Are you looking for some amazing waterfront restaurants in CT? Places where you can eat delicious food with some beautiful views of the Long Island Sound or one of Connecticut’s rivers?

If so, you have come to the right place.

There’s nothing more enjoyable, in my opinion, than a nice glass of wine and a lobster tail with a view of the water.

Watching boats come and go, listening to the seagulls, smelling the salt air – my favorite.

Some of the waterfront restaurants on this list are casual and fun, while others are for those looking for a more sophisticated fine-dining experience.

Whatever you’re looking for, there’s something on this list for you.

So, let’s get right to it – here are the absolute best waterfront restaurants in CT.

image of 2 glasses of wine at one of the waterfront restaurants in CT.

12 of the best waterfront restaurants in CT

Ford’s Lobster – Noank

If you’re in the mood for seafood, Ford’s Lobster in Noank is a great waterfront restaurant you should check out.

If you are looking for a restaurant that’s right on the water and that serves locally sourced seafood, Ford’s Lobster is your place.

From fresh New England Clam Chowder to crab cakes to lobster rolls, there are so many delicious seafood dishes served here.

The waterfront views are incredible and the atmosphere is comfortable and friendly.

Address: 15 Riverview Avenue, Noank, CT 06340

On the Waterfront – New London

On the Waterfront in New London is considered one of the best restaurants in the city. It is certainly one of the best breakfast spots in New London.

The menu here is extensive and filled with amazing seafood choices.

The atmosphere at this waterfront restaurant is upscale-casual.

Address: 250 Pequot Ave. New London, CT

Shell & Bones – New Haven

If you ask anyone in CT what the best waterfront restaurant in the state is, a solid percentage of those asked will recommend Shell & Bones in New Haven.

The food here is as good as the waterfront views – both are spectacular.

At Shell & Bones, you have the choice of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as bar seating.

Address: 100 S. Water St., New Haven, CT 06519

Red 36 – Mystic

Red 36 in Mystic is one of the best waterfront restaurants in Mystic Country.

Come enjoy an open-air dining experience with stunning views of the Mystic River and the beautiful downtown area of Mystic.

The raw bar menu here is amazing and there are so many other great seafood and other menu items to choose from.

Address: 2 Washington Street, Mystic, CT 06355

Dog Watch – Stonington

If you are looking for some great waterfront dining that’s dog-friendly, Dog Watch in Old Stonington is your place.

Not only is Dog Watch one of CT’s best waterfront restaurants, but it’s also just an all-around great place to gather with family and friends.

The food here is great and there are lawn games and music for patrons to enjoy, as well.

Address: 194 Water Street, Stonington, CT

S & P Oyster House – Mystic

S & P Oyster House in Mystic serves some of the best seafood in CT with a South American flair.

The waterfront views are amazing from the outside dining patio.

There are so many terrific menu options at S & P, including vegan and gluten-free choices.

Address: 1 Holmes Street, Mystic, CT 06355

Outriggers – Stratford

Marina restaurants always serve the freshest and tastiest seafood.

If you’re in the Stratford area and looking for a waterfront restaurant, you’ve got to check out Outriggers.

Menu items here include Thai Shrimp Cakes and Grilled Octopus.

The atmosphere here is fairly casual and you can even catch some live music while you dine, which is nice.

Address: 555 Broad Street, Stratford, CT

L’escale – Greenwich

If you are looking for some over-the-top upscale waterfront fine dining, you’ve got to check out L’escale in Greenwich.

This place is classy, but comfortable and is perfect for a romantic dinner.

The food here is perfectly prepared and menu items include things like L’escale Bouillabaisse and Duck Confit.

Address: 500 Steamboat Rd, Greenwich, CT 06830

Housatonic House – Seymour

Housatonic House in Seymore, CT is one the best riverfront restaurants in CT.

The atmosphere here is upscale-casual and the food is amazing.

Seafood Paella and Penne Bolognese are just sample items from the Housatonic House’s great menu.

Address: 337 Roosevelt Drive, Seymour, CT 06478

The Wharf – Madison

The Wharf in Madison is Connecticut’s go-to waterfront restaurant for upscale cuisine in a fine-dining atmosphere.

From Pemaquid Mussels to their amazing Clams and Linguini dish, there are so many delicious and beautifully presented dishes here.

The Wharf even offers one of the best hot lobster rolls in CT.

Address: 94 West Wharf Road, Madison, CT 06443

Dockside – Branford

If you are trying to find a restaurant where you can eat an amazing seafood dinner while you watch the sunset over the Long Island Sound, you’ve got to check out Dockside Restaurant in Branford.

The seafood here is fresh and there are so many amazing menu options to choose from.

At Dockside, you’ll also find beer and wine tasting, as well as paint nights and other events.

Address: 145 Block Island Rd, Branford, CT 06405

Water’s Edge – Westbrook

Water’s Edge in Westbrook has one of the best buffets in Connecticut according to many.

What sets it apart from other buffets is the stunning views of the Long Island Sound from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows in the dining areas.

Reservations are required here, so make sure you call ahead and reserve your table.

This is also one of CT’s best resorts and one of its best spas.

So, definitely consider reserving a room or trying out one of the spa treatments here.

Address: 1525 Boston Post Road Westbrook CT 06498

There you have it – 12 of the best waterfront restaurants in CT.

Is your favorite restaurant with views of the water on this list?

If not, send us an email or leave a comment below and tell us about it.