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!
Top-Rated Romantic Restaurants in CT
The Shipwright’s Daughter has earned its reputation as one of the most romantic restaurants in CT, in part thanks to its intimate atmosphere, but more for its dedication to creating an unforgettable dining experience. With a focus on seasonally inspired cuisine that highlights local and truly sustainable products, the restaurant highlights the best of New England’s coastal bounty. Fresh seafood, locally sourced produce, and artfully plated dishes come together in a way that feels both elevated and approachable. It’s the perfect setting for couples looking to enjoy a special night out in downtown Mystic.
The ambiance at The Shipwright’s Daughter is effortlessly sophisticated, making it a standout among upscale restaurants in Connecticut. Soft lighting, elegant design, and a welcoming team create a tone that sets the stage for a warm and personal dining experience. Time slows down here, allowing you to savor each course and enjoy meaningful conversation, and maybe even an exceptional bottle of wine or some of the best handcrafted cocktails you’ll taste. For those seeking fancy restaurants in CT that deliver on both style and substance, The Shipwright’s Daughter is not to be missed.
Dining at the Shipwrights Daughter might just be the highlight of your trip to Mystic. But the restaurant offers far more than dinner service. The Shipwright’s Daughter also hosts seasonal events. These events include curated wine dinners, tasting menus that highlight fall’s rich flavors, and special holiday events that showcase the chef’s creativity. In September, for example, we hope you’ll join us for one of two exciting events.
- On September 9, join us for one of our Rum Runner Dinners, in partnership with Mystic Seaport. The dinner includes a 2-hour sunset cruise aboard the restored Sabino Steamboat, transforming this incredible boat into one of the most romantic restaurants in CT. In addition to a delicious seafood-focused menu, these dinners highlight cocktails made with Real McCoy Rum and plenty of exciting stories about Bill McCoy and the Rum Runners. This is the last of these fabulous dinners for the season!
- On September 25, join us for the final series of our Tide to Table Sustainability Dinner, a series in partnership with the Mystic Aquarium. The series has focused on sourcing and preparing sustainable seafood, and culminates with an exclusive taste, giving you insight into our meteoric rise in the food & wine world.
The Shipwright’s Daughter is so much more than other romantic restaurants in CT, but it’s something you need to experience firsthand to understand. If you’re looking for even more romantic restaurants in CT to round out your time in Mystic, here are a few curated choices:
- Head over to see our friends over at the Captain Daniel Packer Inn Restaurant. This charming historic spot is one of the most romantic restaurants in Ct, and features hearty traditional New England fare and roaring fireplaces for an unbeatable romantic night out.
- Dine along the banks of The Mystic River at the S&P Oyster Company, where you’ll find traditional New England seafood with a touch of South American flair.
- For some delicious and authentic Italian cuisine in downtown Mystic, head to one of our favorite romantic restaurants in CT, Via Emilia.
- Oyster Club is another great choice for romantic restaurants in CT. We also recommend you check out their sister restaurant, Port of Call, a nautical-themed cocktail lounge and restaurant.
These experiences provide an ideal excuse to plan a night out or even a weekend getaway, pairing exquisite dining with the beauty of Mystic in the fall.
Luxury at Our Downtown Mystic Hotel
A meal at The Shipwright’s Daughter becomes even more memorable when paired with an overnight stay at The Whalers Inn, one of the best places to stay in Mystic. This boutique hotel offers a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the elevated dining experience. Guests can choose from beautifully designed rooms and suites, including the Stanton House accommodations that feature modern coastal décor, spa-inspired bathrooms, and some with cozy fireplaces or private balconies for added romance.
The Whalers Inn makes it easy to turn a night out into a full weekend getaway. Thoughtful amenities and a concierge team ready to tailor your visit add a personal touch to every stay. From the moment you arrive, the staff’s warm hospitality ensures your experience feels effortless and indulgent. We’re located in downtown Mystic, meaning you’re just steps from the town’s top attractions, waterfront views, and charming shops.
After dinner at The Shipwright’s Daughter, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Mystic River or watch the famous drawbridge in action before retreating to your room. With the perfect combination of upscale accommodations and award-winning dining, our Mystic hotel offers an unforgettable escape in one of Connecticut’s most beloved coastal towns. Book your stay today!
