New American Restaurants near Mystic, CT

“The Shipwright's Daughter came highly recommended to us by locals we had talked with while vacationing in Mystic, and it did not disappoint. We booked a reservation for 7:15pm on a Saturday evening, and we were seated promptly at 7:15. From the hosts initial greeting, to our server first introducing herself at the table, every staff member made us feel welcomed. It was lovely. The cocktail my girlfriend ordered and the local draft I ordered were both outstanding. Our appetizers of Oysters on the Half Shell and a Yellowfin Tar Tar served on a Potato Pavé, were both so delicious, full of flavor, and beautiful. Our entrees consisted of the Zucchini Bucatini and the Duck Confit special, and both came out perfect. The seasoning, the cook of the duck, the plating were all immaculate. It's very clear the staff takes pride in their work, and make sure the guests have an outstanding experience. We finished with dessert, a Plum Sorbet Pavlova with a Peach Reduction, an Espresso Martini, and an Irish Coffee. We were finished with our meal and drinks and on our way by 8:20pm. All in all, it was the best experience I've had in a restaurant. The meals were phenomenal, the staff was top tier ( I apologize I can not remember our waitresses name, but she was outstanding), and the overall experience was more than I could have hoped for. If you are traveling to the mystic area, and you want to have an outstanding dining experience, this is the place for it“

“New American cuisine including perfectly executed more familiar dishes with intriguing new ones (ginger fried monkfish with green curry - excellent). Also a strong wine list as well as beguiling cocktails. Beautifully and comfortably designed as well.“

“Our server Randi was very attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. She is a real p.lus for your business. The firecracker shrimp was amazing.“

“The food was very good! My husband and I shared the Lobster roll it wasn’t overly buttered , you can taste the lobster. The atmosphere eas nice and service was good.“

“Came here for the museum’s member appreciation day, and the Tavern was serving complimentary snacks. I didn’t get the name of the person working behind the bar making drinks that night, but he was working alone and despite it being really busy (and hectic), he was patient, polite and funny with everyone there. While my family sat outside at one of the tables to enjoy the music, he brought out a fresh batch of hot pretzels that he had just made and he gave it to us, and another table. We all sat and watched the sunset while enjoying music, and delicious pretzels!“

“We chose Owl and Dove by its location and menu. We were not disappointed. We sat at a table overlooking the river. The food was very good and the server was pleasant and effiecient. At lunch the restaurant filled up completely but the whole scene was calm and pleasant. We loved that their were no TVs in the dining room.“

“Arrived in town and craving a good chowder. While here we also ordered the crab cakes and grilled swordfish. Done to perfection with excellent seasoning. Heirloom tomato and watermelon salad was a great starter. This hotel restaurant did not disappoint.“

“My favorite place to go at Mohegan Sun Casino! I had the chicken and waffles, my Daughter had the lemon chicken … delicious!“

