Category: Food & Drink
Food & Drink
A Casual Bite to Eat at Mystic Fish Camp
Mystic has developed a reputation as one of coastal Connecticut’s most compelling culinary destinations, where a compact downtown is packed with thoughtful, high-quality dining experiences. From refined waterfront dining to casual spots that focus on fresh, local ingredients, the range of Mystic restaurants continues to evolve. We’re proud to be at the helm of one of the newest restaurants in town, Mystic Fish Camp. This unique seafood restaurant builds on the success of one of the most respected restaurants in Mystic, while introducing a more relaxed, coastal approach to dining.
Mystic Fish Camp brings something fresh to downtown Mystic restaurants, combining the culinary credibility of the team behind The Shipwright’s Daughter with a setting that leans into the laid-back appeal of waterfront dining. It reflects the character of the region without feeling overly polished, yet it sacrifices nothing when it comes to taste and quality. With a setting perched on the edge of the Bascule River, it’s an easy choice for both casual lunches and lively evenings.
Of course, the appeal of Mystic extends well beyond its dining scene. Days here can be spent exploring Mystic Seaport, browsing independent shops, or taking in views of the river from the historic drawbridge and surrounding waterfront. Whether you are planning a getaway focused on food, history, or simply time by the water, downtown Mystic offers a well-rounded experience that continues to draw visitors back. With every major attraction in town at your fingertips, our historic Hotel in Mystic, CT, is the perfect home away from home. Book your trip today!
Food & Drink
Wine Tasting at Jonathan Edwards Winery
There are plenty of fun things to do in Mystic, CT, but if you’ve been browsing attractions and activities and are ready to look beyond the shoreline and postcard-worthy towns, perhaps it’s time to look at local Connecticut wineries. There are a few great wineries near Mystic, CT, including the Jonathan Edwards Winery. It’s a great way not just to taste some delicious wine but also to plan a slower afternoon between visits to larger local attractions or activities.
Of course, as you build your itinerary, make sure to include some of the classics. Start with a waterfront stroll and linger over a lunch of oysters and fresh local seafood, then browse local shops and galleries for something you will actually want to bring home. Book a harbor cruise, tour Mystic Seaport Museum for a dose of history that feels immersive, or plan your evening around a show at the nearby casinos. There are plenty of ways to plan your itinerary, but only one place is worth serving as your home base.
The Whalers Inn is one of the most inviting hotels in Mystic, CT. It’s located centrally in downtown Mystic, right across the street from the Bascule Bridge. Once you park your car, you can enjoy most local museums, shops, restaurants, and activities without moving it. Add elevated onsite dining for an easy start to the night, and settle in to the effortless rhythm of a getaway in Connecticut’s most charming getaway town. Book your hotel stay today!
Food & Drink
Visit These Wineries Near Mystic On Your Next Trip
It seems like everywhere you go these days, there’s a boutique wine industry (and often beer and spirits) worth checking out. It’s no different here, with a great network of wineries near Mystic, CT, worth visiting. Connecticut’s wine industry has quietly earned a loyal following, with thoughtfully crafted vintages, scenic vineyard settings, and a focus on quality over quantity. From coastal microclimates to inland estates, Connecticut wineries offer an approachable, relaxed tasting experience that feels personal rather than crowded.
Adding select wineries near Mystic, CT, to your itinerary is an interesting way to add an easygoing layer to your romantic getaways. These tastings pair well with the town’s historic allure and coastal scenery. Whether you are visiting local favorites like Jonathan Edwards Winery or Stonington Vineyards, you’ll find that these wineries reflect why Connecticut’s wine industry continues to gain national attention. You can’t spend an entire getaway sipping wine, though, so in between visits to these lovely wineries near Mystic, CT, we hope you’ll fill your days with all the other things to do in Mystic. Mystic offers plenty of ways to fill your days without ever feeling rushed. Stroll through the historic Mystic Seaport, browse local shops and galleries, or enjoy a harbor cruise that shows off the coastline from the water.
