Brunch in Mystic 

Whether you are out for a simple brunch date with friends and family this spring or looking for the perfect spot for Easter Sunday brunch, Mystic is the perfect location to start the day off right! From classic brunch staples like fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict to creative twists on your favorite dishes, there is something for every palate. With the refreshing spring air, beautiful river views, and a laid-back vibe, Mystic offers the ideal setting for making memories over a delicious brunch with loved ones.

The Irons Restaurant and Bar

Located in The Hilton Mystic, The Irons Restaurant and Bar features American cuisine, craft beers, whiskey, and cocktails. Perfect for brunch or an evening out! The locally-sourced seafood makes this dining experience worthwhile, bringing the freshest flavors of New England directly to your plate.  

Toast and Tonic

Located in Olde Mistick Village, this cute cafe offers a creative dining experience with fresh ingredients, craft cocktails, and in-house baked goods. Founded by Chef Aimee Filippetti in 2023, the restaurant combines Aimee’s culinary expertise with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for brunch or any meal. Afterwards, take a stroll through the village to see what the stores have to offer this spring!

Engine Room 

Exclusively on Sundays, enjoy brunch at the Engine Room! Featuring a mix of breakfast and lunch items such as breakfast sandwiches, chicken and waffles, pancakes, burgers, and salads. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail, build your own blood mary, or freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate brunch experience.

Chapter One 

In the heart of downtown Mystic, Chapter One is serving up New England classics such as lobster rolls, lobster benedict, and pastrami and egg sandwich. If you’re not into seafood, they also have classic scrambled eggs, pancakes, and avocado toast with toppings galore! 

Pop Over Eatery 

This trendy cafe offers local and organic ingredients along with gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options. Known for its all-day breakfast, the menu features a variety of options such as breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast, french toast, and healthy bowls.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look: Kitch’s Appearance on Hell’s Kitchen

On January 16th, Kitch, located in the center of Olde Mistick Village, made a memorable appearance on the hit show, Hell’s Kitchen! Now in its 23rd season, the popular Hell’s Kitchen filmed two seasons, 23 and 24, at Foxwoods Resort Casino, as well as in and around the Mystic area.  The show’s production team approached Kitch to film a reward segment for part of the show’s competition for both seasons.

The store was closed for shooting, and the Kitch team worked closely with the Hell’s Kitchen production crew to ensure everything was just right for the cameras. The episode showed off the store’s unique vibe and beautiful displays as contestants were given a one-of-a-kind shopping spree at Kitch! That episode’s winning contestant, Whit, and her guest, Kyle, were each given a $1,000 shopping spree to explore the store and pick out some new kitchen gear—an exciting reward for their hard work on the show. From their reactions, these contestants were in paradise as they shopped! Kitch managers Winnie and Michael took center stage as they interacted with the contestants at the checkout counter. While Gordon Ramsay himself didn’t make it to the store, the contestants were thrilled with their shopping experience and excited to get back to work in the restaurant kitchen using their new treasures!

All in all, Kitch’s appearance on Hell’s Kitchen was a fun and memorable experience not only for the contestants but also the Kitch family. Customers and fans alike were able to see Kitch’s great selection, and it was the perfect chance to showcase the store, Olde Mistic Village, and the town of Mystic on one of the most popular shows on national television!

If you missed the episode, you can watch the full clip on Kitch’s website at www.kitchmystic.com or their social media pages. Keep an eye out for more Kitch moments, and more exciting moments ahead in Olde Mistick Village!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Mystic

Mystic is the perfect destination for couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a charming and dreamy setting. With its cozy restaurants, scenic views, and unique experiences, Mystic has everything you need to make your day or weekend trip unforgettable. Here are some of the best ways to celebrate love in Mystic this Valentine’s Day.

A romantic dinner is a must for a Valentine’s Day celebration, and Mystic has no shortage of options. With an array of Valentine’s Day themed menus and couples packages, the cuisine downtown has something everyone will enjoy! Port of Call and Oyster Club are offering specialty cocktails, wine pairings, and dinner specials. Engine Room has created a sweet and sour menu featuring asian cuisine, much different from their regular menu. Enjoy the 5 or 3 – course menus from The Shipwright’s Daughter featuring fresh seafood and delectable desserts for two.

Bundle up to snap a photo along the Mystic Drawbridge, pop into Mystic Sweets & Ice Cream Shop for handmade chocolates or take some home to enjoy later! You can’t miss Sift Bake Shop’s Valentine’s Day treats launching February 13th – 16th including heart shaped macarons, mixed berry cheesecake, flourless chocolate bavarian mousse cake, and passion fruit tart!

Whether before or after your meal, exploring the shops and boutiques of downtown Mystic is a must and if you are ready to tie the knot or renew your vows this Valentine’s Day, Olde Mistick Village is hosting free wedding ceremonies in the chapel from 10am-2pm. Afterwards, celebrate at Trattoria Amalfi and order off of their Valentine’s Day inspired menu including a 3 – course meal and dessert! Big day or not, you’re sure to have a memorable time!

Gordon Ramsay Spotted in Mystic

Worldwide-famous television host and 16-time Michelin star, award-winning chef, Gordon Ramsay, recently paid a visit to the Mystic food scene while filming the next two seasons of his show Hell’s Kitchen at Foxwoods Casino. Ramsay, typically one to critique others in the kitchen, had nothing but positive feedback when he toured two of Mystic’s most treasured eateries.

Who knows where Ramsay may visit next!

Mystic’s Own Standridge Recognized Nationally

David Standridge, executive chef at The Shipwright’s Daughter located in the heart of downtown Mystic, was crowned the 2024 winner of the James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef: Northeast award. The James Beard Foundation Awards recognize not only the best chefs and restaurants in the country, but those committed to sustainability, diversity, and equity. Standridge is a prime example of just that.

