New Haven Waterfront Restaurants Pair Views with Local Flavor

New Haven’s location on the Long Island Sound in Connecticut means there are plenty of places to admire the scenery. Why not enjoy a great view with authentic local cuisine? Read to learn about the top-rated New Haven waterfront restaurants for both.

Best New Haven Waterfront Restaurants for a Local Experience

Amarante’s Sea Cliff

For more than 60 years, family-owned Amarante’s Sea Cliff has delighted guests with waterfront dining and an upscale vibe. Many customers also plan weddings, reunions and other special events here.

Soups and salads provide the perfect way to start. Those craving seafood find fresh fish, shrimp street tacos, lobster rolls and crab cakes. Other entrees offer the chance to sample steak burgers, grilled chicken, pulled pork and tenders. Those who come before sunset may also get optimal sunset views with their dinner.

Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale

What started as a roadside clam stand has grown into a local legacy serving customers for more than 40 years. Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale strives to serve fresh New England seafood paired with waterfront views.

Visitors enjoy starting with chowder or lobster bisque, fried calamari, and more shareables. Afterwards, fill up on fried seafood, fresh fish, lobster rolls, fish tacos, casseroles, steamed mussels and even land favorites. Lenny and Joe’s Fish Tale also serves burgers, chicken, sandwiches and salads.

Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill

For an upscale experience, head to Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill. This spot ranks among the best New Haven waterfront restaurants for its views, wine list and seafood. However, they also have premium steaks and a raw bar.

Once seated, enjoy the mussel pot, brie flatbread or crab cakes. Visitors also find a selection of salads, cheese boards and soup. For the main course, select from chef-cut steaks, steamed lobster, fresh fish and pan roasted chicken. Shell and Bones also offers a raw bar that features oysters, a harbor sampler, clams and shrimp.

Anthony’s Ocean View

Anthony’s Ocean View ranks among the top New Haven waterfront restaurants for its beachfront location and upscale ambiance. It’s also a top spot for weddings, special occasions and events.

Anthony’s Ocean View specializes in Italian cuisine. Appetizers range from seafood salad to fried mozzarella. Visitors then select from salads, homemade pizza, pasta dishes and seafood specialties. Main entrees include rack of lamb, steak and chicken. Those coming for traditional Italian can order spaghetti, stuffed sole and other house favorites. Anthony’s also has a large wine list.

Sandpiper Restaurant

In East Haven, check out Sandpiper Restaurant. Visitors will not only find fresh seafood, but also a waterfront patio overlooking Long Island Sound.

Start with some fresh mussels, garlic bread or stuffed clams. Then try seafood rolls, clam chowder, salads, fried seafood, pasta and seafood. In addition, Sandpiper Restaurant serves clams, Maine lobster, swordfish, a broiled seafood combo option and scrod. Land lovers will find a selection of steaks, chicken, burgers, tenders, sandwiches and melts.

Tacos Los Michoacanos

Have a hankering for Mexican food? Look no further than Tacos Los Michoacanos. What makes this one special is visitors find this food truck at different locations in New Haven.

Tacos Los Michoacanos serves traditional Mexican dishes. Burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos and toastadas keep everyone full. Plus, guests may customize their plates to include beef, chicken, steak, sausage and fish. Pair them with beans, rice or corn for an authentic feel.

Stowe’s Seafood

This casual favorite is located in West Haven. What is a now a beloved local gem started as a little market that sold fresh fish and homemade chowder. While Stowe’s Seafood still sells fresh catches, many come for the menu.

For something different, start with seafood chili or gumbo. Entrees include shrimp, scallops, oysters, squid, clams, fish and other options. Visitors can even pick their favorites to create a custom entree. Stowe’s Seafood also serves rolls with lobster, shrimp and crab, to name a few. Those who don’t like seafood can select from sandwiches, small bites, chicken and lots of sides.

Want to learn more about the area? Read about the Connecticut Coast and find fun things to do in New Haven.