Don’t miss the food scene here, either. It’s exceptional, starting with our very own Shipwright‘s Daughter, one of the leading restaurants in Mystic. Bring all of these amazing experiences together, and elevate your stay with the only boutique hotel in downtown Mystic worth staying at. Our Mystic Hotel places you within walking distance of shops, dining, and waterfront attractions, while keeping you close to some of the most respected Connecticut wineries. After a day exploring vineyards and enjoying things to do in Mystic, return to our welcoming atmosphere, where you’ll find personalized hospitality and thoughtful touches throughout. It’s truly unmatched among hotels in Mystic. Book your escape today!
downtown Mystic
Find Movie Fame at Mystic Pizza in Connecticut
You can grab a slice of pizza at Mystic Pizza in downtown Mystic, but a stop at this iconic food joint is about so much more than what you’re putting in your mouth. Rather, it’s a slice of New England charm, served with a side of Hollywood nostalgia. Known for its delicious, hand-tossed pizza and friendly atmosphere, Mystic Pizza has become one of the most iconic places to eat in Mystic, CT. The restaurant gained fame after the release of the 1988 movie Mystic Pizza, starring Julia Roberts, which put this small Connecticut town on the map.
While the film’s storyline was fictional, the inspiration was real, and visitors today can still enjoy the original Mystic Pizza restaurant that started it all. With its casual vibe, great food, and connection to one of the most beloved movies of the 80s, Mystic Pizza CT deserves a spot on your itinerary the next time you’re in town. Between your “Slice of Heaven,” as their famous slogan goes, there are plenty more things to do in Mystic, CT. Spend an afternoon wandering through downtown Mystic, browsing local boutiques, or picking up a sweet treat from one of the charming bakeries nearby. Winter brings a special kind of magic to the area, with the shops of Olde Mistick Village, lantern lights during Mystic Seaport’s Christmas, and cozy waterfront strolls that create a festive atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the Mystic Seaport Museum, stop by the aquarium, or even take a short drive to see the Stonington Lobster Trap Tree. Whether you’re visiting for the food, the history, a touch of romance, or some seasonal charm, there’s always something delightful to discover in Mystic, CT. When it’s time to unwind, The Whaler’s Inn is one of the best places to stay in downtown Mystic. This historic yet modern boutique hotel sits just a short walk from Mystic Pizza and many of the area’s best restaurants and attractions. With stylish guest rooms, thoughtful amenities, and warm hospitality, it’s easy to see why The Whaler’s Inn is considered the best hotel in downtown Mystic. You’ll enjoy a front-row seat to the same small-town charm that made Mystic Pizza famous. Book your winter getaway to Connecticut’s most charming small town today!
Food & Drink
New Places to Eat in Mystic, CT
Mystic Fish Camp is quickly earning its reputation as one of the best new places to eat in Mystic CT. Located right at the edge of the iconic Bascule Bridge, this waterfront restaurant brings a fresh take on coastal dining, blending casual charm with elevated flavors. Owned and operated by the same team behind The Shipwright’s Daughter at The Whaler’s Inn, Mystic Fish Camp offers a creative menu focused on local seafood, classic New England favorites, and thoughtful twists on comfort dishes. With its prime downtown Mystic location, guests enjoy not only the food but also the unbeatable views of the Mystic River.
Of course, dining at Mystic restaurants is only part of the experience. Between meals, we encourage you to explore the vast array of things to do in Mystic that make this coastal town a true year-round destination. A stroll through downtown Mystic brings you to boutique shops, art galleries, and seasonal events that keep the town buzzing with energy. Enjoy cozy afternoons at the Mystic Seaport Museum, explore fascinating exhibits at the Mystic Aquarium, or indulge in holiday shopping at local specialty stores.
For a complete Mystic getaway, you won’t find better or more convenient accommodations than those at The Whalers Inn, one of the best hotels in Mystic, CT. Located in the heart of downtown and directly across the street from Mystic Fish Camp, this historic boutique hotel blends timeless character with modern amenities. Guests enjoy stylish rooms, plenty of historic quirks, warm hospitality, and the added convenience of having one of the best restaurants in Connecticut, The Shipwright’s Daughter, located right on-site. Whether you’re visiting to explore Mystic’s newest restaurants or simply looking for a cozy coastal retreat, The Whaler’s Inn sets the stage for something memorable. Book your stay today!
Food & Drink
One of the Most Romantic Restaurants in CT
Pick a town anywhere in the state, and you’ll find plenty of great romantic restaurants in CT. However, if you’re looking for the best of them, The Shipwright’s Daughter in downtown Mystic should be at the top of your list. This incredible Mystic restaurant is in a class of its own. Not only is it one of the most romantic restaurants in CT, but it’s one of the best restaurants in the country. Don’t just take our word for it. See all of our press and awards here!
