5 stars all around: the food, the service and the restaurant location and decor. The menu offers all the best from the east coast, with incredibly tasty dishes (The crabcakes & lobster rolls are a must!!) The waiters and service team are phenomenal- authentic, kind, and customer-centric. The valet is such an incredible experience- no longer having to circle around the place for a parking spot! All up 5* for this must-try seafood restaurant! read more

Pricey but worth it. Great service. Shoreline experience. Valet parking helps make the entire experience special.

My family has been coming to the Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood for years, and it remains our go-to spot for special celebrations - this time, a birthday dinner that was nothing short of perfect. We started with the hamachi crudo - yellowtail dressed in ponzu with blood orange segments and crispy shallots. Absolutely delicious. The roasted oysters, rich with garlic herb butter, parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs, were another standout (and this is coming from someone who usually doesn't care for oysters!). For my main dish, I had the classic lobster roll, served warm with butter, just the way I like it. It was accompanied by a massive amount of fries. You can choose your side (fries, chips or salad), and you can also order it Maine-style (as a cold lobster salad). My dad thoroughly enjoyed the miso-marinated cod, which came with white rice, mushroom broth, edamame, and pickled carrots. As always, the seafood was incredibly fresh and beautifully prepared. Dessert was just as impressive: a rich lemon blueberry mascarpone cake, and my favorite - a bright, zesty key lime pie. The service was top-notch - friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The owner even stopped by our table to check in, which made the evening feel even more special. If you're looking for a memorable experience with exceptional food and superb service, Rowayton Seafood delivers every time. read more

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Nice restaurant off the water. Parking is a problem but it was a nice day so we parked on the street and walked. Lobster roll and clam chowder were delish. Service was a little slow but they were busy so we understood. Wish I lived closer! read more

Rowayton seafood is always a great experience, their hospitality is fantastic. Waiters are attentive, food is spectacular (especially their Miso Cod - TO DIE FOR), and ambience is top notch. Doesn't get much better! read more

For our anniversary we went to RS for dinner. We ate early and found everyone to be very nice to us. A special anniversary card and dessert. The food was delicious and the view was amazing. A wonderful evening and we will go back! JG read more

Great lobster roll with tons of filling. Their new English clam chowder was creamy and had a good amount of clam inside! Husband also ordered their strawberry rhubarb cake with a scoop of ice cream and he loved it read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - rhubarb cake - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

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I had the most pleasant dinner here with family and was blown away by my vegetarian meal. I had the falafel and it was beyond my expectations, down to the rice and greens and dressing. Service was fantastic. And of course, beautiful views. Can't wait to come back. read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

the food is always delicious. the staff are very well trained. Dinner is worth the wait.

This time around wasn't as good as the last time I went. I sat in the heated, closed outdoor dining area for the view. It sits on the water where it's nice and bright and looking at the dock. However, the noise of the power washer was difficult to have conversation and enjoy my meal. Our table for two came to $243 with 20% tip. Service was fast and great. I don't care about the price if the food as long as it's good. Chowder was under seasoned. Charred octopus was tender and flavorful! It was so good. Tuna tartare was good and refreshing. Clams linguine was delicious. Lobster roll was okay, a bit dry even with extra butter on the side. The brioche bun didn't hold up well. The fries were undercooked and very greasy and salty. Expresso martini was fabulous. However, the slice of Michelle's apple pie was terribly dry and underwhelming. The ice cream was the best thing on that plate. It was not worth $15, maybe $5. read more

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The view from the patio overlooking the waterfront marina is clearly why people go here ...because the food was basically mediocre and the customer service was absolutely terrible. This restaurant is very pricey so my expectation for good service was warranted. We just didn't have it. I had to get up to find our waiter more than once. And after we finished eating our cleared plates with remnants of food sat in front of us way too long for a restaurant of this caliber and at the very least, this price. And to top it off I woke up in the middle of the night to nausea from eating this food. I will never never go back to this restaurant again. I do not recommend, stay away, too many other places to dine in Fairfield County. read more

This was a wonderful experience. My daughter suggested this restaurant (her favorite), during dinner she said going here is like being away on vacation. I couldn't agree more. From the hostess who sat us and our waiter Thank you!!! But a big shout out to the chef and kitchen staff our dinners were outstanding. read more

Food is excellent and the service is even better. Noel is an outstanding server...a real pro.

