randomly stopped in here on a road trip. on a cool street in a cute town. the town was a little sleepy around 8pm, but this place was not! what a cool spot, great vibes, friendly people and staff! i could feel old ship captains stumbling in here after a few weeks or days at sea, food was pretty good as well but not fantastic. More of a stop for vibes and libations i think, but would definitely recommend and will come here again
Paul Meijer
There’s something unmistakably comforting about the approach to Water Street Café. Tucked into the heart of Stonington, this cozy spot radiates old-school charm before you even step inside. Once through the door, you’re welcomed not just by a gracious host, but by the subtle hum of a place that knows its rhythm. The layout feels effortless—bar to the right, tables and booths to the left—perfectly intimate without trying too hard.
The meal begins humbly with a bread basket—simple, warm, soft butter on the side. It’s not showy, but it does its job exceptionally well. Think understated rather than underwhelming.
Starters here cover the spectrum. The shrimp cocktail stood out for its zippy horseradish-forward cocktail sauce—classic, but not dull. The Caesar salad arrived crisp, with a satisfying crunch from the croutons, while the beet and peach salad brought in a subtle sweetness that played nicely with the earthiness of the greens. The crispy tofu salad was a surprise hit—light, fresh, and punched up with a wasabi-soy vinaigrette that didn’t shy away from flavor.
Among the mains, the shrimp and scallops fra diavolo was a clear highlight. The seafood was tender, the pasta perfectly cooked, and the chili oil gave the tomato sauce a welcome, slow-building heat. For something more casual, the café burger on brioche was hearty and satisfying, especially with the addition of cheese and bacon. The London broil was classic comfort—tender beef, garlic butter, and crisp fries. If you’re leaning toward poultry, the chicken sandwich delivered crunch and tang, thanks to Creole mustard and a crusty roll.
Dessert brought it home. Two ice cream sundaes—one a straightforward vanilla-chocolate combo, the other a raspberry-drenched dream with a wafer base—both executed with care. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that leave the best impression.
If you go, ask for Andy. His easygoing service tied the whole experience together.
Water Street Café has roots that stretch back to 1994, founded by Walter and Stephanie Houlihan after years in the high-paced world of New York hospitality. Walter, a CIA-trained chef, brought a unique blend of French, Asian, and American influences to this coastal hideaway. Stephanie ensured that the front-of-house runs with genuine warmth, anchoring the café firmly in the heart of the community. Decades on, it’s clear why this spot remains a local favorite. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s just making sure it rolls smoothly and tastes great along the way.
MCTX
Sadly while dining with friends Saturday, the night before Easter Sunday, we observed this restaurant remove a party of diners. It appeared that one man in the party had a disability and they asked him to leave even as he was finishing his meal. It was embarrassing to all of us to witness cruel discrimination — we didn’t see anyone else asked to leave. I’m pretty sure we will all find somewhere else to eat.
UPDATE: The guest had cerebral palsy, owner booted him before he finished his meal. Guest was devastated by the cruelty (which is all too common). Owner made threatening phone calls and accusations after we left.
NOT A NICE OR ACCOMMODATING PLACE — eat fast, don’t enjoy along the way or owner will threaten you!!!!
Marc Millard
Duck and scallops.Duck was tasty but raw and burnt on the same serving. The scallops were excellent.
Bob Ward
First time , but will be back. Was great !
Rick Ensminger
Mocktail spicy margarita was the bomb!
Lauryn Eberle
Fantastic experience here. Stopped in for the first time for a family member's birthday and had a great dinner. I had an espresso martini (which was super yummy and so smooth) and then the roasted chicken skillet entree which was nicely cooked and very flavorful. Had some delicious bites of cheesecake to share for dessert. The atmosphere was very cozy and the service was extremely friendly. Can't wait to come back soon!
colin asby
Food was OK, steak tasted fishy??? RI oysters were awesome, cocktail was good,would of liked a few but our waiter was there but not engaging, place is very nice inside and it was very busy, will try again
James Andrus
One of Stonington's best. Bar atmosphere is the best.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Brock Weatherup
The atmosphere is just wonderfully warm and welcoming. The food is just delightful and the service is top notch. Just a joy to dine at as well as a great place to either grab a drink before or after your meal. Such fun
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Crispy Duck, French Fries, Tuna, Duck Breast
This restaurant is cozy, but was VERY loud the night we were there. Service was friendly. However, the food was really disappointing. The clam chowder was too rich and kind of gluey, and I could barely find any clams in it. For my main, I had the scallops with peaches. There was too much sauce on the dish and the scallops were terrible; way too salty, and had none of that fresh, sweet scallopy taste. The tops were nicely caramelized, but the rest of the scallop was way too undercooked and translucent. I ate half of them, then gave up. Since it came without any vegetables, I ordered a side of mixed Asian veggies, which were also too salty to finish. (On this trip, we also had scallops up the street at N***h’s — those were absolutely delicious.)
Courtney Couture
The best food in Stonington <3 My family had the tuna which is always good, the lamb shank that I would highly recommend and the Korean shrimp appetizer. The salads are great too! We got the kale salad and it was crispy and fresh.