“📅 01.10.26 ✍🏾 BIG AL’S WRITTEN REVIEW ✨Big Al’s Reel Reviews - EP.200 🍾🎉 🍽️ Tin Peddler 👍🏾🫳🏾 📍 North Stonington, CT Visited on 01.10.26 ✨ Episode 200 was very special for me. I’ve now walked into 200 small businesses, spent my own money, recorded, edited, and put together 200 full episodes shining a light on local spots and by bringing real eyes, real viewership, and real attention to places that deserve it. That doesn’t even count all the other videos I’ve done along the way supporting even more businesses. This moment means a lot to me because this entire journey has been 100% done by me and 100% supported by you. I truly appreciate every like, share, comment, message, and conversations along the way. Thank you for riding with me and being part of this from the beginning. It doesn’t go unnoticed. Now… let’s talk about how this night went. Walking inside, the place immediately looked beautiful. Warm, clean, and inviting. As the night went on, the room kept filling up naturally. I counted 14 tables total, and while we were sitting there, 10 of them were occupied. The vibe was lively, people were enjoying themselves, and the energy in the room felt right. Service was solid from the jump. Big shout-out to Tayla, our server, who was attentive, and kept everything moving smoothly throughout the visit. Most importantly, she was very friendly and I absolutely love her personality 😎 Now let’s talk about the food. Here’s what I lined up: 1️⃣ BBQ Dry-Rub Chicken Wings - $14 👍🏾👎🏾 Yo, these wings were good. Cooked well, seasoned nicely, and enjoyable to eat. No complaints there. But value matters. You’re getting six wings for $14, which breaks down to about $2.33 per wing, and that’s definitely on the high end for some wings. Taste gets a 👍🏾 Value gets a 👎🏾 They serve good wings… but the price stings a little. They should consider increasing the order from 6 to 8 wings. 🤷🏾‍♂️ 2️⃣ Mussels Marinara - $17 👍🏾 Solid mussels. Great portion size, served in a flavorful broth, and that warm grilled ciabatta bread was perfect for dipping. The Swiss chard mixed in with the onions was a really nice touch. No complaints here because it was delish.😎 3️⃣ Davis Farm Cornbread - $10 👍🏾 It was soft, moist, a little loose in texture, but still enjoyable. Nothing crazy, nothing that blew me away but a decent, respectable starter. 4️⃣ Peddler Burger & Hand-Cut Fries - $22 💣 Yo… let me talk about this burger for a second. This right here was an amazing burger. Cooked perfectly, juicy, flavorful, and balanced exactly how it should be. The special sauce with the onions was hitting, the bun was right, and I enjoyed every bite. 😋 This burger was a home run. Straight up. If this burger didn’t come through the way it did, this review would’ve been a lot more iffy. But it did. 😁 Easy bomb 💣 5️⃣ Beer-Battered Haddock & Fries - $26 👎🏾🤮 And now… the huge miss. This dish was horrible. The haddock was mushy, translucent, and the batter was separating from the fish. I love Haddock, it should be firm and flaky but this wasn’t even close. One bite and it ended up in a napkin. I don’t know if it was frozen, over-battered, or overcooked, but the texture was completely wrong and it did not taste good. I couldn’t eat it. I tried the coleslaw, hoping it might help save the plate. No way. It wasn’t good either. I just gave up. This earned a clear thumbs down 👎🏾. Note: Before wrapping up, I met Julian, the owner, on our way out the door and we took a photo together. I always respect when an owner shows face and engages with guests. My Final Thoughts: So here’s the thing with Tin Peddler. There’s a lot to like here. The space (I remember when it used to be a Subway Restaurant) has been remodeled beautifully, the vibe was right, and the place was clearly buzzing while we were there. Some dishes absolutely hit, especially that burger. But I’ve gotta keep it real. That burger saved the review. The fish & chips were an insult.🤷🏾‍♂️😄 When a dish comes out mushy, translucent, and inedible, that’s not something I can overlook. The wings were good but p“