What a lovely spot on the water with excellent food. The steak tartare was one of the best I've ever had. We also enjoyed their roast chicken, steak and barramundi. Our server had the whole patio to himself and did a great job in a packed space. My only complaint is that it was quite loud, but I also typically prefer a more quiet experience for dinner. Definitely social and buzzy if that's what you're looking for. read more

If you love people-watching, this place is five stars. For food and service? Not so much. My wife and I were seriously underwhelmed by our meals and completely overwhelmed by the parade of drunk rich white people dressed like extras in a zombie bar scene sponsored by the J.Crew summer catalog. Highlight of the night: while waiting in line for the bathroom, a guy blasted through the door and walked straight into the wall--nice one, Brad. He almost slipped out of his topsiders, and honestly, it would've been a real shame. Honey boy was in white jeans. If I got a dollar for every botoxed smile or parking complaint... well, you get the idea. We ordered everything the insta bloggers hyped and left longing for meals made by actual chefs. Food was aggressively average, drinks were just OK, and the crowd was too white (and I'm white). Connecticut, sometimes you embarrass yourself. If this is the best spot in town, maybe it's time to look for a new town. read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - This was 2/10 = lacking. - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

Still some of the freshest seafood around! Much more family oriented than years ago, but the menu remains solid. AMAZING wine list and good wines by the glass. Reservations needed for sure but the valet makes up for the lack of parking. Kitchen gets the food out SUPER fast and the staff was great. read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - Miso Marinated Cod White Rice / Mushroom Broth / Edamame / Pickled Carrots - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

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We went early, without a reservation. While we missed out on the last patio table available, we got a nice table for 2 inside. My 1.5lb steamed lobster was OUTSTANDING! Steamed perfectly, absolutely no water in the shell, which is the benchmark of steamed correctly. This was the sweetest, meaty lobster I've ever had! The kitchen partially cracked the tail and claws, making it easier for me to use the nutcracker. I had the salad as a side. The service was very attentive. A nice touch is the large cloth napkin with a chain with alligator clamps to make a big, instead of a plastic bib. read more

My husband and I had a nice lunch by the water. We were really craving lobster rolls and some seafood. We ordered a hot lobster roll and a cold one, both were delicious. We also got some clam chowder and clam strips. Overall, we enjoyed our meal! read more

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You like East Coast water vibes with solid food? If you do, Rowayton seafood is for you. This place is very solid...but the views and vibe are what you come for and exactly what summer ordered. Went with the steamers and local lobster rolls. A goto staple in the area and it draws from the locals as well. They have a store right next door so you can buy any fresh seafood you didn't get a chance to order. Brendon's 101 right down the street if you want homemade ice cream for dessert. Summer time vibe without the commute if you live in Fairfied County. read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

The perfect seafood experience. Stunning location. Fresh food. Fast service. Friendly all around. This place gets packed quick so get there early. Valet parking. The market is a great place to stop in for quality catch to enjoy later. Fair prices! read more

Boy oh boy. I love this restaurant more than just about anything. I've lived in Rowayton for the last 30 years. As everyone from the Rowayton-Darien area knows, Darien has a detestable superiority complex. We here in Rowayton don't care because we know for a fact that we are superior in every way. We have more money and nicer cars. I bring this tension up in the context of my review for one reason. If you want to optimize your dining experience, simply call beforehand and ask if there are more than say, five, Range Rovers in the parking lot. If so, you reschedule for next night. That aside, this restaurant is superb in every way. I think Chip--the gentleman who owns this place--is an extraordinary host. He's a true ladies man. I know that because my own lovely lady tells me so. Best of all, the seafood tastes fresher than a newborn baby's head. read more

The raw clam is must try, very fresh great price $2 each, save your trip to long island , this is much better. Mushrooms risotto taste so good, the risotto cooked just about right and it soaked in all mushrooms flavor $14 side dishes Fish and chips .... The fish batter is very thin, fish itself fresh and just perfect. Fries is good and love their coleslaw too. One of the best Clam chowder is also decent with a big clam in it. Came in here after lunch hour, there's self parking across street next to the pizza place very convenient. Clean bathroom and nice atmosphere, would definitely come back again to try more items on menu. read more

