The Ancient Mariner

- 451 Main St, Ridgefield, CT 06877

For decades, The Ancient Mariner has stood as a beloved fixture on Main Street in Ridgefield, CT, serving generations of local diners. More than just a seafood restaurant, this establishment offers a cozy, casual, and friendly environment, successfully blending the best of a classic New England seafood house with the welcoming atmosphere of a local bar. It’s a place where Connecticut locals can reliably find high-quality, fresh-from-the-sea options alongside comforting, hearty American favorites.

The culinary philosophy here centers on using fresh ingredients and providing a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. The 'From The Sea' section is a major draw, featuring classic New England staples like the rich New England Clam Chowder and the choice between a warm, buttery Connecticut Lobster Roll or a traditional, chilled Maine Lobster Roll. For heartier meals, patrons can indulge in beautifully prepared dishes such as Farro Island Salmon, Black Sea Bass, or the highly praised Scallops, which are noted by customers for their exceptional quality and preparation.

Beyond its dedication to seafood, The Ancient Mariner ensures that non-seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts are equally satisfied. The 'Mains' menu boasts a variety of celebrated burgers, including the classic Cheddar Cheeseburger and the specialty Mariner Burger. This broad appeal, combined with a comfortable atmosphere and a reputation for fast, friendly service, has solidified The Ancient Mariner’s position as a quintessential neighborhood spot in Fairfield County.

The Ancient Mariner is perfectly situated at 451 Main St, Ridgefield, CT 06877, placing it in the heart of Ridgefield’s vibrant town center. Its prominent location makes it a convenient and easy-to-find destination for residents of Connecticut and tourists exploring the area.

The establishment is committed to ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests by offering comprehensive accessibility features:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot (Free parking lot and free street parking are available in the vicinity).
• Wheelchair accessible restroom.
• Wheelchair accessible seating.

The atmosphere is best described as casual and cozy. It’s an ideal setting for groups gathering for a celebratory dinner or cocktails, as well as solo diners looking for a quick, quality bite. The restaurant's long-standing presence in the community—with a history stretching back over 40 years—contributes a nostalgic yet refreshed 'hometown place' feeling, ensuring a genuinely warm welcome for everyone who walks through the door.

The Ancient Mariner provides a range of services designed for maximum convenience and enjoyment throughout the day:

• Dine-in: Offers dedicated seating and table service for lunch and dinner, with an atmosphere that is both cozy and suitable for groups.
• Bar Service: A full bar onsite serving a comprehensive menu of alcohol, beer, hard liquor, and an impressive selection of cocktails.
• Takeout: Convenient service for ordering and picking up meals to enjoy at home, exemplified by the 'excellent' to-go lobster roll praised by a customer.
• Happy Hour: Specials on 'Happy hour drinks' and 'Happy hour food' are offered, making it a popular spot for winding down after work in Ridgefield.
• Late-Night Food: The restaurant serves 'Late-night food' and remains open later than many other local dining options, particularly on weekends.
• Dining Flexibility: Popular for 'Lunch,' 'Dinner,' and 'Solo dining,' catering to various daily schedules and needs.
• Family-Friendly Provisions: Known to be 'Good for kids,' the restaurant offers high chairs and a dedicated 'Kids' menu,' including popular choices like Mac + Cheese and Fish Sticks.
• Mobile Payments: Accepts modern payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a smooth transaction process.

The highlights of The Ancient Mariner underscore its status as a premier dining destination in the Ridgefield and greater Connecticut area:

• Exceptional Seafood Quality: The core feature is a commitment to fresh seafood, demonstrated by menu items like the P.E.I. Mussels, Black Sea Bass, and Scallops, which are consistently met with high praise from patrons.
• Dual Lobster Roll Offerings: Uniquely offers both the New England style 'Connecticut Lobster Roll' (warm with lemon butter) and the traditional 'Maine Lobster Roll' (cold with mayo), catering to all regional preferences.
• Diversified Menu of Comfort Food: Goes beyond seafood with a strong selection of 'Mains,' including the famous Mariner Burgers, Chicken Milanese, and Filet Mignon, appealing to a wide audience seeking high-quality 'Comfort food.'
• Great Cocktails: The bar is highlighted for its 'Great cocktails' and a full range of spirits and wine, making it a destination in itself for a night out.
• Fast and Friendly Service: The commitment to 'Fast service' combined with the genuine friendliness of the staff is repeatedly noted in customer feedback, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Long-Standing History: With a legacy of over 40 years in Ridgefield, it embodies a sense of community tradition that is rare to find.
• Small Plates and Quick Bites: Offers a selection of 'Small plates' and options for a 'Quick bite,' such as Crispy Salmon Sushi, Crab Cake, and Firecracker Cauliflower, perfect for sharing or a light meal at the bar.

For reservations, takeout orders, or more information about the menu and daily specials, please use the following contact details:

Address: 451 Main St, Ridgefield, CT 06877

Phone: (203) 438-4771

Mobile Phone: +1 203-438-4771

Choosing The Ancient Mariner means selecting a slice of Ridgefield history with a modern culinary edge. It is worth choosing for Connecticut residents who appreciate a restaurant that balances tradition with exceptional food quality and value. The commitment to fresh seafood is unparalleled, offering a true taste of New England with signature dishes that rival any coastal establishment. Whether you are in the mood for the quintessential experience of their dual lobster rolls or the refined simplicity of their Sesame Seared Tuna, the 'From The Sea' menu is consistently excellent.

Beyond the quality of the ingredients and the versatility of the multi-cuisine menu, The Ancient Mariner excels as a social venue. The 'Great cocktails' and lively bar scene, complemented by regular happy hour specials and late-night options, make it a natural gathering spot. The combination of a cozy atmosphere, dedication to service—making families and groups feel genuinely 'at home'—and a menu where everything, from the New England Clam Chowder to the Mariners Burger, is treated with care, establishes The Ancient Mariner as a reliable, high-quality, and deeply rooted local gem that Ridgefield is proud to call its own.

The Ancient Mariner

451 Main St, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA