Three couples ventured down to Rowayton for one of the few truly waterfront dining experiences close to Fairfield on Saturday.  Although it is off the beaten path, it is worth the trip for the atmosphere and unique culinary experience.  The Restaurant offers mostly seafood selections with some landlubber entrees for those that don't eat from the sea.  Everything on the menu is on the upper end of the price range for most restaurants that I have been to – appetizers in the mid-teens, salads $8-10 and entrees from $25-$45, not including the market value of lobster.  We ordered an array of starters, ranging from salads and clam chowder to popcorn shrimp and tuna tartare which is a layered dish of wasabi, tuna, and cucumber with toasted rice.  For salads, the Caesar Salad and mixed greens, with a choice of gorgonzola or goat cheese, were both quite satisfying.  The tuna tartare was beautifully presented and quite tasty.  The popcorn shrimp seemed to be devoured as well!  The wine selection is quite extensive although not for the fain of heart!  We chose one of the less expensive varietals, St. Francis Chardonnay at $35/bottle.  Many bottles were available in the $50 - $70 range and others for those "deep pockets" were upwards of $200 including Opus One for $250.  For entrees, the seafood stew was quite good as was the halibut.  Both were served in bowls and were quite brothy.  The scallops and yellowfin tuna were cooked to perfection and were an ample portion.  Check out the dessert list because there is plenty to choose from for those with a sweet tooth.  Our group stuck with cappuccinos.

The restaurant was very crowded – definitely make reservations.  We called one week in advance and felt that this was cutting it close!  Because of the popularity and stark nautical décor, there is not much to absorb the noise.  Until after 10 pm it was difficult to hear those across the table.

As for the service, our waitress was friendly and attentive for the most part but we would have enjoyed a refill of the bread basket.  Free valet parking is provided and docking is available for those traveling by sea (by reservation).

All in all, a fine dining experience and would recommend for those looking for a restaurant that offers views of the water and great seafood!

Rowayton Seafood – The Restaurant
89 Rowayton Ave
Norwalk, CT 06853
(203) 866-4488

www.rowaytonseafood.com