Not only that but the service is spectacular, it’s intimate and there is always a great guitarist playing.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tuna
Andy Batchelor
Tuesday night at 8 pm was busy. Should have made a reservation. Good selection of drinks. Service was prompt and helpful. Food was disappointing, I had the duck and scallops. The duck was over cooked in a dull sauce/gravy, there were 2 scallops! All this over mashed potatoes and topped off with wantons.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 5
Jessica Sarubbi
Kelly made the best drinks!!! Service was amazing, attentive and professional! The duck and scallops special was next level!! Highly recommend Water Street 100 times over!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Spongebob SquarePants
Tiny shriveled up portion of calamari loll, mediocre drinks and service. Just got to Stonington or Mystic!!
randomly stopped in here on a road trip. on a cool street in a cute town. the town was a little sleepy around 8pm, but this place was not! what a cool spot, great vibes, friendly people and staff! i could feel old ship captains stumbling in here after a few weeks or days at sea, food was pretty good as well but not fantastic. More of a stop for vibes and libations i think, but would definitely recommend and will come here again
There’s something unmistakably comforting about the approach to Water Street Café. Tucked into the heart of Stonington, this cozy spot radiates old-school charm before you even step inside. Once through the door, you’re welcomed not just by a gracious host, but by the subtle hum of a place that knows its rhythm. The layout feels effortless—bar to the right, tables and booths to the left—perfectly intimate without trying too hard.
The meal begins humbly with a bread basket—simple, warm, soft butter on the side. It’s not showy, but it does its job exceptionally well. Think understated rather than underwhelming.
Starters here cover the spectrum. The shrimp cocktail stood out for its zippy horseradish-forward cocktail sauce—classic, but not dull. The Caesar salad arrived crisp, with a satisfying crunch from the croutons, while the beet and peach salad brought in a subtle sweetness that played nicely with the earthiness of the greens. The crispy tofu salad was a surprise hit—light, fresh, and punched up with a wasabi-soy vinaigrette that didn’t shy away from flavor.
Among the mains, the shrimp and scallops fra diavolo was a clear highlight. The seafood was tender, the pasta perfectly cooked, and the chili oil gave the tomato sauce a welcome, slow-building heat. For something more casual, the café burger on brioche was hearty and satisfying, especially with the addition of cheese and bacon. The London broil was classic comfort—tender beef, garlic butter, and crisp fries. If you’re leaning toward poultry, the chicken sandwich delivered crunch and tang, thanks to Creole mustard and a crusty roll.
Dessert brought it home. Two ice cream sundaes—one a straightforward vanilla-chocolate combo, the other a raspberry-drenched dream with a wafer base—both executed with care. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that leave the best impression.
If you go, ask for Andy. His easygoing service tied the whole experience together.
Water Street Café has roots that stretch back to 1994, founded by Walter and Stephanie Houlihan after years in the high-paced world of New York hospitality. Walter, a CIA-trained chef, brought a unique blend of French, Asian, and American influences to this coastal hideaway. Stephanie ensured that the front-of-house runs with genuine warmth, anchoring the café firmly in the heart of the community. Decades on, it’s clear why this spot remains a local favorite. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s just making sure it rolls smoothly and tastes great along the way.
Sadly while dining with friends Saturday, the night before Easter Sunday, we observed this restaurant remove a party of diners. It appeared that one man in the party had a disability and they asked him to leave even as he was finishing his meal. It was embarrassing to all of us to witness cruel discrimination — we didn’t see anyone else asked to leave. I’m pretty sure we will all find somewhere else to eat.
UPDATE: The guest had cerebral palsy, owner booted him before he finished his meal. Guest was devastated by the cruelty (which is all too common). Owner made threatening phone calls and accusations after we left.
NOT A NICE OR ACCOMMODATING PLACE — eat fast, don’t enjoy along the way or owner will threaten you!!!!
Duck and scallops.Duck was tasty but raw and burnt on the same serving. The scallops were excellent.
First time , but will be back. Was great !
Mocktail spicy margarita was the bomb!
Fantastic experience here. Stopped in for the first time for a family member's birthday and had a great dinner. I had an espresso martini (which was super yummy and so smooth) and then the roasted chicken skillet entree which was nicely cooked and very flavorful. Had some delicious bites of cheesecake to share for dessert. The atmosphere was very cozy and the service was extremely friendly. Can't wait to come back soon!
Food was OK, steak tasted fishy??? RI oysters were awesome, cocktail was good,would of liked a few but our waiter was there but not engaging, place is very nice inside and it was very busy, will try again
One of Stonington's best. Bar atmosphere is the best.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
The atmosphere is just wonderfully warm and welcoming. The food is just delightful and the service is top notch. Just a joy to dine at as well as a great place to either grab a drink before or after your meal. Such fun
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Crispy Duck, French Fries, Tuna, Duck Breast
Restaurantji Recommends
This restaurant is cozy, but was VERY loud the night we were there. Service was friendly. However, the food was really disappointing. The clam chowder was too rich and kind of gluey, and I could barely find any clams in it. For my main, I had the scallops with peaches. There was too much sauce on the dish and the scallops were terrible; way too salty, and had none of that fresh, sweet scallopy taste. The tops were nicely caramelized, but the rest of the scallop was way too undercooked and translucent. I ate half of them, then gave up. Since it came without any vegetables, I ordered a side of mixed Asian veggies, which were also too salty to finish. (On this trip, we also had scallops up the street at N***h’s — those were absolutely delicious.)
The best food in Stonington <3
My family had the tuna which is always good, the lamb shank that I would highly recommend and the Korean shrimp appetizer. The salads are great too! We got the kale salad and it was crispy and fresh.
Not only that but the service is spectacular, it’s intimate and there is always a great guitarist playing.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tuna
Tuesday night at 8 pm was busy. Should have made a reservation. Good selection of drinks. Service was prompt and helpful. Food was disappointing, I had the duck and scallops. The duck was over cooked in a dull sauce/gravy, there were 2 scallops! All this over mashed potatoes and topped off with wantons.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 5
Kelly made the best drinks!!! Service was amazing, attentive and professional! The duck and scallops special was next level!! Highly recommend Water Street 100 times over!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tiny shriveled up portion of calamari loll, mediocre drinks and service. Just got to Stonington or Mystic!!
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 2
Service: 2
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