Rizzuto's Oyster Bar & Restaurant

- 540 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880

For Connecticut residents and visitors seeking an exceptional dining experience that masterfully marries the fresh flavors of the sea with the comforting traditions of Italian and American cuisine, look no further than Rizzuto's Oyster Bar & Restaurant in Westport. Situated in the heart of Fairfield County, Rizzuto's has established itself as a cornerstone of the local dining scene since its opening in 2009, offering a comfortable, inviting, and upscale atmosphere that appeals to families, groups, and solo diners alike. This is more than just a seafood restaurant; it is a full-service culinary destination that focuses on high-quality, fresh ingredients, simple yet sophisticated preparations, and exceptional hospitality.

The restaurant’s concept is the passion project of Bill Rizzuto, who returned home to Connecticut after a successful management career to create a community-driven gathering spot. The core menu features pristine, market-fresh fish, steaks, and chops, but the real highlight is the blend of a robust Italian menu—complete with handmade pasta and authentic stone-fired Neapolitan brick oven pizza—alongside a prominent raw bar and a commitment to incredible seafood. Customers consistently praise the quality, noting that the oysters are standouts, described as incredibly fresh and briny. They are known to serve local specialties, including the celebrated Connecticut-style lobster roll, which is a must-try.

Beyond the impressive raw bar selections, which frequently feature locally harvested Blue Point Oysters and Jonah Crab Claws, Rizzuto's menu is an exploration of flavors. You'll find appetizers like the famous Maryland-style Bill's Crab Cake, Point Judith Calamari Fritti, and wood-fired chicken wings. Main courses often include a range of daily fish selections, along with Italian classics such as Chicken or Eggplant Parmigiana, Fresh Pappardelle Bolognese, and Linguine & Clams. The wood-fired pizzas, like the classic Margherita or the unique Fig-Barbecued Chicken pie, are prepared with a commitment to authentic Neapolitan techniques and are perfect for sharing or a casual, comforting meal.

The atmosphere at Rizzuto’s is intentionally designed to be warm, cozy, and romantic, yet it maintains a casual and family-friendly appeal. It’s a place where locals meet and tourists feel welcome. The ambiance is enhanced by a fireplace for intimate, cozy dining, and the main dining area often provides a view of the fire brick ovens where the famous pizzas are cooked. The service is consistently described as top-notch, with staff who are knowledgeable, friendly, and truly passionate about creating a memorable experience for every guest, whether you are stopping in for a quick lunch or celebrating a special occasion with a luxurious dinner.

The restaurant is particularly popular for both lunch and dinner, making reservations recommended, especially for evening dining and brunch. Private dining options are also available for those looking for an even more intimate setting, including the unique and highly sought-after private outdoor globes mentioned in customer reviews.

Rizzuto's Oyster Bar & Restaurant is conveniently located in Westport, Connecticut, a central and accessible spot within Fairfield County. The precise address is: 540 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880. The venue is designed with comprehensive accessibility in mind, ensuring a welcoming experience for all patrons. This includes a wheelchair accessible entrance, designated wheelchair accessible parking lot spots, and wheelchair accessible restrooms and seating areas, making it a comfortable destination for everyone.

For parking, patrons benefit from both a free parking lot and free street parking options, simplifying the planning of your visit. The restaurant’s strategic location makes it an easy meeting spot for groups coming from various parts of Connecticut.

Rizzuto's provides a diverse array of services to accommodate all dining needs, from quick meals to full-service events:

• Dine-in Service for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
• Takeout and Curbside Pickup for convenience.
• Delivery Service, including no-contact options.
• Full-Service Catering for events.
• Accepts reservations, with brunch and dinner reservations highly recommended.
• Private Dining Room options for intimate gatherings and business meetings.
• Outdoor seating, including unique, intimate private globes.
• Offers a dedicated Kids' Menu and provides high chairs.

The experience at Rizzuto's is defined by several distinct features that set it apart:

• Exceptional Fresh Seafood and Raw Bar offerings, featuring local oysters and an impressive array of shellfish.
• Authentic Rustic Italian Cuisine, including handmade pasta and daily specials.
• Award-Winning Wood-Fired Neapolitan Pizza, cooked in a stone-fired brick oven.
• A Fantastic Beverage Program, highlighted by a great beer selection, great cocktails, and an extensive, great wine list.
• Known for Fast Service and a highly attentive, professional staff.
• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere with a comforting fireplace.
• Commitment to Variety, with healthy, vegetarian, and organic options, alongside classic comfort food and late-night offerings.
• Serves Brunch, a popular weekend event with specialty dishes like Lobster and Crab Benedicts.
• Family-Friendly Environment that is good for kids, groups, locals, and tourists.
• Amenities like an on-site bar, restroom, and Wi-Fi access.

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or inquire about catering:

• Address: 540 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880
• Phone: (203) 221-1002 or +1 203-221-1002

Choosing Rizzuto's Oyster Bar & Restaurant means selecting a truly versatile and high-quality dining experience. It stands out in the Connecticut culinary landscape by not forcing a choice between the freshest seafood and top-tier Italian fare; it offers both under one roof. Whether your craving is for the famous warm, buttery Connecticut-style lobster roll, a dozen pristine Little Neck Clams from the Raw Bar, a perfectly cooked wood-fired pizza, or a hearty plate of house-made pasta, Rizzuto's delivers on all fronts.

Customers consistently highlight the exceptional fusion of a cozy, slightly upscale setting with a professional yet friendly service model. It’s a place where a business lunch feels productive, a date night feels romantic, and a family dinner is both delicious and welcoming. The dedication to sourcing local specialties, the commitment to providing accessible dining options, and the sheer breadth of the menu—from healthy organic options to decadent desserts—cement Rizzuto's position as a premier, worthwhile choice for discerning diners throughout Connecticut. It’s a complete celebration of exceptional food and hospitality, making it a restaurant you’ll undoubtedly want to revisit.

Rizzuto's Oyster Bar & Restaurant

540 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880, USA