“📅 11.13.25 *WRITTEN REVIEW Big Al’s Reel Reviews - EP.180 Whitecrest Eatery 💎 (Velvet Mill - Stonington Borough, CT) Tonight I headed back inside the historic Velvet Mill for my next food adventure and Whitecrest Eatery did not disappoint. Founded in 2019 by husband & wife team Johan Jensen, a Danish born, British-trained chef, and Abby Hamann, a Connecticut native, Whitecrest focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients and dishes that are handmade with care. You can seriously feel that philosophy the moment the plates hit the table/bar. I grabbed a seat at the bar, and the place was packed. The atmosphere was low-lit, warm, bustling, with high ceilings and beautiful décor that makes the Velvet Mill such a standout setting. Service was handled by a small three-person team: Liz (manager)- friendly, welcoming, and a supporter of Big Al’s Reel Reviews Amber (my bartender/server)- attentive and on point Jocy- helping run the floor Even with a full house, they kept everything moving smoothly. Service was bomb.💣 Now let's talk about the Food: 1️⃣ Steamed Wild Maine Mussels- $16 💣 BOMB The sauce- cream fraîche, herbs, Weissling, and lemon was addictive. Mussels cooked perfectly, full of flavor, and the sourdough they make in house and served with it was the perfect pairing. A strong bomb right out the gate. 2️⃣ Béarnaise Burger- $22 💣 BOMB Burger came out perfectly cooked bright pink inside, juicy, seasoned right. Alone, it’s a thumbs-up… But then the tallow fries hit. These fries are soft, hot, insanely flavorful, and some of the best fries I’ve had anywhere. The fries elevated the entire plate into a straight bomb. 3️⃣ Roasted Duck Breast- $36 💣 BOMB This dish was incredible. Duck breast cooked perfectly, tender, rich, and beautifully plated. The potatoes were absolutely amazing, and every bite delivered. I was full, but I wanted more. Another full bomb. ⭐ FINAL VERDICT: WHITECREST EATERY IS AN OFFICIAL BIG AL’S 💎 GEM SPOT 💎🔥 Every dish: bomb Service: bomb Atmosphere: bomb Experience: bomb That makes two Gem Spots inside the Velvet Mill 💎 Dock 9 and 💎 Whitecrest Eatery. If you’re in or near Stonington Borough, this place is absolutely worth checking out so get your a** down there right away, and make sure you tell ’em Big Al sent you! To the Whitecrest Eatery Team: Thank you, I had an amazingly Dope dining experience ❤️ ☝🏾❤️ - Big Al Mayo “See you on the Rebound, Peace✌🏾out”“

“Sept 16 Par Four hosted the 45th Class Reunion of Fitch High School! The sunset & cool, breezy evening was matched only by the excellent wait staff and delicious buffet! We all had such a great time!“

“📅 11.15.25 *WRITTEN REVIEW Big Al’s Reel Reviews - EP.181 Noah’s Restaurant 👎🏾 Stonington Borough, CT Tonight I headed into the historic and absolutely beautiful Stonington Borough for Episode 181, and I started my evening with a quick stop at the nationally known Lobster Trap Tree. They just finished putting it up on Friday. You will see a ton of dope custom painted buoys, the whole display looks incredible. It’s only two blocks from Noah’s, so after checking that out, I took the short walk through the Borough and made my way over for dinner. I arrived early, around 4:30pm which was before the full dinner rush, but people were already flowing in. By 5:35 PM, in the dining section alone (10 tables total), 7 were filled and more guests were coming in minute by minute. Inside, Noah’s gives you that classic New England charm. It's beautiful. Warm lighting, rustic décor, and dope local prints of New London, Stonington, and shoreline scenes all across the walls. It genuinely felt like stepping straight into a Hallmark movie. My server tonight was Ryan, friendly, attentive, and had water waiting at my table right from the start. He also brought out bread with a plate of butter, which was a good touch. Service was friendly, but overall super slow. I waited 40 minutes for my main dish even though the restaurant wasn’t fully packed yet. Alright, let’s talk about the food... 🍽️ THE FOOD 1️⃣ Steamed Mussels- $14 Garlic, butter, white wine, parsley I really wanted to like these and I love garlic, but these mussels were overpowered. The garlic was extremely strong, to the point where it drowned out everything else. Worse, the mussels had a slightly sour taste, and the broth wasn’t enjoyable. I literally choked down 2 mussels on bread and I was done! I couldn’t finish them. 👎🏾 Thumbs Down 2️⃣ Oven-Roasted Chicken Wings- $13 (I chose BuffaBlue) The wings were a no-go for me. Dry, bland, over-baked - just not it. And the “Buffalo Blue” sauce? Yo Listen… I spent $13 for seven unseasoned chicken wings that were dry, over-baked, and came with a little tin of Frank's Red Hot sauce with a dollop of blue cheese dressing mixed in. That wasn’t going to cut it. No way. That was an insult 🤷🏾‍♂️ and that’s why these wings earned a 👎🏾 Thumbs Down 3️⃣ Fettuccine (Arugula/Walnut/Pesto)- $16+ Stonington Bay Scallops- $20 This dish saved the entire night. The pesto was fresh and flavorful, the pasta looked and tasted incredible, and the Stonington Bay scallops that are caught right off the boats here were sweet, tender, and absolutely delicious. This was the one plate that delivered. 💣 BOMB 4️⃣ Apple Crisp- $8 A rare move for me, I actually ordered dessert tonight. It was to cheer me up from the disappointing dinner. It didn't cheer me up but it was good. 💬 FINAL THOUGHTS Noah’s is a landmark here in Stonington, it’s been part of the Borough since 1979, and the atmosphere inside is truly beautiful. The town is charming, the décor is gorgeous, and the vibes were perfect. But the food tonight with one hit (💣), two major misses (👎🏾👎🏾), and slow service didn’t help. The mussels and wings were a disappointment, but the fettuccine with scallops was excellent. Based on tonights visit, Noah's Restaurant did not pass the Big Al's Reel Reviews 👎🏾 And as always, these are my honest opinions based on what I experienced. You know that I always keep it Real to Reel, and you can always go try it yourself and decide but for me, it's a no-go 👎🏾 "See you on the rebound, Peace✌🏾Out!" ☝🏾❤️ - Big Al Mayo “Always keeping it Real to Reel”“

