Black Duck Cafe

- 605 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880

The Black Duck Cafe in Westport, Connecticut, is far more than just a seafood restaurant; it is a true Fairfield County institution with a rich history and an atmosphere that has made it a beloved landmark for generations. Located right on the Saugatuck River, this venue is famously housed in a historic barge dating back to the 1840s, offering a unique waterfront dining experience that is both casual and cozy. It proudly embraces its "dive bar" heritage while consistently serving high-quality seafood and hearty American comfort food.

For those in the Connecticut region, the Black Duck Cafe is instantly recognizable as a "must-stop" location, partly due to its featured appearance on the Food Network’s highly popular show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Celebrity Chef Guy Fieri highlighted the restaurant's commitment to classic favorites, including its legendary clams and unique take on American fare. This recognition has cemented its status as a dining destination that continues to put out "the favorites" years after its initial feature.

The menu successfully balances its identity as a top seafood spot with that of a classic American grill. Patrons can indulge in fresh New England staples like the Lobster Roll and New England Clam Chowder, while also enjoying the house specialties such as the famous Stuffed Burgers. The welcoming ambiance, complete with a distinctive, historic character, is often enhanced by live music, making it a lively social hub for college students, groups, and tourists alike. Whether you are looking for a quick bite, a late-night meal, or a full dinner, the Black Duck Cafe promises a memorable experience right on the water.

The Black Duck Cafe represents a quintessential piece of Westport's social fabric, offering a comfortable retreat where the charm of a bygone era meets a vibrant contemporary scene.

Location and Accessibility

The Black Duck Cafe boasts a highly picturesque and accessible location at 605 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880. Its setting is one of its most defining features, situated directly on the Saugatuck River, often described as a barge permanently secured to the waterfront pilings beneath a bridge.

This unique positioning not only provides stunning river views but also offers high convenience. The restaurant is located very close to the Westport train station, making it an easy walk for commuters and a practical meeting spot for those arriving by rail. For vehicle access, the location provides:

• Free parking lot options.
• Free street parking availability.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot to accommodate all guests.
• Wheelchair accessible seating within the venue.

A truly special feature of the Black Duck Cafe is its accessibility by water. Guests can literally pull their boat right up to the bar’s slips on the river, adding an unmatched element of coastal charm and convenience that is perfect for Connecticut boaters during the warmer months. The combination of easy road access, proximity to public transit, and waterfront mooring makes the Black Duck Cafe exceptionally well-located for anyone in the Fairfield County area.

Services Offered

The Black Duck Cafe offers a comprehensive range of services designed to maximize customer enjoyment and convenience, catering to a wide variety of dining needs throughout the day and into the night.

• Dine-in Service: Full table service is provided across various dining options, including seating in its casual and historic indoor space.
• Outdoor Seating: Guests can enjoy their meals and drinks on the deck or patio, taking in the picturesque views of the Saugatuck River.
• Takeout Service: The full menu is available for quick and easy takeout, perfect for those who want to enjoy their favorites at home.
• Delivery: Offering the convenience of having the famous menu items brought directly to your location.
• Catering/Group Seating: The venue is well-suited for groups, making it a popular choice for gatherings, small parties, and casual events.
• Full Bar Service: A wide selection of alcohol, beer, hard liquor, and wine is available, highlighted by a great beer selection and creative cocktails.

Features / Highlights

The Black Duck Cafe is renowned for its specific features that create a memorable experience, distinguishing it within the Westport dining landscape:

• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: Housed in a converted 1840s barge, the cafe offers a genuinely unique, cozy, and slightly rustic "historic dive bar" ambiance that charms patrons.
• Media-Famous Favorites: Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, the restaurant is celebrated for menu items like the savory Clams Casino, the Black Duck Burger, and their New England-style steamers.
• Signature Seafood Creations: Must-try items include the New England Clam Chowder, the King Lobster Roll (a double portion of buttery lobster), and the unique Lobster Reuben—a classic comfort sandwich reinvented with hot, buttery lobster meat.
• Famous Stuffed Burgers: A celebrated highlight is the selection of stuffed burgers, such as the Brie Burger and the Big Top Burger, where creamy cheese or other fillings ooze from the patty.
• Entertainment: The cafe frequently hosts live music, adding to the lively and fun atmosphere, particularly during evenings.
• All-Day Dining and Late-Night Options: The menu covers brunch (including Lobster Benedict and Crab Cake Benedict), lunch, and dinner, and also offers late-night food, small plates, and a happy hour menu.
• Local Specialty Focus: The restaurant proudly serves local specialties, emphasizing New England ingredients and cooking traditions.
• Family-Friendly: Despite its bar status, the Black Duck Cafe is considered good for kids and provides a dedicated Kid's Menu and high chairs.

Contact Information

To make a reservation, inquire about a current special, or place a takeout order, you can contact the Black Duck Cafe using the details below:

• Address: 605 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880
• Phone: (203) 227-7978

What is Worth Choosing

For Connecticut residents and visitors, the Black Duck Cafe offers an experience that transcends a simple meal—it is a piece of local history and culinary celebrity rolled into one. What makes it truly worth choosing is the unparalleled combination of its atmosphere and its authentic, high-quality comfort food.

First, the setting is irreplaceable. Dining on a converted 1840s barge on the Saugatuck River is a distinctly Westport experience. The casual, cozy, and historic atmosphere, often complemented by live music and waterfront views from the outdoor seating, creates a feeling of fun and local authenticity that can't be replicated at newer establishments. You are not just eating; you are participating in a decades-long tradition.

Second, the food, particularly the headlining dishes, is outstanding. The dedication to New England seafood classics is evident in the quality of their Lobster Rolls and New England Clam Chowder. However, the true creativity shines with the unique fusion dishes, like the famous Lobster Reuben sandwich, which is a favorite among patrons and a true signature of the cafe. For land-lovers, the variety of Stuffed Burgers, such as the Brie Burger, is a sensational feature that draws equal acclaim. The menu is diverse enough to satisfy any craving, from Fried Clam Strips and Crab Cakes to hearty plates like Fish and Chips and Broiled Salmon.

The Black Duck Cafe is worth choosing for its authentic historic character, its recognized celebrity status, and its delivery of delicious, high-quality seafood and pub comfort food, all served up with a friendly spirit that has earned it the title of a local icon for over 40 years. It is a genuine "dive" that serves greatness, ensuring that every visit is a lively and satisfying outing.

Black Duck Cafe

605 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880, USA