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!
Lunch at Downtown Mystic Restaurants
Mystic, Connecticut, has quietly become one of New England’s top destinations for food lovers, with a coastal vibe that keeps things casual while still delivering serious flavor. Downtown Mystic restaurants offer everything from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to gourmet chef’s tasting menus, like what you’ll find at our restaurant, The Shipwright’s Daughter. Our restaurant is open for dinner 7 days a week, offering a sensational menu of fresh seafood, farm-fresh produce, and other delicious, seasonal eats that change daily, depending on our supply.
During the summer, plenty of great downtown Mystic restaurants offer outdoor patios or waterfront views, an added element of Mystic’s coastal charm to complement your meal. As you wander between attractions, you can eat well without overthinking it—and that’s part of Mystic’s undeniable appeal. Below, we’ve curated a thoughtful list of some of the best downtown Mystic restaurants for lunch. There are no tourist traps here—just great food!
- One of our favorite downtown Mystic restaurants for lunch is the Engine Room. It’s housed in a historic building with a cool industrial vibe and is well-known for grass-fed burgers, craft beer, and house-made pickles.
- If you want to pack more seafood into your day, enjoy the upscale dining at the Oyster Club. Lunch is served in the restaurant on the weekends, but the treehouse bar is also open daily for lunch and is a fantastic place to unwind on a warm afternoon.
- Via Emilia is a delightful Italian-inspired bistro with a modern flair. It is great for pasta lovers and those looking for a hearty, flavorful lunch option in downtown Mystic.
- If you’re looking for classic waterfront dining, Red 36 is a solid option for lunch restaurants in downtown Mystic. It has a breezy deck and is known for fresh seafood, flatbreads, and great cocktails.
- If you want a quick lunch between stops, head to Mystic Market. They have great gourmet sandwiches, seasonal salads, and house-made baked goods. Though it’s within walking distance, you might want to hop in your car and grab your lunch before heading out for the day on foot.
- If you’re looking for health-conscious downtown Mystic restaurants with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, head to Karma Kitchen. It’s also a go-to for healthy breakfast bowls and smoothies.
- The Mix Rooftop and Bar, upstairs from the delicious Sift Bakery, is a fantastic spot to grab lunch and a cocktail. It’s a sophisticated ambiance with panoramic harbor views, making it a great choice among downtown Mystic restaurants.
- It’s just off the main strip, but it’s delicious – so add Taquerio to your list of fabulous places to eat in Mystic for lunch! Plus, the ambiance here is cool – it’s a vintage gas station turned hip taco joint.
Best Downtown Mystic Hotel
There may be plenty of fantastic downtown Mystic restaurants to enjoy, but that’s just the beginning of your New England adventure. From busy days at the Mystic Seaport to relaxed cruises on the harbor, there’s no shortage of things to do in Mystic. You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy it all, too, which means choosing from the best downtown Mystic hotels.
The best lodging in town can be found at The Whaler’s Inn – a spot that’s not only conveniently located near all these great attractions and restaurants downtown Mystic, but also home to plenty of historic charm. Why stay at a traditional hotel chain when you can stay somewhere with way more authentic character? Spread across five distinct buildings, the inn offers 45 individually designed rooms and suites, each with its own personality. Whether you’re drawn to river views, gas fireplaces, and soaking tubs, or you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option for the whole family, there’s a space that suits your style.
Location-wise, The Whaler’s Inn couldn’t be more convenient. Situated right on East Main Street, it’s within easy walking distance of Mystic’s iconic Bascule Drawbridge, the Mystic Museum of Art, and the town’s best restaurants and shops. Beyond its prime location and stylish accommodations, The Whaler’s Inn delivers thoughtful amenities that elevate your stay. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, complimentary parking, streaming services, and so much more.
Take your stay at our downtown Mystic hotel one step further, and enjoy one of our curated experiences, like wine pairings and small plate tastings. Guests at our top-rated downtown Mystic hotel will also enjoy exclusive discounts at some of the top local attractions, including Mystic Seaport Museum and The Mystic Aquarium. There truly is no better place to stay in Mystic. Join us this summer, and let us help you curate the trip of a lifetime. Book your stay today!
