The air has transitioned from unbearably hot to a cooler reminder that autumn is around the corner. And what better time than now to enjoy outdoor dining, especially when there is a water view? With cooler air comes fewer mosquitos and less chance of being sticky and sweaty, so right now is the perfect span of time to really appreciate those coastal restaurants that make our area so unique. Here are a few we love:
L’ escale
500 Steamboat Road, Greenwich
Cuisine: Provencal and Mediterranean
Overlooks: Greenwich Harbor
Must-Try Dishes: Crab and Pea Ravioli; Monkfish a la Facon Bouillabaisse
More Info: The interior resembles something out of an old time French movie, and a wood-working fireplace that originated in a castle in the South of France adds a real authentic touch. L'escale is best for those who enjoy upscale, fine dining.
*Make a reservation online »
Rive Bistro
299 Riverside Ave., Westport
Cuisine: French
Overlooks: Saugatuck River
Must-Try Dishes: Moules Frites Provencale; Duck Confit
More Info: A wrap-around wall of windows allows you to dine indoors while enjoying the waterfront view. For those who prefer to sit outside, an outdoor patio provides a great space to enjoy the river.
Splash
260 Compo Road South, Westport
Cuisine: American/Seafood
Overlooks: Long Island Sound
Must-Try Dishes: Peel and Eat Gulf Shrimp, Macadamia Crusted Swordfish
More Info: Splash was awarded "Best of" New England Waterfront Dining by the Food Network. The interior has less of a New England feel and more of a Barcelona one (think: Gaudi-style mosaic). With a brunch menu, this is the perfect place to take family to bond and relax over delicious food.
The Crabshell
46 Southfield Ave., Stamford
Cuisine: American/Seafood
Overlooks: Stamford Harbor
Must-Try Dishes: Seafood Au Gratin; Shrimp, Chicken and Sausage Creole
More Info: The Crabshell boasts a dock for boats to pull in and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant was revamped in 2012, so if you haven’t been there in awhile check it out!
Beer Garden at Harbor Point
15 Harbor Point Road, Stamford
Drinks: Specializes in craft beers
Overlooks: Harbor Point canal
Must-Try Beer: Aprihop Dogfish Head; Blue Point Blueberry Ale
More Info: Food trucks parked outside offer a variety of easy finger-food to wash down with a beer. Head there on a weekend night for a lively 20- and 30-somethings crowd.
Rowayton Seafood
89 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton
Cuisine: Seafood
Overlooks: Five Mile River
Must-Try Dishes: Roasted Red Snapper with truffle garlic cream sauce; Oyster Po-Boy Slider
More Info: The brunch menu is quite popular, with dishes that merge breakfast and seafood such as Maine Lobster Benedict. The atmosphere is perfect for family-style dining or for smaller groups or couples.
Positano
Cuisine: Italian
Overlooks: a cove off Long Island Sound
Must-Try Dishes: Ravioli ai Crostacci; Scaloppine di Vitello all Cardinale
More Info: The owner was born in Italy and brings authenticity to every dish.