This elegant yet approachable restaurant, situated on the ground floor of our hotel in Mystic, has quickly garnered national attention for its creative menus, fresh New England flavors, dedication to sustainable sourcing, and its warm, intimate ambiance. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying an elevated meal, The Shipwright’s Daughter delivers an unforgettable dining experience that feels both sophisticated and deeply personal. It’s no wonder it tops the list of places to eat in Mystic, especially for couples looking for something a little special.
Visiting Mystic this fall is about more than just incredible dining. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of gold and crimson, the town comes alive with seasonal charm and coastal beauty. Spend your days exploring the Mystic Seaport Museum, wandering through downtown boutiques, or taking a scenic cruise along the Mystic River. From cozy coffee shops to nearby wineries and apple orchards, there are endless things to do in Mystic, CT, in the fall.
For the ultimate getaway, pair your visit to The Shipwright’s Daughter with a stay at The Whalers Inn, one of the best places to stay in Mystic. This top-rated boutique hotel is steps from the iconic Bascule Bridge, and offers luxurious accommodations, attentive service, and an unbeatable downtown location. Together, The Shipwright’s Daughter and The Whalers Inn create the perfect combination for a romantic escape filled with undeniable coastal charm. Book your trip to Mystic this fall today!
downtown Mystic
Where to Eat Lunch: Downtown Mystic Restaurants
Just a few hours away from New York City is a charming coastal enclave packed with historic buildings, boutique shops, world-class attractions, and fantastic local seafood. Mystic, Connecticut, offers exactly what you want in a coastal destination, including plenty of delicious downtown Mystic restaurants. Park yourself at one of the best hotels in Mystic, The Whaler’s Inn, and you’ll be within steps of everything you need to enjoy a few well-spent days along the river.
Whether you’re wandering along the drawbridge or popping into local galleries and gift shops, the vibe is welcoming and walkable. When lunchtime rolls around, you’ll want to grab a table at one of the top restaurants in downtown Mystic. From fresh seafood shacks to elevated pub fare, you’ll find it all here, including The Shipwright’s Daughter, one of the New York Times’ top 50 restaurants of 2024, and home to James Beard Award-winning Chef David Standridge.
Of course, eating well is only part of the fun. Downtown Mystic is full of things to do, from visiting the historic Mystic Seaport Museum to strolling through the Mystic Museum of Art. The area is excellent for a casual afternoon, too—whether you’re watching boats go by from a waterfront bench or hopping on a harbor cruise. If you’re into shopping, the unique boutiques offer everything from nautical décor to hand-crafted jewelry and local wine. And don’t miss a scoop at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream, a local favorite perfect for a warm summer day, let alone the many coastal beaches and boroughs in the area.
For accommodations that put you right in the middle of everything, the Whaler’s Inn is one of the top Mystic Seaport hotels. It blends historic charm with modern comfort, with beautifully appointed rooms, thoughtful amenities, and an unbeatable location. There’s something for everyone here – including budget-friendly rooms, family accommodations, elevated suites for romantic getaways, and so much more. It’s a favorite for travelers who want to park the car and simply enjoy. Book your stay at this top-rated hotel in Mystic today!
Food & Drink
Discover Award-Winning Mystic, CT Restaurants
A getaway to Mystic, Connecticut, is packed with plenty of fun things to do, including the iconic Mystic Seaport Museum, fantastic local shopping, and plenty of gorgeous beaches and sailing adventures to enjoy. The town is also home to some spectacular Mystic, CT Restaurants, offering places to eat that are both upscale and casual. It’s not just Mystic Pizza that you’ll find here, either.
The iconic Mystic Pizza, made famous by the 1988 Julia Roberts film, is a fun Hollywood claim to fame for the town. Whether you’re craving a slice or just want to say you’ve been, it’s worth a stop—but it’s only the beginning when it comes to finding great places to eat in Mystic, CT.
Food lovers and gourmands alike will want to make a reservation at The Shipwright’s Daughter, where chef David Standridge brings seasonal, locally sourced dishes to life in a way that earned him a James Beard award in 2024. Beyond that, you’ll find plenty of other excellent restaurants in Mystic, from oyster bars and upscale taverns to waterfront patios serving craft cocktails and house-made pasta.
When you’re ready to take a break from eating, there’s shopping, historic sights, harbor cruises, and so much more. For the easiest access to all the top dining and attractions, staying downtown at The Whaler’s Inn puts you right in the heart of the action. This top-rated Mystic, CT Hotel is far more than a convenient place to stay, though. Here, you’ll find stylish and comfortable rooms offering a range of lodging and amenities suitable for every traveler. These are all just the beginning of why you should get away to Mystic this year. Book your stay at the best hotel in town!