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This is right on he marina channel in Norwalk and conveniently located next to a fish market where all their seafood is sourced. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available and the view of the channel and sunset is magical from anywhere in the venue. The manager and waitstaff were friendly and attentive, despite being very busy for the evening. I ordered the swordfish. It was grilled to perfection! The corn sauce that was paired with it added a sweet and creamy flavor to the fish. Highly recommend this spot if in the area! read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - Swordfish - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

I've had some very good meals at Rowayton Seafood over the years, but during my most recent experience, I had steamers so sandy that I gave up eating them halfway through. I know that with steamers you have to be prepared to encounter a bit of sand potentially, but this was pretty egregious. They also seemed a bit tough, maybe overcooked. I do think RS is an iconic spot with a great locals scene, but maybe sometimes the food isn't as spot on as it should be. Still, I'd say it is absolutely worth a visit if you're in the area. read more

I've been looking for a great seafood restaurant for years and I finally found it. Everything was delicious and the lobster bisque was to die for. Our server was lovely and attentive, not to mention quick. It had an intimate but comfortable ambience, I felt a bit like I was on an evening cruise. We will definitely be back soon! read more

Rowayton Seafood has been added to my list of favorite spots for waterfront dining! The views were stunning and the food was equally as delicious. Their hot lobster roll is one of the best I've had, and the same goes for the roasted oysters. We ordered the clam chowder poutine because of how unique it was, and we're so glad we did because we fell in love! Stunning cocktails and presentations of dishes with exceptionally fresh seafood. All of the staff we encountered were very professional, and they even encouraged us to check out the fire pits and uncovered deck in the back for the best view. Loved the seafood market on the property as well. I can't wait to come back when the weather gets warmer to enjoy it Rowayton Seafood all over again! read more

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Get reservations! This place is a hot spot with delicious food and excellent service. On a nice evening, the outdoor seating is perfect. Their new cocktail barge, The Pearl, is fun ! Can't wait to go back! read more

Wonderful food at a scenic location. We had terrific seafood outside on a patio next to their boat slips. Allowed us to bring our dog too!

I really enjoy the ambiance of this place. It's a very nice restaurant on the water. Parking is a bit of a hassle, so plan ahead on this. They don't have self-parking other than on the street, but that's a hassle as you need to parallel park and there's cars coming through as you're trying to do this. I recommend doing valet parking instead. It's free, but please provide a gratuity to your valet. I recommend a $5 minimum on your way out. As for the restaurant itself, it's nice inside but it is a bit of a crowded space. The space is tight and the tables are a bit close to each other. Not so much so that it doesn't offer your party some privacy, but you are a little closer to folks here. I didn't find it to be bothersome myself. The service is nice. The servers are friendly and the service is prompt. As for the food, it is spot on! I had their signature rowayton seafood lobster roll m, and it was delicious! It is warm, buttery lobster sandwiched into a piece of bread that tastes like a buttery French toast of sorts. The combination works perfectly. The lobster is perfectly cooked and seasoned. They also offer a Maine lobster roll which is served cold, also delicious. It's just a matter of whether you prefer cold or warm lobster. Both are fantastic. They give good attention to their sides as well. I enjoyed the coleslaw and fries that came with my dish, and even the onion rings that I tried. The fries and rings were delicious and crispy while not being overly greasy. Along with entrees, there's also a vast selection of appetizers and drinks. My family ordered their "walk the plank" beverage, a concoction made up of jalapeño-infused corazon tequila, lime and pear. It was delicious and a nice portion for the price. My experience was great overall. It is a clean, fairly priced restaurant with delicious cuisine and a variety of options. I highly recommend these folks. You won't be disappointed! read more

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As always, everything was excellent! This restaurant knows good seafood! Quaint and cozy too.

