OUTrageous Restaurants – Outside Dining in Fairfield County

This unique and innovative casual/fine dining restaurant with New England-inspired American cuisine emphasizes a farm to table approach, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in Southport, with a décor that conveys the charm and coziness of a countryside living room paired with a bar/lounge designed to capture the energy of a tavern, resulting in an exciting and effervescent ambiance.

Recognized for having the best water view in Westport, this exciting seafood restaurant boasts soaring views of the Saugatuck River, serving savory American fare.

Simply stated, Brewport in Bridgeport enriches lives, with thin crust pizza, gourmet salad, and Connecticut-style beers so amazingly great, that staff and guests keep coming back for more. Doesn’t hurt to be housed in an old but cool newspaper distribution building with remnants of old steam pipes, industrial green paint and other vestiges of a time long past. Great outdoor eating, too.

One of Connecticut's most popular outdoor summer fun destinations since the 1980s, Captain's Cove is a family-owned and operated marina, restaurant, bar and boardwalk located along historic Black Rock Harbor in Bridgeport. Their tremendous patio with spectacular harbor views fabulous bars and extensive menu featuring fresh seafood and other specialties will make you a fan for life!

Open year-round, this contemporary and romantic restaurant on Norwalk Harbor serves well prepared, attractively presented and sophisticated Mediterranean/Seafood fare in a relaxed waterfront setting.

This iconic restaurant bar, or “port of call” for seasonal Mediterranean cuisine is designed to transport the ambiance of Provence to the Gold Coast of Connecticut on Greenwich Harbor. Two-hundred-year-old stone terra cotta tiles adorn the floors with a wood-burning fireplace lending an unmistakable charm and beauty.

Located dockside at Brewer’s Stratford Marina in historic Stratford, Outriggers Restaurant serves fresh fish and other culinary delights made to order. The upstairs room boasts a terrace with spectacular views of the marina, the Housatonic River and Long Island Sound.

Call it a landmark or call it an institution, either way, Overton’s Seafood in Norwalk has been an integral part of the fabric of Norwalk for 60 years. The venerable seaside restaurant, where families have eaten fried clams and teenagers have worked summer jobs since 1948 has changed little, if at all, over the past six decades.

Enjoy exceptional cuisine in an upscale yet relaxed waterfront setting at Parker. in Shelton, featuring a menu that reflects the new trend in American casual dining, consisting of many comfort food favorites like mac-n-chz, mushroom meatloaf, bbq ribs, and their famous French dip. Every ingredient in the menu arrives fresh at the restaurant to make your experience even more delicious and memorable.

Like the legendary bistros of Paris, Rive is warm and convivial, a true ‘bistro populaire’ on the Saugatuck River in Westport. The dining room accented with suave lighting and urban décor with a wrap-around wall of windows overlooks a bend in the river; and the outdoor patio feels like a cafe on the Seine. During cold months, the fireplace will keep you toasty.

Overlooking the Housatonic River, Riverview Bistro in Stratford is warm and inviting, with a newly renovated dining room, a spacious, secluded bar and a charming seasonal patio with picturesque views. The menu is sure to please every palette with its various offerings of classic items prepared with a contemporary flair.

The Restaurant, as locals call it, has been delighting palettes since 1996, offering upscale dining and a low-key atmosphere in an amazing setting on the Five Mile River located in Rowayton. Traditional seafood preparations such as oysters, chowder, lobsters and seasonal dishes punctuate their menu which changes seasonally.

Enjoy a true taste of Spain in South Norwalk with an authentic tapas menu (over 30 to choose from), plus traditional Spanish dishes, global wine list, and live music. High energy fuels the block with indoor/outdoor dining and active bar scene.

Experience the best of American cuisine with a delightful Japanese twist at the spectacular waterfront dining destination in Stratford specializing in delectable fresh seafood dishes.

Take in the sea breeze and the sounds of the marina while dining at this scenic waterfront restaurant overlooking Norwalk Harbor – one of the most beautiful in the state. Their gourmet seafood menu elevates the experience to sublime!

The collective dream of four life-long friends and now business partners comes together in a shared love and passion for food, drink and good times in a spectacular setting in South Norwalk. Inventive dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients on their ever-evolving menu has made it an award-winning destination for celebrations big and small.

Located at The Village at 4 Star Point in Stamford's South End, The Wheel sits directly on a marina with indoor dining, a large outdoor patio, and inviting boardwalk. Drawing on fresh ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, and purveyors, plus produce grown on their own rooftop garden, their contemporary American fare, cocktail, and craft beer selections showcase the best of what's in season. You'll love the upscale industrial chic atmosphere and their Dock & Dine availability.

Opening late in 2024, The Bridge at Saugatuck in Westport has quickly become a destination for its waterfront setting and contemporary American cuisine featuring steaks, house-made pastas, and fresh seafood specialties. Patrons love the lively bar scene, indoor dining with river views through large windows, a covered patio overlooking the Saugatuck River, and its breathtaking atmosphere at sunset.

MORE SEAFOOD! That's how the idea for Joey C's Boathouse in Stratford was born. The varied menu offers something for everyone – comfort food in a casual setting done right! In addition to fresh fish & seafood selections, popular BBQ and Mexican dishes are also served at what many call the best outdoor dining experience in Connecticut. One visit to their large waterfront deck and you'll see why. Enjoy open-air and covered outdoor tables, dockside bar and seating, plus live music, great cocktails, wine, and beer.

Named after the only Italian-speaking town in southern Switzerland, Lugano Wine Bar & Salumeria in Old Greenwich is a spirited gathering place known for its intimate street-side setting, an extensive tapas menu crafted from the freshest ingredients, and a wonderful selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Their trademark salumeria offers a unique assortment of cured Italian meats and cheeses.

Directly on Stamford Harbor with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, the water is truly the centerpiece at Prime: An American Kitchen & Bar. Diners can watch yachts and sailboats come and go from an expansive outdoor deck – especially beautiful from late afternoon into sunset. The upscale fare is a blend of classic steakhouse, fresh seafood, and sushi – raw bar and premium sides, too.. Highlights include a temperature-controlled glass whine room with more than 750 labels, plus well-crafted martinis, classic cocktails, and seasonal signature drinks.

The Beer Garden at Shippan Landing is an outdoor oasis in Stamford featuring a rotating roster of craft beers, a variety of creative food trucks, live music, and special events. Sociable, laid-back vibes make this the perfect waterfront spot to chill with friends and family. Open Wednesday-Sunday.