Customers` Favorites
Customers` Favorites
“Outstanding food, service, atmosphere. Pricing was well worth the huge portions. First time visit. Would definitely return. Five stars.“
Customers` Favorites
“So glad we found this hidden gem ! Staff was super friendly, and quick. Red onion burger was probably thee best burger I've ever had ! French fries were super crispy and delish!! Hubby got a chicken parm grinder and cheesy fries. So much food we took a doggie bag to go. Pies and cakes looked super yummy. Friend got a small pizza and it was just loaded with so much meat !! Great food, excellent prices. If we are ever back in the area we will certainly visit again !!“
Customers` Favorites
“Best Eggplant Grinder I have ever had. I had it on the sesame roll. I totally recommend.“
Customers` Favorites
“One of our breakfast favorites in fact I had a big surprise birthday party there a year ago and it was outstanding quality of the food was 1st class, the service was outstanding they could not do enough to please and made sure it went well. Been a regular there ever since consistent outstanding quality with super service.“
Customers` Favorites
“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“
Customers` Favorites
“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.“
Customers` Favorites
“So very disappointed. Was there with a disabled person and treated terribly by customers and wait staff. Food was not good and service was terrible. Have been there previously and had a much better experience. I am not sure what changed but definitely will not go back or recommend this place if the same rude waitress is there. So very disappointed.“
Customers` Favorites
“02.12.25 'Big Al's Reel Reviews' dropped into a Spot located in the Town of Stonington called Dog Watch Cafe. I dropped in unannounced late this afternoon to find out if this spot is serving up Great food, great service with a great atmosphere. Absolutely everything about this place is amazingly Dope!! I absolutely loved the full experience from the service, the atmosphere and most importantly the delicious meal! Dog Watch Cafe is without a doubt a Top Notch restaurant! This place is Off The Hook!! 💣💣💣 Thank you Dog Watch Cafe 👍🏾 194 Water St. Town of Stonington, CT See you on the rebound, ☝🏾❤️- Big Al Mayo“
Customers` Favorites
“We’ve been coming to Oyster Club since it opened in the early 2010s, and this visit may have been our most memorable yet. This restaurant — and its ownership group — has been the driving force behind the Mystic restaurant renaissance, and they continue to set the standard for excellence.\n\nThe space itself adds so much to the experience. With rough-hewn beams and warm wooden paneling, it feels like a cozy New England barn — inviting, intimate, and perfectly aligned with the farm- and sea-driven menu.\n\nWe began with the beets. Beets! Truly the best we’ve ever tasted. Deep, sweet, earthy, and prepared with such care that you can tell everything is sourced thoughtfully and cooked with intention.\n\nFor entrées, I had the winter flounder with cabbage while my wife had the tagliatelle. Both were outstanding. After my first bite of flounder, I actually closed my eyes just to savor it and try to identify each layer of flavor — everything complemented everything else.\n\nThe service was exceptional. Our server, Colleen, along with the rest of the staff, made sure we were never without a refill or anything we needed. And what we’ve always loved is that Oyster Club aims to turn customers into friends — after this visit, I’m pretty sure we’ve become their newest best friends.\n\nRenee Toupance, a two-time James Beard Award finalist (Best Chef: New England and Best Chef: U.S.), clearly pours tremendous thought into every dish. The flavors are balanced, intentional, and beautifully harmonious. And my rye cocktail was the perfect balance of delicious and boozy.\n\nAnother unforgettable visit to a place that remains a true gem. We’ll be back again — and often.“
Customers` Favorites
“Had a good experience here. Ordered parm truffle fries with a bacon cheeseburger and also wanted to get a chicken sandwich for later so decided on the buffalo chicken sandwich
Fries were amazing. Lots of flavor on every fry. The bacon cheese burger was good but I wasn't blown away. Expected it to be a little bigger honestly. Had the chicken sandwich later and I will say it was probably one of the best buffalo chicken sandwiches I've had. Will definitely return ♥️“
Customers` Favorites
“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.“
Customers` Favorites
