foxwoods Resort Casino brings bold, approachable Japanese flavors to the table with the signature creativity of Chef Masaharu Morimoto. Known for its standout ramen, inventive small plates, and energetic atmosphere, it delivers some seriously great food. It’s definitely worth checking out if you like ramen.

La Llorona Progressive Mexican Cuisine

La Llorona Progressive Mexican Cuisine in Niantic is a great spot to grab a bite to eat and drinks. My go-to are street tacos, but there are honestly so many good things on the menu. I’d also highly recommend getting a flight of margaritas! This is my favorite Mexican restaurant in the area.

Hoof’s Restaurant & Bar

Hoof’s Restaurant & Bar in Pawcatuck offers a polished yet relaxed dining experience built around hearty dishes, quality ingredients, and standout cocktails. This spot is great for both casual nights out and special occasions. Be sure to explore downtown Westerly, Rhode Island next door while you’re in the area!

Trattoria Amalfi

Trattoria Amalfi in Olde Mistick Village delivers authentic Italian comfort with a focus on fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and warm hospitality. From handmade pastas to classic regional dishes, every plate reflects a commitment to simple, satisfying flavors. From appetizers to main dishes, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

Sapore Ristorante & Pizza Bar

Sapore Ristorante & Pizza Bar in Old Lyme keeps things simple with quality ingredients, crisp crusts, and bold flavors that speak for themselves. Known for its consistently great pies and quick, friendly service, it’s a go-to spot for anyone craving dependable, delicious pizza. It’s even gotten the seal of approval from Dave Portnoy.

Yoko Loko

Yoko Loko is my favorite spot to grab a bite to eat in Gales Ferry. It’s a Taqueria & Hibachi eatery and you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. They also have pop-ups with specials from time to time, so always check their socials! If I’m getting tacos, I always go for the Mexi Sexy tacos, but if I’m in the mood for Asian, I’ll go for the Chicken Scallion plate.

The Tin Peddler

The Tin Peddler in North Stonington pairs creative, seasonally driven dishes with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that feels both modern and local. Known for its fresh ingredients and thoughtful flavor combinations, it delivers a dining experience that’s both approachable and memorable. I’ve been for brunch, but I’d love to go back for dinner to get some comfort food like mac and cheese.

Plum Tomato

Growing up in Salem, Connecticut, I ate a lot of pizza from Plum Tomato. My favorite thing about going to Plum Tomato is that you can just grab a slice or two on the go! I used to always grab a couple slices and then go sit by the lake at Gardner Lake State Park. There are three locations: Salem, East Lyme, and Colchester. If you’re looking to dine-in, definitely go to East Lyme or Colchester.

Doro Marketplace

Doro Marketplace in Old Saybrook offers fresh, thoughtfully made food in a bright, welcoming setting that feels instantly comfortable. From artisan baked goods to wholesome meals and grab-and-go favorites, everything is crafted with quality and care. I’ve been for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and I’ve never had a bad meal.

Muddy Waters Cafe

Muddy Waters Cafe is a great spot to grab breakfast or lunch on Bank Street in downtown New London. They have great coffee, baked goods, and breakfast options. They have indoor seating and outdoor seating on a deck overlooking the Thames River. If you’re traveling by train, it’s a short walk from the train station.

The Fat Tuna

The Fat Tuna is a seafood restaurant along the Niantic River in Waterford. This spot is a bit pricey, but the food is delicious. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating available. This is a great spot to get seafood, but there are other options as well if you’re not into seafood.

Oriental Bar and Grill

Oriental Bar & Grill in Uncasville serves up flavorful Asian-inspired dishes in a warm, inviting setting that keeps guests coming back. This is one of the best spots to get authentic Asian cuisine in the area. Be sure to ask for the traditional menu and check out their dim sum menu.

Nana’s Mystic

Nana’s in Mystic is a casual restaurant offering a variety of dishes, including breakfast and lunch options. It’s known for its sourdough pizza, local ingredients and simple, hearty meals. There’s indoor seating as well as waterside outdoor seating. This restaurant also has its own parking lot, which is always a bonus in Mystic.