Unexpected Delight at Elm Street Oyster House, Greenwich CTSometimes, the most unexpected detours lead to memorable experiences, and my serendipitous visit to Elm Street Oyster House in Greenwich, CT, was no exception. Originally en route to New Canaan, a flat tire and a subsequent two-hour wait at Mavis Tire Center presented an unforeseen predicament. Yet, what initially seemed like a dampener on my day transformed into an opportunity to explore Greenwich under the guise of a simple quest for a good meal.Braving the 20-minute walk in the rain, I stumbled upon Elm Street Oyster House, a decision that turned my misfortune into a delightful escapade. The restaurant welcomed me with a cozy ambiance that was a much-needed respite from the cold rain outside. Opting for a mix of East Coast and West Coast oysters, I embarked on a culinary adventure that was both fresh and invigorating.The highlight of my visit was not just the exquisite food but the warm and engaging service, particularly from a Brazilian server who was more than willing to share his rich experiences in Martha’s Vineyard. Our conversation was sparked by my curiosity about the Katama oysters on the menu, leading to a lively exchange about summer adventures in the Vineyard. It was this personal touch that elevated the dining experience, making me feel more like a guest than a customer.Elm Street Oyster House proved to be more than just a place to eat; it was a sanctuary that offered solace and unexpected joy on a rainy day. The combination of fresh, delectable oysters and impeccable service made the walk through the rain utterly worth it. My visit to this charming establishment was a reminder that sometimes, it’s the unplanned moments that leave the most lasting impressions.I eagerly look forward to my next visit to Elm Street Oyster House, a beacon of hospitality and culinary excellence in Greenwich, CT. Whether you find yourself stranded like I was, or you’re simply in search of a dining experience that combines great food with heartfelt conversations, this oyster house is a destination that should not be missed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tasting of Oysters on the Half Shell and Shrimp Cocktail
Emmad Marji
Great place, cozy and good
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nat “Nat T” Tori
Not worth the price. Don't think it's a place I like to go back for brunch or anything. There was nothing special about the food or atmosphere. For the price...there are much better places in the area.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 3
We were there on a rainy day so it wasn't crowded at all. The food was delish. As well, the service was excellent- we had Carlos! It was very casual yet had the feel of little bistro! Would definitely go back
TomM
Four issues: 1. Dining area is cramped with tables virtually on top of one another. I was sitting along a wall where the coats that were hung up were touching me. 2. I think it's a little cheap to have a regular "Happy Hour 4-6p" wine by the glass price that is not available on "special occasions" like Valentines day. The server should have explained that up front. Early diners SHOULD be rewarded for showing patronage before prime time. BTW....the restaurant was only half full at 5p--when our reservations were for. You make a couple of extra bucks on a glass of wine but you lose customers because of policies like this. 3. I sent my critique of restaurant the day after we ate under the "contact us" filter. Haven't heard back. Don't have a "contact us" site if you don't want to respond. 4. My wife's fish was excellent. My meal was undercooked. Not going back.
ANTHONYPAOLICELLI
This is a hidden gem of a place with fabulous seafood but only 1 turf on their menu- hanger steak. How fabulous is this seafood? I ate a crab cake with no problem & I don't even like seafood! Up & until now. Now Call it my tastes buds changing or whatever but a tiny, casual, seafood escape with a good wine list? Definitely worth the hour long trip from Manhattan. 4 people was close to 500.00 but this is in one of the wealthiest parts of Connecticut New York so it goes with the territory. Top tier 5th Ave type mall is right up the street too so shopaholics beware!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Dude
Seven out of eight dishes (4 appetizers and 3 of 4 mains) were excellent. Unfortunately, the fourth of the 4 mains was severely overcooked and the piece of fish was relatively small for a main course. Overall a very positive experience with this one (not insignificant) blemish.
Mark K.
Amazing oyster fresh and clean. Great casual lunch or dinner. Waiter could be a little more informative on what they are serving.
Lonnee Star
Always sensational always fresh always great.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Paella, Pan Fried Oysters, Guacamole
Lindsay Boullin
Nice down to earth, relatively affordable (it's Greenwich!) restaurant.Vegetarian options: Vegetarian accommodated on request.Kid-friendliness: We attended with a 4 and 1 year old. Was fine but most other diners were more mature.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tasting of Oysters on the Half Shell and Shrimp Cocktail
Oysters and Steamers! Lucky to live close to culinary destinations of the States of Connecticut and New York. Sans traffic, many of my favorite eating establishments are merely 15 to 20 mins drive heading either north to Connecticut or south to New York City. Here's my go-to seafood restaurant in Greenwich. In Old Greenwich, dining options are fine and aplenty without the challenging reservation system and higher cost in comparable restaurants in the city. On my table are: Spinney Creek Steamers in white wine, my must-have! Whole Oyster Chowder with spinach, new on the menu Chopped salad with blue cheese, etc Perfectly cooked Cod with sides of sweet-savory apple fritters, garlic spinach and corn in lemon-lime dressing Heavenly as always! #seafood #greenwichconnecticut #curious_eater @elmstreetoysterhouse
Maurice P.
Solid meal. A bit pricey and portions have become smaller lately. Reservations are never on time. Usually have to wait 15-20 minutes
Person
Such a nice honest place. Unpretentious, solid food & service at a reasonable price. I don't know why this place is underappreciated, but it is. Perfect for calm occaisions.
LJoS
The happy hour is a pretty good deal. $10 appetizers and wines by the glass, $6 beer. The portion sizes were small but good for 2 people to taste a few things. The staff is very nice, the ambiance is quaint and charming.