“📅 08.25.25 WRITTEN REVIEW Big Al’s Reel Reviews – Episode 154 Pink Basil 💎 Village of Mystic Connecticut (Olde Mistick Village) Mystic you didn’t disappoint me tonight. Pink Basil came through in a major way. From the moment I walked in the atmosphere was buzzing with energy, families locals and tourists all enjoying the Village vibe. The food the service and the whole experience had me locked in from start to finish. By the end of this meal there was no question… this one goes down as a Big Al’s 💎 Gem Spot. Service & Atmosphere: The service here was absolutely top notch. My host Payton got me started right. My server Mark handled everything perfectly... attentive professional and just an all around wonderful guy. Flora also stepped in with great support and I even got a photo with Travis the bartender. Behind the sushi counter two chefs were working hard and delivered rolls that blew me away. The whole team made this meal stand out. The atmosphere inside Pink Basil is vibrant and welcoming.... it’s clear why this place stays busy. Here’s what I lined up for this visit: 1️⃣ Shrimp Tempura Sushi Roll 6 pcs- $13.95 Crispy flavorful and the perfect start. 💣 Bomb 2️⃣ Salmon Sushi Roll 6 pcs- $8.95 Even better than the tempura absolutely delicious. 💣 Bomb 3️⃣ Cashew Nut with Chicken- $17.95 Crispy chicken with onions carrots sauce and rice. Perfect balance of flavor and texture- exciting the palate. 💣 Bomb 4️⃣ Khao Soi with Duck- $26.95 Flavors exploding textures amazing. Absolutely delicious in every form. 💣 Bomb 5️⃣ Spicy Chili Garlic Noodles with Beef- $16.95 Bold flavors great spice cooked perfectly. 💣 Bomb ✅ Final Take: Pink Basil delivered a flawless performance. Every single dish earned a bomb the service was incredible and the atmosphere was on point. This is what I call the full package- food that excites staff that cares and a vibe that makes you want to come back. For me that makes Pink Basil a certified Big Al’s 💎 Gem Spot. ☝🏾❤️- Big Al Mayo “See you on the Rebound Peace✌🏾out”“
Customers` Favorites
“This is a hidden jewel in Foxwoods. Very worthy of five stars for delicious meals, including breakfast at affordable prices. Five star service by Marissa and Stephanie. Check it out!“
“Absolutely wonderful! We did a lobster bake for six plus bought cod and shrimp. Everyone agreed it was the best they had. Everything was hot and delicious without being overcooked. The shrimp was so sweet. Great find will will definitely have them cook for us again!!!“
Customers` Favorites
“📅 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”“
Customers` Favorites
“We are from Connecticut, and headed to East beach yesterday, on one of the hotter days. Wanted to try something different for dinner and found this place. I highly highly recommended. Love the building, the location and especially the food. Very, very creative, but approachable and delicious. We tryed acouple of the different tacos, and also the green curry on grits, which made my mouth very, very happy. You've got to try this place.“
Customers` Favorites
“📅 01.04.25 ✍🏾 BIG AL’S WRITTEN REVIEW EP. CANCELLED Ella’s Food & Drink 👎🏾 📍 Westerly, Rhode Island I pulled up to Ella’s to do what I’ve done over 197 times before. I filmed a quick intro outside, walked in, got a quick vid of the interior and before I got to sit down for a food review it went downhill fast. Almost immediately, the energy felt off. As I started my usual walkthrough (phone in hand), the interaction with the owner turned uncomfortable. Instead of being welcoming or neutral, the tone came off as condescending, rude and dismissive. There was no effort to de-escalate the situation, and I quickly felt unwelcome in the space. At that point, I made the right decision to leave. I didn’t raise my voice. I didn’t make a scene. I simply chose not to stay where I didn’t feel respected or welcomed. I’m always courteous, polite, and respectful when I walk into any establishment, and my money is just as good as anyone else’s. I would have easily dropped $250 on that visit including a generous tip for my server. When the vibe is off, I listen to that instinct. Based on this experience, I do not recommend this spot. ☝🏾❤️ - Big Al Mayo “Always keeping it Real to Reel”“
Customers` Favorites
“Fresh, creative, hearthy, delicious soups! Wish they had more dinning space, but other than that, highly recommend!“
Customers` Favorites
“This is the best Italian food you will find in Rhode Island. Never rushed, great portion size, unreal flavor. Longos never disappoints“
Customers` Favorites
