The Boathouse at Saugatuck

- 521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880

For Connecticut residents searching for an exceptional American dining experience that pairs high-quality, seasonal cuisine with a truly breathtaking setting, The Boathouse at Saugatuck in Westport stands out as a premier destination. Located on the picturesque Saugatuck River, this unique establishment offers a quintessential New England dining experience that is both upscale and comfortably relaxed, making it a favorite for special occasions and casual fine dining alike.

More than just a restaurant, The Boathouse at Saugatuck is an integral part of the vibrant Saugatuck Rowing Club community, though it operates as a full-fledged, open-to-the-public venue. The atmosphere blends nautical charm with an elegant, coastal-inspired design. The menu focuses on inventive American cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh, market-driven ingredients and sustainable seafood. Guests can expect a dynamic culinary experience where regional specialties, particularly fresh fish and shellfish, are prepared with innovative flair, incorporating global and seasonal flavors that garner regional critical acclaim.

The culinary offerings feature classic New England staples elevated with modern twists. Favorites include the highly sought-after Boathouse Lobster Roll, an impressive Raw Bar selection featuring local oysters, and carefully prepared main courses like Seared Maine Sea Scallops and Steak Frites. The commitment to a sophisticated dining experience extends to a strong cocktail program, a curated wine list, and house-made desserts. For residents of Fairfield County and beyond, The Boathouse provides a memorable escape that feels both luxurious and genuinely connected to the coastal identity of Connecticut.

Guests often remark on the stunning views, particularly from the coveted outdoor seating areas. The combination of delicious food, an engaging atmosphere, and the unique vista of the Saugatuck River flowing by creates a truly unparalleled waterfront dining opportunity that is a testament to the best of what Westport has to offer.

Location and Accessibility

The Boathouse at Saugatuck boasts a spectacular location right on the Saugatuck River, which contributes significantly to its unique atmosphere and dining experience. The address is:

• Address: 521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880

The restaurant is located upstairs at the Saugatuck Rowing Club building. Its proximity to the Westport train station (a short walk) also makes it conveniently accessible for travelers and commuters. The unique setting allows diners to watch the Saugatuck River flow by, often catching a glimpse of the rowers on the water—a true slice of local Westport life.

Accessibility is a key part of the venue's appeal. The indoor dining areas and the outdoor porch/patio spaces are designed to accommodate patrons comfortably. The outdoor seating has been enhanced with features like a retractable roof and fans to extend the season and ensure comfort, offering arguably the best alfresco dining spot in the area. The facility is also noted for having individual, clean restrooms located both upstairs and downstairs for convenience.

Services Offered

As a full-service, high-end American restaurant, The Boathouse offers a range of services tailored for an exceptional dining experience:

• Dining Availability: Open to the public for Lunch, Dinner, and a popular Sunday Brunch.
• Reservations: Guests are strongly encouraged to make reservations, particularly for weekend dinners and outdoor tables, which can be booked in advance via phone or an online platform like OpenTable.
• Private Events and Weddings: The venue is a premier waterfront destination specializing in private events, including weddings, large parties, and community gatherings, utilizing areas like the newly added bar and seating on the lower patio and the Regatta Room.
• Special Features: Maintains a strong cocktail program and a curated wine selection; note that a corkage fee applies for patrons who bring their own wine.
• Special Promotions: Offers ongoing promotions like Happy Hour on the River, often featuring special pricing on beverages and nibbles like Truffle Parmesan Fries and Crispy Brussels Sprouts.
• Catering: Provides catering services, including the option to purchase gift cards and family-style "to-go" packs.

Features / Highlights

The Boathouse at Saugatuck is distinguished by several key features that solidify its status as a top-tier Connecticut restaurant:

• Breathtaking Waterfront Views: Its primary highlight is the spectacular view overlooking the Saugatuck River, which provides a serene and unique backdrop, enhanced by the east-facing patio that avoids direct sunset glare.
• Seasonal New England Cuisine: The menu is chef-driven and seasonal, focusing on fresh, high-quality, and often local ingredients, specializing in modern American cuisine with strong regional New England and seafood influences.
• Signature Dishes: Must-try items include the fresh Raw Bar selections (Local Oysters on the Half Shell, Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail), the flavorful Boathouse Lobster Roll (available warm buttered or traditional chilled with tarragon mayo), and the Prime Burger.
• Upscale Yet Relaxed Atmosphere: The newly renovated interior features a coastal, elegant, "relaxed Ivy League" vibe with a grand design, including lofted ceilings and nautical decor, such as a vintage eight-man boat.
• Extensive Beverage Program: Known for its creative cocktails, like The Backsplash and The Henley Cup, and an impressive wine list.
• Diverse Menu Options: Beyond seafood, the menu features a variety of plates, including Confit Chicken Wings, Beef Satay, Chorizo Mac & Cheese, and Steak Frites, catering to diverse tastes.
• Commitment to Events: Hosts unique events, such as the Tea Dance for the LGBTQ community and friends, in addition to regular Happy Hour and private party bookings.

Contact Information

To experience the renowned waterfront dining at The Boathouse at Saugatuck, use the following contact details:

• Address: 521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880
• Phone: (203) 227-3399

What is Worth Choosing

For Connecticut diners, The Boathouse at Saugatuck is worth choosing primarily for the unforgettable combination of setting and cuisine. It is a destination restaurant that delivers on the promise of exquisite, seasonal New England food in a truly spectacular waterfront location. While patrons should be mindful that high-demand means booking outdoor tables well in advance and being prepared for upscale pricing (such as the $21 martini noted in a review), the overall experience often receives top marks from discerning diners for food quality, service, and view.

If you are celebrating a special occasion, hosting a client, or simply seeking one of the best waterfront views in Fairfield County while enjoying a delicious, contemporary American meal, this is the place. The rave reviews for the freshness of the Raw Bar items, the perfect texture of the Boathouse Lobster Roll, and the innovative flavors in dishes like the Chicken Liver Pate and Creme Brulee underscore the high culinary standards. The ability to reserve a table, the availability of free and paid parking, and the establishment’s dedication to providing a unique, high-quality experience cement its status as a must-visit American restaurant in Westport, CT.

The Boathouse at Saugatuck

521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880, USA