7 Best Southern American Restaurants In Niantic

7 restaurants available nearby

1. Fresh Salt

4.6

Exceptional(1493)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Old Saybrook

Booked 33 times today

Fresh Salt in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a culinary experience that delights with its authenticity and quality. Nestled where the Long Island Sound meets the Connecticut River, Fresh Salt serves dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients, emphasizing a commitment to regional farmers and artisans. Patrons rave about the "exceptional" Lobster Roll and "delicious" Clam Chowder, showcasing the restaurant's mastery in elevating simple dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. With glowing reviews noting the "beautifully presented" meals and "amazing customer service," Fresh Salt stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking the best in Contemporary American dining. The perfect blend of scenic views and impeccable cuisine ensures every meal is memorable, making it "definitely a 5-star restaurant."

2. Old Lyme Inn

4.5

Awesome(665)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Old Lyme

Booked 9 times today

At the Old Lyme Inn in quaint Old Lyme, the bar and lounge experience is truly unmatched, providing a perfect blend of sophisticated ambiance and exceptional bottle service. Known for its "contemporary New England Fare in a casual yet elegant atmosphere," the Inn offers a grand eight-seat bar where patrons can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a well-curated selection of wines and spirits. Reviewers rave about the ambiance, with one noting the "great live jazz" that enhances the bar's vibrant yet relaxing setting. The Old Lyme Inn is not just a place to dine; it's a destination where every drink served is a toast to quality and craftsmanship, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier bar and lounge experience.

3. The Essex

4.8

Exceptional(1009)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Old Saybrook

Booked 15 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Old Saybrook, The Essex shines as a beacon of modern American cuisine, celebrated by Yankee Magazine as the "Best New Restaurant in New England." Praised for its innovative dishes that draw inspiration from the Connecticut River Valley, The Essex offers a menu that eloquently speaks to the authenticity and quality of American dining. Guests consistently rave about their experiences, highlighting the "imaginative and delicious" offerings and "top-notch" service. Whether it's the chef's tasting menu or the locally sourced seafood and farm-fresh products, every dish is crafted to perfection. As one diner put it, "The food was fresh, using what appeared to be local vegetables and the seafood, steak and chicken were phenomenal." The Essex is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey steeped in American tradition and local flavor.

A photo of Fisherman Restaurant restaurant

4. Fisherman Restaurant

4.2

Awesome(825)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mystic

Booked 4 times today

Nestled on the Connecticut shoreline, Fisherman Restaurant in Mystic, Groton, is a gem for American cuisine enthusiasts, especially those with a penchant for impeccably fresh seafood. With every seat offering enchanting water views, it's not just the scenery that delights but also the culinary prowess on display. Patrons rave about the "traditional American + seafood" menu, highlighting dishes like the "best ever fish and chips" and "delicious buttermilk chicken sandwich." The restaurant's friendly ambiance is complemented by live music and exceptional service, making it a "locals’ spot" with a welcoming vibe. Whether it's the "lobster dinner" or the "fantastic swordfish tacos," each dish is a testament to the quality and authenticity of American cuisine served here. As one review perfectly sums it up, Fisherman Restaurant is where "every bite awakens your taste buds with perfect flavor balance."

5. Aspen Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(1696)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Old Saybrook

Booked 21 times today

Aspen Restaurant Voted Best New Restaurant for 2009 by Connecticut Magazine. A premiere destination dining experience, serving contemporary american cuisine with global accents. Aspen Restaurant is Located on 2 main street in Old Saybrook,CT.

6. Penny Lane Pub

4.5

Awesome(327)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Old Saybrook

Booked 2 times today

Penny Lane Pub, nestled in Old Saybrook, epitomizes the essence of American cuisine with its delightful twist on classic pub fare. Renowned for its consistently outstanding food, the restaurant receives glowing reviews, such as "some of the best food we've had in the area" and "the food was outstanding, as always." Diners rave about the variety, from the "perfectly cooked" salmon to the innovative black bean/quinoa burger, highlighting the pub's commitment to quality and flavor. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, Penny Lane Pub is a true gem for those seeking a genuine American dining experience. Whether you're enjoying the live music or savoring a meal on the patio, this pub is a must-visit for anyone in Old Saybrook.

7. Liv's Oyster Bar

4.8

Exceptional(2685)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Old Saybrook

Booked 10 times today

Liv's Oyster Bar, located in the charming Old Saybrook neighborhood, is a true culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Oyster Bar cuisine. Since its opening in 2006, it has offered a delightful dining experience that is both intimate and inviting. Under the expert guidance of Owner and Executive Chef John Brescio, Liv's serves up an assortment of fresh, local oysters that are consistently lauded by diners. Guests rave about the "fantastic" oyster selection and the perfect wine pairings, highlighting the "fresh plump oysters" and the creativity in every dish. The vibrant atmosphere and the meticulous attention to quality make Liv’s Oyster Bar a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking authenticity and excellence in every bite. Whether it's the praised Happy Hour or a leisurely dinner, every visit is poised to exceed expectations with its "superb" service and "top-notch" culinary offerings.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Southern American Restaurants in Niantic

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7 restaurants available nearby

1. Fresh Salt

2. Old Lyme Inn

3. The Essex

4. Fisherman Restaurant

5. Aspen Restaurant

6. Penny Lane Pub

7. Liv's Oyster Bar

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