“We had a baby shower for my daughter and son-in-law at the Dog Watch Mystic, and I could not be happier with them. The tent and grounds were perfectly appointed, the food was fantastic, and the entire staff was wonderful. Thank you, Dog Watch!“
Customers` Favorites
“Fresh coffee the best!! Fresh food every day! Delicious!! Friendly folks Wonderful❤️❤️ All the food is fresh, made to order on site Try anything and everything! Quiche is Excellent! 🥯🥯☕️☕️🧋 Bagels from New York! Let’s meet at Fresh Cup Cafe!“
Customers` Favorites
“LOVE THIS BAKERY!! Our first time in Mystic and we stopped in just for a coffee, ended up leaving with half the store! The almond croissant is amazing. The salmon sandwich is a must have, and the coffee is very good. During a road trip we made sure to bookend the trip at Sift. The ordering process is swift and efficient, and staff was friendly and relaxed, even on a very busy Sunday morning. I look forward to coming back very soon! Mystic itself is beautiful but not complete without a stop at Sift.“
Customers` Favorites
“Our new favorite lunch spot! Delicious Thai food...so many lovely things to eat!“
Customers` Favorites
“Just had an amazing experience at Koi! Highly recommend it – fantastic food, great atmosphere, and superb service. Coco, the owner, is an absolute gem!“
“My husband and I were visiting the area for our 35th anniversary and stopped in to try some cider and wine and what a great experience we had. We loved everything we tried and had so much fun with the staff especially Laurie, she had her hands full putting up with my husband, lol. We ended up leaving with lots of great cider and wine and also Tshirts and a wonderful experience. Thank you for all you do.“
Customers` Favorites
“Fantastic food! A must for breakfast and lunch! Fast service too!“
Customers` Favorites
“Was very disappointed when we took friends of ours there and told them how good the bread was but when we ordered from Jack was told the bread now costs and yet we were there two weeks ago and bread was offered. Also we had to ask Jack what the specials were and he acted put out. What a change from two weeks ago with waiter Greg who was awesome“
Customers` Favorites
“I've only been here a few times, but I can confidently say that the staff is always extremely welcoming, friendly, warm, and pleasant. I've never had a bad time or inconvenience there. There are decent options for food and drinks... I have yet to try something I don't like. The atmosphere is warm, elegant, and comfortable. I definitely recommend giving this place a chance if you haven't yet! The Staff and Owner make sure that everyone present is happy, safe, and satisfied. 🙌“
Customers` Favorites
“Always a hit. Never been dissatisfied. Food is always on point and prices are good. Absolutely delicious. Breakfast and lunch all day is so convenient. Staff is always friendly no matter how busy it is. Can’t say enough about my favorite breakfast/lunch place. Highly recommend. 😍🍀“
Customers` Favorites
“We had a small get together with high school friends. Couldn't have asked for better service, Katie was super. The food was great. Everyone had the best time. Would recommend to anyone.“
Customers` Favorites
“One of the best breakfast places i've had in Connecticut and Rhode island. A small place with a small staff so be patient. It's worth the wait. There are few things better to start with on a Sunday. Enjoy the Alll meat omlette if you're looking for a hearty breakfast.“
Customers` Favorites
“The waitress was attentive and the overall service was good. The food arrived quickly. The Teriyaki Pork Belly Bao Bao Buns were AMAZING! The Seafood Pasta was typical and did not wow me in terms of flavor. Therefore, I don’t believe that particular dish is worth the price. They also told me they don’t have bread available for lunch.“
Customers` Favorites
“Last minute pizza party & Vittorias did not disappoint! Highly recommend the Grandma pizza but go with half Grandma Gorgonzola because it’s incredible. Sicilian cheese & a chicken ranch we’re also amazing! Mike was a huge help in executing how much pizza was enough pizza, I’m happily enjoying a few left over pieces!“
Customers` Favorites
“Was very pleased with the service. Waitress was attentive but not overbearing. The food was exceptionally well prepared. For 2 apps, 2 entrees, desserts and coffee the price was reasonable.“
Customers` Favorites
“Amazing people, wonderful food. They make you feel like family“
Customers` Favorites
“Food was great and atmosphere was wonderful!“