“01.26.25- 'Big Al's Reel Reviews' - Little Galapagos Restaurant ❤️ City of New London ❤️ I dropped into The Little Galapagos Restaurant this evening to review a couple of their popular menu items which were Chicken Wings, Thai Chilli Sauce followed by Carne Asada Ecuadorians Style meal that was actually really Dope ❤️ however the Chicken wings were not great at all so they earned a Thumbs 👎🏾 The atmosphere and service was really dope there and I am sure that had I ordered anything else on the menu besides the Wings would have been just as good as the Carne Asada. This is a great place to have a great meal and a dope light experience at the same time 😎 Thank you, Little Galapagos Restaurant 119 Broad St. ❤️ City of New London ❤️ ☝🏾❤️ -Big Al Mayo 'Always Keeping it REAL to REEL'“

“The Neon Chicken — Comfort Food, Community, and the Warmest Welcome in Town

The Neon Chicken is one of those rare, special places where the food is wonderful, but the people and the feeling are what make it unforgettable. From the moment you walk through the door, Jamie greets you like she’s known you your entire life — and honestly, it’s hard not to feel that way. She has that effortless warmth, that genuine kindness, that ability to make everyone feel like family the moment they arrive. It’s the kind of welcome that stays with you.

This is comfort food at its absolute best. Hearty, homemade, generous portions, full of flavor, and clearly made with love. My personal favorite is the turkey dinner — the kind of meal that instantly takes you back to holidays and home-cooked memories. Tender turkey, classic sides, savory gravy… it’s exactly what comfort food should be: soothing, satisfying, familiar in the best possible way.

What makes The Neon Chicken truly shine, though, is the heart behind it. Jamie is the soul of this place. I once watched her help a man at his table who was being a little gruff and frustrated — the kind of situation many people would tiptoe around. But not Jamie. She handled it with absolute grace. She walked over with a smile, kindly answered every question, helped him with his food, and somehow managed to turn the entire moment around. You could see the tension leave the table. It was one of those quiet, human moments where you realize: this is what community looks like.

And that’s The Neon Chicken — a place where people are taken care of. Jamie seems to know everyone who walks through the door. Regulars greet her by name, she remembers families, favorites, stories. New visitors get the same warmth as returning ones. It’s a restaurant, yes, but it’s also a little anchor of comfort in the neighborhood.