Delicious and a great way to kick off our coastal grandma week! Patio was puppy friendly, and food was delicious. Even when it started to drizzle staff made sure we were covered with the umbrellas. Food, service, and coastal vibes were all 10/10 read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - Fish and Chips - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut

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Haven't been here in quite a while, so we weren't sure what to expect. Making reservations isn't the easiest as you have to go on to their own site- and availability is like non-existent. We started with soup: Clam chowder and lobster bisque. Very good and then shared a Caesar salad and shrimp cocktail. The salad is bis enough for 3- so be warned. I got the scallop linguini special- it was tasty and the tomatoes were very good. We also had the lobster ravioli- very filling and with nice generous chunks of lobster. Ended with vanilla ice cream and 7 layer chocolate cake. Good service. They definitely work to flip the tables but we didn't feel rushed like at Sails. It was pricier but worth it. Great place to meet with friends, date night or with other couples. read more

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Wow, this place is terrible. Very aggressive valet, who didn't even wait for me to fully exit the car to move the car 5 feet to the right. Drinks took forever. I had the lychee-plum wine-rose cocktail, which was oddly bitter. The purple gin drink was very sweet. Gorgeous restaurant view, though! They forgot to bring us raw oysters, then it took ages to bring out the roasted/broiled ones and soup. Server was hardly available when needed. Bisque was ok and salty. Crackers are the Sysco ones, which were already stale. The first bag she gave me crumbled everywhere since it had a hole in it. Coffee is absolutely undrinkable and tasted horrifically old despite the server saying she just made it. I'm really disappointed in what seemed to be a lovely waterfront restaurant. Was scared to order anything else after this fiasco described above. read more

Our server was lovely, the patio area was sun-filled and warm, my water glass was never empty, and the dessert for Mom's 78th birthday was beautiful and truly a gift. Your seafood tastes so fresh. My only disappointment was that the steamers were out! The mussels filled in well, however. read more

Hi went to this restaurant last night. Good food and good service. Fine/casual dining. The food and presentation was excellent. The owner was a little different. He was pacing back and forth. A little unsettling. Maybe, walk around and ask the guest are you enjoying your meal. I don't know maybe it was just me. I would go back again because the food was wonderful. Here are some pictures of our dishes. The dessert and drinks were so good I forgot pictures of those. I say go check it out and report back on Yelp. Enjoy!!! read more

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This is one of my favorite waterfront seafood restaurants in CT. The food is spectacular and it has a marina view to match. There's both indoor and outdoor seating and I highly recommend making a reservation since this place can get very busy on the weekends. We ordered the Minor Platter appetizer (shrimp, calms, and oysters) for the table and a couple bottles of the Pinot Grigio. I had the Rowayton Lobster Roll with the truffle fries which was simply amazing and I highly recommend it. The roll is buttery warm and it's overflowing with lobster . You can choose an included side of chips, salad, or fries and I went with the truffle fries which I also recommend. It also comes with a very tiny portion of coleslaw. The service is always friendly and I'm never disappointed with the dining experience. Bon appétit! read more

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The paella is to die for!!! All of the food from what we experienced is excellent. The service is impeccable and the ambience is special since this restaurant is on the sound. Make sure that you make your reservation early! read more

Great food! Friendly service! Exceptional view! Started with a drink at the bar and then sat out on the porch for dinner. Awesome. read more

This place ALWAYS hits the mark! Delicious food, breathtaking scenery, and attentive staff! Run don't walk - it's the best meal in the area!

To be upfront, we came here purely to get a lobster roll via takeaway. We ordered ahead and were only here long enough to run inside, grab food, and leave. The food was ready when it was supposed to be, which is a positive. The parking situation was a mess, I believe it is valet only because parking in the area is severely limited, and the shuffling of cars blocked up the street. Luckily I was able to drop my wife off, circle around, and pick her up. Now to the food. The bun was nicely toasted and buttery, but the lobster itself was tough. I was reminded of rock lobster, or of the lobster I would get on the submarine when I was in the Navy after we'd been underway for a couple few months. Certainly not the fresh, succulent lobster pieces I would have expected. The coleslaw was also very sweet, reminiscent of KFC slaw. 11th place of the 13 we tried in our lobster roll journey through CT this summer. read more

The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood - Hot buttered lobster roll with side salad and coleslaw, in takeaway container. - Seafood Near Me - Norwalk, Connecticut