“We had an unforgettable experience! It was a snowy Saturday in late February when we arrived. We indulged in a variety of IPAs at this charming classic home, built in the 18th century New England style. The layout was superb, offering plenty of tables and seats to choose from. The bartender, Justin, proudly informed us that all the murals were original, leaving us in awe! They were reminiscent of the Wadsworth Atheneum (CT), showcasing their age and historical significance. Whether you’re here for the beer or not, this building is worth exploring with its iconic status. What an incredible opportunity to tour such a historic gem! We’ll definitely return to enjoy more delicious beer.“
“I photographed a wedding at Saltwater Vineyard in Warren, RI, and it was nothing short of magical. The property is surrounded by rolling vineyards, open fields, and beautiful coastal light, making it an incredible location for romantic and timeless wedding photos. The barn-style reception space is warm and inviting, with rustic charm that feels both elegant and relaxed. The outdoor ceremony area is picture-perfect, offering a peaceful and scenic backdrop for exchanging vows. The staff were friendly, helpful, and professional, making sure the day flowed effortlessly. As a professional wedding photographer who has worked at many vineyard and winery venues in New England, I can confidently say Saltwater Vineyard is a dream setting for couples who want a naturally beautiful, intimate, and unforgettable wedding day.“
Customers` Favorites
“We used Vesta Bakery for our wedding cake and desserts table recently, and would highly recommend them! We got our small cutting cake, and then for our desserts table we did mini eclairs, mini cannoli, mini cupcakes, and assorted cookies. Everything was delicious and our guests loved it all. Thank you again!“
Customers` Favorites
“Caucasian friends took me here and introduced me to Fried Tofu, one of their favorites, I guess. I never thought I would love Tofu, but I love it now. ^_^“
Customers` Favorites
“First impression is tight. When you walk in, end of bar is a couple feet from the door (no hostess). Staff are very pleasant and helpful, though. Bar area on first floor, dining room on second floor, and then there was outside seating. DH loves a good fish taco, and they def delivered. I had the special: pan seared scallops in sauce. So good. While there, a drink mishap happened on the steps. No freak out or drama. Just cleaned up and moved on.“
Customers` Favorites
“We had went to Mystic ct for their Christmas event that was town wide. We decided to get earlier dinner. My brother in law wanted to eat at this pub. Food was good I had the Reuben Sandwich. Service was a bit slow but they where very busy due to this event in town.“
Customers` Favorites
“Had a family dinner with 10 guests for my sons 18th birthday last night. We've been going to Peking a long time and always have great service however, last night was extra special. Our waitress was great, and even surprised my son with a wrapped birthday gift. Very happy customers“
Customers` Favorites
“📅 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”“
Customers` Favorites
“Always amazing food and amazing customer service“
Customers` Favorites
“We had one of the best servers last night. Cameron was excellent! Very personable and fun. Of course the food was delicious!!“
Customers` Favorites
“Wonderful dumplings! The owners are very friendly, and the chef has been making dumplings for 19 years. Available as steamed or fried, choices include pork, vege and chicken. We tried them all! There is a small rustic dining area, but most orders were take out. The menu is extensive beyond the dumplings and portions were large. Highly recommended.“
Customers` Favorites
“Sunday Fundays are the best!!!!!“
Customers` Favorites
“Really good service from Kate. Great atmosphere/ambiance, and it was really cool we could literally see right into the very clean and well-run kitchen directly from our seats.
Insanely fast service for a decently packed house. App was out in just a few minutes followed by the entrees before we could even finish the app
Reasonably priced and good food. Wings were small quantity (6) but absolutely massive and flavorful. Pulled pork sandwich and fries were solid as well. Really happy with our choice during our trip. Full bill with an app two entrees and shared dessert came to only ~60“
Customers` Favorites
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“Una experiencia única ! La amabilidad y la atención son A1 . La comida es riquísima, su presentación A1 Comida fresca , rica , todo delicioso !! Si quieres sentirte como en casa. Visita este restaurante es muy bueno 🥰“