The atmosphere itself matches the spirit of the place: cozy, simple, unpretentious, and filled with the comforting smell of good food cooking. It’s a place you can go when you’re hungry, when you need a moment of kindness, or when you just want to feel welcomed by people who genuinely care.

In a world where so many restaurants feel rushed or impersonal, The Neon Chicken is a breath of fresh air — a reminder of what hospitality really means. Excellent food, generous hearts, and a sense of community that’s impossible to fake.

Jamie makes this place shine, the food keeps you coming back, and the feeling of being treated like family stays with you long after you leave.

If you’re looking for comfort — on your plate and in your day — The Neon Chicken is exactly where you want to be.“

“Sunday Fundays are the best!!!!!“

“I’d give this place ten stars if I could. Here at the Mohegan Sun Casino for a work conference. Decided to stop in for dinner, unbelievable!!! Was alone so I sat at the bar. No request was too big for the staff. Worth every penny. MJ is the 🐐“

“Great place! Portions are HUGE so you may want to share. We appreciated the creative cocktail list (get the daily shrub) and that the coleslaw with our fish and chips wasn't a side thought but a real star on the plate. Service was excellent.“

“We can't decide which was better...the outstanding food or the exceptionally personalized service!? This is what I expected from the lovely reviews I've read. However, experiencing it all far exceeded our expectations ! Eve was our perfect server for the evening. Sweet, kind, professional and appropriate. We had an unexpected fire alarm during our 1st course. We were escorted to the veranda of the hotel to await the fire department's assessment. No harm, and no fire. After quite a time, Ocean House hotel staff welcomed us back to our seating at Coast, with champagne, & an appetizer of oysters, while the kitchen staff started up their food prep again. They couldn't be kinder to help remedy this interruption to our meal.~ The rest of the courses, prepared by Chef Adam''s team was truly the best meal we've ever eaten. Thank you to all the staff at Coast~ and we cannot wait to return for our next beautiful and tasty meal.“

“Great local club. It’s been in great shape the last 2 years! Very good staff and lots of local members.“

“Food was delicious. 10/10. Would highly recommend and come back when I’m in the area. Service was friendly even tho I did take out. Everything was packed neatly and included utensils.“

“is a 100% recommended... new Menu, New Chef... breakfast lunch and dinner“

“What a fun and elevated bowling experience! Great food and drinks . Service was lovely ! Very clean ! Highly recommend!“

“We ate 4:30PM June 26th 2025 enjoyed the food service was great and friendly we will be back soon Anne and Jack“

“My go to spot before going to an event at the Sun or just spending the day gambling. .99 cent wings and $4 domestic drafts in this economy? Yes please! Not to mention they have 2 top notch servers in Amie and Elise.I notice the difference in service when I don't get them.“

“Good food.. great service“

“Catering plans for my daughter's birthday party fell apart the DAY BEFORE the party. Tony and the Pizza Lady bailed us out and provided great food (at a great price) with less than 24 hours to deliver. Amazing. I am impressed, grateful, and fully endorsing Pizza Lady as your next caterer (or movie-night Pizza Party).“

“The cutest restaurant and hotel in watch hill Rhode Island. The service was 5 star! Cute and cozy atmosphere and the oceanfront views were stunning! Ordered the burrata, pasta and burger! (the burger was a little bland) but will most definitely be back to try other menu items. The perfect place to get together with your girlfriends, a date, or a special occasion/celebration!“

“Excelente lugar para disfrutar en familia“

“Just got back from the 1st Sunday of the month night with Mystic Dead. Met the owner who seemed like a super humble and unassuming guy. The staff and the food and the band (of course) were all amazing! Looking forward to chilling down by the river after the shows when the weather warms up a bit. Drove down 2 hours for this show at this venue. Totally worth it on all accounts!!“

“good food but over priced for what you get. probably won't go back.“