Old Saybrook, Connecticut is located where the Connecticut River empties into the Long Island Sound. The area was originally inhabited by the Algonquin Nehantic and Pequot Indians before the Dutch came, who were followed by the English. The town was the first official home to Yale University in 1700 before the university eventually relocated to New Haven in 1718. Today, Old Saybrook is a charming town that boasts not only a storied history, a picture-perfect main street and abundant views of the water, it is also home to a number of favorite restaurants.
Diners may feel as if they are in the Rocky Mountains’ Aspen, not the one located on the Connecticut shoreline. The details of the restaurant revolve around the wooded theme, whether it’s the Aspen trunks tucked into a corner or the falling leaves that remain suspended in glass. Voted “Diner’s Choice in 2009" by Open Table, Aspen Restaurant offers modern American fare with a global fusion twist. The restaurant’s menus change according to what is abundant and in season; but overall, the menu is varied and includes dishes such as a heady lobster Bolognese, a braised pork shank, an all-American sirloin steak, and a duo of duck.
No self-respecting New England town should find itself without a pub. Pubs by their very name are easygoing and warm, and the food generally reflects that lack of fuss. On Connecticut Magazine’s 2011 Best list, the Penny Lane Pub took top honors in the best lunch category. Daily specials abound, but typical pub fare is found including shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, burgers, corned beef and a broiled steak that was marinated in a pool of Guinness.
Although not quite as old as Old Saybrook, Luigi’s has served Italian fare since 1956. The standard Italian cuisine is in abundance including antipasto, pasta with meatballs, pizza and pasta aglio e olio. Traditional American dishes are plentiful, too, such as fried shrimp, broiled scallops, cheeseburgers and BLTs. The restaurant includes a bar for relaxation and conversation and also offers rooms for large parties or events. In 2008, Old Saybrook residents named Luigi’s the “Best Italian Family Restaurant” in the Shoreline Times’ reader’s poll.
Locals and repeat tourists travel to Johnny Ad's for the lobster rolls that drip butter. If lobster isn't your thing, this laid-back restaurant offers typical seaside restaurant fare: oyster plates, clam chowder, fresh cod, and seafood platters. For those who prefer turf over surf, the offerings are varied and include hamburgers, hot dogs, and sausage with peppers and onions. Old-timers in the habit of bringing their own alcohol may leave the good stuff at home as Johnny Ad's now serves beer and wine.