Through his innovative work in the kitchen by partnering with local farmers and fishermen, Standridge has developed seasonal menus full of fresh seafood and farm-to-table bites. His commitment to sourcing sustainable seafood for his restaurant proved The Shipwright’s Daughter as a worthy “Leader” in the James Beard Smart Catch program. The executive chef hopes this award will inspire others to support local businesses, farmers, and fishermen to better the region and ecosystem in which we live.

Standridge leaves the following food for thought as The Shipwright’s Daughter invites others to experience their services and specials:

“We are committed to pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity while staying true to our values of sustainability and environmental stewardship. This nomination is a testament to our shared vision and passion for excellence.”

Doggy Dining in Mystic

Wanting to bring your furry friend for an adventure out on the town? Here are a few local spots to visit with your four-legged friend.

Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream 

This shoppe offers outdoor seating where you can enjoy their famous homemade ice cream with your doggo. They offer “pup cups” – small servings of vanilla ice cream perfect for your pooch.

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The Shipwright’s Daughter

Sister property to The Whaler’s Inn, The Shipwright’s Daughter, features a spacious outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. Known for its farm-to-table approach and fresh seafood, the restaurant also provides water bowls for canine guests.

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Red 36 

With a scenic dining experience on the Mystic River, Red 36 offers stunning waterfront views from its dog-friendly outdoor deck. Enjoy their seafood-centric menu while your pup takes in the sights and sounds of the marina.

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Friar Tuck’s Tavern 

This downtown pub welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area nestled just far away enough from the street. With a menu featuring classic American fare and a great selection of beers, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with your fido.

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The Engine Room

Known for its craft beers and burgers, The Engine Room has a pet-friendly patio where you can dine with your dog. They can often be found providing water bowls for canine visitors.

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Bartleby’s Café

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, Bartleby’s Café has a small outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome. It’s an ideal spot for coffee or a quick sandwich stop with your pup.

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Olde Mistick Village

Last on our list is the 50-year, family-owned and operated shopping plaza. Featuring dozens of unique merchants that welcome pets in their doors, accessible walkways, and shady benched areas, it’s the perfect place to stroll.

Don’t miss out on the dog days of summer leashing up your furry friend out in Mystic!

We encourage you to visit these places and tag us on social media photos using #ThinkMystic.

ThinkMystic on the App Store: Download Go Mystic Today

Discover Mystic in a whole new way with the Go Mystic app! Exploring Mystic has never been easier with the convenience of the Go Mystic app, highlighting the best places to eat, shop, play and stay, plus what events to go, and where to live and work. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this user-friendly app provides you with all of the resources you will need to help you navigate the waterfront.

Eat

The first tab on the app showcases a collection of restaurants in the area, organized by cuisine type, as well as a variety of wineries. Even the pickiest of eaters are sure to find something!

Shop

The shop tab highlights the variety of boutique, book, jewelry, pet, kitchen, souvenir and other niche retailers in the area. When clicking on a specific store, the app displays a few images of the store along with all the information one needs to know (store hours, phone number, website, social media, and street address).

Play and Stay

Visitors will find this section useful when it comes to deciding where to book a hotel or when  researching activities that are offered outside of the dining scene. With beaches, historic maritime landmarks, and a surplus of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone!

Events

There are a multitude of events throughout the year and the ‘Events’ tab will keep you up to date on all the things happening each month. From summertime fireworks to holiday celebrations, the town has it all!

Live and Work

Locals, this tab will be very helpful to you! Whether you are in need of an accountant or a pet sitter, the Go Mystic app provides you with a full directory of professional services at your fingertips. Use them to your advantage!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Go Mystic app today.

Go Mystic is available for free on the App Store and Google Play.

Coffee in Mystic

Who doesn’t love sitting back and relaxing with an iced coffee on a warm summer day? Or warming up in the dead of winter with a hot cup of joe? Specialty coffee shops and roasters have grown increasingly popular and have enchanted patrons with their coffee creations. If you’re looking to grab a cold brew while you’re out and about, or sit and chat with friends over some espressos, this list of the best places to get coffee in Mystic is for you!

Whether you like to sip a steaming hot cup of coffee or like to indulge in a fancy iced latte, we hope you liked this list of coffee spots in Mystic! Have another must-try spot for coffee? Tag @thinkmystic and tell us all about it!

Top Places to Grab a Lobster Roll In and Around Mystic

Connecticut has deep ties to the lobster roll. In the 1920s, Harry Perry, the owner of Perry’s in Milford, made what we think was the first warm lobster roll for one of his favorite customers. After more than a century, lobster rolls still play a huge part of summers here in Connecticut. Restaurants across the region serve them hot or cold, and we have a few right here in the Mystic region where you can find fresh lobster out of the shell served soaked in butter on a warm, toasty roll. Here are some of the top places to grab a lobster roll in and around Mystic, CT.

Where are your favorite Connecticut lobster roll spots? Let us know! #ThinkMystic

Thanksgiving in Mystic, Connecticut

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Mystic is an ideal spot to celebrate Thanksgiving. From its spectacular water views to the delicious dining experiences, it’s the perfect place to spend the holiday with family and friends. This year, Thanksgiving falls on November 23rd, which is about a month away, so it’s not too soon to start planning! If you’d like someone else to do the prepping, cooking and cleaning, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a list of some local restaurants that are hosting a Thanksgiving meal.

What are your plans for Thanksgiving this year? Are you staying home and cooking, or are you going out with family? If your plans include dinner in Mystic, make sure you share and tag @think_mystic so we can see!