Westbrook, CT is a beach town at heart, with 25+ restaurants that reflect its waterfront character. Situated between Clinton and Old Saybrook along the Connecticut shoreline, Westbrook is home to Pilot's Point marina, Water's Edge Resort, and several beaches that draw visitors all summer. The dining scene ranges from legendary seafood shacks to craft breweries and international cuisine, making it a rewarding stop on any shoreline food tour.
Bill's Seafood on the Patchogue River has been a Westbrook institution since 1950, serving lobster rolls, fried clams, and seafood platters in a classic waterfront setting with outdoor seating overlooking the river. Lenny & Joe's Fish Tale on Route 1 is another shoreline favorite with its iconic carousel and generous seafood portions. Bacari Social near Pilot's Point marina offers a more modern waterfront dining experience with seafood-focused dishes and craft cocktails.
Water's Edge Resort's Sunset Grill provides the most dramatic dining views in Westbrook, with panoramic vistas of Long Island Sound. It's a popular spot for special occasions, Sunday brunch, and summer sunset dinners. The resort setting elevates the experience beyond typical shoreline dining, and reservations are recommended during peak season.
Westbrook has become a destination for casual food and drink. Coastline Brewing on Route 1 serves locally brewed craft beers in a taproom setting. Hog Wild Smokin' Cue is the go-to for authentic smoked barbecue, from brisket to pulled pork. Haywire Burger Bar specializes in creative burgers and shakes. Charter Oak Tavern and Highliner III offer pub-style dining with full bars.
Despite its small size, Westbrook offers international variety. Bistro Mediterranean & Tapas Bar serves Mediterranean small plates and entrees, Sammy's Restaurant offers Italian cuisine, and Taqueria Cinco brings Mexican flavors. El Rincon Del Sabor serves Latin American dishes, and Shayna B's By The Sea provides plant-based dining options that are rare on the shoreline.
Edd's Place on Route 1 is a beloved breakfast and lunch counter that's been serving Westbrook for years. Turtle Cafe is another morning favorite, and Cristy's serves classic American fare in a casual setting. For quick stops, Hartford Giant Grinder serves oversized sandwiches, Scoops & Slices offers pizza and ice cream, and Leon's Pizza and Westbrook Pizza cover the pizza bases.
Westbrook's restaurants are spread along Route 1 (Boston Post Road) and near the waterfront areas around Pilot's Point and the town beaches. Most have their own parking. Westbrook is accessible via I-95 exit 65, and the town is a short drive from the Westbrook outlet stores area. Summer weekends bring beach traffic, so plan accordingly for waterfront restaurants. The Westbrook Shore Line East train station connects to New Haven and New London.
Our Westbrook restaurant list is compiled from official health department data, making it the most complete dining directory available. Exploring beyond Westbrook? Check out dining in neighboring Clinton and Old Saybrook, or get your restaurant featured on A Bite of Nutmeg.