Fresh seafood in Connecticut isn’t just something you pick up for dinner—it’s something you eat right where it’s caught. Across the shoreline, humble seafood markets quietly double as lunch spots where the flavors are as salty and satisfying as the ocean breeze drifting through their doors. Locals guard these markets like family secrets, while travelers stumble upon them by accident and leave convinced they’ve discovered gold.
Here are 8 Connecticut seafood markets that double as the state’s best-kept lunch spots—where the catch of the day might just be the best meal you’ve had all year.
Flanders Fish Market & Restaurant – East Lyme
Flanders Fish Market & Restaurant, established in 1983, is a family-run gem in East Lyme. Known for its dual offering of a seafood market and a full-service restaurant, it attracts both locals and tourists. The market is a treasure trove of fresh seafood, including lobsters and oysters.
Dining here feels like a warm embrace, with dishes such as lobster pot pie and clam chowder completing the experience. It’s a place where the authenticity of fresh seafood and the comfort of a welcoming eatery blend seamlessly.
Maine Fish Market Restaurant – East Windsor
In East Windsor, Maine Fish Market Restaurant stands as a beacon for seafood lovers. The spacious dining areas and inviting lounge with a fireplace create a homely ambiance. With an extensive menu featuring lobster rolls and fried clams, the restaurant complements its market, where fresh seafood is abundant.
Patrons can indulge in delicious meals or take home the day’s freshest catches. The versatility of having both fresh seafood and a cozy dining space makes it a beloved local spot.
Rowayton Seafood – Norwalk
Rowayton Seafood, nestled in Norwalk since 1978, offers a picturesque dining experience by the water. The market’s fresh offerings include lobsters and oysters, and the restaurant provides dishes like seafood platters with scenic water views. It’s more than a meal; it’s a sensory experience combining taste, sight, and sound.
The gentle lapping of water enhances the enjoyment of the expertly prepared dishes. This combination of market and scenic dining makes it a must-visit destination.
The Fish Market – Willimantic
The Fish Market in Willimantic is known for its simplicity and quality. Offering both fresh unprepared seafood and cooked take-out options, it caters to a variety of tastes. Customers enjoy dishes like fried clams, and the market’s lobster steaming service adds convenience.
This no-frills spot ensures quality and taste in every bite. It’s a favorite for those seeking straightforward, delectable seafood without the bells and whistles of a formal restaurant.
Close Harbour Seafood – Plantsville
Close Harbour Seafood in Plantsville is a lively hub for seafood enthusiasts. Known for its variety, the market offers an array of fresh seafood while the restaurant serves up favorites like lobster rolls and seafood platters.
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a great spot for both buying fresh seafood and enjoying a meal. The synergy of market and dining ensures that patrons leave satisfied, whether they’re there to shop or dine.
SoNo Seaport Seafood – Norwalk
Located in the heart of Norwalk, SoNo Seaport Seafood caters to seafood lovers with its bustling market and restaurant. The market’s fresh catches are complemented by a menu featuring fried clams and seafood platters. Indoor and outdoor dining options provide flexibility and atmosphere.
The combination of a vibrant market and diverse dining options makes it a popular choice for those seeking fresh seafood and a lively dining experience.
Overton’s Seafood – East Norwalk
Overton’s Seafood in East Norwalk offers a nostalgic charm with its classic seafood fare and market. Known for its lobster rolls and seafood platters, it provides a laid-back dining experience.
The market’s selection of fresh seafood allows patrons to take a piece of the coast home. Its old-school vibe and waterside location make it a delightful escape for those seeking both relaxation and great seafood.
J&R Seafood Market – Mystic
J&R Seafood Market in Mystic is a dynamic spot for seafood aficionados. With a market offering the freshest seafood and a restaurant serving up dishes like lobster rolls, it’s a hub of activity and taste.
The lively atmosphere is infectious, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Its dual nature as a market and a dining venue allows it to cater to those looking to savor seafood on the spot or at home.