Matt Essig
Waited a long time for very poor quality food, especially for the price. Lobster roll was inedible it was so rubbery. Wait staff disinterested at best.
Unexpected Delight at Elm Street Oyster House, Greenwich CTSometimes, the most unexpected detours lead to memorable experiences, and my serendipitous visit to Elm Street Oyster House in Greenwich, CT, was no exception. Originally en route to New Canaan, a flat tire and a subsequent two-hour wait at Mavis Tire Center presented an unforeseen predicament. Yet, what initially seemed like a dampener on my day transformed into an opportunity to explore Greenwich under the guise of a simple quest for a good meal.Braving the 20-minute walk in the rain, I stumbled upon Elm Street Oyster House, a decision that turned my misfortune into a delightful escapade. The restaurant welcomed me with a cozy ambiance that was a much-needed respite from the cold rain outside. Opting for a mix of East Coast and West Coast oysters, I embarked on a culinary adventure that was both fresh and invigorating.The highlight of my visit was not just the exquisite food but the warm and engaging service, particularly from a Brazilian server who was more than willing to share his rich experiences in Martha’s Vineyard. Our conversation was sparked by my curiosity about the Katama oysters on the menu, leading to a lively exchange about summer adventures in the Vineyard. It was this personal touch that elevated the dining experience, making me feel more like a guest than a customer.Elm Street Oyster House proved to be more than just a place to eat; it was a sanctuary that offered solace and unexpected joy on a rainy day. The combination of fresh, delectable oysters and impeccable service made the walk through the rain utterly worth it. My visit to this charming establishment was a reminder that sometimes, it’s the unplanned moments that leave the most lasting impressions.I eagerly look forward to my next visit to Elm Street Oyster House, a beacon of hospitality and culinary excellence in Greenwich, CT. Whether you find yourself stranded like I was, or you’re simply in search of a dining experience that combines great food with heartfelt conversations, this oyster house is a destination that should not be missed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tasting of Oysters on the Half Shell and Shrimp Cocktail
Great place, cozy and good
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Not worth the price. Don't think it's a place I like to go back for brunch or anything. There was nothing special about the food or atmosphere. For the price...there are much better places in the area.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 3
We were there on a rainy day so it wasn't crowded at all. The food was delish. As well, the service was excellent- we had Carlos! It was very casual yet had the feel of little bistro! Would definitely go back
Four issues: 1. Dining area is cramped with tables virtually on top of one another. I was sitting along a wall where the coats that were hung up were touching me. 2. I think it's a little cheap to have a regular "Happy Hour 4-6p" wine by the glass price that is not available on "special occasions" like Valentines day. The server should have explained that up front. Early diners SHOULD be rewarded for showing patronage before prime time. BTW....the restaurant was only half full at 5p--when our reservations were for. You make a couple of extra bucks on a glass of wine but you lose customers because of policies like this. 3. I sent my critique of restaurant the day after we ate under the "contact us" filter. Haven't heard back. Don't have a "contact us" site if you don't want to respond. 4. My wife's fish was excellent. My meal was undercooked. Not going back.
This is a hidden gem of a place with fabulous seafood but only 1 turf on their menu- hanger steak. How fabulous is this seafood? I ate a crab cake with no problem & I don't even like seafood! Up & until now. Now Call it my tastes buds changing or whatever but a tiny, casual, seafood escape with a good wine list? Definitely worth the hour long trip from Manhattan. 4 people was close to 500.00 but this is in one of the wealthiest parts of Connecticut New York so it goes with the territory. Top tier 5th Ave type mall is right up the street too so shopaholics beware!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Seven out of eight dishes (4 appetizers and 3 of 4 mains) were excellent. Unfortunately, the fourth of the 4 mains was severely overcooked and the piece of fish was relatively small for a main course. Overall a very positive experience with this one (not insignificant) blemish.
Amazing oyster fresh and clean. Great casual lunch or dinner. Waiter could be a little more informative on what they are serving.
Always sensational always fresh always great.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Paella, Pan Fried Oysters, Guacamole
Nice down to earth, relatively affordable (it's Greenwich!) restaurant.Vegetarian options: Vegetarian accommodated on request.Kid-friendliness: We attended with a 4 and 1 year old. Was fine but most other diners were more mature.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tasting of Oysters on the Half Shell and Shrimp Cocktail
Restaurantji Recommends
Oysters and Steamers! Lucky to live close to culinary destinations of the States of Connecticut and New York. Sans traffic, many of my favorite eating establishments are merely 15 to 20 mins drive heading either north to Connecticut or south to New York City. Here's my go-to seafood restaurant in Greenwich. In Old Greenwich, dining options are fine and aplenty without the challenging reservation system and higher cost in comparable restaurants in the city. On my table are: Spinney Creek Steamers in white wine, my must-have! Whole Oyster Chowder with spinach, new on the menu Chopped salad with blue cheese, etc Perfectly cooked Cod with sides of sweet-savory apple fritters, garlic spinach and corn in lemon-lime dressing Heavenly as always! #seafood #greenwichconnecticut #curious_eater @elmstreetoysterhouse
Solid meal. A bit pricey and portions have become smaller lately. Reservations are never on time. Usually have to wait 15-20 minutes
Such a nice honest place. Unpretentious, solid food & service at a reasonable price. I don't know why this place is underappreciated, but it is. Perfect for calm occaisions.
The happy hour is a pretty good deal. $10 appetizers and wines by the glass, $6 beer. The portion sizes were small but good for 2 people to taste a few things. The staff is very nice, the ambiance is quaint and charming.
Waited a long time for very poor quality food, especially for the price. Lobster roll was inedible it was so rubbery. Wait staff disinterested at best.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 2