There are many fine dining establishments in Connecticut, but with more than 600 miles of coastline, and its own scallop-fishing fleet, the state is particularly well blessed with good seafood restaurants. You need not even be close to the shoreline to find an excellent fish dish.
This West Hartford establishment is regularly voted readers' favorite seafood restaurant in Connecticut Magazine's annual poll. It's the creation of restaurateur Richard Rosenthal who owns a number of justly famous eateries around the state. With an excellent raw bar, the restaurant specializes in what it describes as modern renditions of classic American seafood.
Max's Oyster Bar
964 Farmington Ave
West Hartford, CT 06107
860-236-6299
maxrestaurantgroup.com/oyster/
There are actually three sister restaurants of this name in the state, but the original branch in Woodbury, Litchfield County has been receiving most accolades. Maine lobsters are a specialty - you can pick live from the tank. The décor is also worth the trip -- the 9-foot tall antique bronze mermaid who presides over the dining room is a local legend.
Carmen Anthony Fishhouse
757 Main Street
Woodbury, CT 06798
203-266-0011
carmenanthonyrestaurant.com/woodbury.html
This locally owned restaurant has earned an "excellent" rating from Zagat. Executive chef Chris North creates innovative seasonal dishes, as well as old favorites such as oysters, chowder and lobster. It has a beautiful waterfront location overlooking Long Island Sound.
The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood
89 Rowayton Ave
Rowayton, CT 06853
203 866 4488
rowaytonseafood.com/
Another favorite of Connecticut Magazine readers, Westbrook Lobster has a relaxed atmosphere combined with top-notch seafood dining. The business began as a specialized lobster and fish market in the 1950s and expanded into catering, a finally two restaurants. The Wallingford location is rich with history, housed in an old grain mill, that was later a silver spoon factory. In the warmer months you can dine on the riverside covered deck.
Westbrook Lobster
300 Church Street
Wallingford, CT 06492
203-265-5071
westbrooklobster.com/
